Nut-Free Dining in Dubai

Restaurants in international hotel chains tend to have the best allergen management protocols, with clearly marked menus and trained kitchen staff. DIFC, Downtown Dubai, and the major hotel restaurants along Sheikh Zayed Road are generally reliable choices for diners with nut allergies. Many of these venues can prepare dishes without nuts on request and take cross-contamination seriously.

Japanese restaurants — particularly sushi and sashimi-focused venues — are often naturally lower-risk, as nuts are not a traditional ingredient in most Japanese cooking. Simple grill restaurants and steakhouses, where the menu focuses on protein and vegetables, are another relatively safe option. Be cautious with Thai, Indian, and Middle Eastern restaurants, where nuts and nut-based sauces are more commonly used.

The Places app allows you to browse menus before visiting a restaurant, giving you an initial sense of whether a venue is likely to be nut-safe. While this doesn't replace a direct conversation with the restaurant about your allergy, it can help you shortlist venues that are worth calling ahead about.

When you find restaurants that can safely accommodate your allergy, paying through Places earns you cashback. Over time, you'll build a list of trusted venues where you can eat safely and save at the same time.

Always communicate your allergy clearly and directly to your server, and ask to speak with the chef if necessary. In Dubai, restaurant staff are accustomed to dietary requests and most are willing to help. Ask specifically about nut oils, nut-based sauces (like satay or pesto), and dishes that are prepared near nut-containing items.

For severe allergies, consider dining at off-peak hours when the kitchen is less busy and staff can give your request more attention. Carry your allergy medication at all times, and if a restaurant seems unsure about their ability to accommodate you, it is better to choose another venue.