The UAE’s obsession with ice cream grows as summer temperatures rise. From Dubai’s trendiest dessert bars to classic Abu Dhabi cafés, residents are ditching the ordinary and diving into bold, seasonal flavours that go beyond chocolate and vanilla. Think pistachio rose, saffron kulfi, mango chili, and lotus biscoff—flavours as vibrant as the country’s multicultural crowd.
Local ice cream parlours report record sales, with many creating special Eid and summer-exclusive menus. Emirati-inspired flavours such as Arabic coffee and date caramel are gaining ground, while vegan and dairy-free options are also stealing the spotlight, especially among health-conscious millennials.
Boutique gelaterias and international chains are also embracing the trend. Turkish dondurma, Japanese matcha soft serves, and Korean bingsu-style ice desserts are all experiencing cult-like popularity and are frequently featured on TikToks and gourmet reels from the United Arab Emirates.
This season’s scoop scene is more hip and sophisticated than ever, regardless of your preference for novelty or nostalgia. With flavours flying off the shelves and new creations launching every week, one thing’s clear: the UAE’s ice cream craze is here to stay.
