Indonesian Cuisine in the Middle East: A Thriving Fusion

for bold, flavourful dishes. From the bustling streets of Dubai to the cosmopolitan centers of Doha and Abu Dhabi, Indonesian restaurants and food businesses are thriving, offering a taste of the archipelago to locals and expats alike.

Featured Countries

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, boasts the most vibrant Indonesian food scene in the Middle East. Dubai’s diverse dining landscape features numerous Indonesian restaurants, ranging from casual warungs to high-end establishments. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their concentration of Indonesian eateries, while food courts in malls and office buildings often include Indonesian options.

Must-Try restaurants:

• Dapoer Kita (Dubai)
• House of Indonesia (Dubai)
• Sari Rasa (Abu Dhabi)
• Andaliman (Dubai)
• Rempah Indonesian Restaurant (Abu Dhabi)

Qatar

Qatar’s Indonesian food scene is concentrated in Doha, where a significant Indonesian expatriate community has created a demand for authentic flavours. Indonesian restaurants can be found in various neighbourhoods. Some establishments also offer catering services for events and gatherings.

Top spots:

• Mama Rozie (Doha)
• Warung Bu Mariam (Doha)
• Restaurant Central (Doha)
• Tofu & Cake (Doha)

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, Indonesian cuisine is making its presence felt in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Madinah. Indonesian restaurants cater to the country’s large Indonesian expatriate workforce, as well as curious locals and other expats. Many of these establishments are concentrated in areas popular with expatriates, such as Al Sulaimaniyah in Riyadh and Al Balad in Jeddah.

Recommended eateries:

• Funoon Indonesian Flavour (Jeddah)
• Nusantara Restaurant (Madinah)
• Wong Solo (Jeddah)
• Bakso Mang Oedin (Jeddah)

Culinary Exchange and Fusion

The presence of Indonesian cuisine in the Middle East has also led to an exciting exchange of culinary ideas. Some Indonesian chefs and restaurateurs have incorporated Middle Eastern ingredients and techniques into their dishes, creating unique fusion offerings. Conversely, Indonesian flavours have begun to influence local Middle Eastern cuisines, with some restaurants and home cooks experimenting with Indonesian spices and cooking methods.

To sum up, Indonesian cuisine has found a welcoming home in the Middle East, thanks to the region’s Indonesian expatriate community and a growing appreciation for the country’s vibrant flavors. From the bustling streets of Dubai to the cosmopolitan centers of Doha and Riyadh, Indonesian restaurants and food businesses are thriving, offering a taste of the archipelago to diners from all walks of life. As the culinary exchange between Indonesia and the Middle East continues to grow, it’s clear that the love for rendang, nasi goreng, and bakso knows no borders.