Top 10 Most Consumed Foods in the Middle East: Everyday Staples Across the Region

2. Rice

Rice is another essential part of Middle Eastern eating, particularly in the Gulf countries.

FAO research notes that rice consumption has been expanding in the Gulf, influenced partly by the region’s large South and East Asian expatriate populations.

In countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain, rice forms the base of many well-known meals.

Popular Rice Dishes

Mandi, kabsa, machboos, biryani and majboos are among the dishes commonly associated with rice-based meals across the region.

Basmati rice is especially popular because its long grains and aroma pair well with meat, chicken and spices.

Recent food-market reporting also expects wheat and rice consumption in the UAE to continue increasing as population, tourism and the hospitality sector grow.

...[ Continue to next page ] By: Kriti Vaid