Although modern Dubai chocolate has only gained popularity in recent years, its roots go back to culinary traditions that have evolved in the Middle East over centuries. Knafeh, which is a key ingredient in Dubai chocolate, has a long and rich history in the region. This traditional Arabic sweet, consisting of thin, stringy filo dough infused with butter and filled with cheese or cream, was known in the region as early as the Middle Ages, with some sources even pointing to the 13th century as the period of its origin.

Over the centuries, knafeh has evolved, taking different forms depending on the region - from the Lebanese version with cheese to the Turkish kadaif. In the United Arab Emirates, traditional knafeh is often served with pistachios and rose syrup, which was the inspiration for the makers of Dubai chocolate.

A modern interpretation of this delicacy in the form of a chocolate bar is the work of Dubai-based Emirati Fix Dessert Chocolatier. The creators decided to combine the traditional flavors of the Middle East with luxury chocolate, creating a product that quickly became a social media sensation, especially on the TikTok platform. In 2024, thanks to promotion by influencers, Dubai chocolate gained the status of a viral phenomenon, attracting the attention of candy lovers from around the world.

Le Chocolatier Dubai, located in the prestigious Jumeirah Lake Towers, has become one of the main producers and ambassadors of this unique treat. The brand specializes in creating luxury chocolates that combine traditional Arabian ingredients with modern production techniques. Their version of Dubai chocolate is distinguished by the high quality of the ingredients and attention to every detail of the production process.

What sets Dubai chocolate apart from other sweets is its unique filling. The creamy filling consists of roasted knafeh cake, pistachio paste and tahini, which gives it a distinctive crunchy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. The chocolate used in the production is of high quality, available in both milk and dark chocolate versions. The dark chocolate version is additionally parwe (lactose-free and vegan-friendly), making it accessible to people with different dietary preferences.

A large bar of Dubai chocolate weighs about 450 grams, making it not only a treat, but also an impressive gift. Generous amounts of high-quality pistachios add a nutty crunch and balance the flavor, while knafeh - crunchy, shredded phyllo dough - lends a distinctive texture that sets Dubai chocolate apart from others.

Interestingly, Dubai chocolate is a prime example of how traditional recipes can be reinterpreted for today's consumers. Generation Z, particularly active on social media, has contributed to the spread of this delicacy by sharing their taste experiences online and creating a veritable community of lovers around it.

As a city of luxury experiences, Dubai offers many places to sample authentic Dubai chocolate and other unique sweets inspired by local traditions. Here's an overview of the city's best chocolatiers where you can immerse yourself in a world of Middle Eastern flavors.

Le Chocolatier Dubai, located in Liwa Heights in the Jumeirah Lake Towers district, is the place that has revolutionized the approach to chocolate in Dubai. This upscale chocolatier specializes in Dubai chocolate, which has become their flagship product. The store's interior reflects the brand's luxurious character - elegant furnishings, subdued colors and professional service create an atmosphere conducive to savoring unique sweets. In addition to Dubai's famous chocolate, Le Chocolatier offers a wide selection of pralines, truffles and other chocolate specialties, often combining traditional Arabian ingredients with modern production techniques. Prices at Le Chocolatier fall into the expensive category, reflecting the quality of the ingredients used and the artisanal nature of the production.

Mirzam Chocolate Makers Factory & Store is another unique place on Dubai's chocolate map. Located in the Al Ghurair Warehouse complex on 4th Street in the Al Quoz neighborhood, Mirzam is distinguished by their 'seed to bar' approach, meaning they control the entire chocolate making process. What makes this place special is the opportunity to observe the entire chocolate-making process - from roasting the cocoa beans to molding the bars. Mirzam draws inspiration from the rich history of the spice trade on the Silk Road, which is reflected in their collections of chocolates with cardamom, saffron or rose water. While they don't specialize exclusively in Dubai chocolate, they offer their own interpretations of local flavors that delight locals and tourists alike. Prices at Mirzam are average to high, but the quality of the products fully justifies the price.

Godiva Café in Dubai Mall is a place that combines the tradition of Belgian chocolate with Middle Eastern touches. Located on the first floor of one of the world's largest shopping malls, the café offers not only classic Godiva chocolates, but also special editions inspired by local flavors. The menu includes hot chocolate with cardamom, chocolate fondue with pistachios or truffles with rose water. The elegant interior and strategic location make Godiva Café a popular place to relax while shopping. Prices are high, which is typical of the Godiva brand, but the quality and prestige of the brand attract many customers.

Da Choco Spot, advertising itself as the 'Best Chocolate Shop in Dubai,' is located in Dubai International City in the England Cluster. This smaller, more affordable chocolatier offers a wide selection of chocolates, including its own interpretations of Dubai chocolate. Da Choco Spot stands out for its more approachable character and less formal atmosphere than upscale chocolate boutiques. The store also offers personalized chocolates and chocolate gifts, making it a popular place to buy gifts. Prices are moderate, making it a good option for those looking for quality chocolate without spending a fortune.

Zokolat Craft Chocolates, part of Zocoa Chocolate Manufacturing LLC, is a chocolate manufactory located in Dubai Industrial City. This place is distinguished by its approach to chocolate production as a craft art. Zokolat specializes in handmade chocolates, often using local ingredients and inspiration. Their interpretation of Dubai chocolate often includes additional touches, such as cardamom or dates, which gives it a unique character. An interesting feature is the opportunity to attend chocolate workshops, where you can learn the basics of chocolate making and create your own sweets. Prices at Zokolat are average, and the opportunity to see the production process adds value to the product purchased.

When comparing these places, there are differences in the approach to chocolatiering. Le Chocolatier and Godiva represent the luxury segment of the market, offering exclusive products in elegant surroundings. Mirzam and Zokolat focus on education and transparency in the production process, which attracts more conscious consumers. Da Choco Spot, on the other hand, offers more affordable products, while maintaining good quality.

Dubai chocolate is not just a treat, but a true work of culinary art, whose uniqueness lies in carefully selected ingredients and a precise production process. To fully appreciate this phenomenon, it is worth delving into the secrets of its creation.

The basis of Dubai chocolate is high-quality chocolate, usually milk or dark chocolate. Manufacturers such as Le Chocolatier Dubai use selected cocoa beans, often from specific regions of the world, which gives the base a distinctive flavor profile. At the same time, the chocolate must be strong enough to support the intense flavors of the additives, but also delicate enough not to dominate them.

However, what really sets Dubai chocolate apart is its filling. The key ingredient is knafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern filo pastry with a stringy texture. In the process of making Dubai chocolate, knafeh is first roasted, which gives it a deeper flavor and crunchy texture. This element not only adds a distinctive crunch, but also introduces a touch of nostalgia for those familiar with traditional Arabic sweets.

Another important ingredient is pistachio paste. Pistachios have a long history in Middle Eastern cuisine and are prized for their distinctive flavor and color. The paste uses the highest quality nuts, which are roasted and then ground to a smooth consistency. Pistachio paste not only adds a nutty flavor, but also introduces a subtle sweetness and a distinctive greenish color to the inside of the chocolate.

Tahini, or sesame paste, is another traditional ingredient that finds its way into Dubai chocolate. This creamy additive introduces a depth of flavor and a hint of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate and the other ingredients. Tahini is also responsible for the characteristic silky texture of the filling.

The production process of Dubai chocolate is as fascinating as its ingredients. At manufactories such as Mirzam Chocolate Makers Factory & Store, one can observe how artisans combine traditional techniques with modern chocolate-making methods. The process begins with tempering the chocolate - a precise temperature-controlled technique that ensures a glossy finish and a distinctive 'snap' when broken.

Next, the filling is prepared - a mixture of roasted knafeh, pistachio paste and tahini is carefully combined to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The proportions of the ingredients are a closely guarded secret of each manufacturer, which means that each brand offers a slightly different interpretation of this delicacy.

The next step is to mold the chocolate. First, a layer of melted chocolate is poured into molds, then the filling is added, and the whole thing is covered with another layer of chocolate. Some manufacturers, like Zokolat Craft Chocolates, add chopped pistachios on top for extra texture and visual effect.

After molding, the chocolate is cooled under controlled conditions to ensure proper crystallization of the cocoa butter and perfect texture of the finished product. The entire process is extremely precise and requires both technical expertise and artistic flair.

Dubai chocolate is available in different variants to suit different preferences and dietary requirements. The milk chocolate version offers a milder, creamy flavor profile, while the dark chocolate variant provides a more intense experience and is suitable for those avoiding dairy products. This variety means that the Dubai delicacy can appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Also worth mentioning is the role of packaging in the overall experience of Dubai chocolate. Manufacturers such as Godiva Café - Dubai Mall and Da Choco Spot pay great attention to the presentation of their products. Elegant boxes, often decorated with traditional Arabian designs, gold foils and careful finishing make Dubai chocolate not only a treat, but also a luxury gift.

The phenomenon of Dubai chocolate goes far beyond its taste - it's a cultural experience that combines traditional Arabic flavors with a modern approach to chocolatiering. It's also a prime example of culinary fusion that reflects the cosmopolitan nature of Dubai itself - a city where tradition meets innovation, creating unique experiences.