UAE restaurants see spike in reservations as Covid rules ease

UAE restaurants see spike in reservations as Covid rules ease

Residents and restaurant owners hail how the country managed the pandemic, allowing the public to enjoy the culinary scene even during Covid time

Photo Courtesy: Visit Dubai

Published: Fri 30 Sep 2022, 5:45 PM Last updated: Fri 30 Sep 2022, 6:13 PM

Long-time UAE resident Maxine Braddock doesn't mind spending Dh300 to Dh400 on a meal in a fine-dining restaurant. Even when Covid hit, "eating out never stopped", she said.

"I really like the culinary scene in Dubai. I eat out every weekend which includes Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and at least one day in the middle of the week," said the expat, whose dining habits reflected what a recent survey has found.

In a poll, more than half of Dubai residents (52 per cent) said they dine out up to three times per week. The respondents also ranked the emirate as the world’s top gastronomy hub, ahead of London and New York.

With Covid restrictions eased and mask-wearing made optional in most public spaces across the country, more residents are expected to enjoy meals outside their homes.

"I have never been much bothered about Covid-19 except for the time when the lockdown happened. But now with the easing of restrictions, I understand more people would want to