AMAYA, located inside Dubai Mall, is a premium dining destination celebrated for authentic Arabic grills, refined global cuisine offerings, and breathtaking dual views: the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa from the outdoor terrace, and Dubai Mall’s serene indoor waterfalls from the plush indoor lounge. This guide distills chef-approved techniques for preparing Arabic grilled dishes at home—covering cultural context, essential tools, spice fundamentals, temperatures, and step-by-step methods—while reflecting the elevated standards you’ll experience at AMAYA.
Key Takeaways:
- Master Arabic grilling fundamentals—heat zones, timing, and proper resting—to achieve juicy, flavorful results.
- Build layers of flavor with classic marinades, fresh herbs, and traditional spice blends like za’atar, sumac, and baharat.
- Experience authentic Arabic grills and exceptional Dubai Mall views at AMAYA’s grill restaurant in Dubai, open daily from 10 AM to 1 AM.
Essential Arabic Grill Preparation Techniques
Arabic grilling emphasizes purity of flavor, ingredient quality, and precise heat control. At AMAYA, meats and vegetables are selected for freshness, seasoned with restraint, and grilled over carefully managed heat to preserve tenderness and aroma.
Understanding the Basics of Grilling
Set up two heat zones: direct heat for quick-searing skewers and vegetables, and indirect heat for thicker cuts such as lamb shoulder. For efficient searing without scorching, maintain a grill surface in the medium to medium-high range (approximately 350–450 °F). Season with sea salt, cracked pepper, and classic aromatics—garlic, lemon, mint, parsley, and coriander. AMAYA’s kitchens frequently incorporate za’atar to add herbaceous depth and a citrusy lift from sumac, enhancing—not masking—the natural character of the ingredient.
What Equipment Do You Need for Arabic Grilling?
Traditional tools help deliver unmistakable flavor and texture.
- Clay mangal (or charcoal grill): Imparts gentle smoke and steady heat for skewers and kebabs.
- Stainless steel skewers: Durable, easy to clean, and excellent for even cooking.
- Grilling baskets: Ideal for delicate vegetables and seafood to prevent sticking or breakage.
Care tips: Wipe the mangal with a damp cloth after each session, brush grates clean while warm, and lightly oil skewers to prevent rust. This upkeep streamlines your next cook—and keeps flavors clean and consistent.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Arabic Grilled Dishes
Start with quality meats—lamb shoulder, beef sirloin, chicken thighs—and market-fresh vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Classic spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, sumac) and fresh herbs (mint, parsley, cilantro) are foundational to Levantine flavor. For pantry reliability, source spices from reputable shops and refresh them often to preserve aroma and potency.
Choosing the Right Meats and Vegetables
- Lamb shoulder: Marinate 4 hours with garlic, lemon, olive oil, rosemary, and a touch of cumin.
- Chicken thighs: For tenderness, use a lemon-garlic-yogurt marinade (with paprika and coriander) for at least 2 hours.
- Beef sirloin (kebabs): Marinate overnight with olive oil, grated onion, cumin, paprika, and black pepper.
- Vegetables: Toss peppers, zucchini, and onions with olive oil, sumac, and a pinch of salt; grill until lightly charred and sweet.
How to Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Balanced marinades use acid, fat, and spice. A reliable ratio is 1 part acid (lemon juice or red wine vinegar) to 2 parts olive oil, plus aromatics.
Starter marinade:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
Marinate poultry 2–12 hours, beef 4–12 hours, and lamb 4–24 hours. Pat meat dry before grilling to encourage caramelization, and always rest after cooking to redistribute juices.
Popular Arabic Marinades and Spice Blends
Exploring Traditional Spice Blends
Za’atar: Dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt—bright, nutty, and citrus-tinged. Excellent on chicken, halloumi, and vegetables.
Baharat: Warm, aromatic blend (black pepper, coriander, paprika, cumin, allspice) that pairs beautifully with lamb and beef.
At home: Mix 2 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp sumac, and 1 tbsp sesame seeds with a pinch of salt for a quick za’atar. For baharat, combine 1 tbsp each black pepper, paprika, and cumin with 1/2 tbsp allspice.
Achieving the Perfect Grill Temperature
Use a reliable thermometer for consistency. As a quick gauge, a hand held 5 inches over the grate becomes uncomfortable at roughly medium-high heat. Aim for these internal temperatures:
- Chicken: 165 °F
- Beef steaks/kebabs: 135–145 °F (cook to preference; rest before slicing)
- Pork: 145 °F (followed by rest)
Undercooking risks food safety; overcooking leads to dryness. Regular checks help you hit the sweet spot.
Techniques for Grilling Chicken, Lamb, and Beef
Chicken: Marinate with olive oil, lemon, garlic, paprika, and herbs. Grill over medium heat 6–7 minutes per side until 165 °F. Rest 5 minutes.
Lamb: Season with salt, garlic, rosemary, and baharat. Grill over medium-high heat 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare; adjust to preference. Rest 5–10 minutes.
Beef: Keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a touch of cumin. Grill 4–6 minutes per side (thickness-dependent). Rest before serving to retain juices.
AMAYA’s Setting: Authentic Grills with Iconic Dubai Views
Dining at AMAYA’s restaurant with Burj Khalifa views is as much about setting as it is about flavor. Inside Dubai Mall, the indoor lounge offers plush seating, greenery, and calming waterfall vistas; the outdoor balcony presents direct Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa views—perfect for sunset grills and late-night bites. Guests can also explore the wider menu of authentic global cuisines (Arabic, Mediterranean, Asian, Italian, seafood, and more) prepared to international standards—without fusion or experimental twists.
Accompaniments That Elevate Arabic Grills
Serve grilled meats with warm pita or flatbreads, herbed rice pilaf, and cooling dips like labneh, tahini, or garlic yogurt. Fresh salads such as tabbouleh and fattoush add brightness and texture, balancing the gentle smokiness of the grill. For a complete experience at AMAYA, pair your meal with the venue’s extensive non-alcoholic beverage selection—fresh juices, mocktails, smoothies, and signature drinks—best enjoyed with fountain or waterfall views.
Explore view-focused dining guides here:
Dubai Fountain view restaurant and
Dubai Mall restaurant with waterfall views.
Premium Shisha in an Elegant Lounge
AMAYA is also a premium shisha lounge in Dubai with more than 15 flavors—served both indoors and on the balcony. Expect generous bowls, attentive service, and elegant presentation. Shisha sessions pair beautifully with grilled mezze, late-night conversations, and the spectacle of the Dubai Fountain shows.
Practical Information
- Location: Inside Dubai Mall, steps from the Dubai Fountain and facing Burj Khalifa, with indoor views of the mall’s waterfalls.
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM – 1 AM.
- Beverages: Non-alcoholic venue offering fresh juices, mocktails, smoothies, milkshakes, iced and hot drinks.
- Reservations & Details: Visit the AMAYA homepage for menus and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this guide about?
“The Complete Guide to Arabic Grill Preparation Techniques” walks you through authentic methods for marinating, skewering, seasoning, and temperature control to achieve restaurant-quality Arabic grills at home—reflecting the standards practiced at AMAYA.
How can I use this guide for my next barbecue?
Plan your menu around a few well-chosen cuts (chicken thighs, lamb shoulder, beef sirloin), prepare classic marinades a day ahead, and set up two heat zones on the grill. Serve with fresh salads, warm breads, and chilled non-alcoholic drinks for a balanced spread. For inspiration, see AMAYA’s focus on grills here: authentic grill dining in Dubai.
Are specific recipes included?
Yes—this guide outlines staple marinades, spice blends like za’atar and baharat, and timing/temperature cues for chicken, lamb, and beef kebabs, plus simple vegetable sides to complete the plate.
Is this guide beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. Each step emphasizes fundamentals (marinade ratios, heat management, internal temperatures, and resting), making it accessible to new grillers and useful to seasoned cooks alike.
What equipment do I need?
A charcoal or gas grill, stainless steel skewers, and a reliable thermometer are enough to get started. A clay mangal and grilling basket are excellent additions for traditional flavor and delicate produce.
Ready to experience the views and cuisine in person? Explore our restaurant with Burj Khalifa views and plan your visit during a fountain show for a memorable evening inside Dubai Mall.
