Are you up for learning something new about dosas, are you keen to experiment when it comes to dosas?

The very sight of a dosa kicks up nostalgic memories for many Indian expats. We fondly remember our days as students when we would all bond over this extremely popular South Indian dish. As we would take bites of this desi crepe or pancake, we would discuss politics or share friendly conversations over yummy varieties, accompanied by lip-smacking chutneys and sambar. 

Yes, this dish is not exclusively available in India alone. Talk about a dosa and you are bound to find at least one joint serving this delicacy in most parts of the world, especially in Dubai, where you have a large Indian expat population, hence an abundance of choices.

But, did you know that no two states serve the same dosa? Yes, each South Indian state has its unique version, accompanied by its signature chutneys and sambars. Be it Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, or Andhra Pradesh, you can taste the entire range right here in Dubai. Here are just a few of the unique varieties that you can gorge on in Dubai.

1 Neer Dosa

If you are familiar with the cuisine from the Udipi or Mangalore region in Karnataka, then you would know all about this mouth-melting speciality. Neer means water in Tulu (Mangalore/Udipi dialect), and Neer Dosa simply means water dosa. 

Made of rice batter, this thin and light pancake melts in the mouth due to its soft consistency and oil-free cooking process.  

This dosa is cherished by aficionados of South Indian cuisine, and can also be found in several Asian restaurants in Dubai. For the Mangalorean community, Neer Dosa is a must during any celebration.

Check out the Neer Dosas at Hari Prasad Pure Veg Restaurant in Dubai.

2 Zini Dosa

There is something unique about the delectable Zini or Jinni Dosa. It comes close to the Japanese Sushi, at least in appearance. This special dosa is stuffed with mixed veggies, that are cooked in a red, spicy sauce, topped with cheese, and presented like a Sushi.

Try the Zinis at Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) in Bur Dubai, they serve a lip-smacking one!

3 Omani Chips Dosa

This preparation pushes the dosa bar a notch higher, in terms of taste and presentation. It can offer stiff competition to popular Italian pizzas. Most kids growing up in the UAE already have their taste buds tuned to Omani Chips, and when you add the addictive flavour of the chips to a dosa, which also includes cheese and veggies – you have the perfect soul food. 

For some delicious Omani Chips Dosas, head to explore the many restaurants in Al Karama, Dubai where you may be spoilt for choice.

4 Burj Khalifa Dosa

This specialty takes dosas to a new ‘high’. Doesn’t matter if you cannot make to the ‘At The Top’ of the world’s tallest tower, at least you can take a bite of this iconic landmark, aka the Burj Khalifa Dosa. 

This 50-cm tall, four-layered, and three-flavoured crispy dosa, laden with three distinct flavours is truly unique and it’s big enough to stuff three hungry stomachs.

Feast on this amazing preparation at Yummy Dosa in Al Karama.

5 Dosa Grande or Family Roast

Don’t get fooled by its French title. It’s just a humble dosa, as desi as it gets! However, some foodies have taken to Instagram and renamed the scrumptious Family Roast and refer to it as Dosa Grande. We guess it’s the grand size of this pancake that inspired them to rename this dish.

The Dosa Grande gained iconic status in the UAE due to its sheer length. The massive variety is served on a 4.5-foot-long tray and requires two skilled chefs to prepare it. 

Head to Saarangaa Bhojan Shala at Bur Dubai or Dubai Marina to feast on this extravagant variety, and make sure you are not alone at the table.