The best seafood restaurants in GCC, particularly in the UAE, offer exceptional dining experiences combining fresh catches with spectacular views. Dubai and Abu Dhabi lead the region’s seafood scene, featuring everything from casual beachside eateries to luxurious dining establishments. These restaurants showcase diverse culinary influences including Mediterranean, Asian, and local Arabic flavors.
Top Seafood Restaurants in Dubai
Dubai’s dining landscape features numerous outstanding seafood establishments that cater to various tastes and budgets. Imagine eating the most delicious seafood while hitting jackpots at Arab casinos, winning thousands of dollars. Here are some of the most acclaimed seafood restaurants that consistently earn praise from critics and diners alike.
Ibn AlBahr: Authentic Lebanese Seafood
Ibn AlBahr stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in Dubai’s vibrant culinary scene. Located at Club Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah, this Lebanese restaurant is run by fishermen who understand seafood intimately.
What makes Ibn AlBahr special is its market-style display, where diners select their fresh catch directly. The restaurant earned the prestigious Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand recognition from 2022 to 2024.
Popular dishes include grilled hammour, shrimp kebabs, and their signature seafood platter. The casual atmosphere and beachfront dining create a relaxing yet lively setting that attracts both locals and tourists.
Bordo Mavi: Turkish Coastal Charm
Bordo Mavi has rapidly emerged as one of Dubai’s most exciting seafood destinations. Located at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, this restaurant opened in 2023 and quickly earned recognition as TimeOut Dubai’s Best Seafood Restaurant 2024.
The restaurant draws inspiration from Turkish fishmonger Ersan Yılmaz, featuring 200-year-old recipes passed down through generations. The menu includes standout dishes like clam casserole and perfectly grilled octopus.
The setting combines beautiful interiors with a stunning terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The restaurant’s charm comes from its balance of tradition and modern preparations.
Alici: Mediterranean Excellence
Alici delivers an upscale seafood experience on Bluewaters Island with spectacular views of Dubai’s coastline. The restaurant’s ambiance features light-filled interiors and an outdoor terrace that creates a refreshing escape. Signature dishes include freshly made pasta paired with lobster and Mediterranean-style fish prepared with herbs and spices.
Their crudo (raw seafood) selection deserves special attention, and it is ideal for those preferring fresh and light options. Alici perfectly balances high-end dining with a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere.
Lucia’s Mare: Italian Seafood Luxury
Lucia’s Mare brings Mediterranean flavors to Dubai with a focus on coastal Italian seafood specialties. Located in the iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel, this restaurant offers exceptional and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab while serving excellent seafood.
The restaurant stands out for its emphasis on sustainably sourced seafood. Popular dishes include paccheri pasta with lobster and traditional Italian seafood stew. The elegant contemporary interior paired with outdoor seating makes Lucia’s Mare suitable for both romantic dinners and special celebrations.
Top Seafood Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers its own collection of outstanding seafood establishments that rival those in neighboring Dubai. These restaurants combine fresh ingredients with distinctive cooking styles.
Ryba: Award-Winning Excellence
Ryba has earned recognition as a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, making it one of Abu Dhabi’s premier seafood destinations. Located at Al Mina, this restaurant serves some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood in the capital.
The restaurant puts a luxurious yet affordable twist on fine dining. Its beautiful location and exceptional seafood quality make it highly recommended for foodies seeking memorable dining experiences.
Mare Mare: Italian Coastal Flavors
Mare Mare at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort delivers Italian-influenced seafood in a setting that channels perfect holiday vibes. The restaurant’s menu starts with an impressive crudo selection before moving to signature seafood pizzas, pastas, and roasted fish fillets with fragrant sauces.
One of Mare Mare’s special features is its perfect sunset views. No matter where you sit, you can enjoy the outstanding sight of the sun setting over the water, creating an unforgettable dining ambiance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Seafood Restaurants in the GCC
When selecting the best seafood restaurants in the GCC, several important factors can help guide your decision.
Freshness and Quality
The best seafood establishments maintain strict standards for freshness. Look for restaurants like Ibn AlBahr or Bordo Mavi that display their daily catch and allow you to select your seafood directly. Freshness directly impacts flavor and dining satisfaction. Restaurants that source locally or have direct relationships with fishermen often provide superior quality seafood.
Culinary Expertise
Different seafood restaurants specialize in distinct cooking styles and preparations. Some excel at grilled dishes while others focus on raw preparations or specific regional cuisines. Restaurants like Alici (Italian), Ibn AlBahr (Lebanese), and Bordo Mavi (Turkish) each bring unique culinary traditions to their seafood preparations.
Ambiance and Setting
Seafood dining often benefits from appropriate settings. Many top restaurants feature waterfront locations that enhance the experience. Options range from casual beachside settings at Ibn AlBahr to more upscale environments like Pierchic, which has a private pier extending into the Arabian Gulf.
Price Range Considerations
Seafood restaurants in the GCC span various price points:
| Restaurant | Location | Average Price (AED) |
| Ibn AlBahr | Dubai Palm Jumeirah | 250-400 |
| Bordo Mavi | Dubai Jumeirah Fishing Harbour | 250-350 |
| Alici | Dubai Bluewaters Island | 300-450 |
| Ryba | Abu Dhabi Al Mina | 200-350 |
| Mare Mare | Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island | 250-400 |
The best seafood restaurants in the GCC offer exceptional quality regardless of price point. Many provide excellent value through business lunch offers or special promotions during weekdays.
The seafood scene in the GCC continues to evolve, with new concepts and international brands entering the market regularly. Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain the focal points for seafood innovation in the region, constantly raising standards and introducing new dining experiences.
When visiting any seafood restaurant in the GCC, reservations are highly recommended, especially for waterfront tables during sunset hours or weekend dining.
