Ras Al Khaimah has quietly become one of the UAE’s most rewarding destinations for biryani lovers. From 24-hour neighbourhood restaurants to refined hotel dining and busy mall-based favourites, the emirate offers a wide spectrum of flavours, spice levels, and cooking styles. From slow-cooked dum biryani and hearty handi preparations to premium seafood variations, Ras Al Khaimah offers a wealth of options for anyone searching for the best biryani in 2026.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- Best Biryani Restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah
- Hidden Gems & Local Favourites
- Tips for Choosing the Best Biryani Experience
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Best Biryani Restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah
These top biryani spots in Ras Al Khaimah are celebrated for their distinctive flavours, signature styles, and consistent quality, making them must-visit destinations for anyone seeking the best biryani in 2026.
| Restaurant | Speciality Biryani Types | Approx Cost | Location | Why People Love It |
| Murad Zahi Restaurant | Grilled chicken biryani, fish biryani | AED 40 for 2 people (approx.) | Al Juwais – RAK | Contemporary style, strong flavour; open 24 hrs, great for late nights or early mornings |
| Al Saad Restaurant | Chicken dum biryani, mutton handi biryani, vegetable dum | AED 40 for 2 people (approx.) | Al Nakheel – RAK | Regional vibe; handi style is hearty; ideal for groups or serious biryani lovers |
| Claypot – Citymax Hotel | Murgh Mughlai biryani, Noor Mahal biryani, Jhinga (prawn) | AED 160 for 2 people (approx.) Without alcohol | Bin Daher Street, Al Nakheel | Elegant ambience; varied menu; quality ingredients; good balance between upscale & accessible |
| India Palace Restaurant | Ghosht biryani dum wala, Bohri chaamp biryani, Murgh dum biryani | AED 160 for 2 people (approx.) | Food Court, 2nd Floor, RAK Mall, Khuzam Road, Al Qurm | Generous portions; strong reputation; ideal for casual yet satisfying meals |
| Al Mehfal Restaurant | Chicken Dum Hyderabadi Biryani | AED 25 for 2 people (approx.) | Al Juwais – RAK | Authentic taste; timely delivery; friendly service; praised for biryani texture and spice balance |
Hidden Gems & Local Favourites
Beyond the well-known biryani spots, Ras Al Khaimah also boasts several hidden gems and local favourites that continue to delight residents and visitors.
Al Salam Briyani Restaurant
Al Salam Briyani Restaurant is celebrated for its Ambur Special Dum Mutton Biryani and flavourful chicken biryani. Offering excellent value for money, this popular eatery is usually bustling with diners, reflecting its strong local reputation. Its focus on hearty, well-spiced biryani makes it a must-visit for those seeking authentic flavours.
- Avg prices: AED 45 for two
- Top dishes: Chicken Curry, Kothu Poratta, Prawns Fry, Upma
Location
It’s located in Al Juwais – Ras Al Khaimah
Contact Information
Phone: +971 7 258 2336
Hyderabad Restaurant, Al Jazirat
Hyderabad Restaurant in Al Jazirat is highly regarded for its Hyderabadi dum biryani and Chicken 65. Diners praise its rich aroma, flavourful spices, and generous portion sizes. While service reviews are mixed, the consistently satisfying taste and traditional preparation methods keep patrons coming back.
- Avg prices: AED 35 for two people
- Top dishes: Biryani Rice, Dal Fry, Butter Chicken, Brinjal Curry
Location
It’s located Near Iceland Restaurant, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Salem Road, Al Jazirat, Ras al-Khaimah
Contact Information
Phone: +97172445799
Tips for Choosing the Best Biryani Experience
Finding the perfect biryani in Ras Al Khaimah is about more than just price; it involves understanding styles, timing, and value. These tips will help you get the most flavour and satisfaction from your biryani meal.
Know the Style You Crave
- Dum Biryani: Slow-cooked with layered spices and rice, dum biryani delivers aromatic flavours that develop over time.
- Handi Style: Cooked in a deep pot, handi biryani is richer, with more gravy and a robust texture, perfect for hearty appetites.
- Seafood / Fish Biryani: Less common but premium, seafood biryanis offer fresher flavours and a slightly lighter taste profile.
- Vegetarian Options: Usually made with paneer or mixed vegetables, vegetarian biryani should still retain strong seasoning; don’t compromise on flavour.
Time and Crowds
- 24-Hour Options: Restaurants like Murad Zahi are open around the clock, ideal for late-night cravings or early breakfasts.
- Mall-Based Locations: Food courts, such as India Palace in RAK Mall, can be busier on weekends and during peak shopping hours, so plan accordingly.
Value-for-Money Indicators
- Portion Size: Ask how many people a biryani is meant to serve to ensure you get good value.
- Ingredient Quality: Fresh meat and aromatic spices like cloves, cardamom, and saffron make a noticeable difference.
- Side Dishes & Raita: Complimentary sides enhance the biryani experience without adding much to the cost, providing a fuller, more balanced meal.
Key Takeaways
Claypot, India Palace, Murad Zahi and Al Saad stand out as some of the best biryani spots in Ras Al Khaimah in 2026, offering consistent flavour, quality ingredients, and distinctive dining experiences. For those seeking excellent taste at more budget-friendly prices, Al Mehfal and Al Salam are reliable options.
FAQs
Dum biryani is slow-cooked in a sealed container to trap steam, layering rice, meat, and spices for rich, aromatic flavours. Handi biryani is cooked in a deep pot, often with more gravy, stronger spices, and sometimes potatoes or additional fats, resulting in a heartier texture.
Claypot offers seafood options such as jhinga (prawn) biryani, while other highly rated restaurants provide seafood-biryani combos. Checking the menu ensures you get the freshest and most satisfying options.
Yes. Murad Zahi operates 24 hours, and Al Nasma Tamil Restaurant stays open very late. Many local restaurants remain open late, and delivery apps can help you find late-night options.
Spice levels vary by style and restaurant. Hyderabadi or Pakistani-style biryanis are typically medium to high in spice, while places like Al Saad may be more intense. For milder heat, choose chicken, vegetarian, or customised options.
Absolutely. Restaurants such as Al Saad, Al Mehfal, Claypot, and several Tamil- or South Indian-style eateries offer vegetarian biryani, mixed vegetables, and paneer dishes.
