Boost your weight loss journey with these 10 metabolism-boosting foods! Available across the UAE, they make healthy eating simple and delicious.

March 30, 2025

Top 10 Foods for Effective Weight Loss in the UAE in 2025
Weight Loss

Top 10 Foods for Effective Weight Loss in the UAE in 2025

Losing weight in the UAE comes with unique challenges. The hot climate can make exercise tough. The busy lifestyle in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi often leads to eating out. And the rich food culture tempts us with delicious but calorie-heavy options.
The good news? You can find many weight loss foods in the UAE that taste great and help you shed pounds. These foods are easy to find in local markets and supermarkets across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates.
In this guide, we'll share the top 10 foods that support weight loss while fitting into the UAE lifestyle. These foods help you feel full, boost your metabolism, and provide the nutrients you need—all while keeping calories low.
 

Why Food Choices Matter for Weight Loss

 

Before we dive into the list, let's understand why food choices are so important:
  • Some foods keep you full longer, helping you eat less
  • Certain foods boost your metabolism and burn more calories
  • The right foods give you energy for exercise and daily activities
  • Healthy choices reduce cravings for unhealthy options
Now, let's explore the top 10 weight loss foods you can easily find in the UAE!

 

1. Fresh Dates

 
Why They Work: Fresh dates are a local treasure in the UAE. While dried dates are higher in sugar, fresh dates provide fiber that slows digestion and keeps you full.
How to Enjoy: Eat 1-2 fresh dates as a snack when sugar cravings hit. Chop them into your morning oatmeal. Or blend them into a smoothie instead of adding sugar.
Where to Find: Any UAE supermarket, local market, or date farm. The UAE grows some of the world's best dates!
Pro Tip: Choose bright, plump dates with smooth skin. Store them in the fridge to keep them fresh longer.

 

2. Chickpeas (Hummus)

 
Why They Work: Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber—two nutrients that help you feel full. They're also affordable and versatile.
How to Enjoy: Make hummus at home with less oil for a low-calorie snack. Add chickpeas to salads for extra protein. Try roasted chickpeas as a crunchy snack.
Where to Find: Any grocery store in the UAE sells both canned chickpeas and dry ones. You'll also find local brands of hummus with less preservatives.
Pro Tip: Make a big batch of hummus on weekends for healthy snacks all week long.

 

3. Labneh (Strained Yogurt)

 
Why It Works: Labneh has more protein than regular yogurt because it's strained. Protein keeps you full and helps build muscle, which burns more calories even at rest.
How to Enjoy: Eat labneh with cucumber sticks for a low-calorie snack. Spread it on whole grain bread instead of cream cheese. Use it as a base for healthy dips.
Where to Find: Every supermarket in the UAE carries labneh. Many local brands are less expensive than imported ones.
Pro Tip: Choose plain labneh instead of flavored options that often contain added sugar.

 

4. Grilled Fish

 
Why It Works: The UAE has access to amazing fresh fish. Fish is high in protein and healthy fats while being low in calories. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish also reduce inflammation, which helps with weight loss.
How to Enjoy: Grill local fish like hammour or sea bream with lemon and herbs. Add fish to salads. Try making fish curry with less oil and more spices.
Where to Find: Fish markets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer the freshest options. Most supermarkets also carry good quality fresh fish.
Pro Tip: Fish cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you might otherwise order takeout.

 

5. Freekeh

 
Why It Works: This ancient grain is popular in Middle Eastern cooking. Freekeh has more protein and fiber than rice or couscous, which means it keeps you fuller longer.
How to Enjoy: Use freekeh instead of rice in your meals. Make a freekeh salad with fresh vegetables. Try freekeh soup for a filling, low-calorie meal.
Where to Find: Look for freekeh in supermarkets across the UAE, especially in the grains section or Middle Eastern food aisle.
Pro Tip: Cook a large batch and keep it in the fridge for quick meals during the week.

 

6. Cucumber

 
Why It Works: Cucumbers are made mostly of water, making them one of the lowest-calorie foods you can eat. They help keep you hydrated in the UAE's hot climate.
How to Enjoy: Add cucumber to salads. Slice it for a crunchy snack. Make cucumber raita with low-fat yogurt. Try cucumber water for a refreshing drink.
Where to Find: All grocery stores in the UAE carry cucumbers year-round. Local cucumbers are often less expensive.
Pro Tip: Keep sliced cucumber in water in your fridge for an easy grab-and-go healthy snack.

 

7. Lentils

 
Why They Work: Lentils are packed with protein and fiber while being low in fat. They help stabilize blood sugar and prevent hunger spikes.
How to Enjoy: Make mujadara (lentils and rice) with less oil. Try lentil soup for a filling lunch. Add lentils to salads for extra protein.
Where to Find: Dried and canned lentils are available in all UAE supermarkets. Many Indian and Middle Eastern stores sell different varieties.
Pro Tip: Red lentils cook faster than other types, making them perfect for quick meals.

 

8. Watermelon

 
Why It Works: Watermelon has high water content and low calories. It satisfies sweet cravings while keeping you hydrated in the UAE heat.
How to Enjoy: Eat watermelon slices as a snack or dessert. Make a watermelon salad with mint and feta cheese. Blend it into a refreshing smoothie.
Where to Find: Fresh watermelon is available year-round in UAE supermarkets and fruit markets.
Pro Tip: Freeze watermelon cubes for a cool treat that helps beat the heat and satisfies sweet cravings.

 

9. Eggs

 
Why They Work: Eggs are protein powerhouses that keep you full for hours. Studies show that people who eat eggs for breakfast consume fewer calories throughout the day.
How to Enjoy: Make a quick veggie omelet for breakfast. Hard-boil eggs for snacks. Add a poached egg to salads for extra protein.
Where to Find: All grocery stores across the UAE sell eggs. Many now offer organic and free-range options.
Pro Tip: Boil several eggs at once and keep them in the fridge for quick protein-rich snacks.

 

10. Olive Oil

 
Why It Works: While oil is high in calories, olive oil contains healthy fats that help you feel satisfied. Using small amounts can actually help with weight loss by making healthy foods taste better.
How to Enjoy: Use olive oil in salad dressings instead of creamy dressings. Drizzle a small amount on veggies instead of butter. Use it for cooking instead of other oils.
Where to Find: Quality olive oil is available in all UAE supermarkets. Look for extra virgin olive oil for the most health benefits.
Pro Tip: Use a spray bottle or measuring spoon to control how much olive oil you use.

 

Making These Foods Work for Weight Loss in the UAE

 
These weight loss foods in the UAE work best when you:
  1. Control Portions: Even healthy foods have calories. Watch your portion sizes.
  2. Stay Consistent: Include these foods in your daily meals, not just occasionally.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in the UAE's hot climate.
  4. Combine With Activity: Even light exercise like walking in the mall helps boost weight loss.
  5. Plan Ahead: Keep healthy snacks ready for when hunger strikes.

 

How FitLab Can Help

 
At FitLab, we understand the challenges of losing weight in the UAE. Our nutrition experts can help you create meal plans using these weight loss foods. We can show you how to prepare quick, easy meals that fit your taste and lifestyle.
Our approach includes:
  • Personalized meal plans featuring local, accessible foods
  • Simple recipes that work with busy UAE lifestyles
  • Guidance on portion control and meal timing
  • Support for navigating social events and restaurant meals
  • Regular check-ins to adjust your plan as needed

 

Start Your Weight Loss Journey Today

 
Incorporating these top 10 weight loss foods into your diet is a great first step. These low-calorie foods available in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and across the UAE can help you reach your goals.
Remember that sustainable weight loss comes from making small, consistent changes. Start by adding 2-3 of these foods to your regular shopping list. Try new recipes that make healthy eating enjoyable.
Ready for more personalized guidance? Contact FitLab today to discover how we can support your weight loss journey with expert nutrition advice and custom meal plans.

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2024-2025 Fitlab Catering Services LLC. All rights reserved.