What types of meal plans does Fitlab offer?

Fitlab offers a wide variety of meal plans to make sure we cover the needs of almost everyone from athletes to busy professionals, moms, kids and individuals who wish to lose weight or simply maintain a healthier lifestyle. Fitlab also caters to some medical conditions such as Diabetes, Hypertension, PCOS, and Metabolic Syndrome.

What are the delivery options available, and is there a delivery fee?

Your meals will be delivered on a daily basis in a chiller bag with ice-packs. And the delivery fee is included in the total price of the meal plan.

How do I skip a day within my plan?

You can do that smoothly from your dashboard. Keep in mind that any change should be made 48 hrs prior to the desired date. There will be no food delivery on the skipped day.

What if my requirements differ from the meal plans provided?

In such a situation, reaching out to our sales team is the solution. They'll provide expert advice to help you select the most suitable option. You can also book a consultation with our nutritionist for further assessment and assistance. If your requirements can be accommodated by Fitlab then one of the listed meal plans will definitely align with your needs.

Can I choose my delivery time slot, and what days do you deliver?

We are very flexible with the delivery time. You can choose from different time slots available for each area according to your convenience.

What happens to the days I skip? Do I lose them?

Nothing is lost with Fitlab! All skipped days will be automatically added at the end of your subscription.

Are the meals customizable to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?

Yes. We try our best to accommodate food modification requests whenever possible, but certain ingredients are integral to the dish and we will be unable to remove them. In the event we can’t remove a certain ingredient from a dish, you can choose another meal or double up on a single meal on that day. You can view the ingredient list while choosing your meals, so you can avoid a meal with any dislikes or allergens. We currently do not provide gluten-free, dairy-free or keto meal plans.

How often do you update your menu, and can I switch meals within my plan?

The menu is updated every 2 weeks and new meals are added to our meal list every month. You can always choose and change your meals as many times as you wish easily from your dashboard 48 hrs prior to the desired change date. Our cut-off time is 5:00 pm.

What happens if I'm not home during the delivery time slot?

This depends on the delivery note you left when placing your order. If it is “Leave it at the door”, the driver will keep it at your doorstep and you’ll receive a message that your order was delivered. If your note is “Get it by hand”, you’ll get a call to reschedule your delivery. In both ways, it is highly recommended to unpack the food and refrigerate it as soon as it arrives.

Do I have to reselect my meals for the shifted days after I skip days in my meal plan?

Sure. Meals on these days will be randomly selected from available options. Log in to your dashboard 48 hours beforehand to select your desired meals for those days.

What regions do you currently deliver to?

We deliver to almost all the Emirates. We are working very hard to extend our services to the few areas currently beyond our reach.

Is there a limit to how many days I can skip?

No, you can skip as many days as you wish from your meal plan.

How do I know which meal plan is right for my fitness goals?

You can do that by taking a quiz. You can also use our calorie calculator to calculate your daily caloric needs, this will help you choose the right meal plan variation. And if you think you need further assistance, our Nutritionist is a click away, you can easily book a consultation through our website or app.

Can I change my delivery address after placing an order?

Yes, of course you can do that through your dashboard. Keep in mind that any change should be made 48 hrs prior to the desired date of delivery. Our cut-off time is 5:00 pm.

Can I pause my meal plan temporarily?

Absolutely. If you are outside the country or just want to have a break, you can pause your subscription and resume it at your convenience. You can do that through your dashboard. Keep in mind that we’ll need 48h to accommodate this change.

Can I request specific portion sizes for my meals?

We cannot build our meals according to certain macros provided by the client. However, our lunch and dinner come in three different sizes already to cover the needs of everyone, and for the snacks, breakfast, and side salads it’s one size. But you can always customize your plan to add, remove or replace any meal you think is out of range for your fitness goal.

Can I add multiple addresses?

Yes, you can do that through your dashboard. You can add multiple addresses and choose different time slots for each address, and have your food delivered to the desired address with no extra charges! Always keep in mind that any change should be made 48 hrs prior to the desired date of delivery. Our cut-off time is 5:00 pm.

Is there a limit to the pause period?

Yes. The maximum time of meal plan pause is 45 days.

Are nutritional facts and calorie counts provided for each meal?

Yes, the energy in Calories and macros in grams of protein, fat and carbohydrates for each meal are provided on both the website and the label on the meal.

Do you offer contactless delivery options?

You can choose to take the delivered chiller bag either by hand or leave it at the door.

How far in advance do I need to notify you if I want to resume my meal plan?

You can resume your plan anytime from your dashboard 48 hours in advance. After resumption, your menu will be system generated, randomly chosen from the meals available on the shifted days. Make sure you choose your desired meals.

What is the shelf life of FitLab’s meals?

It is generally safe to consume ready-to-eat food within 3 days if it has been properly stored. We recommend that you consume the meal within 2 days to ensure the best quality and freshness.

Is there a fee associated with pausing the plan or skipping days?

No. of course not! You can skip days, pause and resume your meal plan with no extra charge.

Should I heat my FitLab Meals?

The label includes serving instructions, where we suggest the optimal way to enjoy the meal. However, feel free to consume the meal the way you like it. For heating, you can either choose a microwave or a stovetop. The average heating time for the microwave would be 60-90 seconds.

Can I skip a day on short notice, or is there a cut-off time?

Any changes should be made 48 hours in advance, before our cut-off time which is 5:00 pm.

What happens to my payment during a paused period?

Your money will be reserved until you resume your meal plan. Nothing will be lost with Fitlab.

What is the mode of payment accepted by FitLab?

You can pay by card, ApplePay and GooglePay. We accept all kinds of card payments. You can also split your payment in 4 interest-free installments with Tabby.

Can I cancel my plan? Will I get refunded?

If you decide to cancel your plan, we're here to help. An exit fee applies, and any refund will be based on the remaining days of your plan. Reach out to our support team for assistance.

What is the refund processing time?

Refunds typically take 5 to 7 business days to appear on your original payment method. If you haven't received it after this time and you've received a refund email from us, contact your bank for assistance.

Fuel your body with traditional Emirati superfoods! Learn how dates, barley, camel milk, and more can enhance your meals and boost your health effortlessly.

March 18, 2025

Traditional Meal Plans

Top 5 Traditional Ingredients for Balanced Meal Plans in the UAE

In Dubai, where quick meals are often the go-to, traditional Emirati ingredients still offer unmatched benefits. These time-tested foods not only taste great but also help keep you healthy, providing a balanced mix of nutrition and culture.

From energy-boosting dates to protein-packed lentils, these local ingredients offer incredible health benefits. Whether you're busy, into fitness, or just want to eat healthier, adding these ingredients to your meals can make a big difference.

Let’s explore the top 5 traditional Emirati ingredients that can help you build a balanced, nutrient-rich meal plan without compromising on taste or convenience.

1. Dates (Tamer)

Perfect For: Natural energy boost, post-workout recovery, and digestive health.

Why It’s Great:

Packed with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.
Provides natural sweetness without refined sugar.
A great alternative to unhealthy snacks.

How to Use It:

Blend into smoothies for a naturally sweet boost.
Pair with almonds or walnuts for a nutrient-dense snack.
Chop and sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt.

Pro Tip: Soaking dates overnight makes them softer and easier to blend for desserts and drinks.

2. Fava Beans

Perfect For: A protein-packed start to the day or hearty addition to lunch and dinner.

Why It’s Great:

High in protein and fiber, great for digestion and fullness.
Full of vitamins that promote health.
Used in classic dishes like Ful Medames for extra flavor and nutrition.

How to Use It:

Cook fava beans with spices for a hearty breakfast dish.
Mash into spreads or dips served with bread.
Add to salads for extra texture and protein.

Pro Tip: Cooking fava beans slowly allows them to absorb flavors better—try adding garlic or lemon!

3. Camel Milk

Perfect For: A nutritious dairy alternative rich in vitamins and minerals.

Why It’s Great:

Lower in lactose than cow’s milk, making it easier to digest.
Rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants.
Contains insulin-like proteins that may help regulate blood sugar levels.

How to Use It:

Drink it plain as a nutritious beverage.
Blend into smoothies for added creaminess.
Incorporate into desserts like puddings or ice creams.

Pro Tip: Pair camel milk with dates for a classic Emirati superfood combo.

4. Fish (Especially Local Varieties)

Perfect For: Lean protein source rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Why It’s Great:

High-quality protein essential for muscle repair.
Rich in omega-3s, promoting heart health.
Versatile for grilling, baking, or stews.

How to Use It:

Grill with spices for a flavorful dish.
Add to salads or wraps for protein.
Use in traditional dishes like Samak Mashwi.

Pro Tip: Marinate with turmeric and garlic to boost its anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Barley (Sha’ir)

Perfect For: Digestive health, sustained energy, and cholesterol management.

Why It’s Great:

High in fiber, keeping you full for longer.
Helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
A heart-friendly grain that supports overall wellness.

How to Use It:

Cook into a traditional barley soup for a nourishing meal.
Use as a base for grain bowls and salads.
Mix with milk and honey for a classic Emirati breakfast.

Pro Tip: Soaking barley before cooking reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.

How to Incorporate These Ingredients into Your Meal Plan

To make the most of these traditional ingredients, consider:

✅ Pairing lentils with barley for a complete protein source.
✅ Adding saffron to milk or tea for a stress-relieving drink.
✅ Combining dates, figs, and nuts for an energizing snack.
✅ Swapping regular dairy for camel milk to improve digestion.

Adding these ingredients to your meals can help improve your diet by providing key nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Elevate Your Nutrition with FitLab

Using traditional Emirati ingredients is an easy way to make your meals healthier and more flavorful. Whether you want to boost your energy, support digestion, or speed up recovery, these ingredients have you covered.

At FitLab, we help busy professionals, fitness lovers, and health-conscious people create meal plans that fit their lifestyle. Our custom meal solutions use nutrient-packed, locally-inspired ingredients to help you achieve your health goals.

Ready to improve your diet? Check out FitLab’s meal planning services today and start your journey to a healthier, more balanced you!