Celiac Around the World - Dubai
- nwheeler01
- Nov 8
- 5 min read
Living gluten-free can look very different around the world, depending on awareness, resources, and cultural attitudes toward food. In this edition of Celiac Around the World, we travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to learn what life is like for families navigating celiac disease there. I had the opportunity to interview Priyamvada, a parent whose child was diagnosed with celiac disease, and learn about their journey, from finding safe gluten-free foods to advocating for better understanding and options in their community.
LIVING IN DUBAI WITH A CHILD THAT HAS CELIAC DISEASE
How old was your child when they were diagnosed with Celiac?
"My daughter was diagnosed with Celiac disease at the age of 6, in October 2022. As her primary caregiver, I immediately switched to a gluten-free lifestyle myself to better support her. Her diagnosis changed how we live, eat, and think about food every single day."
Do any of your family members have Celiac?
"No, she’s the only one in the family with Celiac disease."
What do you find to be the hardest part of living with Celiac?
"The hardest part is the lack of spontaneity. Whether it's dining out, traveling, or social events, everything needs to be planned and double-checked. It takes away some of the flexibility we used to enjoy."
Are there any positives that you feel came from her diagnosis?
"Yes, absolutely. We’ve become so much more conscious of what goes into our bodies. It’s led us to explore clean, organic foods and understand the importance of reading labels. It’s been a learning curve—but also an empowering one."
Do you know anyone else with celiac?
"Yes, I’ve met many others through virtual communities and support groups. It’s comforting to be part of a network that understands the challenges and celebrates the little wins.
EATING OUT IN DUBAI
How knowledgeable is the food industry regarding Celiac disease?
"Awareness is growing, but there’s still a lot of room for improvement—especially in cross-contamination practices and staff training."
Are the menus clearly marked for allergens and gluten-free food?
"Yes, many places do label their menus, especially in larger or more health-conscious establishments."
Do restaurants usually have something your daughter can eat safely?
"Not always. We usually research ahead of time or stick to a few trusted places."
What is the easiest/hardest thing about eating out?
"The easiest part is returning to places you trust—where you know what to expect. The hardest part is the limited options, especially when others can eat freely and we have to be extra careful."
How common are Celiac/gluten-free dietary restrictions in Dubai?
"It’s not very common, which makes education and awareness all the more important here."
BUYING GLUTEN-FREE FOOD
Is it easy for you to find gluten-free options at the grocery store?
"Yes, once you know where to look and which brands to trust, it becomes easier. Many major chains do carry gluten-free lines. The difficult part is that it’s not under one roof; there are four different supermarkets or grocery stores that store them."
Are foods clearly marked gluten-free?
"Yes, most are labeled well."
Is eating gluten-free more expensive in Dubai?
"Definitely. Specialty gluten-free products tend to be pricier, which can be tough when it becomes your daily lifestyle."
Does the government help with the expense of gluten-free food?
"No, there’s currently no financial support for Celiac-specific dietary needs."
MEDICATION
Do you have to worry about gluten in your over-the-counter or prescribed medication?
"Yes, always. Whether prescribed or over-the-counter, we make sure to review the ingredients or consult a pharmacist."
TRAVEL IN DUBAI
Souk Madinat Jumeirah & Ain Dubai in Dubai - Photo credit @celiaclifeindubai
If someone were coming to Dubai for the first time, what would you say are the “must-see” spots?
1. Burj Al Arab at Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Photo Opportunity: Capture the iconic Burj Al Arab framed by the traditional Arabian architecture and waterways of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Experience: Enjoy a traditional Abra ride through the canals, offering a unique perspective of the Burj Al Arab.
2. Ain Dubai (Bluewaters Island)
Overview: The world's tallest observation wheel at 250 meters, offering panoramic views
The Museum of the Future, the Palm Jumeirah Monorail, & the Dubai Marina Ferry.
3. Museum of the Future
Overview: An architectural marvel showcasing futuristic innovations and technologies.
4. Palm Jumeirah Monorail to Atlantis The Palm
Overview: The monorail offers a scenic journey across the Palm Jumeirah, connecting key landmarks.
5. Dubai Marina Ferry
Overview: A relaxing ferry ride offering views of the Dubai Marina skyline.
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Frame - Photo Credit @celiaclifeindubai
Transport Options for Travelers to Dubai
Metro: Fast, driverless trains connecting major districts, including Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Burj Khalifa.
Taxi / Uber / Careem: Widely available for direct point-to-point travel
Abra Ride: Traditional wooden boats across Dubai Creek and Madinat Jumeirah canals.
Palm Monorail: Connects Gateway Towers to Atlantis The Palm with stops along Palm Jumeirah.
Ferry / Water Taxi: Scenic transport along Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, and Dubai Water Canal.
If someone were coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time, what would you say are the “must-see” spots?
Abu Dhabi is about 1.5 hours from Dubai. Some attractions Priyamvada suggests seeing are:
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Overview: One of the largest mosques in the world, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Overview: A universal museum showcasing art, culture, and history from around the world.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Louvre Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi
If someone were to visit for the first time, what gluten-free spots would you recommend?
Here are a few favorites:
So Free Bakery – A 100% gluten-free online delivery bakery
Tawa Bakery – Gluten-free restaurant with locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Kobeya Restaurant – Offers gluten-free Japanese dishes in Dubai
Sinless Bakery – Another option for sweet and savory gluten-free treats (Tried this on our flights)
Photo Credit @celiaclifeindubai
Living with celiac disease in the UAE comes with its own unique challenges, but as Priyamvada shared, the love and dedication of a parent know no borders. Whether in Dubai, New York, or anywhere else in the world, mothers share a common instinct: to do whatever it takes to keep their children safe and thriving. Across cultures and continents, mothers take on the gluten-free journey with their children, learning, adapting, and advocating, demonstrating that a mother’s devotion knows no boundaries.
It’s a beautiful reminder that while the gluten-free journey may look different around the world, the love and determination of a parent remain universal. Thank you, Priyamvada, for sharing your journey.
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