Karam Al Sham: Your Syrian Food Fix in Abu Dhabi

You know that ideal shawarma that hits the spot, like you're relaxing in a street stall in Damascus? Karam Al Sham Restaurant in Abu Dhabi is worth visiting if you haven't found that ideal shawarma yet. 

They've been serving up great Syrian flavors since 2011, which will undoubtedly make your taste buds dance. If you're relaxing in Al Mushrif or visiting the Grand Mosque, this restaurant feels like a big hug that's full of flavor. Let's explore what Karam Al Sham Restaurant is all about, from that delicious shawarma to that relaxing, chill atmosphere.

Quick Hits: Why You’ll Love It

• Real-deal Syrian food since 2011, with spots in Al Mushrif, Najda, and Khalifa City.

• Famous for killer shawarma and meals that won’t break the bank—about AED 70 a head.

• Some folks love it, others say quality can dip. The vibe’s simple, not fancy.

• Order delivery on Zomato or Talabat for a quick fix, perfect for busy nights.

• Want to know how it stacks up against other Syrian spots? We’ve got you covered.

The Heart of Karam Al Sham

Imagine stumbling into a restaurant that feels like a friend’s kitchen in Syria. That’s Karam Al Sham. Back in 2011, Aiad Aljairoudi started this place with a dream: to bring authentic Syrian dishes to Abu Dhabi. Thirteen years later, it’s a go-to for locals and expats craving real-deal flavors. I once chatted with a Syrian expat who said eating here felt like a trip back home—pretty powerful for a plate of shawarma.

This isn’t just about food; it’s about connection. Aiad wanted to share the warmth of Syrian dining, where every dish tells a story. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or chilling with friends, Karam Al Sham makes you feel welcome.

Why Syrian Food Feels Like Home

Ever wonder what makes Syrian food so darn good? It’s the mix of bold spices, tender meats, and shared plates that scream “dig in together.” Think crispy falafel, zesty fattoush, and shawarma that’s pure magic. At Karam Al Sham Restaurant in Abu Dhabi, they nail these classics. As someone who’s chased Syrian flavors across cities, I can tell you this place captures the soul of Damascus without the plane ticket.

Syrian cuisine is all about balance—savory meats, tangy sauces, and sometimes a sweet finish. Karam Al Sham uses fresh ingredients and old-school recipes to keep it legit. It’s not just dinner; it’s a little piece of Syria in the UAE.

What’s Cooking at Karam Al Sham?

Dishes You Can’t Miss

The menu here is like a love note to Syria. Their shawarma steals the show—think juicy meat, fresh veggies, and garlicky sauce in warm bread. But don’t sleep on the mezze, kebabs, or baklava for dessert. Picture this: you order a shawarma platter for AED 35 and feel like you’ve won at life.

5 Dishes to Try Right Now

• Syrian Shawarma (AED 15–20): Perfectly spiced meat wrapped in fresh bread.

• Mixed Grill Platter (AED 50–70): Lamb, chicken, and kebabs for meat lovers.

• Fattoush Salad (AED 20): Crunchy veggies with a tangy kick.

• Chicken Mandi (AED 40): Slow-cooked rice with melt-in-your-mouth chicken.

• Baklava (AED 15): Sweet, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying.

Food for Everyone

Got dietary restrictions? No stress. Karam Al Sham has veggie options like falafel and stuffed vine leaves. You can tweak orders to skip dairy or gluten, but heads-up: allergen details aren’t always clear, so chat with the staff. This makes it a solid pick for groups with different tastes.

Hack: Call 02-4444428 to check on vegan options before you go.

Where to Grab Your Meal

Al Mushrif: The Main Spot

The Al Mushrif branch on Mohamed Bin Khalifa St is the heart of Karam Al Sham. It’s right across from The International School of Choueifat, close to the Grand Mosque and Umm Al Emarat Park. Perfect for tourists or locals wanting a quick bite. The vibe’s laid-back—not a candlelit date spot, but the food’s the real star.

Najda and Khalifa City

In the city center? Hit the Najda branch in Al Dhafrah-Madinat Zayed, near the Tourist Club Area. If you’re out in Khalifa City, near Yas Island or Masdar City, their branch there’s got you covered. Both serve the same Syrian goodness, with delivery for those cozy nights in.

Hack: Order from Khalifa City on Talabat if you’re near Yas Island—it’s lightning-fast.

Delivery Done Right

Too tired to head out? Karam Al Sham’s on Zomato and Talabat, delivering from all branches. Abu Dhabi’s delivery game is hot—up 20% in 2023—and this place makes it easy. Whether you’re at home or a hotel, your shawarma’s just a tap away. Check Zomato for the latest menu and deals.

What People Are Saying

The Raves

Folks love Karam Al Sham’s authenticity. TripAdvisor gives it 4/5 from 29 reviews, with one diner saying, “This shawarma takes me back to my childhood.” At AED 70 a meal (Restaurant Guru), it’s a budget-friendly win. I know a local family who swears by the mixed grill for their weekend dinners.

The Gripes

It’s not all perfect. An X post from April 2024 mentioned spotty quality—one visit was amazing, the next a flop. Some say the ambiance is too basic for a special night out. Customer service can also stumble, with one user getting a snarky reply to a complaint.

Hack: If your order’s off, talk to the manager. They might toss in a free dessert to make it right.

A Real Story

Meet Ahmed, a tourist near the Grand Mosque. He finds Karam Al Sham Restaurant in Abu Dhabi on Zomato, grabs a shawarma, and loves it. Next visit, the mandi’s a bit dry. He leaves a note online, and the restaurant sends him a free baklava on his next order. That’s the kind of move that keeps folks coming back.

How It Compares to Other Spots

5 Syrian Restaurants to Check Out

Curious how Karam Al Sham stacks up? Here’s the rundown:

• Karam Al Sham: Real Syrian shawarma, AED 70 average, multiple spots.

• Al Maskoof Al Iraqi: Iraqi vibes, similar grilled dishes, a bit pricier.

• Shamshiry Iranian Kebab: Persian flavors, fancier spot, AED 100+.

• Al Sultan: Levantine dishes, modern feel, great for groups.

• Beit El Khetyar: Syrian-Lebanese, veggie-friendly, cozy setting.

What Sets It Apart

Karam Al Sham’s all about traditional Syrian shawarma at prices that don’t sting. Unlike Al Sultan’s sleek decor or Shamshiry’s Persian flair, it’s no-nonsense and authentic. If you want a quick, tasty meal that feels like Syria, this is your spot.

Tip: Mix it up—try Karam Al Sham for shawarma and Al Sultan for a fancier Levantine night.

Hacks to Make It Awesome

Best Times to Go

Skip the 7–9 PM rush at Al Mushrif for quicker service. Weekends are fun for families, but weekdays are calmer for solo eats. Want a chill meal? Najda’s great mid-afternoon.

Level Up Your Order

Delivery’s handy, but dining in gets you fresher flavors. Ask for extra tahini or Syrian spices to amp up your shawarma. Pair it with fattoush for a perfect combo. Share a mixed grill with friends to try a bit of everything.

Eat with Confidence

Abu Dhabi’s food safety is tight—over 103,000 inspections in 2023 by ADAFSA. Karam Al Sham’s clean, unlike Amir Al Sham, which got shut down in 2024. Still, peek at recent Zomato reviews to double-check quality.

Hack: Follow Karam Al Sham on social media for deals, even if their pages are a bit sleepy—give them a nudge for updates!

Why Karam Al Sham’s a Must-Try

In Abu Dhabi’s busy food scene, Karam Al Sham stands out for keeping it real. It’s not about fancy decor—it’s about Syrian soul on a plate. Whether you’re a local grabbing dinner or a tourist near the Grand Mosque, it’s a taste of Damascus you won’t forget. As a foodie, I love how it skips the frills and delivers pure flavor.

FAQ” S

Where’s Karam Al Sham located? 

Al Mushrif, Najda, and Khalifa City.

What’s the top dish? 

Classic shawarma or mixed grill platter.

Can I order online? 

Yup, through Zomato or Talabat.

How’s it compare to other spots? 

More authentic and cheaper than Al Sultan.

What’s the cost? 

About AED 70 per person, per Restaurant Guru.

Conclusion 

Karam Al Sham stands out as a culinary gem in Abu Dhabi, offering an authentic Syrian dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors. With its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality, this eatery brings the essence of Syria to every plate. From savory shawarma to perfectly spiced manakish, each dish tells a story of tradition and passion. Whether you're a Syrian cuisine enthusiast or a curious foodie, Karam Al Sham promises a memorable meal that satisfies the soul. Make it your go-to destination for a true taste of Syria in the heart of Abu Dhabi.