Here’s a simple, practical guide to ordering food online anywhere in the Middle East (steps, tips, and common payment/delivery options).
- Choose how you’ll order
- Mobile app: Most popular and easiest (App Store / Google Play).
- Website: Many services let you order from a browser.
- Messaging/phone: Some restaurants accept WhatsApp, SMS or phone orders.
- Pick a platform
- Use a large delivery marketplace (aggregator) to see many restaurants at once.
- Or order directly from a restaurant that offers delivery if you prefer fewer fees and more control.
- Enter your location
- Allow the app or website to access your location or manually type your address (building, street, nearest landmark).
- Include floor/unit number and any gate code or entry instructions.
- Browse and choose food
- Filter by cuisine, price, rating, delivery time, or dietary options (halal, vegetarian).
- Read menu details, portion sizes, and special instructions.
- Add special instructions
- Add notes for the kitchen (no onions, extra sauce) or delivery instructions (meet at lobby, call on arrival).
- Choose delivery or pickup
- Delivery: courier brings food to your address (extra fee).
- Pickup: you collect from the restaurant (usually cheaper and faster).
- Select payment method
Common Middle East options:
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard).
- Mobile wallets / fintech apps (e.g., Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, local wallets).
- Cash on delivery (COD) — available on many platforms but less common post-pandemic.
- Bank transfer or in-app wallet balance (on some local apps).
- Tip: check whether service fees, delivery fees, and taxes are shown before confirming.
- Confirm and track
- Review order total, delivery estimate and any fees, then confirm.
- Most apps provide live tracking of the courier and an estimated arrival time.
- You’ll receive an order confirmation via app, SMS, or email.
- Receive your order
- Contactless delivery is common — courier leaves the food at your door or a designated spot.
- Check the order for accuracy and food temperature. If something’s wrong, use the app’s support or contact the restaurant immediately.
- Rate and tip
- Leave a rating and review for the restaurant and courier.
- Add a tip if you wish (cash or in-app, depending on the platform).
Practical tips and cultural notes
- Halal: Most food in the Middle East is halal; if you need halal certification or want to avoid pork/alcohol, check menus or restaurant descriptions.
- Language: Apps often support English and Arabic; restaurant menus may be bilingual.
- Peak times: Delivery times can be longer during Friday prayers, Ramadan iftar periods, or weekends — expect delays during major events or holidays.
- Safety & allergies: If you have allergies, clearly state them in special instructions and confirm with the restaurant if necessary.
- Promotions: Look for promo codes, first-time discounts, and meal bundles to save money.
If you want, tell me your country/city and I can list the top apps and sites commonly used there (e.g., UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, etc.).