Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to ordering food online in the UAE, plus tips and the main apps you’ll see there.

Quick steps

1. Choose an app or website (Talabat, Careem / Careem Food, Deliveroo are the main services). (Talabat.com)
2. Install the app (App Store / Google Play) or open the site and create an account. Save your address and a payment method (card, Apple/Google Pay, or cash on delivery where available). (apps.Apple.com)
3. Enter your delivery address (or pick “Hotel”/“Workplace” if applicable). The app will show restaurants that deliver to that location. (Deliveroo.ae)
4. Browse restaurants or search for cuisine/dishes. Add items to the cart and customize (size, toppings, extras). (Talabat.com)
5. Review your cart, choose delivery or pickup, select delivery time (now or schedule), add promo code if any, then pay. (Talabat.com)
6. Track the order in-app. Most apps let you follow prep and rider location and message/call the rider. (Deliveroo.ae)
7. Receive order (contactless option available) and tip if you wish. If anything’s wrong, use the app’s “Help” or “Support” to request a refund/replacement. (Careem.com)

Main apps/services in the UAE

• Talabat — one of the largest food & grocery delivery platforms across UAE cities. (Talabat.com)
• Careem Food (Careem Now) — integrated with Careem ride-hailing, large restaurant coverage and in-app support. (Careem.com)
• Deliveroo UAE — available in many areas with live tracking and meal deals. (Deliveroo.ae)

Note on Zomato: Zomato discontinued food delivery in the UAE and customers were directed to Talabat; you’ll typically use the platforms above instead. (thenationalnews.com)

Money & fees

• Expect a delivery fee (varies by distance/time) and sometimes a small service fee. Apps often show estimated fee before checkout. (Deliveroo.ae)
• Look for promo codes, meal deals, or subscription plans (e.g., Careem Plus / app-specific passes) to save on delivery fees. (Careem.com)

Practical tips

• Save your exact address and landmarks (UAE addresses sometimes rely on landmarks or building names).
• Schedule orders ahead for busy meal times or events. (apps.Apple.com)
• If staying at a hotel, enter the hotel name and room instructions (or coordinate pickup at reception).
• For large/group or corporate orders, use the app’s contact/support options or choose restaurants that accept large orders. (Deliveroo.ae)
• Use in-app chat/call to communicate with the rider if they’re nearby. (Deliveroo.ae)

Safety & customer support

• Most apps offer contactless delivery and order tracking. For missing/incorrect items use the app’s Help/Support flow to request a refund or re-delivery. (Careem.com)

If you want, tell me your city in the UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) and I’ll list top restaurants or current promos available there.