Hello 👋 I’m Kaya.

I moved to Dubai just before Covid hit. What started as a leap into a new city quickly turned into a long-term love story with the food, the coffee, the culture, and the everyday rhythm of life here.

I’ve been a Dubai resident for five years now. In that time, I’ve found myself chasing food that’s worth talking about, specialty coffee that’s actually good, and places for me and my family to enjoy away from the tourist traps.

Found in Dubai is my attempt to share all of that, along with my reflections on Dubai’s culture and future.

If you’re someone who:

• Orders Karak more than you should

• Wants your shawarma spot to stay lowkey

• Loves the smell of Oud in an elevator

• And believes Dubai does have real culture worth exploring

Then you’ll feel right at home here.

Join me. Let’s explore the Dubai together.

• Kaya Ismail