Is Dubai Chocolate worth the hype? Our nutritionist tells all…

Our nutritional lifestyle expert, Marta Decarli, gets to the bottom of the Dubai Chocolate trend and how indulging could be good for your emotional regulation long-term. 

Why do you think Dubai chocolate is so popular?

Marta Decarli: Dubai has become known for its luxury food trends, and chocolate is no exception. Many Dubai-based chocolatiers focus on high-quality ingredients, innovative flavour pairings (like saffron, cardamom, or rose), and exquisite presentation. Combined with Dubai’s reputation for indulgence and gifting culture, chocolate becomes more than a sweet – it’s a status symbol and a sensory experience. Social media and influencers have also played a huge role in its rise, turning these beautifully packaged chocolates into highly shareable moments online and fuelling global curiosity to try them.

Have you tried it? What do you think?
MD: Although I was just in Dubai recently, I didn’t actually try the chocolate! What I enjoyed in abundance were dates, which are another signature sweet treat of the region. Dates, often stuffed with nuts or lightly coated in chocolate, are not only delicious but also naturally rich in nutrients. I’d say that’s a wonderful local alternative to luxury chocolate, with a balance of sweetness, fibre, and minerals.

Is it worth the hype?
MD: Trends like Dubai chocolate are often about more than just taste – they’re about the experience, the cultural connection, and the feeling of indulgence. From a nutrition and lifestyle perspective, I think the hype is less about health and more about occasion and enjoyment. If you love chocolate and appreciate the artistry, it’s worth trying. But it’s also important to check the ingredients – many “copycat” versions of Dubai chocolate on the market contain stabilisers, preservatives, and a lot of added sugar, which aren’t necessarily the best for our health. At the end of the day, a beautifully made dark chocolate from your local chocolatier can offer a very similar experience without the airfare.

Why do we turn to things like chocolate for our 'treats'?
MD: Chocolate has a unique combination of sugar and fat that our brains are wired to enjoy. It triggers the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, which reinforces that comforting, rewarding feeling. Over time, many of us associate chocolate with celebration, relaxation, or self-care. It’s not just about flavour – it’s about the emotional connection we’ve built with it.

What are your thoughts on indulging in our sweet tooth?
MD: I think it’s completely normal, and even healthy, to honour a sweet craving now and then. Deprivation often backfires, leading to overindulgence later. A balanced lifestyle isn’t about strict avoidance, but about permitting yourself to enjoy foods without guilt, while keeping an eye on frequency and portion. The key is seeing chocolate as one part of a varied diet, not as something “bad” or “forbidden.”

What makes Dubai chocolate so nice? Why does everyone love it?
MD: It’s often the craftsmanship. Dubai chocolatiers use premium cacao, pair it with regional flavours like dates, pistachios, or fragrant spices, and present it in packaging that feels luxurious. It’s that blend of quality, innovation, and presentation that makes people fall in love with it. Plus, there’s the novelty factor – trying something new, exotic, and Instagram-worthy adds to its charm.

Are there any health benefits of chocolate?
MD: Yes—especially when it comes to dark chocolate (minimum 70%). Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest moderate dark chocolate consumption can support heart health, blood flow, and even brain function. Of course, the keyword is moderate. Many chocolate products, including luxury ones, come with lots of added sugar and fat, so balance is essential.

In terms of balance, how does chocolate affect our mood? Is it a good thing to have regular sweet treats for our overall balance?
MD: Chocolate can genuinely lift mood, both through its effect on neurotransmitters and through the simple pleasure of eating something you enjoy. Including small, regular sweet treats can actually help people stick to a balanced lifestyle long-term, because it prevents feelings of restriction. For many, having permission to enjoy a piece of chocolate daily feels more sustainable than banning it altogether.

Have you got any Dubai-chocolate-esque recipes? Could we make our own on a budget?
MD: Absolutely! One simple “Dubai-inspired” option is stuffed dates. Take Medjool dates, remove the pit, and fill them with almond butter, pistachios, or walnuts. Then dip them in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts, sesame seeds, or a pinch of sea salt. They’re luxurious, nutrient-rich, and far more affordable than imported chocolates. Another option is to make your own spiced dark chocolate bark by melting good-quality dark chocolate and topping it with dried fruit, roasted nuts, and a touch of cardamom or rose petals. It’s easy, beautiful, and feels indulgent without the luxury price tag.