Ten years ago, the only "dietary request" you received for a Dubai event was usually "Vegetarian" or "Non-Veg."
Today? The RSVP list looks like a medical chart.
"Sarah is Gluten-Free."
"Ahmed is Lactose Intolerant."
"Priya is Vegan."
"Mike is Keto (but eats cake if nobody is looking)."
"And please, absolutely NO peanuts because the Groom’s cousin is highly allergic."
As a host, it is terrifying. You want everyone to be fed and happy, but you are also terrified of accidentally poisoning someone.
At Sona Vista Events, we manage these lists every single day. We believe that dietary restrictions shouldn't mean a boring salad while everyone else eats steak.
Here is how to navigate the complex world of modern catering in Dubai without losing your mind (or flavor).
1. The "Labeling" Rule (Do It Boldly)
The biggest anxiety for a guest with allergies is the mystery buffet. "Is there flour in that sauce? Is that cream or coconut milk?"
The Fix: Don't make them guess.
The Sona Way: We create clear, beautiful signage for every single dish. We use universal icons (GF for Gluten-Free, V for Vegan, N for Contains Nuts). It puts guests at ease immediately.
2. Stop Ordering "Special Meals" (Make the Main Menu Inclusive)
The old way was to order 100 "Normal" meals and 5 "Special Vegan" plates that looked sad and dry.
The Fix: Flip the script. Why not make some of your main dishes naturally inclusive?
The Idea:
Serve a stunning Beetroot & Quinoa Salad as a starter for everyone. It’s naturally Vegan and GF.
Have a Coconut Curry main course. It’s creamy, delicious, and dairy-free by default.
The Result: The vegans feel included, and the meat-eaters just think it’s delicious food. You save money on "special order" fees.
3. The "Nut-Free" Zone
This is the most serious one. A nut allergy can be life-threatening in seconds.
The Reality: Many Dubai kitchens use cashews to thicken curries or pistachios for garnish. Cross-contamination is real.
The Fix: If you have a severe allergy on the guest list, go entirely Nut-Free for the whole event. It is not worth the risk.
The Alert: Tell your caterer explicitly: "This is a medical allergy, not a preference." They have different protocols for scrubbing down the kitchen for allergies versus just a dislike.
4. Dessert is the Hardest Part
Usually, the gluten-free guest gets a bowl of fruit while everyone else eats chocolate lava cake. It’s tragic.
The Fix: Dubai has incredible alternative bakeries now.
The Idea:
Macarons: Most are naturally Gluten-Free (made with almond flour).
Mochi Ice Cream: A trendy, fun, GF option.
Dark Chocolate Mousse: Can easily be made with avocado or coconut cream (Vegan) and nobody can tell the difference.
5. Don't Forget the Drinks (Mocktails Matter)
Dietary needs aren't just about food.
The Reality: Many guests don't drink alcohol for religious or health reasons. Offering them just "Coke or Water" is lazy hosting.
The Fix: create a "Zero-Proof" bar menu.
Cucumber & Basil Smash
Spiced Hibiscus Iced Tea
Make the non-drinkers feel just as fancy as the champagne crowd.
6. Ask on the RSVP (The "Speak Now" Moment)
Don't wait until the waiter is serving dinner to find out.
The Fix: Include a specific line on your digital RSVP:
"We want you to eat well! Please let us know of any severe allergies or dietary requirements by [Date]."
The Benefit: It puts the responsibility on the guest to tell you. If they don't tell you, you can't be blamed.
Food is for Everyone
The mark of a great host is making every single guest feel taken care of. You don't need to be a nutritionist; you just need a planner who pays attention.
At Sona Vista Events, we work with the top chefs in Dubai who specialize in "Free-From" cooking that actually tastes luxurious.
Worried about the menu?
[Let’s design a feast] that everyone can enjoy safely.
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