Where to find allergy-friendly snacks for kids in Abu Dhabi

Ever found yourself pacing the aisles of a grocery store in Abu Dhabi, turning over snack boxes like detective work? One child can’t have dairy, the other breaks out from nuts, and suddenly snack time feels like mission impossible. The good news is, Abu Dhabi’s food scene has grown remarkably inclusive in recent years. Whether your child has celiac disease, nut allergies, lactose intolerance, or just a sensitive stomach, there are now trustworthy spots where allergy-friendly snacks aren’t a compromise—they’re the main offering. Here’s what you need to know, with suggestions compiled thoughtfully by the www.few.ae editor.

LITTLE NIBBLES

Handmade energy bites that skip allergens, not taste

This online-based business has carved out a niche in Abu Dhabi’s healthy snack market with one simple promise: no nasties. Their handmade energy bites are gluten-free, dairy-free, and come with no refined sugar. Each snack is made in small batches, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, which is a game changer for allergy-prone kids. Parents love their coconut quinoa and carob oat blends, which make ideal lunchbox fillers or school-safe treats.

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SKINNY GENIE

A bakery where gluten-free really means gluten-free

Skinny Genie is famous in the UAE for crafting baked goods that look indulgent but are gentle on the gut. With an entirely gluten-free kitchen, they also produce items that are dairy-free, vegan, and low sugar. Their snack boxes often include things like mini muffins, breakfast bars, and soft cookies made without egg, milk, or nuts. It’s the kind of place where asking questions is welcomed, and ingredient transparency is part of the experience.

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SPINNEYS ABU DHABI

Allergy-aware supermarket aisles made simple

Spinneys has always had a loyal customer base in the UAE, and it’s not hard to see why. In Abu Dhabi, most branches feature clearly labelled allergy-friendly sections. You’ll find shelf-stable snacks like rice cakes, oat bars, chickpea crisps, and gluten-free biscuits from both international and regional brands. Their frozen section often stocks dairy-free ice creams and allergy-friendly waffles. The store also labels vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free products distinctly, helping you shop with confidence.

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ORGANIC FOODS AND CAFÉ

Allergy-conscious products in an eco-conscious environment

What sets this store apart isn’t just the earthy decor or its organic mission—it’s the depth of options for restricted diets. Located inside Nation Towers, their aisles include everything from nut-free granola to soy-free chocolate chip cookies. Most snacks come from specialist brands that list top allergens and declare shared equipment risks. It’s a quieter store, perfect if you like to shop in peace and ask questions without the bustle of a crowd.

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LULU HYPERMARKET

A surprisingly rich selection of allergy-friendly global brands

Lulu might seem like just another large supermarket, but don’t overlook it when it comes to specialty diets. Their “Healthy Living” aisles are goldmines for allergy-friendly snacks. Look for brands that cater to gluten-free, nut-free, or lactose-free needs, especially in their international foods section. Prices are often better than boutique stores, and the variety—ranging from rice-based snacks to dairy-free chocolate bars—is broader than you’d expect.

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BAKEMART GOURMET

Custom cakes and muffins that respect your child’s dietary needs

If you’re planning a birthday party or school event and your child has food allergies, Bakemart offers custom solutions that taste great and don’t scream “special diet.” Their chefs can make cakes without eggs, dairy, gluten, or nuts—just ask in advance. They also sell small snack packs like cookies or cupcakes suitable for school bags or daycare snack time.

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NATURAL KITCHEN

Snacks prepared fresh, with full ingredient transparency

More than a restaurant, Natural Kitchen also retails packaged snacks made in-house. You’ll find things like date-based balls, seed crackers, and oat cookies that avoid the most common allergens. It’s a great grab-and-go spot for weekend snack runs, especially if you want fresh over packaged. Staff are happy to walk you through what’s safe for different dietary restrictions.

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MAITHA & TREATS

Vegan cookies your child won’t believe are healthy

Maitha & Treats is a homegrown bakery focused entirely on vegan and allergy-friendly baked snacks. Their cookies are free from dairy, eggs, and refined sugars—and most are gluten-free too. They offer home delivery and package their treats in eco-friendly containers. Their chocolate date cookie and tahini oat bar are favorites among picky eaters and cautious parents alike.

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RIPEN

Fresh fruit meets allergy-safe snacking

Sometimes, keeping it simple is best. Ripen delivers curated boxes of fresh fruits and allergy-friendly pantry staples that suit kids with dietary needs. You can build a subscription or shop one-time. Their curated snack add-ons include nut-free seed mixes, gluten-free crackers, and fruit rolls made without additives. Everything comes clearly labelled, and boxes can be customized per child’s needs.

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THE RAW PLACE

Clean-label treats from one of the UAE’s best-known wellness cafés

The Raw Place started with juices but expanded into snacks made for sensitive guts and fussy kids. Think nut-free coconut bars, raw energy bites without dairy or eggs, and cold-pressed fruit snacks. Their packaging lists every ingredient in detail. A visit here doubles as a coffee stop and a chance to stock up on child-safe treats.

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Allergy-friendly snacking doesn’t have to mean dry, tasteless, or twice the price. As more parents in Abu Dhabi demand transparency and quality, the local market continues to adapt. And with options ranging from local boutiques to big-name hypermarkets, you’re no longer left reading fine print in frustration. This guide, compiled with care by the www.few.ae editor, aims to make your parenting journey easier, tastier, and safer—one allergy-friendly snack at a time.