The Dubai food scene just got even more exciting. One of the city’s most loved food bloggers, Sara Nour, has officially launched her first-ever vegan cookbook—and the event took place at none other than Kinokuniya, the popular bookstore inside Dubai Mall.
For her fans and food lovers, this is more than just a book launch. It’s a big moment in the UAE’s growing plant-based community. The cookbook, titled “Plant-Powered Dubai”, is packed with delicious, easy-to-make vegan recipes inspired by local flavours and global favourites.
The event brought together foodies, families, influencers, and fans of Sara’s blog, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that felt like a celebration of food, culture, and healthy living.
From Blog to Book
Sara Nour started her food blogging journey five years ago with a simple idea—to share honest, tasty, plant-based meals with the world. Her Instagram page, which now has more than 200,000 followers, started off as a hobby but quickly grew into something much bigger.
“I never imagined I’d write a cookbook,” Sara said during the launch event. “It started with me experimenting in my kitchen and sharing it online. But the love and feedback I received made me want to turn it into something more permanent. A book felt like the right next step.”
Her fans couldn’t agree more. The cookbook features over 80 recipes, many of which have already been viral hits on her blog and social media pages. But now, they’re easier to follow, beautifully photographed, and available in one place.
The Launch at Kinokuniya
Held on a sunny Saturday afternoon, the launch at Kinokuniya was a packed event. Guests lined up early to get their signed copies, while others were excited to meet the blogger they’ve been following online for years.
Sara hosted a live cooking demo, preparing one of her most popular recipes—vegan lentil kibbeh. She spoke about her cooking journey, answered audience questions, and even offered tips for those interested in switching to a plant-based diet.
Kinokuniya was the perfect venue for the launch. Located in the heart of Dubai Mall, the bookstore is known for supporting local authors and bringing global titles to the UAE. The event space was decorated with green plants, natural fabrics, and fresh ingredients—a true reflection of Sara’s style.
More Than Just Recipes
While Plant-Powered Dubai is full of mouthwatering meals, it also includes Sara’s personal stories. She talks about her Lebanese roots, how she shifted to veganism, and the challenges she faced in a meat-heavy food culture.
“I wanted this book to be real,” she shared. “It’s not just about food—it’s about how food can change your life, your health, and even how you feel emotionally.”
Each chapter of the cookbook begins with a personal anecdote or reflection. Readers will find helpful tips on how to stock a vegan kitchen, shop mindfully in the UAE, and make plant-based meals even on a tight budget.
A Step Forward for Veganism in the UAE
Plant-based eating is becoming more popular in the UAE, and this cookbook is arriving at just the right time. Over the past few years, Dubai has seen a rise in vegan-friendly restaurants, plant-based product availability, and awareness campaigns on health and sustainability.
Sara’s cookbook is expected to reach not just long-time vegans but also people who are curious to try a healthier lifestyle without giving up on flavour.
“Even if you’re not fully vegan, this book has something for everyone,” said one guest at the launch. “The recipes are simple, fresh, and actually fun to make.”
What’s Inside the Book?
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the recipes featured in Plant-Powered Dubai:
- Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower
- Creamy Cashew Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Date-Sweetened Energy Balls
- Chickpea Shakshuka
- Almond Labneh with Olive Oil and Mint
Each recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly, with ingredients that are easy to find in UAE supermarkets. Many recipes also include gluten-free and nut-free options.
Plus, the photography in the book is a treat for the eyes. Shot by local Dubai-based photographer Layla Hassan, every dish looks like it belongs on a restaurant menu.
Fans React with Love
Social media lit up with excitement following the launch. Hundreds of fans shared their signed copies, posted pictures from the event, and left heartfelt messages for Sara.
One follower wrote, “I’ve been following Sara since day one. Seeing her launch a book today brought tears to my eyes. She deserves all this and more.”
Another fan said, “This is the kind of cookbook we needed in the Middle East—something relatable, beautiful, and actually useful.”
Sara replied to many of these messages herself, thanking her followers for their continued support and promising more content soon.
What’s Next for Sara?
After the successful launch, Sara revealed that she plans to do a UAE-wide book tour, visiting bookstores in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. She also hinted at a possible YouTube channel where she’ll post weekly vegan recipes and cooking tips.
“I want to keep the conversation going,” she said. “Whether it’s through books, videos, or workshops—my goal is to show people that healthy food can be joyful, not boring.”
There’s also talk of a second cookbook, possibly focused on vegan desserts and baking, something her fans have been requesting for a long time.
A Milestone for Dubai’s Food Scene
Sara Nour’s cookbook launch is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a milestone for Dubai’s food culture. It shows that the city is ready to embrace new ideas, support local talent, and explore healthier ways of living.
With her charm, authenticity, and clear passion for cooking, Sara has carved a unique space for herself in the UAE’s culinary world. And with this cookbook, she’s inviting everyone to join her on the journey.
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