Classic Indian & Pakistani Masterpieces in Abu Dhabi

From slow-cooked dum biryani pots and tandoori charcoal kebabs to comforting South Indian breakfast items.

Verified Food Hubs

A curated guide to the best experiences across Abu Dhabi.

BBQ/Grill โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Sannine Zenith

A vibrant spot serving authentic Pakistani BBQ and grilled meats, famous for its seekh kebabs and tikka.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Nahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the mutton chops marinated in special spices.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Stews โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Kerala Restaurant

A beloved South Indian eatery offering traditional stews like fish curry and appam, along with dosas and idlis.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Karama, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the Kerala parotta with beef roast for a hearty meal.
๐Ÿฅ˜ Stews
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Biryani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Cozy

Biryaniwala & Co.

Specializing in aromatic biryanis, this restaurant serves Hyderabadi, Lucknowi, and Kolkata styles with tender meat and fragrant rice.

Rating: โ˜… 4.7 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Ask for the 'dum biryani' with extra raita for the full experience.
๐Ÿ› Biryani
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Curries โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Tandoori Junction

A popular Indian restaurant known for its rich curries like butter chicken and dal makhani, cooked in a traditional tandoor.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Pair your curry with garlic naan straight from the tandoor.
๐Ÿฅ˜ Curries
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Snacks โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Chat Street

A lively spot offering a variety of Indian street food snacks like pani puri, samosas, and vada pav, perfect for a quick bite.

Rating: โ˜… 4.2 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Falah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Go for the 'chaat platter' to sample multiple flavors.
๐ŸฅŸ Snacks
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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BBQ/Grill โ‚ฑโ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Expensive Elegant

Bukhara

Renowned for its North-West Frontier cuisine, Bukhara offers an exquisite dining experience with signature dishes like Dal Bukhara and succulent kebabs cooked in a traditional tandoor. The rustic ambiance and impeccable service make it a must-visit for authentic Indian flavors.

Rating: โ˜… 4.7 (Google Reviews)
Locality: InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen
Pro-Tip: Try the Sikandari Raan (lamb leg) โ€“ it's a crowd favorite but requires pre-order.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Tandoor Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Valet Parking
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Private Dining
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Stews โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Dosa Plaza

A beloved spot for South Indian cuisine, Dosa Plaza serves crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, and hearty sambar. Their thali offers a variety of vegetarian curries and stews, perfect for a comforting meal. The lively atmosphere and quick service make it ideal for families.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Nahyan Camp, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the Mysore Masala Dosa for a spicy twist, and don't miss the filter coffee.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Dine-in
๐Ÿฅ— Takeaway
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Family Friendly
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Biryani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Al Safadi Restaurant

While famous for Lebanese cuisine, Al Safadi also offers an exceptional Pakistani-style biryani that rivals dedicated biryani houses. The fragrant rice, tender meat, and balanced spices make it a lunchtime favorite. The bustling dining hall is always full of energy.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Visit during lunch for the freshest biryani, and pair it with their creamy yogurt raita.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Valet Parking
๐Ÿฅ— Takeaway
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Large Groups
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Curries โ‚ฑโ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Expensive Upscale

Punjab Grill

An upscale Indian restaurant specializing in rich curries and tandoori specialties. The butter chicken is legendary, and the dal makhani is cooked overnight for deep flavor. The elegant setting with live music enhances the dining experience.

Rating: โ˜… 4.6 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Reserve a table near the open kitchen to watch the chefs prepare your naan in the tandoor.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Open Kitchen
๐Ÿฅ— Valet Parking
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Live Music
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Appetizers โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Sarvana Bhavan

A global chain known for its authentic South Indian vegetarian fare. Their crispy vada, steaming idli, and tangy sambar are perfect appetizers or a full meal. The no-frills setting focuses on quality and taste, drawing a loyal crowd.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Karama, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the mini tiffin for a sampler of various snacks, and finish with a cup of masala chai.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Vegetarian
๐Ÿฅ— Takeaway
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Budget Friendly
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BBQ/Grill โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Moti Mahal Delux

Iconic Indian restaurant known for its tandoori dishes and rich curries. A favorite for family gatherings.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the butter chicken and garlic naan combo.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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๐Ÿฒ Stews โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Kerala House Restaurant

Authentic South Indian and Kerala cuisine, famous for its seafood stews and appam. A hidden gem for coastal flavors.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Muroor, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the fish curry with parotta for a true taste of Kerala.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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๐Ÿ› Biryani โ‚ฑ Affordable Fast-casual

Biryani Pot

Specializes in Hyderabadi biryani with aromatic spices and tender meat. Quick service and generous portions.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Add their raita and mirchi ka salan for the complete experience.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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๐Ÿฅ˜ Curries โ‚ฑ Affordable Family-friendly

Pak Darbar Restaurant

Popular Pakistani restaurant offering robust curries, nihari, and haleem. Known for its rich flavors and welcoming atmosphere.

Rating: โ˜… 4.2 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Tourist Club Area (TCA), Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Don't miss the beef nihari on weekends.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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๐ŸฅŸ Snacks โ‚ฑ Affordable Quick Bites

Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant

Pure vegetarian South Indian chain known for crispy dosas, idlis, and vadas. Perfect for a light meal or snack.

Rating: โ˜… 4.1 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the masala dosa with coconut chutney and sambar.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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South Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Kerala Village Restaurant

Authentic Kerala cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional spices. Popular for appam and stew.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Nahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the Kerala parotta with beef fry for a local favorite.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Pakistani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Ravi Restaurant

Iconic Pakistani eatery known for its hearty curries, sizzling kebabs, and freshly baked naan. A must-visit for biryani lovers.

Rating: โ˜… 4.7 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Karama, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the mutton biryani and pair it with raita.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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South Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Udupi Restaurant

Vegetarian haven serving authentic South Indian fare including dosas, idlis, and thalis. Known for its affordable and flavorful meals.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Electra Street, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Don't miss the Mysore masala dosa and filter coffee.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Indian Street Food โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Lively

Bombay Chowpatty

Recreates the vibrant street food of Mumbai with chaat, pav bhaji, and vada pav. Also serves great biryani.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the bhel puri and wash it down with a sweet lassi.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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North Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Family-friendly

Punjab House

A favorite for North Indian cuisine, especially butter chicken, dal makhani, and tandoori specialties. Generous portions and warm ambiance.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the garlic naan and butter chicken combo.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Stews โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Kerala Restaurant (Al Nahda)

Popular for authentic Kerala-style fish curry and appam. A go-to for South Indian seafood lovers.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Nahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the fish curry on weekends when it's freshest.
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
๐Ÿš— Parking
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Appetizers โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Bombay Chowpatty (Tourist Club Area)

Famous for chaat and Mumbai street food. A lively spot for pani puri and pav bhaji.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the 'Bombay Special Thali' for a complete experience.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Biryani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Family-friendly

Pak Darbar Restaurant (Al Ain)

Renowned for its aromatic biryani and Pakistani cuisine. A favorite for family dinners.

Rating: โ˜… 4.2 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Their chicken tikka biryani is a must-try.
๐Ÿš Biryani
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
๐Ÿš— Parking
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Curries โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Vegetarian-friendly

Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant (Al Wahda)

Pure vegetarian South Indian restaurant known for its dosas and thalis. A haven for vegans.

Rating: โ˜… 4.1 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the 'Sangeetha Special Thali' for a variety.
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
๐Ÿš— Parking
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Stews โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

Kerala Village Restaurant (Electra Street)

Authentic Kerala cuisine with a focus on traditional stews and seafood. Cozy atmosphere.

Rating: โ˜… 4.0 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Electra Street, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Their 'Kerala Fish Curry' with red rice is a local favorite.
๐Ÿฒ Stews
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
๐Ÿš— Parking
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South Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Authentic

Kerala House

A beloved spot for authentic Kerala cuisine, featuring fluffy appams, spicy fish curry, and traditional sadya meals.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Electra Street, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Weekend sadya is a must-try for a traditional Kerala feast.
๐Ÿฅฅ Kerala Special
๐Ÿฅ— Vegetarian Options
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Pakistani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Pakistani Darbar

Known for its robust Pakistani flavors, sizzling kebabs, and hearty nihari, this restaurant draws crowds for its authentic taste.

Rating: โ˜… 4.3 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the mutton nihari with naan for a filling meal.
๐Ÿ”ฅ BBQ/Grill
๐Ÿฒ Nihari
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Family Style
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South Indian โ‚ฑ Moderate Casual

South Indian Delight

A go-to for crispy dosas, tangy sambar, and filter coffee. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Rating: โ˜… 4.2 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the masala dosa with extra ghee for a richer taste.
๐Ÿฅž Dosa
๐Ÿฅ— Sambar Bar
โ˜• Filter Coffee
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BBQ/Grill โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Biryani & Kebabs House

Specializing in charcoal-grilled kebabs and fragrant biryanis, this lively eatery is a favorite for meat lovers.

Rating: โ˜… 4.6 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: The seekh kebab platter paired with mutton biryani is unbeatable.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Charcoal Grill
๐Ÿ› Biryani
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Group Platters
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Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Upscale Casual

Zafran Indian Bistro

Modern Indian cuisine with a twist, featuring a vibrant bar and live kitchen. Known for their biryani and tandoori specialties.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the 'Biryani of the Day' for a unique flavor each visit.
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Dine-in
๐Ÿ›ต Delivery
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Biryani โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Gazebo Restaurant

Famous for its aromatic dum biryani and rich Mughlai curries, Gazebo brings the taste of Lucknow to Abu Dhabi.

Rating: โ˜… 4.5 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Try the Murgh Dum Biryani with raita for the full experience.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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South Indian โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Calicut Paragon

A beloved chain from Kerala, serving authentic Malabar cuisine including seafood, biryanis, and traditional Kerala meals.

Rating: โ˜… 4.4 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Tourist Club Area (TCA), Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Don't miss the Malabar Parotta with Beef Fry or the Fish Moilee.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Curry โ‚ฑโ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Sthan

A contemporary Indian restaurant offering a curated menu of regional specialties from across India, with a focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients.

Rating: โ˜… 4.6 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Order the Butter Chicken and Garlic Naan โ€“ a classic done perfectly.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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Stews โ‚ฑ Moderate Bustling

Khyber Restaurant

A no-frills Pakistani eatery known for its hearty nihari, haleem, and biryani โ€“ a favorite among the local desi crowd.

Rating: โ˜… 4.2 (Google Reviews)
Locality: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Pro-Tip: Go early for the Nihari โ€“ it sells out fast.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Table Grill
๐Ÿฅ— Refillable
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Groups
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