Dining Expenses in Dubai: What You’ll Actually Pay for Food
If you’re planning a trip or a weekend stay in Dubai, the first thing you’ll wonder about is food. Will a simple breakfast blow your budget? How pricey is a steak dinner by the beach? Below we break down real numbers you’ll see on menus, then share quick ways to enjoy great meals without emptying your wallet.
Average Meal Prices Across Dubai
Dubai’s food scene ranges from cheap street stalls to ultra‑luxury restaurants. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect:
- Street Food & Markets: A falafel wrap or shawarma costs around AED 8‑15 (≈ $2‑4). A fresh juice or coffee is about AED 5‑10.
- Mid‑Range Cafés: Breakfast plates (eggs, avocado toast) run AED 30‑55 ($8‑15). Lunch combos of salad + main are typically AED 40‑70 ($11‑19).
- Casual Restaurants: A chicken shawarma platter with rice is AED 60‑90 ($16‑24). Pizza slices range AED 35‑55, while a burger with fries lands around AED 45‑70.
- Fine Dining: A three‑course dinner at a hotel restaurant averages AED 250‑500 ($68‑136) per person. Premium steaks or seafood can push the bill above AED 600 ($163).
- Alcohol: A local beer is AED 30‑45 ($8‑12); cocktails start at AED 50‑80 ($14‑22). If you’re drinking at a lounge, expect a service charge of 10‑15% added to the bill.
These figures are based on 2025 price lists from popular venues across Downtown, Marina, JBR, and Deira. Prices may spike during holidays or major events, so plan a little extra if you’re visiting during Ramadan evenings or Dubai Shopping Festival.
Tips to Cut Down on Dining Costs
You don’t have to survive on instant noodles just to stay in budget. Use these tricks to keep your dining expenses realistic:
- Eat where locals eat: Head to Al Karama or Al Satwa for authentic Emirati dishes. You’ll find hearty meals for under AED 30 ($8).
- Use food delivery promos: Apps like Zomato and Deliveroo often roll out 20‑30% discounts for first‑time users. Apply a promo code and you can save up to AED 50 on a dinner order.
- Happy hour specials: Most hotels and bars run happy hour from 4‑7 pm. You can grab a cocktail for AED 25‑35 and small plates for half price.
- Buy groceries: If your accommodation has a kitchen, swing by Carrefour or Spinneys and stock up on fresh fruit, yogurt, and bread. A week’s worth of basic meals costs roughly AED 120‑180 ($33‑49).
- Skip the tourist traps: Restaurants inside malls often charge a premium. Walk a few streets away and you’ll find comparable quality at a lower price.
- Share dishes: Many restaurants serve generous platters meant for two. Splitting a main course can cut your bill in half while still letting you try more flavors.
Finally, keep an eye on the bill’s hidden charges. Service fees, VAT (5%), and optional “cover charges” can add up quickly. Ask for a clear breakdown before you pay, especially in upscale venues.
Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a business traveler who likes a good steak, knowing the real cost of dining in Dubai lets you plan smarter. Use the price ranges above as a baseline, apply the money‑saving tips, and you’ll enjoy the city’s foodie delights without surprising your credit card.
