Dubai Food Budget: How Much to Spend on Eating in Dubai

When people think of Dubai, they picture luxury yachts, gold-plated hotels, and meals that cost more than a flight home. But here’s the truth: you can eat incredibly well in Dubai for far less than you think. A Dubai food budget, the total amount you plan to spend on meals and drinks during your visit. Also known as food spending in Dubai, it doesn’t have to mean five-star dining every night—just smart choices. Many visitors assume everything here is expensive, but that’s not the case. You can grab a filling shawarma for under 15 AED, a plate of biryani for 20 AED, or a fresh juice from a roadside stall for 5 AED. The city’s food scene is built on layers—from migrant workers eating at tiny South Asian cafés to tourists splurging on Michelin-starred tasting menus.

What makes this possible? Dubai’s food ecosystem thrives on diversity. You’ve got Indian, Filipino, Lebanese, Egyptian, and Pakistani eateries serving authentic meals at prices that rival home countries. The street food Dubai, affordable, quick meals sold by vendors in markets, metro stations, and busy streets. Also known as Dubai metro food, it’s where locals eat daily and tourists often miss out. Skip the mall restaurants and head to areas like Al Karama, Deira, or Business Bay after sunset. That’s where you’ll find the real deals. Even Dubai restaurant prices, the cost of meals at sit-down places across the city, from casual to upscale. Also known as Dining costs UAE, it varies wildly—you can pay 300 AED for a burger at a tourist hotspot or 35 AED for the same thing at a hidden gem two blocks away. The key isn’t location, it’s knowing where to look.

And don’t forget drinks. A Coke in a hotel bar might cost 25 AED, but at a supermarket? Just 6 AED. A bottle of water at a beach resort? 12 AED. At a local convenience store? 2 AED. That’s the pattern: prices inflate where tourists are expected to pay, and drop where locals shop. If you’re planning a week-long trip, you can easily keep your daily food budget under 100 AED if you mix street eats, grocery snacks, and one nice meal. Want to go all out? One fancy dinner might set you back 500 AED, but that’s still less than what you’d pay in London or New York for the same experience.

This isn’t about being cheap—it’s about being smart. Dubai doesn’t force you to spend big to eat well. The city gives you options. You can have a full day of eating for less than the cost of one cocktail at a rooftop bar. The posts below break down exactly where to find the best meals at every price point—from budget bowls to hidden gourmet spots. You’ll see real prices from real places, no fluff, no marketing. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a tight schedule, you’ll find the right fit.