Dubai restaurant prices: what you’ll pay and how to save

Thinking about eating out in Dubai but not sure if your wallet can handle it? You’re not alone. The city offers everything from sizzling street stalls to sky‑high fine‑dining spots, and the price gap can be huge. Below you’ll get a clear picture of what different meals cost, plus easy ways to enjoy the food scene without blowing your budget.

Typical price ranges by restaurant type

Street food & markets: You can grab a shawarma, falafel or a bowl of biryani for 20‑40 AED (about $5‑$11). These spots are everywhere—Al Rigga, Deira, and the Spice Souk. If you’re after fresh seafood, a simple grilled fish at a local eatery runs around 30‑50 AED.

Casual cafés and mid‑range diners: Expect a main dish and a drink to land between 50‑120 AED. Places like Al Mallah, Ripe Market, or a family‑run Pakistani restaurant usually fall in this bracket. A combo meal with a soft drink might be 60 AED on the low end.

Upscale restaurants: This is where the price spikes. A three‑course dinner at a hotel restaurant or a trendy spot such as those on Jumeirah Beach can start at 150 AED and easily exceed 400 AED per person, especially if you order wine or specialty dishes. The most luxurious venues—think world‑renowned chefs—can push the bill past 800 AED.

Romantic & fine‑dining experiences: If you’re planning a date night, the top 10 romantic restaurants often charge 200‑350 AED for a main course, with additional costs for appetizers and desserts. Many of these places offer a view of the skyline or the Dubai Fountain, which adds to the experience.

Tips to stretch your dining budget

1. Time your meals. Lunch menus are usually cheaper than dinner. A restaurant that charges 120 AED for dinner might offer the same dish for 80 AED at lunch.

2. Share plates. Large mezze trays or family‑style platters are designed for sharing. Splitting the cost with a friend can bring a 30‑50 AED per person bill down to half.

3. Look for “set menus” or “buffet deals.” Many hotels run early‑bird buffets that include a starter, main, and dessert for around 100‑150 AED. It’s a great way to try multiple dishes without overspending.

4. Use discount apps. Platforms like The Entertainer or local loyalty cards often give 20‑50% off on popular restaurants. A 30% discount on a 250 AED dinner drops the bill to 175 AED.

5. Drink water. Ordering sodas, juices, or cocktails can add 20‑50 AED per drink. Stick to water and you’ll save a noticeable amount, especially over several meals.

6. Explore local neighborhoods. Areas such as Al Karama, Satwa, and Bur Dubai house authentic eateries where a tasty meal costs less than 50 AED. You get real flavor without the hotel price tag.

7. Try the food courts. The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Ibn Battuta Mall have food courts with a wide range of options from 25 to 80 AED. They’re perfect for a quick, affordable bite.

By mixing a few of these strategies, you can enjoy the city’s culinary variety while keeping your expenses in check. Whether you’re a budget traveler or a local looking for a night out, Dubai’s food scene has something for every pocket.

Now that you know the price landscape, go ahead and pick a spot that fits your budget. Eat, enjoy, and explore—Dubai’s flavors are too good to miss, no matter how much you decide to spend.