Dubai Restaurant Prices 2025 – Real Costs & Budget Tips

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, the first thing you’ll wonder about is how much you’ll spend on food. The city serves everything from cheap noodle stalls to ultra‑luxury rooftop venues, and the price gap is huge. Below you’ll find a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2025, plus practical ideas to stretch your budget.

Typical Prices by Cuisine

Street‑level eats are the cheapest way to taste local flavor. A bowl of shawarma or a plate of falafel costs around 5–8 AED (≈ £1‑£1.5). If you grab a quick meal at a food court, expect to pay 15‑20 AED for a combo of rice, meat and a drink.

Mid‑range restaurants charge about 40‑80 AED per main dish. A typical Indian curry with naan, a sushi roll set, or a Western steak will fall in this range. Most places include a soft drink or water in the price, but alcohol adds a steep surcharge.

Fine dining is where the numbers jump. A three‑course dinner at a hotel rooftop can start at 250 AED and easily exceed 500 AED for premium wine pairings. Even the world‑famous Burj Khalifa restaurant tops 1,000 AED per person for a tasting menu.

Saving Money on Dining

Don’t let the high‑end prices scare you. Start your day with a local bakery – a fresh pastry and coffee cost less than 10 AED. Use apps like Zomato or Talabat to hunt for discounts; many venues offer 20‑30% off during off‑peak hours.

If you’re staying in an Airbnb or serviced apartment, buy groceries from supermarkets such as Carrefour or Lulu. A week’s worth of basics – rice, pasta, vegetables, and some protein – can be under 150 AED, letting you cook simple meals and avoid restaurant marks.

Happy hour is another money‑saver. Many bars and hotels reduce drink prices between 4 pm and 7 pm. Pair a small plate with a discounted cocktail, and you’ll still get a taste of the upscale scene without the full bill.

Lastly, plan your restaurant visits around your itinerary. If you’re exploring the Dubai Marina area, look for nearby local cafés rather than the waterfront hotels. A short walk can shave off 30‑50 AED per meal.

By mixing street food, mid‑range spots, and occasional splurges, most travelers keep daily food costs between 80‑150 AED. Adjust the mix to fit your budget, and you’ll enjoy Dubai’s diverse culinary scene without breaking the bank.