Dubai Restaurant Prices 2025 – What You’ll Pay for a Meal

Thinking about eating out in Dubai but unsure about the price tag? You’re not alone. The city mixes street‑food stalls with five‑star venues, so the cost can swing wildly. Below you’ll get clear numbers, real‑world tips, and a quick cheat‑sheet to keep your wallet happy.

Average Price Ranges by Type of Eatery

Street food & fast‑casual: Expect a basic meal—like shawarma, falafel, or a bowl of biryani—to run between 15 AED and 35 AED (≈ $4‑$9). These spots are everywhere, from Al Dhiyafah to Jumeirah Beach Walk, and they give you a big bite for little cash.

Mid‑range restaurants: A sit‑down place with a decent ambiance (think local grill, Italian trattoria, or sushi bar) usually charges 50 AED to 120 AED per person for a main dish, plus drinks. If you add a starter and dessert, you’re looking at 80‑150 AED total.

Luxury dining: High‑end hotels and celebrity chef venues charge 200 AED and up for a three‑course meal. A steak or lobster plate can hit 250‑350 AED, while wine adds another 100‑200 AED per bottle.

How to Spot Good Value

Check the menu before you sit. Many places list prices online—use Google Maps or Zomato to compare. If a restaurant’s average main is under 50 AED, it likely falls in the mid‑range bracket and offers decent value.

Watch for “set menus” or “buffet deals.” A lunch set of two courses for 45 AED or a dinner buffet for 120 AED can beat ordering à la carte, especially if you’re hungry.Don’t ignore locals’ recommendations. Emirates residents often share hidden gems on Instagram or community forums where prices stay low but quality stays high.

Timing matters too. Many places offer “happy hour” appetizers and drinks from 4 pm‑7 pm at 30‑40 AED. This can turn a pricey dinner into a budget‑friendly outing.

If you’re a fan of coffee, opt for a local café instead of a hotel chain. A cup of Arabic coffee costs about 5 AED, while a latte at a boutique café can be 20‑30 AED.

Lastly, use delivery apps wisely. They sometimes add a service fee, but they also highlight promotions—like 10 % off your first order or free delivery after a certain spend.

By keeping an eye on these cues, you’ll avoid surprise bills and still enjoy Dubai’s vibrant food scene.

Whether you’re budgeting as a solo traveler, planning a date night, or feeding a group, these price ranges give you a solid baseline. Adjust up or down based on location—areas like Marina and Downtown tend to be pricier, while Deira and Satwa offer more affordable options.

Now you’ve got the numbers, the tips, and the confidence to pick a spot that fits your pocket. Happy eating in Dubai!