Restaurant Prices in Dubai 2025 Cost Guide
Dubai is a global food destination, offering everything from street food to high-end fine dining. The city caters to all budgets, whether you’re looking for an affordable meal or a luxurious culinary experience. This guide provides an overview of restaurant prices in Dubai, helping tourists and residents plan their dining expenses effectively.
Restaurant Prices in Dubai – An Overview
Dubai’s restaurant prices vary based on location, cuisine, and type of dining experience. On average, meal prices range as follows:
- Budget restaurants: AED 25 – AED 50 per person
- Mid-range restaurants: AED 100 – AED 300 per person
- Fine dining restaurants: AED 500+ per person
These costs can fluctuate depending on the area, with prime locations such as Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah typically being more expensive.
Factors Affecting Restaurant Prices in Dubai
Several elements impact the cost of dining in Dubai:
- Location – Restaurants in luxury hotels and high-end areas charge premium prices.
- Cuisine Type – International cuisines and fine dining experiences often come at a higher cost.
- Ambience & Service – Premium service and waterfront or rooftop dining increase prices.
- Imported Ingredients – High-quality imported ingredients can drive up costs.
- Taxes & Service Charges – VAT and service charges are added to the bill, increasing the final cost.
Cost Breakdown of Dining Options in Dubai
Budget-Friendly Restaurants
Dubai offers a variety of affordable dining spots, including cafeterias, food courts, and casual eateries. Popular options include:
- Local Emirati eateries
- South Asian restaurants
- International fast-food chains
A meal at these places costs around AED 25–50 per person, making them ideal for budget-conscious diners.
Mid-Range Dining
For those seeking a balance between quality and price, Dubai’s mid-range restaurants offer diverse cuisines, including:
- Authentic Middle Eastern dishes
- Asian fusion
- Mediterranean flavors
Prices range from AED 100–300 per person, providing a comfortable dining experience with quality ingredients and good service.
Fine Dining & Luxury Experiences
Dubai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious restaurants, often led by Michelin-starred chefs. These establishments offer:
- Exquisite multi-course meals
- Waterfront and rooftop dining
- Personalized service
Fine dining costs start at AED 500 per person, with premium experiences exceeding AED 1,000.
How to Save Money on Dining in Dubai
Dining out in Dubai can be expensive, but these strategies can help you save:
- Explore UAE Local Directory UAE Local Directory for deals and discounts.
- Take advantage of happy hours and weekday promotions.
- Use food delivery apps for discounts and combo deals.
- Try local cafeterias and hidden gems instead of high-end venues.
FAQs – Restaurant Prices in Dubai
1. How much does an average meal cost in Dubai?
The average meal in a budget restaurant costs around AED 30, while mid-range dining is around AED 150 per person. Fine dining starts at AED 500 per person.
2. Are there affordable restaurants in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai has numerous budget-friendly options, including local cafeterias, food courts, and South Asian restaurants where meals cost AED 25–50 per person.
3. Do restaurants in Dubai include service charges?
Many restaurants include a 10–15% service charge. Additionally, a 5% VAT is applicable to all bills.
4. Can I find discounts on restaurant meals in Dubai?
Yes! Many restaurants offer promotions, especially through food apps and discount websites like UAE Local Directory.
5. What is the most expensive restaurant in Dubai?
Some of the most expensive restaurants include Atmosphere at Burj Khalifa, Ossiano at Atlantis The Palm, and Pierchic, where meals can exceed AED 1,000 per person.