How Much Does Food Cost in Dubai? Complete 2026 Budget & Restaurant Price Guide

Dubai is a destination that never fails to attract travellers from around the world, and people get ready to visit this place to explore its luxury skyscrapers, modern architecture, and diverse culture. Well, what makes Dubai special for foodies is its vibrant cuisine that caters to every taste and budget, making it one of the most delightful places. 

From affordable street food options to luxury fine dining experiences, Dubai has everything. However, the important thing for every tourist or resident to know is the daily food cost in Dubai. If you are planning a trip to Dubai or you have recently moved, you must set up a budget, as the cost of food in Dubai depends on where you are trying the cuisine. 

In this guide below, you will go through the average food cost, food prices in Dubai restaurants, the cost of dining out, factors affecting food prices, and tips to save money on food. 

Average Food Cost in Dubai

The average food cost in Dubai is based on dining preferences, location, and lifestyle. The city offers everything, right from fast food, street food, casual dining, to premium fine dining, making the food prices in Dubai manageable for all travellers. To know about the food prices in Dubai, have a look at the table below, which highlights the food cost in Dubai: 

Food Cost in Dubai Restaurants

The cost of eating out in Dubai varies depending on the restaurants you visit. The Dubai food prices at different hotels, whether luxury, mid-range, or affordable is associated with food quality, cuisines, environment, and services. 

Luxury Restaurants 

The luxurious restaurants in Dubai never disappoint guests, as they offer exclusive services with the best cuisines. The food cost in Dubai at these restaurants may be higher, and it is perfect for those who are looking for an exceptional experience. When it comes to fine dining or eating out on special occasions, the city offers one of the best options. Here are the luxury restaurant prices in Dubai: -

Mid-Range Restaurants

If you want to enjoy the best quality food without breaking your wallet, then the mid-range restaurants in Dubai are the best options for eating out. The eating cost in Dubai at these restaurants will not affect their food quality. In the table below, the mid-range restaurant prices in Dubai are highlighted: -

Cheap Restaurants 

Looking for affordable food options in Dubai? If so, you are at the perfect destination, as many cheap restaurants in Dubai offer the best food at low prices. Local restaurants offer a wide range of dishes with authentic flavors. In addition, there are local bakeries and small restaurants specializing in different cuisines, such as Indian and others. Below are the food prices in Dubai at cheap restaurants: -

Cost of Dining Out 

The cost of food in Dubai depends on what kind of dining you are looking for, such as whether you want to taste food or casual dining. The information below mentions the dining options available in Dubai: -

Street food 

Dubai may be famous for its luxury skyscrapers, but its diverse street food scene is beyond expectations. From Middle Eastern snacks to Indian street snacks, Dubai's street food offers something delicious for everyone. Some of the popular street foods include Falafel, Shawarma, Manakish, and many more. The guide below will help you understand the cost of street food in Dubai.

Casual Dining

In your bucket list, you must add casual dining restaurants to visit in Dubai, right from cafes, malls, and other hotels. These places offers diverse range of items and a comfortable environment, offering items at affordable costs. Below is the eating cost in Dubai: -

Fine Dining

Looking for a meal to remember? If yes, then Dubai is perfect for you, as the city offers an amazing fine dining experience with the best restaurants. Savor different flavours at the luxury restaurants and enjoy special meals. Here is the fine dining cost in Dubai: -

Cost of Drinks in Dubai

The drink prices in Dubai vary according to the location and the drinks you are taking, non-alcoholic or alcoholic. 

Non-Alcoholic Drinks 

Dubai offers a vast selection of non-alcoholic drinks in Dubai at reasonable prices. The soft drinks, bottled water, and fresh juices can be found at cafes, restaurants, and stores. 

Alcoholic Drinks

In comparison with the non-alcoholic drinks, the alcoholic drinks in Dubai are expensive and are mainly served in hotels, bars, and luxury restaurants. While some hotels offer discounts on drinks, some high-end restaurants' prices may be different. 

Factors Affecting Food Prices in Dubai

Various factors affect the food cost in Dubai, such as location, type of dining, imports, and many more. Below is the checklist of different factors: -

1. Location: The location is one of the common factors that affects the cost of food in Dubai. The hotels located in shopping malls or upscale areas provide food items at higher prices compared to restaurants in residential areas. 
2. Type of Dining: Another factor that creates an impact on food prices is the type of dining. Street food and local cafes offer traditional meals at affordable prices, while fine dining venues' food cost is higher. 
3. Changes in the exchange rate: The price of imported goods is affected when there are changes in the exchange rate between local currencies and foreign currencies. 

Tips to Save Money on Food in Dubai

While dining in Dubai can be expensive, there are certain tips to help you save money on food: -

1. Buy groceries from supermarkets, as these are more convenient and affordable in comparison with small shops. 
2. Look for discounts or the best deals when going for eating out in Dubai restaurants. 
3. For online ordering options, choose apps, such as Zomato and Deliveroo, to find discounts. 
4. Explore street food options as it offers affordable meals, offering diverse cuisines. 

FAQs

Q1. What is the average daily food cost in Dubai? 

Ans. The average daily food cost in Dubai depends on the types of food; for street food, the average price is between AED 10 and AED 20. 

Q2. How much does a budget meal cost in Dubai?

Ans. A budget meal costs in Dubai ranges between AED 15 and AED 40. 

Q3. What is the cost of eating in mid-range restaurants in Dubai?

Ans. The cost of eating in mid-range restaurants in Dubai is based on the meals, and here are the following prices: -

1. Breakfast: AED 40- AED 80
2. Lunch: AED 70- AED 180
3. Dinner: AED 150- AED 300

Q4. How expensive is fine dining in Dubai?

Ans. Fine dining in Dubai costs between AED 45 and AED 500, and these include a three-course meal, desserts, and beverages. 

Q5. Is street food available in Dubai, and is it affordable?

Ans. Yes, street food is widely available in Dubai and is budget-friendly for all people. Different street food options are available, such as Shawarma and Falafel, and the cost ranges between AED 5 and AED 20. 

Q6. How much does breakfast cost in Dubai?

Ans. The breakfast cost in Dubai is based on the type of restaurant you are having a meal in, like luxury restaurants, mid-range restaurants, and cheap restaurants. Here are the following prices: -

Q7. Can tourists find vegetarian food easily in Dubai?

Ans. Yes, tourists can find vegetarian food easily in Dubai, as there are lots of restaurants offering Indian food, such as Falafel, Manakish, Balaleet, Hummus, and Fattaoush. 

Q8. Does Dubai have affordable fast food options?

Ans. Yes, Dubai has budget-friendly fast food options, and it ranges between AED 25 and AED 30. 

Q9. How can tourists save money on food in Dubai?

Ans. Tourists can save money on food in Dubai in different ways, such as purchasing groceries from supermarkets, eating street food, or exploring discounts on apps such as Zomato.