Dubai is a city that never fails to please. A country where all exotic things come to life, starting from artificial islands to mega malls and so much more.

Whether you are visiting Dubai for leisure, or work, you must definitely try your hands at different cuisines such as Emirati cuisines, Lebanese, Chinese, and more.

Believe it or not, the food you will find in Dubai is unlike any food you have ever had. Certainly, for travellers, food is the primary source of expense and you don’t wish to compromise on the quality either.

And, when it comes to Dubai, cheap food is hard to find therefore we have mined out the good food options that will easily fit into your budget.

How much does food cost in Dubai?

There is no fixed amount that you can spend on your meal in Dubai. The cost of food in Dubai will always depend on what and where you prefer to eat.

However, the average food cost in Dubai for a single person will be around AED 50 and AED 150 which is about INR 1,132 to 3,398 at a mid-range restaurant.

Let us help you to understand more about affordable food spots to tap in Dubai.

Experience affordable dining in Dubai

We all share one thing in common: our love for food that doesn’t cost too much. (We’re guessing that is what you are here for) Do you know Dubai is also famous for its diverse food options, be it Chinese, Vietnamese, or Indian?

So, how can you decide what to eat and from where to eat? We have discovered a few of the best places in Dubai that will make your life much easier.

Discover Dubai's culinary treasures at these charming and budget-friendly authentic restaurants without breaking the bank.

Read more - How to apply for a Dubai visa online

5 Budget-friendly restaurants in Dubai for Vegetarians

1. Sri Balaji Bhavan

If you are craving a typical South Indian meal in Dubail, then this is the right place for you. One of the popular food spots among Indian visitors in Dubai.

And, is one of the cheap eateries with a variety of best-sellers like Bada, Masala dosa, and mini tiffin.

Location - Al Karama, Dubai

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 70

2. Bikanerwala

This north-Indian restaurant is quite popular in Dubai too, for its authentic food items. Usually opens around 9 a.m. and is occupied till midnight, one of the most hygienic places with a plethora of vegan options, you will ever find in Dubai.

Food is lip-smacking and most importantly economical. Make sure you try bikaneri matar kulcha.

Location - Al Barsha, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed St

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 65

3. Govinda’s

It is considered to be an inexpensive veg-friendly restaurant. Highly recommended for its amazing hospitality and cozy atmosphere for the ultimate fine-dine experience. If you are feeling homesick this place is just for you.

They serve organic food, and gluten-free options are also available at a very minimum cost.

One thing you must try there is Tru Fruit ice cream, a first-of-its-kind Emirati dessert made wholly out of vegetarian ingredients. You can visit anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Location - Bur, Dubai

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 165

4. Haji Ali Juice Center

The very famous Mumbai-based Haji Ali Juice Centre is quite popular in Dubai as well.

Although it sounds like a juice center by its name you will be surprised to know that it is famous for sandwiches and falooda.

If you visit this place, make sure to try their special Haji Ali pizza along with mixed fruit ice cream.

A budget-friendly food option in Dubai that offers various Indian veggie delicacies that will perfectly satisfy your hunger anytime you visit, even at 2:30 in the morning.

Location - Meena Bazar, Al Karama, and also at Oud Metha, Dubai

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 65

5. Paratha King

Holidays without a lavishing breakfast? No way! It is the only restaurant in UAE where you will find more than a hundred varieties of vegetarian stuffed parathas.

We recommend you try their special Cheese paratha, you will definitely love it. You can visit any day as this eatery is open for all seven days.

The average cost for a meal for two will be around AED 65, approximately.

Location - Internet City, Dubai

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 65

5 most affordable restaurants in Dubai for Non-Vegetarians

1. Allo Beirut

Believe it or not this spot is the best for Lebanese food in Dubai.

They have seven restaurants in the city, making Hessa Street a highly demanded one.

If you want to try the best shawarmas, hot wraps, or grilled meat that too on a budget, then this place is right for you in Dubai.

Location - Al Barsha Dubai

Average Cost - Meal for two AED 105

2. Bu Qtair

Popular tourist spot, known for its variety of seafood options at a cheap price in all of Dubai. Crowned by CNN, Bu Qtair is the best fish restaurant in the city.

Explore this fancy place for good food with a unique experience.

Location - Old 32B Street, Fishing Harbour 2, Dubai

Average Cost - AED 120 for two people

3. Special Ostadi

Highly appreciated by former travelers, as per the reviews and recommendations.

This place is known for excellent guest service and delicious food that is affordable. Tourists rave about the mutton kebabs here, and we highly recommend you try it once.

Location - Bur Dubai, Metro Station-Al Fahidi Musallah Rd, Dubai

Average Cost - AED 90 for two people

4. Sallet Al Sayed

Are you a seafood lover? Even if you are not, this restaurant will make you one.

The ultimate seafood restaurant in Dubai serves authentic seafood. You must try their grilled salmon, and crispy calamari, highly recommended.

The best part is, that you will get wide options to choose from for the minimum cost of food in Dubai.

Location - Al Karama, Dubai

Average Cost - AED 180 for two people

5. Ravi Restaurant

This Pakistani eatery is in the cultural melting pot of Dubai.

A well-renowned dining spot that offers a variety of delicious dishes at an affordable price range in Dubai.

Known for its specialty in Pakistani cuisines, this place is unique and rare for the best dining experience.

Located - Al Satwa

Average Cost - AED 85 for two people

Breakfast Cost in Dubai

If you are planning a solo trip to Dubai, breakfast in a mid-range restaurant will cost you somewhere in the range of AED 30 and AED 60 which is about INR 680 to INR 1,360.

However, exploring affordable food options like street stalls is recommended, which may cost you around AED 20 to AED 25, approximately INR 453 INR 566.

5 Street Stalls under AED 10

Al Rajwah
Abdullah Omar Cafeteria
Farisian Cafeteria
Al Halawa Cafeteria
Aappa Kadai

Lunch Cost in Dubai

You can either go for a lavishing lunch at a five-star restaurant and spend around AED 100 to AED 200 or enjoy the same quality food in a budget-friendly dining spot and thank us later.

Usually, lunch at any restaurant or cafe in Dubai will cost you between AED 40 and AED 80 which is INR 906 to INR 1,813.

But if you prefer lunch at a high-range restaurant, the same quality food can cost you between AED 100 and AED 200 (INR 2,266 to INR 4,500) per person.

It’s preferable to explore a mid-range budget-friendly restaurant for a good meal so that you can save some money and enjoy your lunch at the same time.

5 Budget-friendly lunch options

Labeeb Grocery
Al Damyati & Iskandaron
Man’oushe Street
Abdullah Omar Cafeteria
Biryani Factory

Dinner cost in Dubai

Dinner at a high-end restaurant can cost between AED 500 and AED 800 (INR 11,000 to INR 18,000) which is way too expensive. Therefore, to make it affordable for you, we have compiled a list of dining options for you to explore:

5 Budget-friendly Dinner options

Zaroob
Al Mallah
Al Reef Bakery
Shawarma Street
Calicut Paragon

Tips for low-cost food spots in Dubai

You will find abundant food options in Dubai, assuming that you will be eating out most of the time, here are some tips to help you keep food costs down while enjoying your perfect vacation in the gulf.

Avoid eating in restaurants around the tourist areas, as it tends to be expensive. Instead, prefer local spots for better quality food at a cheaper price, comparatively.
Be mindful while ordering food. Read reviews before stepping into any unknown food spot.
Lastly, avoid drinking alcohol in Dubai, if possible. As alcohol is very expensive in Dubai, sticking to non-alcoholic beverages will help you to remain within budget.

Explore the low-cost restaurants in Dubai with Visa2Fly

We hope the information shared in the blog will give you a complete understanding of where to spend your money and how to enjoy a Dubai trip to the fullest that too in a budget-friendly way. But wait, have you applied for your Dubai visa yet?

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Comprehensive Guide to daily food costs in Dubai