Dubai's dining scene offers something for every budget, from affordable local favorites to world-class fine dining experiences that rival the best restaurants globally. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler or looking to splurge on a special occasion, understanding Dubai's restaurant pricing landscape will help you plan the perfect dining experience.
Dubai Restaurant Price Ranges Overview
Dining costs in Dubai vary significantly depending on the type of restaurant, location, and cuisine. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect to spend:
Budget Dining: AED 25-80 per person Mid-Range Restaurants: AED 100-300 per person Fine Dining: AED 400-800 per person Ultra-Luxury Dining: AED 1000-2000+ per person
These prices typically include a main course, appetizer or dessert, and a non-alcoholic beverage. Alcohol significantly increases costs, with wine starting around AED 200-400 per bottle at most restaurants.
Affordable Dining: Great Value Under AED 100
Dubai offers exceptional value dining options that don't compromise on quality or authenticity. Here are two standout affordable restaurants that locals and tourists love:
1. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Al Fanar Restaurant offers an authentic Emirati dining experience at incredibly reasonable prices. Located in Al Seef along Dubai Creek, this traditional restaurant serves hearty local dishes in a nostalgic setting that recreates 1960s Dubai.
Typical meal cost: AED 45-75 per person
Signature dishes include machboos (spiced rice with meat), luqaimat (sweet dumplings), and traditional Emirati breakfast. The restaurant's commitment to preserving local culinary traditions makes it not just affordable, but culturally enriching.
What makes it special: Authentic Emirati cuisine, traditional décor, generous portions, and prices that locals appreciate. The restaurant also offers cultural insights into traditional Emirati hospitality.
2. Bu Qtair
This iconic seafood shack near Jumeirah Beach has been serving some of Dubai's best fish and prawns since 1979. Bu Qtair proves that exceptional seafood doesn't require fancy surroundings – just incredibly fresh ingredients and expert preparation.
Typical meal cost: AED 35-60 per person
The no-frills approach focuses entirely on the food: grilled hammour, king prawns, and their famous fish curry served with aromatic rice. The plastic chairs and paper plates might seem humble, but the seafood quality rivals much more expensive establishments.
Local favorite: Their grilled hammour with spiced rice has achieved legendary status among Dubai residents. Don't let the casual setting fool you – this is where many local families come for special occasions.
Luxury Dining: Premium Experiences Over AED 800
When it comes to special occasions and fine dining, Dubai offers some of the world's most exceptional and expensive restaurants. Here are two that justify their premium pricing:
1. At.mosphere - Burj Khalifa
At.mosphere holds the distinction of being the highest restaurant in the world, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. The dining experience here transcends just food – you're paying for unparalleled views, impeccable service, and the prestige of dining at an iconic location.
Typical dinner cost: AED 1200-2000 per person
The contemporary European menu features premium ingredients prepared with exceptional skill. Their signature dishes include wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and innovative desserts. The restaurant offers both à la carte dining and tasting menus, with wine pairings available from their extensive cellar.
Why it's worth it: The 360-degree views of Dubai's skyline, Arabian Gulf, and desert are truly priceless. The restaurant's location alone makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
2. Al Muntaha - Burj Al Arab
Al Muntaha (meaning 'The Ultimate' in Arabic) delivers on its name with Michelin-starred cuisine served 200 meters above the Arabian Gulf. Chef Saverio Sbaragli's French and Italian cuisine represents the pinnacle of culinary artistry in Dubai.
Typical dinner cost: AED 1000-1800 per person
The restaurant's position on the 27th floor of the iconic Burj Al Arab provides spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah and the coastline. The menu features innovative interpretations of classic French and Italian dishes using the finest global ingredients.
Exclusive experience: Access to Burj Al Arab itself is restricted, making Al Muntaha feel like a private club. The restaurant's interior design, service standards, and culinary excellence justify the premium pricing. Consider their chef's tasting menu for the full experience.
Factors Affecting Dubai Restaurant Prices
Location Premium: Restaurants in iconic locations (Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Mall) typically charge 30-50% more than similar quality establishments elsewhere.
Import Costs: Many premium ingredients are imported, affecting pricing. However, this ensures authentic cuisine from around the world.
Service Standards: Dubai's fine dining restaurants maintain exceptionally high service standards, with extensive staff training reflected in pricing.
Experience Value: Many expensive restaurants offer more than just food – they provide experiences, views, and prestige that justify premium pricing.
Money-Saving Tips for Dubai Dining
- Lunch vs. Dinner: Many fine dining restaurants offer lunch menus at 30-40% less than dinner prices
- Happy Hours: Take advantage of afternoon and early evening promotions
- Hotel Restaurants: Consider dining at 4-star hotels rather than 5-star properties for similar quality at lower prices
- Local Areas: Venture to areas like Karama, Deira, or Satwa for authentic, affordable dining
- Iftar Buffets: During Ramadan, iftar buffets offer exceptional value at luxury hotels
Conclusion
Dubai's dining costs reflect the city's diverse nature – from authentic local experiences under AED 100 to world-class fine dining exceeding AED 1500 per person. The key is understanding what you're paying for and choosing restaurants that align with your budget and expectations.
For budget travelers, Dubai offers surprising value in traditional Emirati restaurants and local favorites. For special occasions, the city's luxury dining scene provides experiences that are truly unforgettable and often worth the premium pricing.
Explore our complete Dubai Restaurants guide to discover dining options across all price ranges, each personally reviewed and verified by our local experts. Whether you're looking for affordable authentic cuisine or preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, Dubai's diverse restaurant scene has something perfect for every budget and occasion.
