Food & Dining in Dubai — Complete Guide (2026)
Dubai offers a wide range of dining options from budget-friendly local spots to world-class restaurants. Food is one of the great joys of expat life, and Dubai does not disappoint.
Must-Try Local Dishes
The essential dishes to try in Dubai: shawarma (available everywhere, from €1 street stalls to upscale restaurants), Al Machboos (spiced rice with meat), Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), Arabic mezze (hummus, moutabal, fattoush), and the city's incredible international dining — from Japanese omakase to Peruvian fusion.
Average Food Costs
| Meal Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Street food / cheap local meal | $16-27 |
| Mid-range restaurant (per person) | $41-68 |
| Fine dining (per person) | $103-205 |
| Monthly groceries (one person) | $246-410 |
| Cappuccino | $5.9-9.1 |
| Beer (local, at a bar) | $6.8-13.7 |
Where to Find the Best Food
Markets and food halls: Gold & Spice Souk in Deira, Ripe Market (organic produce), Waterfront Market, and Dubai Mall's massive food court (a destination in itself).
Local tip: Dubai is a city of extremes — you can eat an excellent shawarma for $2 or spend $500 at a celebrity chef restaurant. The middle ground is surprisingly thin. For daily eating, areas like Deira, Bur Dubai, and Karama offer authentic, affordable Middle Eastern, Indian, and Filipino food. JBR and Marina are expensive but convenient. Brunch culture is huge — Friday brunch buffets ($50-200) are a social institution.
Grocery Shopping
Monthly grocery costs for one person range from $205-410 depending on whether you buy local or imported products. Supermarket chains offer a good range of both local and international products. Organic and specialty stores cater to health-conscious expats but at premium prices.
Food Delivery Apps
Food delivery has exploded globally, and Dubai is no exception. Popular apps include Uber Eats, local delivery platforms, and restaurant-direct delivery. Fees vary but expect $2-5 per delivery..
Dietary Requirements
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants, though traditional local cuisine may be more meat-focused. Vegan and gluten-free options are improving but may require more planning outside tourist areas. Use the HappyCow app to find vegetarian/vegan restaurants worldwide.
Tips for Expat Foodies
- Learn food-related phrases in Arabic (English widely used) — menus outside tourist zones may not have English translations
- Ask expats for neighborhood restaurant recommendations — Facebook groups are goldmines for food tips
- Visit local markets for fresh produce at the best prices — and for an authentic cultural experience
- The best food is rarely on the main tourist streets — walk 2-3 blocks off the main road and quality goes up while prices go down
- Lunch specials/set menus typically offer the best value — many restaurants offer their dinner menu at 30-50% off during lunch hours