Top 10 cheap restaurants in Dubai

The best budget restaurants in Dubai

An impressive number of affordable dining establishments can be found in Dubai, contrary to the common belief that the city is exclusively a luxury destination. These places are a true culinary treasure trove, where great quality meets reasonable prices, creating the perfect solution for travelers on a tight budget. A number of important criteria were used in selecting the most recommendable cheap places to eat in Dubai. A key consideration was the variety of cuisines offered - from traditional Arab delicacies to Indian dishes to fusion cuisine. Equally important was the quality of the food served, which had to meet high standards despite the affordable prices. The atmosphere of the establishments was also not negligible - the selected venues offer a pleasant environment for dining.

These carefully selected restaurants have won the approval of a wide range of customers. They are regularly visited by locals who appreciate authentic flavors and fair prices, as well as by tourists looking for good food that won't strain their travel budget. What's more, many of these establishments are located in the city's historic districts, such as Deira and Bur Dubai, where you can not only eat deliciously, but also experience the culture and atmosphere of old Dubai.

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1. AI Ustad Special Kebab
This is one of the most highly regarded inexpensive restaurants in Dubai, known for its delicious Iranian cuisine. Popular with locals and tourists alike, it serves succulent meat dishes, including kebabs, at extremely affordable prices. The restaurant is located in the historic Bur Dubai district.

2. Ravi Restaurant
An iconic restaurant in Dubai, famous for its authentic Pakistani dishes. Their curries, naan and biryani are regarded as some of the best in the city. The place offers affordable culinary options that are great for budget travelers. With its popularity among locals and tourists, Ravi attracts visitors who want a taste of the authentic flavors of Pakistan. The restaurant is located in the Bur Dubai district, making it easily accessible to visitors.

3. Eat & Drink Restaurant
A popular chain of cheap and tasty restaurants in Dubai, specializing in Asian and Arabic cuisine. Their menu includes such delicacies as shawarma, tandoori chicken and Chinese noodles. The chain's restaurants can be found in various parts of the city, including the Deira and Al Barsha districts, making them easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. With affordable prices and a wide selection of dishes, Eat & Drink has quickly gained popularity as a great place for a quick and tasty meal. The menu features everything from shawarma to Chinese dishes at very attractive prices.

4. Operation: Falafel
A modern take on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, serving delicious dishes such as falafel, hummus and shawarma at affordable prices. The restaurant has become a popular choice for a quick, tasty meal in the bustling city center. With its modern atmosphere and diverse menu, it attracts locals and tourists alike looking for authentic Middle Eastern flavors. An ideal place to try traditional dishes with a modern twist.

5. Bu Qtair
Located near Jumeirah Beach, this unassuming restaurant has become famous for its perfectly grilled seafood. Although the menu is relatively simple, the exceptional quality of the food and affordable prices make Bu Qtair a favorite of many Dubai residents. It's the perfect place to taste fresh seafood specialties at an affordable price.

6. Zaroob
A modern restaurant that draws inspiration from the street food of the Levant. It offers a variety of dishes such as manakish, saj and shawarma, characterized by affordable prices and authentic taste. It's the perfect place to try tasty dishes in a modern twist.

7. Calicut Paragon
Specializes in Malabar cuisine from southern India, serving delicious dishes such as seafood curries and biryani, which are popular among lovers of exotic flavors. It's the perfect place for those who want a taste of authentic dishes from the region.

8. AI Mallah
A place known for its delicious Arabic dishes such as shawarma, fatayer and hummus. This is a great option for those looking for affordable restaurants in Dubai serving authentic local food.

9. Karachi Darbar
This is another restaurant specializing in Pakistani cuisine. Their biryani, tikka and kebabs are not only tasty, but also inexpensive, making this place popular with thrifty visitors.

10. Arabian Tea House
A charming restaurant located in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, where you can enjoy traditional Arabic dishes at affordable prices. Their menu includes, among other things, delicious mezze, saj and sweets that perfectly capture the local flavor of the Middle East. It's the perfect place for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner in an atmospheric setting.

Cheap restaurants with local food in Dubai

Dubai's local cuisine is a true feast for the palate, combining the traditional flavors of the Middle East with international influences. It is distinguished by aromatic spices, fresh ingredients and a variety of dishes that reflect the rich culture of the region. Dishes such as hummus, falafel, shawarma and biryani are just some of the offerings that can be found in many affordable restaurants. Places like Al Mallah and Arabian Tea House offer authentic dining experiences at affordable prices, providing exceptional flavor and a friendly atmosphere. Local cuisine is a great opportunity to experience Dubai's culinary heritage while staying within budget. These restaurants are ideal for those who want to try local specialties without spending a fortune.

Photo of a traditional meal in Dubai, Unsplash

Cheap eating out in Dubai

In Dubai you will find a number of excellent establishments specializing in take-out food. Of particular note are places like Eat & Drink, Ravi Restaurant and Zaroob, which are a great option for busy tourists.

These popular eateries stand out not only for their affordable prices, but especially for their efficient service and diverse menus. Eat & Drink is famous for its Arabic snacks and fresh juices, Ravi Restaurant impresses with authentic Pakistani cuisine, and Zaroob offers a modern take on traditional Middle Eastern street food.

These establishments are perfect for busy city sightseeing - you can order a meal quickly and eat it on your way to the next attraction or take it back to your hotel. Menus are usually available in English, and the friendly staff is happy to advise indecisive guests. What's more, most of these places remain open until late at night, which is especially valuable for tourists struggling with time zone changes or planning a night tour of the city.

It is worth mentioning that these establishments, despite their fast-paced nature, do not sacrifice quality - they use fresh ingredients and prepare dishes on the fly, which guarantees not only a quick, but also a tasty meal at a reasonable price.

Cheap Arabic cuisine restaurants in Dubai

Dubai is a city that is full of places where you can enjoy authentic Arabic cuisine at affordable prices. Restaurants such as Al Mallah, Zaroob and Operation: Falafel offer not only traditional dishes, but also excellent quality at affordable prices. Al Mallah, known for its delicious shawarma, falafel and hummus, is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Zaroob, on the other hand, combines a modern approach to traditional flavors, serving manakish, saj or classic shawarma at affordable prices. Operation: Falafel, on the other hand, focuses on the authentic flavors of the Levant, offering a variety of dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. All of these restaurants combine authenticity with exceptional taste, creating the perfect places for a quick, tasty meal in any part of the city. Thanks to their affordable prices, anyone can enjoy the richness of Arabic flavors without straining their budget.

Summary

Cheap dining options in Dubai are a great option for travelers who want to enjoy delicious dishes without going over budget. From authentic Pakistani specialties served at Ravi Restaurant to fresh seafood at Bu Qtair, there is something for everyone in the city. Dubai's cheap restaurants in 2025 offer a wide selection of flavors from around the world, allowing you to explore the culinary treasures of this amazing city

Questions and answers

1. Where to eat cheaply in Dubai?

There are many places to eat cheaply in Dubai, such as Ravi Restaurant, known for its authentic Pakistani dishes, and Bu Qtair, specializing in fresh seafood. Then there are popular restaurant chains such as Eat & Drink and Al Mallah, which serve tasty food at affordable prices.
 
2. What to eat at cheap restaurants in Dubai?

Local delicacies such as shawarma, falafel, hummus and biryani are worth trying at cheap restaurants in Dubai. Popular dishes such as fresh seafood at Bu Qtair or authentic Pakistani dishes at Ravi Restaurant are also interesting options for a taste of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
 
3. What are the popular cheap restaurants in Dubai in 2025?

Popular cheap restaurants in Dubai in 2025 include Al Mallah, famous for its Arabic specialties, and Zaroob, serving traditional Middle Eastern dishes. Restaurants such as Eat & Drink and Bu Qtair are also very popular, offering tasty food at affordable prices.