How Much Does Food Cost in Dubai?

Dubai's culinary scene offers a wide range of dining options, from affordable street food to luxurious fine dining experiences. On average, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around AED 40, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is approximately AED 200. For those preferring to cook at home, monthly grocery expenses for a single person range between AED 800 and AED 1,200, depending on dietary habits and preferences. ​

The Average Daily Cost of Food in Dubai

If you're wondering whether you can eat well in Dubai without blowing your budget, the short answer is: absolutely. But how much you’ll spend daily on food really depends on how you like to dine.

If you’re someone who sticks to basics grabbing a quick bite at a local cafeteria, picking up groceries from budget-friendly supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu, and maybe treating yourself to the occasional fast food meal you can comfortably manage with AED 80 per day. That would typically cover:

• Breakfast: A coffee and a sandwich from a small café (around AED 15–20)
• Lunch: A filling shawarma, biryani, or thali from a local eatery (around AED 25–35)
• Dinner: A home-cooked meal or takeaway from a fast-food chain (AED 30–40)

But let’s say you're a foodie who enjoys trying out new spots, hanging out at trendy restaurants in Jumeirah, or having sushi at Dubai Marina. Your daily cost can easily climb to AED 120–150 or even more, depending on where and what you eat. Dubai also has endless brunch options, buffets, and international cuisine experiences great if you’re up for indulgence. Just keep in mind: these luxuries add up quickly.

Dining vs. Cooking: What’s Cheaper in the Long Run?

If you're planning to stay in Dubai longer than a quick visit, you'll probably want to balance eating out with cooking at home. Grocery shopping can be quite affordable, especially if you shop smart and stick to local produce and essential ingredients.

Here’s a rough breakdown of average monthly grocery expenses for one person:

Item Category and Estimated Monthly Cost (AED)

Fresh produce: 150 – 200

Rice, pasta, grains: 100 – 150

Meat & seafood: 200 – 300

Dairy & eggs: 100 – 150

Snacks & extras: 100 – 200

Total: 800 – 1,200

Cooking your own meals can bring your daily food cost down to around AED 60–70, which includes three meals and some snacks throughout the day. So, if you're budget-conscious but love good food, Dubai offers the flexibility to eat well without overspending. From tasty cheap eats to fine-dining splurges, there's something for everyone here.

Average Cost of Dining Out in Dubai

Let’s get straight to it dining out in Dubai can be as affordable or as extravagant as you want. It really depends on your taste, budget, and the kind of dining experience you're after.

Budget & Casual Dining (AED 30–70 per meal):

Dubai is full of budget-friendly eateries where you can grab a hearty meal without spending a fortune. Think local cafeterias, Indian or Pakistani restaurants in Deira or Karama, and mall food courts. Meals like a biryani, shawarma plate, or a curry with naan can cost you as little as AED 25 to AED 40.

Mid-Range Restaurants (AED 100–250 for two people):

At mid-range places like The Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s, or local favorites in City Walk or JBR, you can enjoy a sit-down meal, drinks, and dessert for around AED 120 to AED 150 per person, or AED 200–250 for a couple.

Upscale Dining (AED 300–600+ for two people):

Want to dine with a view of the Burj Khalifa or enjoy a gourmet meal at a rooftop venue in Dubai Marina? Fine-dining establishments, especially those at five-star hotels, will cost significantly more. A three-course dinner with drinks at places like Zuma, Coya, or Nobu can easily push the bill to AED 500 or more for two.

Local Markets vs. Supermarkets: Where to Save

Let’s start with local markets these are the unsung heroes of Dubai’s food economy. Places like Deira Fish Market, Al Aweer Fruits & Vegetables Market, or even smaller neighborhood souks are where you’ll find unbeatable deals on fresh items. Think vibrant tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and tender cuts of meat at prices well below what you'd pay at a high-end grocery store.

Here’s why they can be cheaper:

1. Direct sourcing from farms and fishermen
2. Less overhead and fancy packaging

Take onions, for example. At a supermarket like Carrefour or Waitrose, you might pay AED 4–5 per kg. At a local market, you can score them for AED 2–3. Multiply that across a full grocery list, and the savings stack up fast.

Now, supermarkets like Spinneys, Lulu, Carrefour, and Choithrams are still hugely popular for good reason. They offer convenience, a wide selection (especially of imported goods), and are often closer to residential buildings. You’re paying for the convenience and packaging, not always the product itself. So if you’re buying specialty items like organic quinoa or imported cheeses, supermarkets are the go-to. But for staples? You’re better off mixing it up.

Budget-Friendly Grocery Shopping Tips in Dubai

When it comes to everyday expenses, groceries are one of those recurring costs that sneak up on you. But don’t worry, because there are plenty of smart ways to save on your weekly or monthly food shop in Dubai without compromising on quality or taste.

1. Shop at Local Markets Whenever Possible

Traditional markets like Al Aweer Fruit & Vegetable Market or neighborhood souks in Deira offer fresh produce at almost half the price you'd pay in a supermarket. The quality is just as good, and the variety is often even better. The bonus? You can often haggle for better deals, especially if you're buying in bulk.

2. Buy in Bulk for Long-Term Savings

Staples like rice, lentils, flour, and cooking oil are much cheaper when bought in bulk. Stores like Baqer Mohebi, Union Coop, and Lulu Hypermarket often run promotions on family-sized items. Even nuts, dried fruits, and cleaning products are more cost-effective in larger packs.

3. Take Advantage of Promotions and Loyalty Programs

Supermarkets in Dubai are competitive which is great news for shoppers. Chains like Carrefour, Lulu, and Spinneys frequently run "buy 1, get 1 free" deals, bundle offers, and loyalty point systems through their apps. Use those apps to track discounts and flash deals; they often help you save on high-quality items you’d normally skip.

4. Compare Prices Across Stores

It pays to be a little picky. A kilo of apples could be AED 5 in one store and AED 10 in another. Use price comparison apps or just keep an eye on price tags while walking through different chains. You’ll quickly learn which stores are better for produce, dairy, or pantry essentials.

5. Go for Local or Regional Brands

Fancy international brands come with fancy international prices. But UAE-based and regional brands often offer the same quality at a fraction of the price. From milk and yogurt to cleaning supplies, you can often save 30–40% just by switching brands.

Timing Matters: When You Shop Makes a Difference

• Most people don’t realize this, but the time you shop in Dubai can also affect how much you spend.
• Evening hours, especially before closing, are a goldmine for discounts on bakery items, meat, and fresh produce. Stores often markdown perishables to clear shelves.
• Midweek shopping (Monday–Wednesday) usually offers better deals than weekends when demand spikes.

And don’t forget the end-of-month sales many stores slash prices before new stock arrives.

At the end of the day, shopping on a budget in Dubai isn’t about cutting corners it’s about shopping smart. With the right mix of local markets, smart store choices, and a little planning, you can save a significant amount every month while still enjoying fresh, quality food. So next time you're headed to the store, skip the rush, check the app, grab your reusable bags, and shop like a local. Your wallet and your fridge will thank you.

Tips for Saving on Food Costs in Dubai

1. Shop at Local Markets for Fresh Produce

When it comes to fresh fruits and vegetables, local markets in Dubai offer much lower prices compared to the big-name supermarkets. Markets like Al Aweer Fruits and Vegetables Market or Deira’s Spice Souk are your best bet for affordable produce. Here, you can buy in bulk, haggle a little, and even discover some great deals on fresh herbs and spices. For example, you could pay AED 3 for a bunch of coriander at a local market, compared to AED 5 at a supermarket. The more you buy, the better the deals.

2. Use Supermarket Loyalty Programs and Apps

Many supermarkets in Dubai, like Carrefour, Spinneys, and Lulu, offer loyalty programs and mobile apps that provide discounts, digital coupons, and exclusive offers. By downloading these apps, you can track sales and get notifications about discounts on everyday items like eggs, bread, or canned goods. You might also find "Buy One, Get One Free" offers, or limited-time promotions, that help you save on your regular shopping trips.

3. Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk can lead to significant savings, especially for staple items like rice, pasta, flour, and canned goods. Stores such as Baqer Mohebi or Union Coop often offer bulk-buying options that are much cheaper in the long run than buying smaller quantities. For example, you’ll get better value purchasing a 5kg bag of rice than buying individual packets each week.

4. Cook at Home More Often

Eating out in Dubai can be pricey, particularly if you’re frequently dining at restaurants in tourist areas. Cooking at home not only saves you money, but it also gives you the freedom to experiment with flavors and eat healthier. Plan your meals ahead, stick to a shopping list, and avoid impulse buys. Prepare large portions of meals like biryani, pasta dishes, or curries, which can be eaten throughout the week, cutting down on cooking time and cost.

5. Shop for Local and Regional Brands

Imported goods come with a premium price tag. Instead of splurging on international brands, try switching to local or regional products, which are often of similar quality at a much lower price. For instance, local dairy brands like Al Ain and Baladna are cheaper than their Western counterparts but offer good quality. Similarly, for packaged snacks and pantry items, regional options can often be much cheaper.

6. Time Your Shopping Right

Timing your shopping can also make a big difference in how much you spend. For instance, shopping in the early mornings or just before stores close in the evening often means you’ll find fresh stock at better prices, as many stores offer discounts on perishables like bread, dairy, and meat. Similarly, midweek (Monday to Wednesday) is often less busy than weekends, and you might find better deals on things that are on sale.

7. Avoid Convenience Foods and Ready-Made Meals

Ready-made meals, frozen dinners, and pre-cooked options are convenient, but they tend to cost more. Instead of buying pre-packaged meals, try making your own. You’ll save money and control what goes into your food. For example, buying fresh chicken and cooking it yourself is more affordable than buying pre-cooked or processed chicken, and it tastes much better too!

8. Take Advantage of Cashback and Discount Offers

Apps like Zomato, Entertainer, and Smiles by Etisalat offer great deals and discounts for dining out, while cashback offers from your credit cards or online shopping platforms can help lower your overall food costs. Check for offers before you head out to a restaurant or grocery store to see if there are any available discounts.

9. Buy Frozen Instead of Fresh (Sometimes)

While fresh produce is always a good choice, buying frozen fruits and vegetables can be a more cost-effective option. Frozen items are often less expensive, have a longer shelf life, and can be just as nutritious. For example, frozen berries can be a great addition to smoothies or desserts, and frozen vegetables can be used in soups, stews, and stir-fries, all at a lower price than fresh ones.