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The cost of food in Dubai is often a major concern for visitors and residents. If you are planning a trip or have recently moved to Dubai, you must allocate a budget for food. To help you decide on your budget, this blog will clearly explain how much you can expect to spend on food in Dubai and help you plan your budget accordingly.
Cost Of Groceries
Small supermarkets are easily available within the communities. They offer affordable options for daily groceries. Larger supermarkets like Carrefour, Spinneys, Lulu Hypermarket, and Choithrams can be found in shopping malls or prime locations. They offer a range of global products that are often more expensive. Here are the prices of some common grocery items in Dubai:
Milk (1 litre)
AED 6.5 – 8.5
Bread
AED 5 – 7
Eggs (1 Dozen)
AED 9 – 12
Water (1.5 litres)
AED 2 – 5
Carbonated Drink
AED 2.50 – 5
Chicken (1kg)
AED 35 – 60
Beef (1 kg)
AED 30 – 50
Apples (1 kg)
AED 8.50 – 15
Bananas (1 kg)
AED 8 – 12
Onion (1 kg)
AED 4 – 7
Tomato (1 kg)
AED 6 – 8
Potato ( 1 kg)
AED 4 – 6
Average daily food costs in Dubai for a vegetarian (Single)
Breakfast: AED 10 - 25
Lunch: AED 20 - 30
Dinner: AED 20 – 35
Average daily food costs in Dubai for non-vegetarians (Single)
Breakfast: AED 10 - 25
Lunch: AED 15 - 30
Dinner: AED 20 – 40
Cost of Dining Out
The cost of dining out in Dubai depends on your choices and preferences. Below are different dine-out options in Dubai and their costs.
Fast Food
Fast food outlets offer budget-friendly options such as burgers, pizzas, and wraps. The cost of food at famous fast food chains like KFC, McDonald's, Wendy's, and Popeyes ranges from AED 35 to 60 for a single meal.
Casual Dining
Casual dining restaurants offer a variety of dishes from around the world. You can easily find restaurants offering cuisines like Italian, Indian, Arabic, Chinese, Pakistani and much more. The cost of eating at casual dining restaurants may range from AED 30 to 80 for a single person. Some popular continental restaurants in Dubai include:
Moreish, Oud Metha
Serves Italian, Mexican, Continental, and Desserts
Serves Arabian, Middle Eastern, International, Burger, Pizza, Pasta, and Italian
Average Cost: AED 160 for two people
Fine Dining
Dubai has a range of fine dining restaurants, including restaurants run by renowned international chefs. Whilst they may be expensive, they can offer incredible food and an unforgettable experience. Here are a few fine dining options in Dubai:
Dinner in the Sky at Al Sufoh
Experience an unforgettable dining adventure as you are lifted 50 meters into the sky in a crane to experience amazing views of Dubai’s skyline. It is a thrilling yet sophisticated dining experience
Cost: AED 699 per person
At.Mosphere at Burj Khalifa, 122nd Floor, Downtown Dubai
Located on the 122nd floor of the iconic Burj Khalifa, At.Mosphere is one of the highest restaurants in the world. It is an exceptional place to enjoy a luxurious meal.
Ossiano is an underwater restaurant located within the Atlantis resort. It is perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Cost: AED 2,100 for two persons (approximately)
Sonara Camp at Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road
Sonara Camp offers a remarkable dining experience in the desert, surrounded by the beauty of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Visitors can enjoy gourmet meals, live entertainment, and a chance to experience the desert’s serene landscape.
Cost: From AED 690 per person
Street Food
Street food is usually very affordable, and prices can range from AED 10 to 20 per item, depending on where you go. The most popular items to try in street food include shawarmas, kababs, hummus, falafel wraps, samosas, manakeesh (flatbreads), and traditional sweets like baklava and kanafeh. You can also enjoy international cuisines like Thai noodles or Mexican tacos. The prices usually range between AED 15 and 35 for a full meal.
Dubai also offers some great spots to sit down and enjoy delicious street food, such as local markets, souks, or night markets. Prices tend to be slightly higher here than at regular street vendors, but this allows customers to save money compared to restaurants. Here is a list of some of the top street food spots in Dubai:
Famous for Falafel Platters, Stuffed Falafel, Chicken Shawarma, and Fatoush
Average Cost: AED 80 for two people
Shiraz Nights at Al Rigga
Famous for Chicken Shawarma, Rice, Shawarma Sandwiches, and Salad
Average Cost: AED 70 for two people
Ravi Restaurant at Satwa
Famous for Biryani, Peshawari Chicken, Peshawari Mutton, and Brain Masala
Average Cost: AED 80 for two people
Raju Omlet at Al Karama
Famous for a variety of home-style eggs
Average Cost: AED 65 for two people
Yalla Momos at Al Karama and International City
Famous for Shrimp Momos, Veg Momos, Chicken Momo, Tandoori Momos, and Dumplings
Average Cost: AED 50 for two people
Billo at Oud Metha
Famous for Golgappay, Shami Burger, Mix Chaat, Rose Faluda, Chicken Bihari, Kulfi
Average Cost: AED 70 for two people
Other Costs Associated with Dining Out
Dining out in Dubai comes with additional costs other than the cost of the meal, such as:
Tip: Tipping is not mandatory, but an AED 5 - 10 tip is usually sufficient.
Parking fees: Some restaurants offer free parking, while others charge between AED 5 and 25 per hour.
Service Charges: Some restaurants charge service charges on the bill. They are usually 10% of the total bill.
Factors Affecting Food Prices in Dubai
Several factors affect the cost of food in Dubai, which are listed below:
Many food items consumed in Dubai come from abroad, so changes to international shipping costs or tariffs directly affect local prices.
Fruits and vegetables can be more expensive during certain times of the year, like Ramadan and Eid.
The rising demand for organic and healthier options has increased prices in many food categories.
Changes in exchange rates between local and foreign currencies can affect the prices of imported goods.
Tips for Saving on Food Costs in Dubai
Food in Dubai can be expensive, but there are ways to save on food costs.
Many online websites offer deals and discounts for shoppers, so look around for the best deals available.
If you eat out regularly, a service like The Entertainer, which offers buy one get one free and other discounts at various restaurants across Dubai, could be very useful for saving money.
Try street food more often. It allows you to experience authentic local cuisine without spending too much money.
Many grocery stores provide discounts when buying in bulk, so buying items such as meat, tinned goods and toiletries in bulk will save you money.
Conclusion
The cost of food in Dubai may vary depending on your preferences and eating habits. But one thing is certain: you can adjust your food budget as much as you like. You can either increase or decrease it according to your preference. So, whether you are planning your grocery shopping or looking to try different foods, knowing the cost of food helps you enjoy the city's flavours without spending too much money.
We can help you find a perfect home if you plan to move to Dubai. Contact us today for more information on the best properties in Dubai.
AED 300 might be tight, but it can be managed. We advise spending a minimum of AED 1,000 on food and groceries per month.
What is the quality of food in Dubai?
Dubai's food is usually high-quality because restaurants follow strict safety regulations and use premium ingredients. Many of its restaurants have been praised in famous food lists like the World's 50 Best Restaurants and the MICHELIN Guide.
What is the food law in Dubai?
Dubai has strict food safety laws to ensure the safety of all food sold. Businesses can face big fines up to AED 10,000 or jail time for selling spoiled food, giving false information, or operating without the right license. People who work with food must get proper training and permits, and all restaurants must clearly show their prices and have the correct business licenses.
Is food tax-free in Dubai?
The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5% and is added to most products and services. However, some items have 0% VAT or are completely exempt, but only if certain rules are followed.
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