Cheap Eats in Dubai: Eat Well Without Breaking the Bank

If you think Dubai is only about five‑star restaurants, think again. The city hides dozens of spots where you can get a tasty bite for less than AED 30. From street‑side shawarma stalls to 24‑hour cafés, the options are surprisingly diverse. Below you’ll find practical tips, must‑try dishes, and where to find them.

Where to Find the Best Budget Meals

Start your hunt in neighborhoods like Al Karama, Satwa, and Deira. These areas are packed with family‑run eateries that serve generous portions at local prices. A chicken shawarma wrap with fries will cost around AED 12, and you can pair it with a fresh soda for under AED 20. For a slightly more upscale feel, head to the food courts inside malls such as Dragon Mart or Dubai Mall; the food court vendors often have combo meals under AED 35.

Don’t overlook the smaller lanes off main streets. In Al Rigga, a modest restaurant called Al Maqsad offers hearty lentil soup and rice for just AED 10. In Bur Dubai, a humble noodle shop serves a bowl of spicy ramen at AED 18 – a solid deal compared to the pricier hotel restaurants.

Late‑Night Cheap Eats

Dubai’s nightlife doesn’t stop at midnight, and neither does the food scene. After the clubs close, a wave of 24‑hour joints opens their doors. The most popular spot is Al Ula, a small plaza near Al Ghurair Centre where you can grab a kebab wrap for AED 15 at any hour. If you’re craving something sweet, try an Emirati dessert shop in Al Bastakiya that serves fresh luqaimat (fried dough balls) for AED 8 per plate.

For night‑owls who love Asian flavors, head to the Chinese‑style street food stalls along Al Mankhool Road. You’ll find chicken satay and spring rolls at AED 5 each, perfect for a quick midnight snack. These places stay open until 2 am, giving you plenty of time to satisfy that post‑party hunger.

Another budget‑friendly option is the food trucks that gather near the Dubai Marina Walk after sunset. A single falafel sandwich with tahini sauce typically costs AED 7, and the portions are enough to keep you full until breakfast.

When you’re planning a cheap‑eats adventure, remember a few simple tricks: order the ‘set lunch’ menu if it’s available – it often includes a main, drink, and dessert for a fixed price. Ask locals for their favorite street stalls; they usually know the hidden gems that don’t appear on travel blogs. Lastly, carry some cash because a few smaller places don’t accept cards.

With these tips, you can explore Dubai’s food scene without draining your wallet. Whether you’re after a quick bite between meetings or a late‑night craving after a night out, cheap eats are everywhere if you know where to look.