Best Budget Restaurants in Dubai: Affordable Dining Without Compromise
Dubai is often associated with luxury and high-end dining, but the city is also home to a vibrant selection of budget-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re a tourist on a budget, an expat looking for everyday meals, or a foodie eager to explore authentic flavors, Dubai has plenty of affordable dining options. This guide explores the best budget restaurants in Dubai, highlighting their specialties, locations, and why they stand out.
Why Choose Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Dubai?
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its food scene. While fine dining is a big part of the city, the real culinary gems often lie in its hidden, budget-friendly eateries. These places offer:
- Authentic Flavors – Many affordable restaurants in Dubai serve food that stays true to traditional recipes.
- Generous Portions – Budget restaurants often provide large servings, making them perfect for those who want value for money.
- Diverse Cuisines – From Indian and Pakistani to Filipino and Lebanese, you can find cuisines from all over the world.
- Great Street Food Options – Dubai has a growing street food culture where you can get amazing meals at low prices.
🍽️ Best Budget Restaurants in Dubai
Here’s a detailed list of the top budget-friendly restaurants across different cuisines and categories.
1️⃣ South Asian Delights: Indian & Pakistani Restaurants
🏆 Ravi Restaurant (Satwa)
Why It Stands Out: One of the most famous budget-friendly restaurants in Dubai, Ravi is loved for its authentic Pakistani and North Indian dishes.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Chicken Karahi | 25 | Rich, flavorful, and served with fresh naan. |
Mutton Peshawari | 28 | Tender and cooked with authentic spices. |
Daal Fry | 12 | Simple, delicious, and budget-friendly. |
📍 Location: Satwa
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 50
🏆 Karachi Darbar
Why It Stands Out: A chain of affordable Pakistani restaurants, serving everything from biryani to BBQ.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Chicken Biryani | 15 | Aromatic and loaded with spices. |
Mutton Nihari | 25 | Slow-cooked perfection. |
Paratha with Chai | 10 | A great budget breakfast. |
📍 Location: Multiple branches
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 40-60
2️⃣ Middle Eastern Magic: Arabic & Lebanese Restaurants
🏆 Al Mallah
Why It Stands Out: A go-to spot for Lebanese street food, famous for its shawarmas and fresh juices.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Chicken Shawarma | 8 | Fresh, juicy, and full of flavors. |
Falafel Plate | 15 | Crispy, served with tahini sauce. |
Hummus with Meat | 22 | Creamy hummus topped with spiced meat. |
📍 Location: Satwa, Al Nahda
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 50
🏆 Zaroob
Why It Stands Out: A lively spot offering authentic Levantine dishes at pocket-friendly prices.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Manakish Zaatar | 10 | Perfect for a quick bite. |
Fatteh | 20 | A delicious mix of yogurt, chickpeas, and crispy bread. |
Mixed Grill | 30 | Great for sharing. |
📍 Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 60
3️⃣ Asian Street Eats: Filipino & Chinese Cuisine
🏆 Lamesa Restaurant
Why It Stands Out: One of the best Filipino buffets offering unlimited dining at a budget-friendly price.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Buffet | 49 | Unlimited Filipino delicacies. |
Lechon Kawali | 25 | Crispy pork belly perfection. |
Halo-Halo | 15 | A refreshing dessert with mixed flavors. |
📍 Location: Asiana Hotel, Deira
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 80
🏆 Chin Chin
Why It Stands Out: A well-loved Chinese eatery offering generous portions at great prices.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Chicken Fried Rice | 18 | A filling and flavorful dish. |
Sweet & Sour Chicken | 22 | Tangy and crispy. |
Spring Rolls | 10 | Light and crunchy. |
📍 Location: Multiple branches
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 50

4️⃣ International Fusion: African & European Cuisine
🏆 KIZA Dubai
Why It Stands Out: A hidden gem for affordable African cuisine, offering rich flavors.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Jollof Rice | 22 | A must-try West African dish. |
Suya | 25 | Grilled meat with rich spices. |
Ugali with Stew | 18 | A hearty meal. |
📍 Location: DIFC
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 70
🏆 Raju Omlet
Why It Stands Out: A creative twist on egg-based dishes, making breakfast exciting and affordable.
Dish | Price (AED) | Why Try It? |
---|---|---|
Masala Omelet | 12 | Spicy and flavorful. |
Bun Maska with Chai | 10 | A simple yet satisfying combo. |
Egg Keema | 18 | A rich, spicy minced egg dish. |
📍 Location: Al Karama
💰 Average Cost for Two: AED 40
Final Thoughts
Dubai proves that delicious food doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Whether you’re craving Indian, Lebanese, Filipino, or even African cuisine, there are plenty of budget-friendly restaurants in Dubai to explore. These eateries provide authentic flavors, generous portions, and an amazing dining experience without stretching your wallet.
Conclusion:
Dubai may be famous for its luxury dining, but its vibrant food scene proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious, high-quality meals. The city’s diverse cultural influences have shaped a thriving budget-friendly restaurant landscape, offering authentic flavors from around the world at affordable prices.
Whether you crave spicy South Asian curries, succulent Arabic grills, hearty African stews, or comforting Filipino dishes, there’s an affordable eatery for you. From the legendary Ravi Restaurant in Satwa to the flavorful Al Mallah’s shawarmas, and the filling buffet at Lamesa, Dubai’s budget-friendly restaurants cater to every taste and preference.
Why These Budget Restaurants Stand Out
- Authenticity – Many of these places serve traditional, home-style meals that stay true to their origins.
- Affordability – You can enjoy generous portions for as little as AED 10-50 per meal.
- Diverse Options – Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes, there are plenty of choices.
- Accessibility – Most of these restaurants have multiple locations across Dubai, making them easy to find.
Final Recommendations
- For the Best Indian & Pakistani Food: Ravi Restaurant (Satwa) or Karachi Darbar (multiple locations).
- For Authentic Arabic Street Food: Al Mallah or Zaroob.
- For Affordable Asian Dishes: Lamesa (Filipino buffet) or Chin Chin (Chinese fast food).
- For Unique International Flavors: KIZA (African cuisine) or Raju Omlet (Egg-based Indian dishes).
Exploring Dubai’s food scene doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. By choosing these budget-friendly restaurants, you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals while experiencing the city’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these spots will ensure you eat well without compromising on quality or taste.
So next time you’re in Dubai, skip the expensive restaurants and dive into the city’s best hidden gems. Great food, great value—what more could you ask for? 🍽️✨
📌 Quick FAQs
1️⃣ What is the cheapest meal you can find in Dubai?
- A shawarma from Al Mallah costs around AED 8 and is a great budget option.
2️⃣ Are there good vegetarian budget restaurants in Dubai?
- Yes, places like Rangoli and Sangeetha serve amazing vegetarian meals.
3️⃣ What’s the best budget-friendly Arabic restaurant in Dubai?
- Al Mallah and Zaroob are great choices for Arabic food on a budget.
4️⃣ Where can I get cheap street food in Dubai?
- Deira and Satwa are known for amazing and affordable street food options.
5️⃣ Are there buffet options for budget dining in Dubai?
- Yes, Lamesa Restaurant offers a great Filipino buffet at AED 49.
If you’re in Dubai and looking for quality food at reasonable prices, these budget-friendly restaurants will not disappoint! 🚀🍽️
Affordable Dining in Dubai: Best Budget Restaurants to Try
Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious food. The city is home to many budget-friendly restaurants offering authentic flavors at pocket-friendly prices. From the legendary Ravi Restaurant in Satwa, famous for its Pakistani curries, to Al Mallah, serving mouth-watering shawarmas, there are plenty of affordable dining options. If you love Filipino cuisine, Lamesa offers an all-you-can-eat buffet at a great price.
Exploring budget-friendly restaurants is a great way to enjoy Dubai without overspending. If you’re looking to manage your finances better, check out this guide on how to get a credit card in the UAE on a 2500 salary. It provides valuable insights on financial options that can help you make smarter spending decisions while enjoying the best of Dubai. 🍽️💰