Best Budget Restaurants in Dubai for Affordable Eats

‍“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well,” by Virginia Woolf.

Dubai is known for its luxury, sky-high dining, and five-star feasts. But let’s be real: great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With over 26,795 restaurants and cafes across the UAE, each offering something unique, finding affordable eats can be tough. A recent survey found a search spike in “cuisine diversity” every weekend, clearly stating that you’re not alone in the hunt for flavour without the splurge.

Backpackers, students, expats, and smart travellers share one goal: finding delicious meals without overspending. This guide reveals the best budget restaurants in Dubai, where flavour meets value. From hidden gems to popular low-cost spots, get ready to eat well without breaking the bank.

Looking to savour the best of Dubai without splurging? Let’s dig in.

Why Choose Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Dubai?

Dubai’s food scene is a vibrant mix, catering to all tastes and wallets. You can find tasty Middle Eastern classics like shawarma, falafel, and hummus at budget-friendly eateries throughout the city, making it easy to savour authentic flavours without breaking the bank. Indian and Pakistani eateries are also widely popular, offering generous portions of biryani, kebabs, and curries at pocket-friendly prices.

Street food stalls and market vendors make quick, tasty meals easily accessible, while many places also cater to groups with family-style options. Even the city’s bustling malls feature food courts packed with global flavours, from Asian to American, at reasonable rates. Daily deals and set menus allow you to sample various dishes across Dubai without blowing your budget.

Top 7 Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Dubai

Looking to enjoy great food in Dubai without stretching your budget? You’re in the right place. This city boasts various budget-friendly restaurants and cafes, offering tasty dishes from around the globe. It’s a foodie’s paradise for those who want good quality meals without stretching your budget.

1. DOORS Dubai at DOORS Dubai Mall, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Tripadvisor

DOORS Dubai at Dubai Mall offers a refined yet accessible dining experience, blending modern Turkish and international flavours in a stylish setting. While the restaurant exudes luxury, it shocks diners with surprisingly affordable set menus and hearty portions. Ideal for casual meals or special occasions on a budget, DOORS Dubai proves that elegance and affordability can go hand in hand.

Price range: Get 1 pc Turkish Bread at AED 7.50

A few dishes you must try at DOORS Dubai:

1. Wagyu Beef Slices: Tender, perfectly seasoned, and grilled to perfection.
2. Lamb Asado: Slow-cooked lamb with rich spices, served sizzling at your table.
3. Pomegranate Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, pomegranate seeds, and tangy dressing.
4. Signature Baklava: Flaky, sweet, indulgent, served warm with ice cream.
5. Ottoman-style Bread with Dips: Freshly baked and paired with creamy hummus and labneh.

These dishes balance flavour and flair, making DOORS Dubai a top pick for budget-conscious foodies craving a touch of luxury.

Are you thinking about where to go out to celebrate Eid? This Eid, let your taste buds dance and your pocket smile! Celebrate at DOORS Dubai Mall, in the heart of Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, a family-friendly spot serving luxury flavours without the luxury price.

2. Ravi Restaurant, Al Satwa, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Tripadvisor

Since opening its doors in 1978, Ravi Restaurant has become a cherished part of Dubai’s dining scene. Welcoming people from all walks of life, this humble eatery in Satwa is a go-to for locals and tourists craving bold, authentic Pakistani flavours on a budget. Ravi's reputation is built on its simple, unpretentious ambiance and the genuinely welcoming service.

Here, the staff goes the extra mile, readily suggesting dishes popular among guests and tailoring them to your liking. The menu is impressively wide-ranging, encompassing everything from substantial breakfasts to fulfilling lunches and dinners.

Price range: Starting at AED 6.50 for a portion of dal.

A few dishes you must try at Ravi Restaurant:

1. Chicken Tikka: Juicy, marinated chicken chargrilled to smoky perfection with bold spices.
2. Mutton Karahi: Tender mutton chunks simmered in a rich, spicy tomato-based gravy is an absolute classic.
3. Dal Fry: Comforting yellow lentils tempered with garlic, chillies, and ghee for a soulful bite.
4. Biryani: Fragrant basmati rice layered with spiced meat, herbs, and saffron served with raita.
5. Rogni Naan: Soft, sesame-sprinkled bread with a slightly crisp edge—perfect for scooping up curries.

Ravi Restaurant proves that unforgettable flavours and warm hospitality don’t have to be expensive.

3. Calicut Paragon, Al Karama, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Tripadvisor

If there’s one name that consistently stands out in Dubai’s affordable dining scene, it’s Calicut Paragon. Tucked into the heart of the city’s “Curry Corridor” across Satwa, Karama, and Bur Dubai, this beloved spot has built a stellar reputation over the years, especially for its unforgettable seafood and South Indian flavours.

Known for its warm ambience and wallet-friendly prices, Paragon is a top choice for families and food lovers seeking quality meals without a luxury bill.

Price range: Starts at AED 2 for a wheat dosa

A few dishes you must try at Calicut Paragon:

1. Kerala-style Fish Mango Curry: A tangy, coconut-rich curry with tender fish and ripe mango pieces.
2. Chicken Malabar: Creamy, spiced chicken cooked with coconut milk and Southern spices.
3. Beef Ularthiyathu: Dry-fried beef cubes tossed with curry leaves, onions, and bold Kerala spices.
4. Appam with Stew: Soft, lacy rice pancakes paired with a mild, aromatic vegetable or meat stew.
5. Paragon Biryani: Light, fragrant biryani layered with spiced meat and caramelised onions.

Calicut Paragon is where rich South Indian flavours meet family-friendly prices, making it a must-visit for a satisfying meal without the splurge.

4. 3Fils, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Tripadvisor

3Fils has quietly risen to cult status in Dubai’s food scene. Known for its sleek, no-reservations setup and creative menu, this waterfront gem blends Asian fusion with premium ingredients, without the premium price tag.

Despite its modest size, the buzz is constant, and tables fill up quickly, but every bite is worth waiting for. The restaurant’s focus on quality, innovation, and bold flavours keeps locals and tourists returning for more.

Price range: Beginning at AED 24 for triple-cooked chips.

A few dishes you must try at 3Fils:

1. Otoro Sushi with Foie Gras: Melt-in-your-mouth tuna belly layered with rich foie gras, a decadent land and sea combo.
2. Wagyu Overload Burger: A juicy, umami-packed wagyu patty bursting with flavour and perfectly cooked.
3. African Powerhouse: Silky Ghanaian dark chocolate with Madagascan vanilla elevated further with a sprinkle of sea salt.
4. Salmon Carpaccio: Thinly sliced, delicately dressed, and packed with zesty flavour.
5. Charcoal Grilled Octopus: Tender, smoky, and served with punchy sauces that complement every bite.

3Fils delivers fine-dining quality with street-style soul, proof that incredible flavour doesn’t need flashy surroundings.

Craving five-star flavours without the five-star bill? Join for a dining experience at DOORS Dubai Mall, in the heart of Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, serving luxury on a plate, without breaking the bank.

5. Mama’esh, Marasi Dr, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Celso F

Mama’esh is a cosy, budget-friendly bakery-restaurant in Dubai known for its fresh, authentic Palestinian flavours. From crispy mana’esh to sweet, cheesy kunafa, every item uses organic flour, premium olive oil, and wholesome ingredients. The space blends rustic charm with a trendy café vibe, creating a relaxed and welcoming dining spot. The warm and thoughtful staff contributes to the cozy, home-like vibe. With indoor and outdoor seating options, it's a fantastic spot to grab a casual meal no matter the time of year.

Price range: Beginning at AED 9 for a za'atar manaesh.

A few dishes you must try at Mama’esh:

1. Musakhan Rolls: Rolled flatbread stuffed with tender chicken, onions, and sumac, baked until golden.
2. Zaatar Mana’esh: A classic Palestinian flatbread topped with a generous layer of zaatar and olive oil.
3. Oven-Baked Halloumi: Gooey, salty cheese baked with herbs and olive oil.
4. Maqdous: Baby eggplants stuffed with walnuts, garlic, and red pepper, rich and tangy.
5. Nabulsi Kunafa: A warm and crisp traditional dessert with semolina, gooey cheese, and rose syrup.

Mama’esh proves that authentic Middle Eastern comfort food can be delicious and affordable in the heart of Dubai.

6. Raju Omlet, Al Karama, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Rumi Sarkari

Starting as a humble eatery in Karama with flexible hours, Raju Omlet soon attracted long queues and has since grown to five locations across the UAE. Known for its egg-centric menu and Indian street food favourites, this casual dining spot serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and light snacks alongside traditional karak tea and soft drinks. The diverse menu features flavourful curries, hearty omelettes, sandwiches, and starters that keep customers returning for more.

Price range: Starts at AED 6.50 for a boiled egg with masala.

A few dishes you must try at Raju Omlet:

1. Egg & Cheese Roll: A satisfying blend of eggs and melted cheese wrapped in a soft roll.
2. Mumbai Omelette Sandwich: A spiced omelette layered inside fresh bread for a perfect street-food bite.
3. Power Omelette: Packed with veggies and spices, this omelette fuels your day.
4. Eggs Kejriwal: Toast topped with cheesy, spicy scrambled eggs is a rich comfort food.
5. Rice Bhurji: Flavourful scrambled eggs mixed with rice and spices.

Raju Omlet offers a delicious taste of Indian street food culture in Dubai. It serves hearty, affordable meals that keep locals and visitors waiting for more.

7. Al Ustad Special Kebab, Al Hamriya, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Andrzej

Al Ustad Special Kebab, formerly known as Ostadi, is a legendary Iranian restaurant renowned for serving delicious kebabs and home-style dishes for over four decades. This family-run eatery is famous for its warm atmosphere, unique decor, and deep cultural charm. Loved by locals and tourists, it's perfect for small groups or families seeking a fulfilling meal that won't break the bank.

Price range: Starting at AED 7 for a bowl of hummus.

A few dishes you must try at Al Ustad Special Kebab:

1. Special Kebab Plate: Tender, juicy skewers of marinated chicken and lamb.
2. Kebab Koubideh: Ground meat kebabs, grilled to perfection, bursting with flavour.
3. Yoghurt Kebab: Marinated in yoghurt and spices for a creamy, tangy twist.
4. Saffron Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, pairs perfectly with any grill.
5. Doogh (Salted Yoghurt Drink): A refreshing traditional Iranian beverage.

Al Ustad Special Kebab proves that great taste, rich history, and budget-friendly prices can all come together under one roof.

8. Zaroob, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Picture Courtesy Dubai Confidential

Zaroob is a beloved eatery that brings the flavours of the Levant straight to your plate. Inspired by the region’s vibrant street food culture, the restaurant delivers an authentic dining experience with a modern twist. Bright colors, quirky decor, and a laid-back garden seating area create a funky, welcoming vibe that appeals to both locals and tourists.

Price range: Starting at AED 14 for a za’atar flatbread.

Must-Try Dishes at Zaroob:

1. Falafel Sandwich: Crispy, flavourful, and freshly wrapped.
2. Za’atar Manakish: A Levantine flatbread bursting with herbal flavour.
3. Chicken Shawarma Wrap: Juicy, perfectly spiced, and generously portioned.
4. Foul Medames: A hearty, traditional breakfast dish served warm.
5. Hummus & Fresh Pita: Silky smooth and perfect for sharing.

For authentic, fuss-free Levantine street food in a colourful setting, Zaroob is a standout destination that blends nostalgia with bold flavour in every bite.

Conclusion

Dubai may be known for luxury, but its food scene proves you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy rich, flavourful meals. From hidden gems in Karama to bustling food courts in the city’s malls, Dubai has budget-friendly eateries that serve everything from aromatic biryanis and fresh sushi to authentic Middle Eastern street food. Dubai proves that world-class dining doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

If you’re searching for the best budget restaurants in Dubai, you’ll discover rich flavours from around the world at prices that won’t break the bank.

Looking to enjoy a memorable meal without stretching your budget? DOORS Dubai Mall is your next favourite dining destination. Discover the perfect flavour, ambience, and value mix. Connect with us today.

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