Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026: Complete Meal Guide for Every Budget
Dubai is a top global destination for tourists and business travelers. While the city is known for its tall towers and luxury lifestyle, many visitors wonder about everyday expenses—especially food. Understanding the Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026 helps you plan your budget before your trip.
Whether you are a budget traveler, a mid-range diner, or someone who enjoys luxury meals, this guide covers all you need to know. We also include tips for saving money on food and helpful advice for planning your trip with a Dubai Tourist Visa.
Why Food Cost Matters for Your Dubai Trip
When you plan a trip, food cost is one of the biggest daily expenses. By knowing meal prices in advance, you can:
Set a realistic travel budget
Choose where to eat wisely
Avoid overspending
Compare options for food in Dubai
This guide is written in simple language to help you make informed choices about dining in Dubai in 2026.
Factors That Affect Daily Food Cost in Dubai
Several factors influence food cost in Dubai:
Type of restaurant (budget to fine dining)
Location (tourist areas vs local neighborhoods)
Meal type (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
International or local cuisine
Drinks and extras
Understanding these factors will help you estimate your daily food spending.
Typical Food Categories in Dubai
Here are the main dining categories:
| Category | Typical Dining Style |
|---|---|
| Budget | Local eateries, street food |
| Mid-Range | Casual restaurants |
| Luxury | Fine dining and upscale cuisine |
| Fast Food | Western and local fast options |
| Cafés & Bakeries | Snacks and light meals |
Budget Meals: Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026
For travelers on a budget, Dubai still offers good options.
Breakfast (Budget)
Traditional Arabic bread with cheese – AED 10
Falafel sandwich – AED 8
Local café coffee – AED 10
Breakfast Total: ~ AED 28
Lunch (Budget)
Shawarma plate – AED 15
Rice and chicken meals – AED 20
Fresh juice – AED 10
Lunch Total: ~ AED 45
Dinner (Budget)
Grilled kebab plate – AED 25
Salad – AED 15
Water bottle – AED 5
Dinner Total: ~ AED 45
Daily Budget Meal Estimate
| Meal | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 25–30 |
| Lunch | 40–50 |
| Dinner | 40–50 |
| Total | 105–130 AED (~$28–35) |
This range is for simple and affordable meals. Many local eateries offer quality food at reasonable prices.
Mid-Range Dining: Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026
For a more comfortable dining experience, consider mid-range restaurants.
Breakfast (Mid-Range)
Continental breakfast – AED 35
Fresh juice or smoothie – AED 20
Breakfast Total: ~ AED 55
Lunch (Mid-Range)
Multi-cuisine restaurant main course – AED 60
Dessert – AED 25
Soft drink – AED 15
Lunch Total: ~ AED 100
Dinner (Mid-Range)
International cuisine – AED 90
Appetizer – AED 30
Beverage – AED 20
Dinner Total: ~ AED 140
Daily Mid-Range Meal Estimate
| Meal | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 45–60 |
| Lunch | 90–110 |
| Dinner | 120–150 |
| Total | 255–320 AED (~$70–87) |
Mid-range meals are comfortable and pleasing for most travelers.
Luxury Dining: Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026
Dubai is famous for its luxury restaurants and fine-dining options. Daily food costs can be higher in these venues.
Breakfast (Luxury)
Buffet breakfast at hotel – AED 120
Premium coffee & juice – AED 30
Breakfast Total: ~ AED 150
Lunch (Luxury)
Fine dining entrée – AED 180
Dessert – AED 50
Wine/soft drink – AED 40
Lunch Total: ~ AED 270
Dinner (Luxury)
Multi-course dinner – AED 300
Signature dish – AED 120
Cocktail – AED 60
Dinner Total: ~ AED 480
Daily Luxury Meal Estimate
| Meal | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 120–160 |
| Lunch | 250–300 |
| Dinner | 450–550 |
| Total | 820–1,010 AED (~$225–275) |
Luxury dining is best for special occasions or fine-taste experiences.
How to Save Money on Daily Food Cost in Dubai
Eating well does not always mean spending a lot. Here are some money-saving tips:
1. Eat Like a Local
Local eateries (known as cafeterias or small restaurants) offer filling meals at lower prices.
2. Use Food Courts in Malls
Shopping malls have affordable food courts with many options.
3. Choose Set Menus
Many restaurants offer set lunch menus at lower prices than à la carte.
4. Avoid Tourist Hotspots
Meals near famous attractions can be expensive. Walk a few streets for cheaper options.
5. Drink Water
Avoid expensive drinks; bottled water is usually affordable.
Typical Daily Food Cost by Cuisine Type
| Cuisine | Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Total (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Eastern | 25–35 AED | 40–60 AED | 50–80 AED | 120–175 AED |
| Asian | 30–45 AED | 50–80 AED | 70–100 AED | 150–225 AED |
| Western | 40–60 AED | 70–100 AED | 90–130 AED | 200–290 AED |
| Fast Food | 20–30 AED | 30–50 AED | 30–50 AED | 80–130 AED |
This table shows a simple breakdown by cuisine.
Daily Food Cost for Families
If you are traveling with family, food cost increases accordingly.
| Family Size | Estimated Daily Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Couple | 400–700 AED |
| Family of Four | 800–1,400 AED |
| Family with Teens | 1,000–1,800 AED |
Meal choices and dining style affect the total cost.
Food Delivery and Grocery Costs in Dubai
Many visitors prefer delivery or groceries.
Food Delivery
Fast food delivery – 25–50 AED per meal
Mid-range restaurant delivery – 60–120 AED
Delivery fees – 8–15 AED
Groceries
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Bread (1 loaf) | 5–8 |
| Rice (1kg) | 8–12 |
| Milk (1 liter) | 6–8 |
| Eggs (12) | 10–15 |
| Chicken (1kg) | 15–20 |
Cooking your own meals can reduce costs.
Daily Food Cost vs. Other Travel Costs
| Expense Type | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Daily Food | 100–1,000+ |
| Local Transport | 15–50 |
| Hotel | 300–1,200+ |
| Entry Tickets | 50–300 |
Food makes up a significant part of your travel budget.
Tips for Tourists Planning Meals
Check restaurant reviews
Try local specialties
Ask locals for affordable places
Avoid peak lunch/dinner times to skip crowds
Always check menu prices before ordering
Proper planning helps you manage your Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026 effectively.
Do You Need a Dubai Tourist Visa?
Yes, most international travelers need a Dubai Tourist Visa before traveling.
Simple Steps to Apply:
Choose visa validity (14–60 days)
Fill the online application
Upload passport copy
Pay visa fee
Receive approval via email
Make sure to plan your meals and travel dates only after visa approval.
Sample Daily Food Budget Plans
Here are example budgets for different traveler types:
| Traveler Type | Daily Food Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Backpacker | 100–150 |
| Mid-Range Tourist | 250–350 |
| Luxury Traveler | 800–1,000+ |
This helps you decide your meal spending before departure.
Common Dining Areas in Dubai
Dubai has many food districts:
1. Deira & Bur Dubai
Affordable local cafes and traditional food.
2. Downtown Dubai
Mid-range restaurants near attractions.
3. JBR & Marina
Beachfront dining and seafood places.
4. Global Village (Seasonal)
Food stalls from around the world.
Each area offers different price levels.
How Currency Affects Food Cost
Dubai uses the UAE dirham (AED). Many prices are listed in AED for convenience. Current exchange rates may affect cost for international travelers.
Conclusion
Understanding the Daily Food Cost in Dubai 2026 helps you plan your trip with confidence. Dubai offers a wide range of dining options from budget meals to luxurious fine dining. With the right budget and planning, every traveler can enjoy great food.
Before you book your flights and plan your meals, apply for your Dubai Tourist Visa to ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience. With careful planning, food expenses will be just one part of your exciting Dubai adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average daily food cost in Dubai?
Depending on your dining style, it can range from 100 AED to over 800 AED.
2. Are meals in Dubai expensive?
Meals can be expensive, but budget and mid-range options are widely available.
3. Can I eat on a budget in Dubai?
Yes, local eateries and food courts offer affordable meals.
4. Do I need a Dubai Tourist Visa for food?
No, but you need a Dubai Tourist Visa before entering the country.
5. How much does a restaurant meal usually cost?
Budget meals are around 25–50 AED, while mid-range meals cost 60–150 AED.
6. Is food delivery cheaper than eating out?
Sometimes, especially if you avoid delivery fees.
7. What are cheap food options in Dubai?
Street food, food courts, and local cafés.
8. Are groceries affordable in Dubai?
Basic groceries are reasonably priced compared to restaurant dining.
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