Dubai might be famous for gold-plated cappuccinos and fine dining in the clouds, but the city also has a vibrant, cheap eats scene if you know where to look. From iconic Pakistani cafeterias to authentic Chinese noodle shops and beloved shawarma joints, you can eat like a king for under AED 100.
Here’s a roundup of the 10 best cheap restaurants in Dubai to keep both your stomach and wallet full.
Comparison Table: Cheap Restaurants in Dubai
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Avg. Cost (AED) | Specialty Dish | Location Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ravi Restaurant | Pakistani | 10–30 | Chicken tikka, mutton handi | Satwa |
| Qwaider Al Nabulsi | Middle Eastern | 6–15 | Shawarma, kunafa | Al Muraqqabat |
| The Charcoal Shack | Grilled/BBQ | 14–25 | Half grilled chicken, Saj shawarma | Multiple branches |
| Jabal Al Noor | Fast food | 5–15 | Chicken burger, shawarma | Satwa |
| Karachi Darbar | Pakistani | 20–30 | Biryani, curries, kebabs | Multiple branches |
| Chongqing Noodle House | Chinese (Sichuan) | 25–40 | Chongqing noodles, beef dishes | International City |
| Laffah | Arabic fast food | 15–30 | Shawarma platters, fried chicken | Barsha, Al Qusais + branches |
| Al Baik | Saudi fast food | 15–30 | Fried chicken nuggets, combos | Dubai Mall + branches |
| Mama’esh | Palestinian | 15–35 | Musakhan rolls, manakeesh, falafel | Multiple branches |
| Nine Squares Hotpot | Chinese hotpot | 60–100 | Hotpot with fresh meats & veggies | International City |
1. Ravi Restaurant – Satwa
An icon of Dubai’s dining scene, Ravi has been serving authentic Pakistani cuisine for decades. Dishes like chicken tikka for AED 10, mutton handi for AED 24, and fresh roti for AED 2 make it a must-visit for anyone seeking generous portions at unbeatable prices. The casual, bustling atmosphere adds to its charm, making it a favourite of both locals and visiting celebrities.
2. Qwaider Al Nabulsi – Al Muraqqabat
For cheap and cheerful Middle Eastern classics, Qwaider Al Nabulsi hits the spot. Their AED 6 shawarmas are loaded with flavour, while the AED 15 kunafa is one of the best value desserts in town. The generous portions, late-night service, and authentic Levantine recipes make this a must-try for budget foodies.
3. The Charcoal Shack – Multiple Locations
If grilled meats are your weakness, The Charcoal Shack delivers big flavour at low prices. A half grilled chicken costs just AED 25, while a Saj chicken shawarma is AED 14. It’s a fantastic spot for a filling, protein-packed meal that doesn’t break the bank.
4. Jabal Al Noor – Satwa
This local legend is known for lightning-fast service and unbeatable value. Their classic chicken burger is only AED 5.50, and the shawarmas are just as affordable. It’s the kind of place you pop into after work for a quick, tasty bite without fuss or frills.
5. Karachi Darbar – Multiple Locations
A long-standing favourite for affordable Pakistani food, Karachi Darbar is beloved for its biryanis, curries, and kebabs. A hearty chicken biryani or mutton curry typically costs around AED 20–30, making it a filling yet wallet-friendly option. With branches across the city, it’s one of the easiest spots to find authentic flavours on a budget.
6. Chongqing Noodle House – International City
This hidden gem brings authentic Sichuan cuisine to Dubai at wallet-friendly prices. Known for its spicy Chongqing noodles and beef dishes, most meals cost between AED 25 and AED 40. If you want bold flavours and generous bowls of noodles, this spot is a must for budget foodies.
7. Laffah – Barsha, Al Qusais & Multiple Branches
Laffah is a cult favourite shawarma and fried chicken chain that started in Sharjah and now has fans all across Dubai. Their shawarma platters and crispy fried chicken are filling, affordable, and consistently good. It’s a local favorite for casual meals that hit the spot without stretching your budget.
8. Al Baik – Dubai Mall
Saudi Arabia’s iconic fried chicken brand has taken Dubai by storm, offering crispy nuggets for just AED 15. Known for its signature sauces and quick service, Al Baik is proof that you can enjoy great fried chicken without paying premium prices.
9. Mama’esh – Multiple Locations
Specialising in Palestinian street food, Mama’esh is perfect for those craving something authentic and healthy on a budget. Their freshly baked manakeesh, falafel, and musakhan rolls range from AED 15 to AED 35. It’s cosy, casual, and a refreshing alternative to the usual fast-food options.
10. Nine Squares Hotpot – International City
For group dining that won’t break the bank, Nine Squares offers an authentic Chinese hotpot experience under AED 100 per person. Choose from flavorful broths, fresh meats, and vegetables to cook at the table—ideal for a cheap night out with friends.
FAQs: Cheap Eats in Dubai
Where can I find the cheapest food in Dubai?
Neighbourhoods like Deira, Bur Dubai, Satwa, and International City are packed with affordable eateries serving everything from shawarma to Chinese noodles.
Are there vegetarian options in cheap restaurants?
Yes, many budget spots offer vegetarian dishes such as falafel wraps, vegetable thalis, and manakeesh.
Do cheap restaurants in Dubai deliver?
Most do, primarily through apps like Talabat, Noon, and Careem.
Is street food safe in Dubai?
Street food in Dubai is generally safe, as hygiene standards are high; however, always choose stalls that are busy and have a good reputation.
