Dubai Food & Dining Guide

Looking for real food advice in Dubai? You’ve come to the right place. This guide pulls together the most popular dishes, the best places to eat after midnight, and the brunch hotspots that locals can’t stop talking about. Skip the endless scrolling and get straight to the good stuff.

Must‑Try Dishes and Where to Find Them

Dubai’s food scene mixes traditional Emirati flavors with cuisines from around the world. Start with Al Machboos, a spiced rice dish cooked with chicken or fish. You’ll find it at Al Fanar Restaurant in Dubai Festival City – expect to pay around 80 AED for a hearty plate.

If you love street food, chase the famous Shawarma. The best spots are tiny stalls in Al Dhiyafah and the Deira alleyways. A rolled shawarma with garlic sauce costs roughly 15 AED and can quell any midnight craving.

Don’t miss Luqaimat, sweet fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup. They’re a hit at the Dubai Mall food court and the prices hover near 10 AED for a serving of six.

For a more upscale experience, head to Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen at the Dubai International Financial Centre. A three‑course tasting menu runs about 400 AED, perfect for a special night out.

Late‑Night & Brunch Spots to Satisfy Any Craving

Dubai never sleeps, and neither do its kitchens. If you’re hunting for a 24‑hour bite, try Al Ibrahimi in Al Barsha. Their shawarma and falafel are open round the clock and the menu is easy on the wallet – most dishes are under 20 AED.

For a fancier vibe after midnight, check out the rooftop lounge at the Address Dubai Marina. They serve a mix of Asian and Mediterranean plates, and the view of the skyline makes the extra travel worth it.

Sunday brunch is practically a sport here. Atlantis, The Palm offers a lavish spread with unlimited seafood, live cooking stations, and bottomless drinks. Book early; tables fill up fast, and the price per person is around 350 AED.

If you want a more relaxed brunch, swing by Dubai Mall’s Food Hall. You can pick from over 200 eateries, sample sushi, Arabic mezze, or a classic British fry‑up. Most dishes sit between 30 AED and 70 AED, making it easy to try a few things without breaking the bank.

Quick tip: use the delivery apps after 11 pm for hidden gems that don’t appear on Google’s first page. Many local shawarma carts offer free delivery within a 5‑kilometre radius, and the food arrives hot and ready.

Whether you’re a resident, expat, or tourist, Dubai’s food landscape has something for every mood and budget. Start with the dishes that define the city, explore the night‑time eateries when the sun goes down, and treat yourself to a brunch that feels like a celebration. Your next great meal is just a few clicks away – no guesswork needed.