Dubai is well-known for being one of the world's most glamorous and expensive cities. However, if you know where to look, you can find reasonably priced food options. In this blog, we will look at the cheapest food alternatives in Dubai, where you can find them, and why they are such a good option.



  • Shawarma

Shawarma is one of the most popular and least expensive street dishes in Dubai. It's available practically everywhere in the city, from little food kiosks to restaurants. Shawarma is a thin-bread wrap stuffed with marinated meat (typically chicken or lamb), veggies, and sauce. A shawarma costs between 5-10 AED ($1.36 - $2.72 USD) on average in Dubai, making it a good choice for a quick and inexpensive supper.

  • Manousheh
Manousheh is a typical Lebanese flatbread that has grown in popularity in recent years in Dubai. It's an excellent choice for breakfast or a quick snack, and it's also quite inexpensive. Manousheh is typically loaded with a combination of cheese, za'atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend), and minced meat. It is available in various bakeries and cafes throughout Dubai, with an average price of 5-15 AED ($1.36 - $4.08 USD).

  • Falafel
Falafel is yet another popular Middle Eastern street meal accessible in Dubai. It's a deep-fried ground chickpea ball eaten in a wrap or with salad. Falafel is not only delicious, but it is also high in protein and fibre. It is available in various food stalls and restaurants throughout Dubai, with an average price of 5-15 AED ($1.36 - $4.08 USD).

  • Koshari
Koshari is an Egyptian dish that has grown in popularity in Dubai. Rice, lentils, macaroni, chickpeas, and tomato sauce are combined in this dish, which is garnished with fried onions. Koshari is a substantial and hearty lunch that is also reasonably priced. It is available in numerous Egyptian restaurants in Dubai for around 10-20 AED ($2.72 - $5.44 USD).

  • Mandi
Mandi is a Yemeni meal comprised of rice, meat (typically chicken or lamb), and a variety of spices. It's roasted in a particular oven, giving it a distinct flavour and texture. Mandi is slightly more expensive than the other things on our list, but it remains reasonably priced in comparison to other dinners in Dubai. It is available in numerous Yemeni restaurants in Dubai for around 30-50 AED ($8.16 - $13.60 USD).

  • Shawafel
Shawafel is a hybrid of shawarma and falafel that is ideal for individuals who can't pick between the two. It consists of a wrap stuffed with falafel, shawarma meat, vegetables, and sauce. Shawafel is sold at various street food stalls and restaurants in Dubai, with prices ranging from 10 to 20 AED ($2.72 to $5.44 USD).

  • Hummus
Hummus is a Middle Eastern dip that consists of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a healthy and delicious option that's also reasonably priced. It is available at various cafés and restaurants in Dubai, with an average price of 10-20 AED.