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The diverse range of cuisines from around the world makes Dubai a paradise for food lovers. But, it is no surprise that the cost of food in Dubai is often a major concern for visitors and residents. Understanding the cost of food can be important, especially if you are planning a trip or have recently moved to Dubai. So, let's take a closer look at what you can expect to spend on food in Dubai in 2023 and how to plan your budget accordingly.
Cost Of Groceries
Dubai has a variety of choices when it comes to grocery shopping. You'll find small supermarkets within every community and larger supermarkets within shopping malls all across the emirate. However, which supermarket you choose to shop in can have a big impact on your cost of living.
You can find local markets in Dubai where you can get fresh produce, bread and dairy products at affordable prices. Viva is also a great option for doing grocery shopping on a budget. On the other hand, international supermarkets like Carrefour, Spinneys, Lulu Hypermarket, and Choithrams offer a range of global products that are often more expensive. But, buying in bulk can reduce the overall cost if you can find a good deal on larger quantities. Here is the typical price of some common grocery items in Dubai:
Milk (1 litre): AED 6.81
White Bread: AED 5.72
Water (1.5 litres): AED 2.00
Carbonated Drink (330 ml): AED 2.50
White Rice (1 kg): AED 8.00
Eggs ( 1 dozen): AED 11.50
Cheese: AED 45
Chicken (1kg): AED 40
Beef (1 kg): AED 45
Apples (1 kg): AED 8.50
Bananas (1 kg): AED 6.50
Onion (1 kg): AED 3.50
Tomato (1 kg): AED 5.50
Potato ( 1 kg): AED 3.80
Be sure to plan your meals and stick to your list when shopping weekly or monthly. Impulse purchases can quickly add up and lead to an unexpected increase in food costs.
Factors Affecting Grocery Prices in Dubai
The cost of food in Dubai in 2023 can be affected by several factors listed below:
Import Costs
One key factor that affects the cost of food in Dubai is the cost of importing goods from other countries. A large proportion of food items consumed in Dubai come from abroad, so changes to international shipping costs or tariffs directly affect local prices. This may be particularly noticeable with items like seafood and fruits, which are often imported from other parts of the world.
Seasonal Supply and Demand
Seasonal changes to the availability of certain foods can also affect their price in Dubai. Fruits and vegetables only available during certain times of year may be more expensive when they are plentiful than at other times. Occasions like Ramadan and Eid also increase demand for certain foods, resulting in higher prices than usual.
Consumer Preferences
The growing demand for organic and healthier alternatives has caused an increase in prices across many categories related to food production and consumption. As people in Dubai become more health conscious, they are moving away from processed foods to fresher ingredients. However, this choice comes with a higher price tag compared to the cost of conventional options.
Fluctuations in Global Commodity Markets
Inflation and currency fluctuations can impact food prices in Dubai. When local currencies appreciate against foreign currencies or vice versa, it can cause a change in prices for imported goods due to fluctuations in exchange rates. As a result, fluctuations in the prices of essential commodities such as grains and meats can directly impact the cost of food items in the local market.
Dining Out at Restaurants
Dining out in Dubai is always a unique and exciting experience. The cost of dining out in Dubai depends on your choices and preferences.
Fast Food
Fast food outlets provide budget-friendly options such as burgers, pizzas and wraps. The cost of food at famous fast food chains like KFC, McDonald's, Wendy's and Popeyes ranges from 30 – 50 AED for a single meal.
Casual Dining
Casual dining restaurants offer a variety of dishes from around the world. You can easily find restaurants offering cuisines like Italian, Indian, Arabic, Chinese and much more. The cost of eating at casual dining restaurants may range from AED 70 - 100 for a single person. Some popular continental restaurants in Dubai include:
Moreish. Oud Metha
Kinoya, The Greens
Community Café at Mamzar
Mythos, JLT
Cafe Havana at Al Safa
Piccolo Mondo Bay at Dubai Marina
Maison Mathis Arabian Ranches
Street Food
Street food is a big part of the culture in Dubai. You will find vendors all over Dubai offering tasty snacks and meals. The most popular items include shawarmas, kababs, hummus, falafel wraps, samosas, manakeesh (flatbreads), and traditional sweets like baklava and kanafeh. Street food is usually very affordable, and prices can range from 10-35 AED per item, depending on where you go.
You can experience 'modern' street food joints such as gourmet burger stands and taco trucks that offer unique twists on classic dishes. You can also enjoy international cuisines like Thai noodles or Mexican tacos. The prices usually range between 20-40 AED for a full meal.
Dubai also offers some great spots to sit down and enjoy delicious street food, such as local markets and souks or night markets throughout the city. Prices tend to be slightly higher here than at regular street vendors, but this allows customers to dine out in a more relaxed atmosphere while saving money compared to restaurant prices. Here is a list of some of the top street food spots in Dubai:
Operation Falafel at Jumeirah Beach Residence
Firas Sweets at Al Dhiyafah Road
Al Mallah Dhiyafah at Al Dhiyafa Rd
Shiraz Nights at Al Rigga
Ravi Restaurant at Satwa
Raju Omlet at Al Karama
Yalla Momos at Al Karama and International City
Hajar Al Madina Bakery at Deira
Al Ijaza Cafeteria at Umm Suqeim
Billo at Oud Metha
Fine Dining
Dubai has a range of fine dining restaurants including restaurants by renowned international chefs. Whilst they may be expensive, they can offer incredible food and an unforgettable experience. Whilst Dubai has countless fine dining restaurants, here are a few options with the typical cost to eat there:
Ossiano at Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah.
Witness a luxurious underwater dining experience
Average cost: AED 1250 per person
Dinner in the Sky at Al Sufoh
Eat food with breathtaking views high up in the sky
Average cost: AED 699 per person
Sonara Camp at Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road
Adventure-filled eating experience in the desert
Average cost: From AED 690 per person
At.Mosphere at Burj Khalifa, 122nd Floor, Downtown Dubai
Dine in the clouds at the world's tallest building
Average cost: From AED 450 per person
Hell's Kitchen at Caesars Palace Dubai, Bluewaters Island
A celebrity chef restaurant established by the renowned Gordon Ramsay
Average cost: AED 320 per person
Other Costs When Dining Out
Dining out in Dubai comes with additional costs other than the cost of the meal, such as:
Tip: Tipping is not mandatory, but you can leave some cash on the table after paying for your meal. A tip of 10 AED is usually sufficient.
Service Charges: Some restaurants might charge service charges in the bill. Usually, it is 10% of the total bill.
Parking fees: Parking fees can vary depending on the restaurant and location. Some restaurants have free parking, while others may charge a fee ranging from AED 5-25 per hour.
Tips for Saving on Food Costs in Dubai
Food in Dubai can be expensive and makes up a significant portion of your cost of living. But, there are ways to save money on food costs. Here are some tips for saving on food costs in Dubai:
Take advantage of discounts and offers: Take the time to find out which places have discounts or special offers that you can take advantage of. Many online websites offer deals and discounts for shoppers, so look around for the best deals available. If you eat out regularly, then a service like The Entertainer, which offers buy one get one free and other discounts at a range of restaurants across Dubai, could be very useful for saving money.
Eat at less expensive restaurants: Instead of dining at high-end restaurants, consider choosing eateries that offer more affordable prices. Look for food courts where you can sample different cuisines. Many of these places offer good quality meals with generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. Street food is usually cheaper than eating out at restaurants, plus it allows you to experience authentic local cuisine without spending too much money. Shawarmas, falafels, gourmet burgers and tacos are some of the delicious options from street vendors.
Buy in bulk and freeze items: Buying items such as meat, tinned goods and toiletries in bulk will typically save you money. Many grocery stores provide discounts when buying in bulk, so look for any bulk buy offers when shopping for groceries.
Cost Of Food In Dubai - A Conclusion
The cost of food in Dubai is influenced by a multitude of factors, from import costs and seasonal variations to shifting consumer preferences and global market fluctuations. Whether you prefer indulging in the opulence of fine dining establishments or savouring the authenticity of Dubai's vibrant street food scene, there are options for every budget. The city caters to diverse tastes, from the budget-friendly fast food outlets to the culturally immersive street food experiences, and the luxurious ambiance of fine dining restaurants atop skyscrapers.
For the savvy spender, there are strategies to mitigate costs. Shopping at local markets, taking advantage of discounts and offers, and opting for restaurants that offer quality at affordable prices can significantly reduce the cost of food. So, whether you're a resident planning your monthly grocery list or a visitor seeking culinary adventures, understanding the cost of food in Dubai empowers you to savour the city's flavours without burning a hole in your pocket.
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