In Dubai, wherein extravagant comforts are deemed standard, there is little doubt that being on a budget is an important consideration for any travel itinerary, including dining options. If you happen to find yourself in Dubai for a short stay with a 96-hour transit visa, it is reassuring to know that good food is not being dismissed out of consideration. From the tiniest of local joints to some of the city’s less conventional food courts, cheap restaurants in Dubai catering to truly authentic dishes abound. Indulge your tastes in courses from Middle Eastern shawarma to Indian curries and Filipino street food; there are unlimited ways of enjoying your fare without breaking a bank.
With limited time under a 96 hours Dubai transit visa, of utmost importance is food that is quick, cheap, and tasty. The best budget restaurants that are considered to be under AED 20 would be found in Deira, Bur Dubai, and Al Karama. Many of these locations offer fresh home-style cooking representing Dubai’s multicultural identity. Instead of dining at expensive hotels, one can Savor the true flavour of Dubai’s varied food scene in these small restaurants, cafeterias, and street food stalls.
Here is some A Nature Lover’s Guide to Umm Al-Quwain.
1. Ravi Restaurant
Located in Satwa, Ravi Restaurant is a legendary place for cheap but delicious Pakistani and Indian food. Local and tourist alike frequent this no-frills restaurant famous for its mouth-watering chicken tikka, mutton karahi, and biryani offered at pocket-friendly prices. A full meal here would cost approximately AED 20-30 per person, making it one of the best budget restaurants in town.
2. Al Ustad Special Kabab
Travelers wanting Persian food must stop into Al Ustad Special Kabab in Bur Dubai. This institution has for years captivated its audience with the quintessential kebab, rice with saffron, and well-blended sauces. Enjoying a meal priced between AED 20-35, it provides a worthily affordable venue for travelers to acquire the taste of pure Iranian cooking.
3. Karachi Darbar
Another favourite for South Asian cuisine that’s easy on the pocket, Karachi Darbar has several branches across Dubai. If you want to gorge on extensive servings of biryani, dal, kebabs, and naan, this is the restaurant for you. Prices range from AED 15 to AED 30, making it a great place to dine for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Calicut Paragon
Calicut Paragon, in Karama, is a fantastic place for those interested in South Indian and Malabari fare. Known for its seafood, appam, and chicken ghee roast, this restaurant serves high-quality dishes at affordable prices. An average meal for one costs around AED 25-40, ideal for great food at an acceptable price.
5. Zaroob
Spread in various locations including Sheikh Zayed Road, Zaroob is a trendy and pocket-friendly Lebanese street food restaurant. Targeting manakish, falafel, shawarma, and fresh juices, this restaurant offers a colourful dining experience at reasonable prices. The cost per dish ranges from AED 15-35, ideal for budget travelers.
6. Firas Sweets
Firas Sweets specializes in affordable yet mouth-watering Arabic desserts for the sweet tooth. With branches across the city, the restaurant is an excellent choice for those looking to sample Middle Eastern sweets without guilt. Kunafa portion prices range from AED 10-20, making it cheap.
7. Aappa Kadai
Another excellent option for those who enjoy South Indian cuisine is Aappa Kadai. Specializing in dosa, idli, biryani, and Chettinad-style curries, it serves delicious food at affordable prices. A meal here will cost between AED 15-35, which is good for budget travelers.
8. Manoushe Street
If you’re thinking of a fast and budget bite, Manoushe Street really fits the bill. It is an informal eatery with types of freshly baked Lebanese flatbreads, wraps, and healthy bowls, all with very reasonable prices. Most of the menu items cost between AED 10-30, which is all about convenience while having fun and affordable for traveling.
9. Bu Qtair
To taste some seafood culture of Dubai on a budget, Bu Qtair, located near Jumeirah, is the place to go. This unpretentious little eatery serves wonderfully prepared fresh seafood, marinated in spicy masala and then deep-fried. Pricing is reasonable, with filling seafood meals ranging from AED 30-50 per person.
10. Chaat Bazaar
If you love Indian street food, then Chaat Bazaar is the place to be. Located in Karama, this lively little restaurant offers a wide variety of chaats, pani puri, pav bhaji, and other tasty snacks, all at a very reasonable price. The price for most recipes is between AED 10-25, good for a quick and cheap bite.
Conclusion
As a foodie’s paradise, Dubai has plenty of culinary choices that do not entirely require one’s pocket to be emptied. A 96 hours Dubai transit visa allows you to try local favourites at budget establishments that are versed in serving quality food for dirt cheap. Everything from quaint Arabic food stalls to South Asian eateries means something for every taste and palate. Instead of wasting money on tourist traps, you could be spending it at actual places favoured by those in the know- yes, I’m referring to the elements, which are fresh and delish!
Dining cheap in Dubai translates into tasting authentic to many. From snacks to full meals, Dubai is super generous with eating opportunities. If your stay is short, make sure to check out the city’s best budget dining worthy of your time and taste.
