Never Hurt Your Wallet Again: Cheap Iftar Buffet Options in Dubai
Imagine your first bite at sunset after an entire day of no food or water. If you’re a local, you probably already know all about Iftar. Otherwise, this evening feast marks the end of the day-long fasting marathon during Ramadan for Muslims.
Obviously, most families, including mine, get super hungry after fasting—we’ve even turned some Iftar meals into a food marathon like there’s no tomorrow! Because of this, we’ve had our fair share of “budgeting emergencies” post-Ramadan. Yikes!
So we figured, there must be a way to save some dirhams while getting our fasting fix. And after scouring numerous Iftar joints in the city, we’ve compiled a list of budget-friendly gems for you to explore. Check them out below!
Where can you find budget-friendly Iftar buffet spots in Dubai?
There are a bunch of places where you can find budget-friendly Iftar buffet spots in Dubai. You can check out spots like Dhaba Lane, Claypot, Allo Beirut, Hardee’s, and Mercure Dubai to enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Dhaba Lane
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Website: https://orders.dhaba-lane.com/order-online/
Address: Opposite Spinneys (Burjuman), Behind Park Regis Hotel – 2B St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 56 962 4611, +971 4 358 3554, [email protected], [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12 PM to 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 1 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Dhaba Lane is a budget-friendly Iftar buffet spot in Dubai that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This place serves hearty Indian cuisine with a set menu giving lots of options. For us, the hub’s relaxed, homely vibe makes it perfect for a casual Iftar with a big crew.
You’ll get a drink, two starters, a mix of mains, bread, and rice. We like both veggie and non-veggie options too. Think paneer (acid-set cheese) curry, mutton kebabs, dal makhani (lentil curry), and chicken korma (bone-in chicken in a creamy sauce).
As for dessert, we recommend the mango lassi (yogurt-based smoothie) and masala chai (spiced tea) to wrap up your meal.
Pro tip:
Heading to Dhaba Lane? Note that weekdays are easier for parking, while weekends can be a hassle. And yep, it’s paid street parking, so have some dirhams ready!
Claypot
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Website: https://www.citymaxhotels.com/dining/claypot
Address: Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai – Kuwait St – Al Mankhool – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 50 100 7065, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 11:30 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 12:30 AM
- Friday – 12:30 PM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 12:30 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Claypot in the older part of town is a hidden gem for budget-friendly Iftar. We think the place looks a bit simple, but the food is surprisingly good, as it favors many regulars. The cozy booths make it comfortable as well.
The menu covers all the classics: tandoori (clay oven-cooked yogurt-marinated meat), various curries (lamb, chicken, seafood, and veg), and fresh bread. But for us, the bhuna gosht (spicy meat dish) is a standout—it’s a tender lamb in a rich, spicy sauce.
Pro tip:
When you hit up Claypot, make sure to tell the staff how spicy you want your food beforehand. We think the flavors are awesome, but managing your expectations can make it taste even better!
Allo Beirut
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Website: http://www.allobeirutstreetfood.com/
Address: Hessa St – Al Barsha – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 86234788, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 12 AM to 2:30 AM, 7 AM to 12 AM
- Wednesday to Monday – Open 24 hours
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Craving a tasty, fast-breaking meal that’s simple but hits the spot? Allo Beirut in Dubai is where it’s at. This restaurant dishes out delicious Lebanese fare without the hefty price tag.
Forget about fancy decor and pretentious vibes—we like that this joint keeps it real with its laid-back atmosphere and generous portions.
From mouthwatering manakish (Lebanese flatbread) to juicy mixed grills, it’s got all your Middle Eastern cravings sorted. We also suggest going for the Arabic super shawarma—it’s very filling with a side of garlic cream, pickles, and French fries.
Pro tip:
Just note that Allo Beirut can get loud—it’s perfect for laughs with friends, but not so much for serious chats. Just a heads-up if you’re planning to hang out there!
Hardee’s
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Website: https://uae.hardees.me/en/home
Address: Al Khaleej Centre, Near Al Fahidi Metro Station, Mankhool Bur Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 600 569000, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Pricing: AED 1 – 50 per person
Hardee’s Ramadan solo feast has you sorted for an affordable Iftar. Just pick your sandwich—mushroom and Swiss, chicken fillet, Santa Fe, or the big deluxe.
For us, this one’s great for the kiddos, but who says the adults can’t have their fill too? Don’t be shy and get yourself some chicken nuggets, fries, a drink, and a cookie. We reckon it’s also a good spot for heavenly strawberry milkshakes, so go nuts!
Pro tip:
Heading out with the family? Swing by Al Rais Shopping Centre before hitting up Hardee’s! It offers a toddler zone to keep the little ones entertained. They can burn off some energy before chowing down.
Mercure Dubai
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Address: Al Yazia Plaza – 110 Al Khaleej St – Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 491 0971
Pricing: AED 100 – 150 per person
Mercure Dubai’s Farmstead restaurant offers fantastic Ramadan meals. With a garden-to-table vibe, we like that it dishes up a fusion of Turkish, Moroccan, and Middle Eastern flavors—loads of choices, especially for the picky eaters!
The highlights for us are the butter chicken, pan-seared seabass, and braised lamb shank. They also pair well with the non-dairy smoothies, whichever flavor you’re in the mood for (we say go for the mango paradise!).
And with cozy indoor-outdoor seating amidst fruit trees, we feel this place sets a charming scene. After breaking fast, head to the Atmos rooftop lounge for Turkish and Arabic coffee with a view.
Pro tip:
Had an Iftar mishap at Mercure Dubai Deira and ended up with sauce on your favorite outfit? No sweat! Swing by the Fenzacci just around the corner—this clothing store’s got your back (or front)!
Senecio Hookah Lounge
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Address: Blue Beach Tower – Al Fattan Marine Tower – The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 52 568 9035
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 AM
Pricing: AED 1 – 50 per person
Senecio Hookah Lounge provides a diverse Iftar spread that reflects Dubai’s melting pot of flavors. Split into different zones, it caters to all vibes—whether you need a quiet corner to focus on or crave the lively outdoor scene.
From classic Arabic dishes like mandi (a rice and meat dish) and kebabs to global hits like pasta and sushi, the menu is a culinary adventure.
Most of all, we think you shouldn’t miss the live kunafa (sweet layered dessert) station. This one’s perfect for local dessert aficionados!
Pro tip:
If you’re kicking it at Senecio Hookah Lounge, just note that it’s alcohol-free. But if you want, you may try the famous shisha (flavored smoking tobacco) here instead.
Alkebulan
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Website: https://alkebulandininghall.com/
Address: Oasis Park, Expo 2022 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 54 246 7188, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday to Monday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Alkebulan is among the go-to destinations for budget-friendly, tasty Iftar spreads in Dubai. It’s buzzing with colorful vibes and an African menu that’s as diverse as it gets.
We love that you get a plateful of goodness, from veggie samosas to mouthwatering chicken fataya (deep-fried pastry). And don’t even get us started on the Iftar box. It’s packed with unique goodies like cocoa granola and orange cardamom coffee cake.
To cap it off, we reckon the restaurant’s Sweet Box is a dessert lover’s fantasy, with treats like hibiscus rose macarons and spiced date bars. We think it’s a great gift as well!
Pro tip:
Want to grab a drink at Alkebulan? Head upstairs to its awesome bar area for all your boozy desires. Downstairs, though? Sorry, no alcohol allowed. Their rules!
Jones The Grocer
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Website: https://www.jonesthegrocer.com/the-palm-dubai-i165
Address: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah – Palm Jumeirah – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 54 998 6162, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 12 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 150 per person
Jones The Grocer offers an Iftar experience that won’t dent your wallet. You’ll start with some dates (local fruits) and water, then dive into a Middle Eastern-inspired feast.
You can go for anything from aromatic soups to succulent grilled dishes. If you’re starving or have a specific craving, we like that there are all sorts of cured meats, cheeses, and hearty sandwiches here too.
Just remember to save room for their saffron milk cake or sticky date pudding. For us, these Ramadan specials will add a sweet finale to your meal.
Pro tip:
Score yourself a prime spot near the sunset at Jones The Grocer and soak up the beach view. Otherwise, you can enjoy the live entertainment indoors—there are singers here too!
Primi
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Website: https://www.primi.ae/
Address: City Walk – 16 Dubai Al Safa Road – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 56 992 4326, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Primi offers an economical Iftar with a fusion of Italian flavors. It’s also located in City Walk Dubai, so we’re stoked about sneaking in some retail therapy here too!
The starters set the tone with a comforting tomato soup, a classic Caesar salad, and its signature fettuccine Primi. Of course, our favorites are the mains like grilled beef, lamb kofta (ground lamb), and beef tenderloin, blending Arabic and Italian tastes.
To quench your thirst, don’t skip the refreshing Tangerine & Lavender drink. In our opinion, it’s the best drink here to cleanse your palate after a strong-flavored meal.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to hit the ATM before heading to Primi—it’s a cash-only spot!
Got time? Bring the kids to The Green Planet, near Primi. It’s a 3-minute walk away and packed with colorful birds, reptiles, and even sloths!
Wagamama
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Website: https://www.wagamama.ae/
Address: Promenade Level – Dubai Marina Mall – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 394 0440
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11:45 PM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Wagamama’s Iftar buffet is another absolute steal! We also feel the ambiance, especially the outdoor seating overlooking the marina dock, adds extra charm to the dining experience.
The menu is a fusion of Asian delights, featuring everything from comforting miso soup to tasty Korean fried chicken. But the real stars for us are the sweets. The chocolate layer cake and white ginger cheesecake are our best dessert picks for a complete meal.
Pro tip:
For some sweet discounts, whip out the Entertainer app when you hit up Wagamama’s Iftar buffet.
Got little ones in tow? This hub’s got you covered with high chairs, toddler kits, and tasty kid’s meals. Moreover, there’s a spot in the dock area where your little munchkins can run wild while you enjoy your meal.
Barbecue Delights
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Website: http://www.barbecuedelights.com/
Address: Jumeirah Beach Road, Adjacent to Sofitel Hotel, JBR Walk – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 577 3207, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 5 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Tucked away among the hustle and bustle of The Walk at JBR, Barbecue Delights offers a wallet-friendly Iftar buffet that won’t leave you hungry or broke.
We’re in awe that guests can dive into a smorgasbord of flavors spanning Pakistani, Afghani, and North Indian cuisines. From juicy grills to hearty curries and sweet treats, there’s a little something for all.
But while the grilled meats and salads are definite winners, we think the curries might not hit the same high note. But for the price and the sheer variety, it’s tough for us to complain too much.
Pro tip:
Late to the Iftar game? No worries! Swing by Barbecue Delights after 8:30 pm and snag a cool 25% off their buffet. It’s an amazing deal for those who like to dine fashionably late without blowing their budget.