Affordable Street Food in Abu Dhabi: 7 Cheap Eats You Must Try

Abu Dhabi, the glittering capital of the United Arab Emirates, is often associated with high-end luxury and opulent dining experiences. But beyond the five-star hotels and celebrity chef restaurants lies a vibrant, affordable street food scene that caters to locals, expats, and savvy travelers alike. Whether you’re on a budget or simply love discovering hidden food gems, Abu Dhabi offers a variety of cheap eats that are as satisfying as they are delicious.

From shawarma joints in back alleys to food trucks by the beach, this Street Food in Abu Dhabi guide explores the best budget-friendly food options in Abu Dhabi, proving that eating well doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

1. Shawarma: The King of Street Food

No discussion of affordable eats in Abu Dhabi is complete without shawarma. This Middle Eastern staple—a wrap stuffed with spiced meat, garlic sauce, pickles, and fries—is both cheap and addictive.

Where to Try It | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Shish Shawerma (Al Khalidiya) – A local favorite with juicy meat and extra garlic kick.
  
• Lebanese Mill (Al Zahiyah) – Generous portions, authentic flavor, and unbeatable prices.
  

Average price: AED 6–12 per wrap

2. Grilled Chicken and Charcoal BBQ

For a slightly heartier option, Abu Dhabi’s grilled chicken joints offer whole or half chickens marinated in spicy, tangy sauces, cooked over charcoal and served with fresh bread, garlic paste, and pickled veggies.

Try | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Hatam Restaurant (Al Wahda Mall food court) – Iranian-style kebabs and charcoal chicken.
  
• Bait El Khetyar (Madinat Zayed) – Great for large platters and group meals on a budget.
  

Average price: AED 20–30 for half a chicken with sides

3. Momos and Dumplings: Budget-Friendly Bites from the Himalayas

With a growing Nepalese and Tibetan community, Abu Dhabi has embraced momos—steamed or fried dumplings filled with chicken, vegetables, or beef, often served with spicy chutneys.

Where to Find | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Momo House (Mussafah) – Popular with expats for authentic taste and low prices.
  
• Everest Momo (Hamdan Street) – Simple setup, big flavors.
  

 Average price: AED 10–15 for a plate of momos

4. Pakistani and Indian Street Food: Spicy, Hearty, and Cheap

Abu Dhabi’s large South Asian community means you’ll find incredible Pakistani and Indian food at very affordable prices. From spicy biryani to chaat, parathas, and curries, this is comfort food at its best.

Top Picks | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Pak Ghazi Restaurant (Mussafah) – Best for chicken biryani and haleem.
  
• Chhappan Bhog (Electra Street) – Famous for its vegetarian chaat, pani puri, and samosas.
  
• Saravanaa Bhavan (Madinat Zayed) – Authentic South Indian dosas and thali meals.
  

 Average price: AED 10–25 per meal

5. Falafel & Hummus: Vegan and Budget-Friendly

For a healthy, plant-based option, falafel and hummus platters are a great way to enjoy a filling meal without spending much. These protein-packed treats are usually served with warm bread, salad, and tahini sauce.

Must-Visit | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Zahrat Lebnan (Multiple branches) – Fast service and high-quality falafel.
  
• Falafel Sultan (Al Danah) – Known for crisp, golden falafel wraps under AED 10.
  

 Average price: AED 8–15

6. Bangladeshi and Filipino Canteens: Hidden Gems

These canteens may not look fancy, but they offer some of the cheapest and tastiest meals in the city. From tangy beef curries to grilled fish and rice combos, these spots are local secrets worth exploring.

Favorites | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Kabab Karachi Restaurant (Mussafah) – Incredible curries and roti combos for under AED 15.
  
• Max’s Restaurant (Tourist Club Area) – Popular Filipino chain with affordable meal sets.
  
• Jollibee (Al Wahda Mall) – Budget-friendly fast food from the Philippines.
  

 Average price: AED 10–20 for a full meal

7. Sweet Treats on a Budget

Don’t leave Abu Dhabi without sampling its sweet side. Whether it’s kunafa, luqaimat, or Indian desserts like jalebi, there’s something for every sweet tooth—without emptying your wallet.

Where to Go | Street Food in Abu Dhabi:

• Al Aqsa Sweets (Electra Street) – Best for freshly made Arabic desserts.
  
• Baker & Spice (Yas Mall) – Budget pastries and breads for takeaway.
  
• Al Ibrahimi (Madinat Zayed) – Try their gulab jamun and rasmalai.
  

 Average price: AED 5–15 per portion

Bonus: Street Food Trucks & Food Courts

Abu Dhabi has embraced the food truck trend, particularly near beaches and parks. Visit Hudayriyat Island, Umm Al Emarat Park, or the Sheikh Zayed Festival (in season) for a rotating mix of local food trucks offering everything from tacos to karak chai and burgers.

Tip: Look for trucks run by Emirati entrepreneurs serving up fusion snacks and Arabic fast food.

Pro Tips for Budget Dining in Abu Dhabi

• Avoid hotel restaurants if you’re watching your wallet — head to local joints and food courts instead.
  
• Try the local cafeterias — they often have surprising variety, including burgers, shawarma, fresh juices, and Indian-Chinese fusion dishes.
  
• Use delivery apps like Talabat or Deliveroo — many have exclusive offers and deals on cheap eats.
  
• Eat like a local by visiting areas like Mussafah, Electra Street, and Madinat Zayed for budget-friendly feasts.
  

Final Thoughts: Taste Abu Dhabi Without Breaking the Bank

Abu Dhabi proves that you don’t have to splurge to enjoy incredible food. The street food in Abu Dhabi scene is full of flavour, diversity, and culture, offering a culinary journey from Lebanon to India, Nepal to the Philippines — all within a few square miles.

So next time you’re in Abu Dhabi and craving a bite, skip the glitz for a bit and dive into its underground food scene, where the real culinary magic happens—on sidewalks, in tiny eateries, and from the windows of food trucks.