Planning a night out or just a morning coffee in Dubai? Knowing the price range helps you budget and avoid surprise tabs. Below is a quick snapshot of what most locals and visitors spend on drinks in 2025, from street‑side chai to high‑end rooftop cocktails.
Dubai’s coffee culture is booming. A regular Americano at a mid‑range café costs between 15‑25 AED, while specialty brews at boutique spots can reach 35‑45 AED. If you’re after a quick fix from a convenience store, expect 5‑10 AED for a canned soda or a 250 ml juice.
Tea lovers have options too. Traditional karak tea from a local shop usually falls in the 8‑12 AED bracket, whereas a premium tea latte at a hotel lounge may set you back 30‑40 AED. Remember, many malls offer free water stations, so you can stay hydrated without spending a dirham.
Alcohol is pricey because it’s heavily taxed and only sold in licensed venues. A domestic beer in a regular bar costs roughly 30‑45 AED, while an imported craft brew can climb to 60‑80 AED. For spirits, a 50 ml shot of vodka or whiskey usually runs 45‑70 AED, depending on the brand.
High‑end rooftop bars and hotel lounges charge a premium. Expect a classic gin & tonic to start at 80 AED and a signature cocktail to be 120‑150 AED. Some venues offer happy‑hour deals—usually 30‑50% off—from 4 pm to 7 pm on weekdays, which is a good time to snag a better price.
If you’re on a tight budget, look for “beer gardens” in areas like Al Barsha or Jumeirah where local brews are priced 20‑30 AED. These spots serve food and drinks in a more relaxed, less tourist‑heavy atmosphere.
Supermarkets such as Carrefour, Lulu and Spinney’s sell bottled water, soft drinks and even imported beers at retail prices. Buying a six‑pack of a local lager will cost around 70‑85 AED, which is far cheaper than ordering the same drinks one‑by‑one at a bar.
Many hotels let you order drinks to your room for a set price per item, often without a service charge. If you’re staying in a hotel, ask the front desk for a “room service menu” and compare it to the bar menu—sometimes the room price is lower.
Another tip: use cash instead of a credit card for small purchases. Some places add a 2‑3% surcharge for card payments, which can add up over a night of drinks.
Overall, Dubai offers a range of drink options for every budget. Knowing the typical price bands helps you plan your day, whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso on the go or splurging on a sunset cocktail by the Marina.
Keep this guide handy, check menus before you order, and enjoy Dubai’s vibrant beverage scene without breaking the bank.
Quick answer: Coca‑Cola isn’t banned in Dubai. Here’s what’s legal in 2025, where to buy it, typical prices, and etiquette (Metro rules, Ramadan dos, recycling).
Details