Dubai Food Festival 2025: Dates, Best Restaurants & Street Food Events
Dubai is known for its luxury shopping, breathtaking architecture, and world-class attractions — but every year, it also becomes the ultimate paradise for food lovers during the Dubai Food Festival. In 2025, the city’s largest culinary celebration returns, bringing together global cuisines,
street food delights, gourmet dining experiences, and live entertainment.
Whether you’re a passionate foodie, an adventurous traveler, or simply looking for the best places to eat in Dubai, this guide will take you through everything you need to know — from event dates and highlights to must-visit restaurants and insider tips.
What is the Dubai Food Festival?
The Dubai Food Festival (DFF) is an annual citywide celebration of food, flavors, and culture. Launched by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the event showcases the city’s diverse dining scene — from Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems.
Over the years, it has grown into a must-attend event for residents and tourists alike, attracting chefs, food influencers, and culinary enthusiasts from around the world.
Dubai Food Festival 2025 Dates & Venues
Dates: February 23 – March 10, 2025
(Expected – official announcement pending)
Main Venues: Citywide — with key spots including:
Jumeirah Beach for seaside food stalls
Dubai Design District (d3) for gourmet pop-ups
Deira & Al Seef for authentic Emirati and Middle Eastern eats
Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates for special restaurant offers
Key Highlights of Dubai Food Festival 2025
Dubai Restaurant Week
A 10-day event where top fine-dining restaurants offer exclusive set menus at discounted prices. Perfect for trying Michelin-starred or celebrity chef restaurants without breaking the bank.
Etisalat Beach Canteen
The festival’s most popular attraction — a seaside food village with pop-up restaurants, live cooking stations, food trucks, and live music.
Hidden Gems
A special guide by Dubai Food Festival that features budget-friendly, locally-loved eateries. This is where you’ll find authentic Indian, Pakistani, Iranian, and Arabic street food.
Foodie Experiences
Workshops, cooking classes, chef’s tables, and dining in unique locations such as desert settings or on a yacht.
Sweet Tooth Heaven
A dessert paradise with artisanal bakeries, chocolate tastings, and Instagram-worthy treats.
Street Food You Must Try
One of the best parts of DFF is exploring Dubai’s street food culture. Here are a few must-try bites:
Shawarma – Layers of spiced meat wrapped in pita bread with garlic sauce
Luqaimat – Sweet Emirati dumplings drizzled with date syrup
Falafel – Crispy chickpea patties served in fresh pita bread
Haleem – A rich, slow-cooked lentil and meat stew
Kunafa – Sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup
Dubai food festival location
Why You Should Attend Dubai Food Festival 2025
Taste the World in One City – Sample cuisines from more than 200 nationalities.
Affordable Gourmet Dining – Try top-tier restaurants for a fraction of the usual cost.
Cultural Connection – Learn about Emirati traditions and regional cooking methods.
Perfect for Social Media – From food plating to vibrant festival setups, it’s a visual feast.
Top Tips for Enjoying Dubai Food Festival 2025
Book in Advance – Popular restaurants fill up fast during DFF, especially for Restaurant Week.
Go Hungry – You’ll want to try multiple dishes at different venues.
Use Public Transport – Traffic can get busy around festival hotspots, so use the Dubai Metro or ride-hailing apps.
Follow the Official DFF App – Get updates on events, deals, and pop-up locations.
Bring Cash & Card – While most places take cards, some food trucks may prefer cash.
Family-Friendly Activities
DFF is not just for adults — many venues feature kids’ cooking workshops, face painting, and play areas so the whole family can enjoy the experience.
FAQs about Dubai Food Festival 2025
Q1: How much does it cost to attend the Dubai Food Festival?
Most events are free to enter, but food and experiences are charged individually.
Q2: Can I attend if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes — there are plenty of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options available.
Q3: Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Only for special events like chef’s tables or cooking workshops — general festival areas are open to all.
Q4: Is Dubai Food Festival suitable for children?
Absolutely! Many areas have kids’ activities and family-friendly dining options.
Final Thoughts
The Dubai Food Festival 2025 is more than just a culinary event — it’s a celebration of Dubai’s multicultural spirit. Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a luxury dining enthusiast, you’ll find experiences that satisfy every craving.
So mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and get ready to eat your way through Dubai this February–March 2025.
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Everything you need to know before booking our services......
Our standard desert safari includes hotel pick-up & drop-off, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, live entertainment shows (belly dance, tanoura, fire show), and more.
Comfortable, light clothing is recommended. Avoid heavy shoes — sandals or sneakers are best. Bring a jacket during winter evenings.
Dune bashing is not recommended for infants, pregnant women, or people with back issues. However, a soft desert drive or private tour can be arranged upon request.
City tours include major attractions like Burj Khalifa (photo stop), Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Mosque, Souks, and more. Abu Dhabi tours include Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, and Emirates Palace and many more for other city tour
Half-day tours last around 4–5 hours; full-day tours are typically 8–9 hours, depending on the city and itinerary.
Yes, all our city tours are led by experienced, multilingual guides who provide informative commentary throughout the tour.
Absolutely! Private and customizable city tours are available based on your interests and schedule.
The yacht tour includes a luxury yacht cruise from Dubai Marina, soft drinks & water, music, and professional crew service. Optional extras include BBQ, swimming stops, and sunset cruises.
No, all our yachts come with a licensed captain and crew. You can just relax and enjoy the cruise.
Yes, you're welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. We also offer catering packages upon request.
We offer both private and shared yacht tour options. Private tours are ideal for birthdays, proposals, or group events.
No license is required. Our team provides safety instructions before your ride
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Yes, all our city tours are led by experienced, multilingual guides who provide informative commentary throughout the tour.
You can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour for a full refund and 12 hours before you can get half money refund . Last-minute cancellations may be subject to a fee.
Yes, we offer custom packages and discounts for families, tour groups, and corporate events
You can book through our website, WhatsApp, or by calling us. We offer instant booking confirmation and secure payment options
We offer both private and shared tour options. Private tours are ideal for birthdays, proposals, or group events.