If you’re looking for an open buffet in Dubai, you’re in for a culinary treat. Dubai, known for its luxury, diversity, and vibrant food scene, offers some of the best buffet experiences in the world. Whether you’re a foodie, a tourist, or a local, the city’s wide variety of buffet restaurants has something for everyone.
From five star hotel brunches to affordable family friendly options, buffets in Dubai are more than just meals—they’re experiences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best open buffet in Dubai options, what to expect, price ranges, top cuisines, and pro tips for making the most out of your buffet adventure.
Why Choose an Open Buffet in Dubai?
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is best reflected in its food. Buffets bring the world to your plate, allowing you to try everything from Indian curries and Middle Eastern grills to Asian sushi and Western roasts all in one meal.
Top Reasons People Love Open Buffets in Dubai
- Unlimited food: Eat as much as you want with no limits
- Diverse cuisine: Indian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, and more
- Value for money: Buffets often offer better value compared to à la carte meals
- Perfect for groups: Ideal for family dinners, business lunches, or casual meetups
- Great ambiance: Most buffet venues are in beautiful settings, from beach resorts to sky high towers
Top Open Buffet Restaurants in Dubai
Let’s explore some of the most popular and highly rated buffet spots across different price ranges and themes.
1. Saffron – Atlantis The Palm
- Cuisine: Asian, seafood, and international
- Specialty: Known for its party style brunches and massive variety (over 220 dishes)
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm
- Price Range: AED 500+ per person
- Timing: Weekend brunches are most popular
Saffron is not just a buffet—it’s an event. Loud music, themed nights, and dishes from every continent make this a must visit for anyone looking to experience the luxurious side of Dubai’s dining.
2. Kaleidoscope – Atlantis The Palm
- Cuisine: Global
- Specialty: Family friendly buffet with live cooking stations
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm
- Price Range: AED 250 to 300 per person
- Timing: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
This is a go to for families looking for quality and quantity. With themed nights like Arabic and Mediterranean evenings, it’s an excellent way to explore global flavors.
3. The Market Place – Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf
- Cuisine: International
- Specialty: Budget friendly with five star service
- Location: Marriott Hotel, Al Jaddaf
- Price Range: AED 120 to 160 per person
- Timing: Daily lunch and dinner
Ideal for casual business meetings or weekend outings, The Market Place combines good food, a quiet setting, and professional service.
4. Al Iwan – Burj Al Arab
- Cuisine: Traditional Arabic
- Specialty: Fine dining buffet inside the world’s most luxurious hotel
- Location: Burj Al Arab
- Price Range: AED 600+ per person
- Timing: Lunch and dinner
For a truly elite experience, dine like royalty at Al Iwan. The buffet focuses on Arabic delicacies like lamb ouzi, mezze, and grilled meats in a palace like setting.
5. Feast – Sheraton Grand Hotel
- Cuisine: International
- Specialty: 7 nights, 7 themes concept
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
- Price Range: AED 200 to 250 per person
- Timing: Every evening dinner buffet
Feast stands out for offering a different experience every night: Italian Monday, Indian Tuesday, BBQ Friday, and more.
Affordable Buffet Options in Dubai
Buffets in Dubai aren’t just for luxury seekers. Many places offer great food at pocket friendly prices.
1. Barbecue Delights – JBR and Ibn Battuta
- Cuisine: Pakistani, North Indian, Afghani
- Price Range: AED 69 to 99 per person
- Highlights: Great meat grills, biryani, and desserts
2. Bait Al Mandi
- Cuisine: Yemeni and Middle Eastern
- Price Range: AED 45 to 60 per person
- Highlights: Unlimited mandi rice, grilled chicken, and Arabic sweets
3. The Talk Restaurant – Movenpick JBR
- Cuisine: Fusion of Indian, Asian, and European
- Price Range: AED 100 to 150 per person (watch for deals)
- Highlights: Modern ambiance, live cooking stations
Specialty Buffets to Try
Looking for something unique? Dubai has themed buffets that break away from the traditional mold.
1. Vegan Buffets
- Restaurants: Wild and The Moon, SEVA Table
- Price Range: AED 80 to 150
- Highlights: Organic, plant based dishes that are both delicious and nutritious
2. Seafood Buffets
- Top Picks: Peppercrab at Grand Hyatt, Feast Seafood Night
- Features: Crabs, prawns, oysters, sushi, and live grill counters
3. Brunch Buffets
- Popular Venues: Bubbalicious at The Westin, Friday brunch at Nikki Beach
- Experience: Food, music, and drinks in a social and party like atmosphere
Best Times to Enjoy Buffets in Dubai
Timing matters. Here’s when you can get the best experience.
- Breakfast Buffets: Usually 7 AM to 11 AM
Perfect for early risers or business travelers - Lunch Buffets: 12 PM to 3 PM
Great for mid day feasting or business lunches - Dinner Buffets: 7 PM to 11 PM
Best for family outings or romantic dates - Weekend Brunch Buffets: Fridays and Saturdays (12 PM to 4 PM)
The most popular meal time in Dubai—expect live music and lots of fun
Tips for Making the Most of Your Open Buffet Experience
1. Arrive Early
You’ll get first pick on freshly made dishes and avoid queues
2. Explore Before You Fill Your Plate
Take a quick walk around to see what’s available so you don’t fill up too early
3. Try New Things
Buffets are perfect for trying unfamiliar cuisines without committing to a full dish
4. Leave Room for Dessert
Dubai buffets usually offer incredible dessert counters including Arabic sweets, pastries, cakes, and more
5. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to overeat at a buffet. Drink water to pace yourself
Cultural and Dietary Considerations
Dubai is home to people from around the world, and its buffets reflect this diversity.
- Halal Friendly: Almost all buffets in Dubai serve halal certified food
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Many places now offer dedicated sections for plant based eaters
- Kid Friendly: Many hotel buffets have children’s sections with smaller bites and desserts
- Alcohol: Available in hotel restaurants but not in stand alone eateries
Online Booking and Deals
Many restaurants offer online discounts, especially through platforms like
- Zomato
- The Entertainer App
- Groupon UAE
- EatApp
- Cobone
Always check for weekday vs weekend prices and deals for larger groups
Final Thoughts: Is the Open Buffet in Dubai Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re on a luxury holiday or just want a fun evening out, open buffet in Dubai offers something for every appetite and budget. The city’s world class dining scene, warm hospitality, and love for variety make it a true buffet paradise.
With hundreds of options to choose from, each buffet has its own charm, from opulent brunches in five star hotels to cozy family dinners at local restaurants. So, grab your fork, bring your appetite, and dive into Dubai’s buffet culture.
Now it’s your turn—have you tried an open buffet in Dubai? Let us know your favorite spot in the comments below.
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