Top Restaurants with the Best Brunch Menus in Dubai

If you haven’t done brunch in Dubai yet, you’re missing out on one of the city’s real crowd-pleasers. This isn’t just breakfast with extra eggs—it’s a full-blown weekend ritual where restaurants pull out all the stops, from bottomless spreads to live cooking stations and rooftop views of the Burj Khalifa. Brunch in Dubai blends international flavors, local favorites, and a vibe that works for everyone: families, foodies, tourists, and those just looking to unwind after a hectic week.

Here’s the thing—Dubai’s brunch scene is seriously diverse. You’ve got posh hotel buffets at places like Atlantis, The Palm and Jumeirah Al Naseem, where everything from fresh sashimi to Arabic mezze is on offer. Prefer a more chill setting? Check out neighborhood haunts in Jumeirah or the hipster cafés popping up in Dubai Marina. Not sure how to book? Most spots fill up fast, so pre-booking through apps like Zomato or Eat App is a lifesaver, especially during peak weekends or public holidays.

Some brunches around town even kick things up a notch with live DJs, kids’ play zones, or creative mocktail stations (essential for family crowds and those skipping the bubbly). Keep an eye out for themed events during Ramadan or big sporting weekends—these can take the usual spread to a whole new level. Hungry yet? Stick around for a rundown of where to go, what to try, and what to expect when brunching like a true Dubai insider.

• Dubai's Brunch Culture: What Sets It Apart
• Legendary Hotel Buffets: Opulence on a Plate
• Trendy Spots Locals Swear By
• Family-Friendly Brunches & Hidden Gems
• Quick Tips for a Flawless Dubai Brunch Experience

Dubai's Brunch Culture: What Sets It Apart

No city takes brunch quite as seriously as Dubai. Here, brunch is more than just a meal—it's a weekend highlight, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. The best Dubai brunch events bring together global cuisine, endless entertainment, and that feeling you’re treating yourself. Local residents, business folks, and tourists all plan their weekend around it.

One reason Dubai brunches are so epic is because of the international crowd. Chefs and staff come from all over the world, which means you can load your plate with sushi, shawarma, pasta, seafood, and pastries without blinking. And trust me, the quality rivals anything in New York, London, or Paris. Many restaurants roll out live cooking stations and even bring the grill right to your table.

Alcohol is served at many brunches, but always separated into specific packages due to UAE laws. Usually, you’ll see two price tiers: one for non-alcoholic and one for the full experience with drinks. In family-friendly places, there’s a huge emphasis on kids’ activities and non-Spike drink options. Business districts like DIFC and swanky hotels often host the most lavish spreads, and these get packed fast—especially after payday or during the holiday season.

• Brunches usually run between 12:30 pm and 4 pm, turning into after-parties at some trendy spots in JBR or Business Bay.
• Dress codes vary. Poolside brunch? Bring flip-flops. Downtown or hotel brunch? You’ll see smart-casual everywhere.
• Many spots are buffet-style, but à la carte brunches are gaining traction—great for those who want food cooked fresh and plated beautifully.

For some quick numbers, check out how Dubai brunch costs compare by venue type as of the last year:

The best advice? Book in advance and watch for seasonal specials during Ramadan and the cooler months. Many hotels and restaurants push out exclusive brunch themes or loyalty discounts, especially from October to April. That’s when Dubai’s brunch circuit is at its liveliest, with outdoor terraces buzzing and everyone tucking in for plates (and Instagram stories) that really sum up weekend life here.

Legendary Hotel Buffets: Opulence on a Plate

When people talk about brunch in Dubai, the conversation always comes back to the city’s over-the-top hotel buffets. Here, brunch isn’t just a meal. It’s all about choice, fresh flavors, and in-your-face luxury, often with a view of the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf. These aren’t just for tourists—locals and expats head to these hotel halls every week, sometimes for the food, sometimes for the social scene, and sometimes just to take a break from cooking at home.

Atlantis, The Palm’s Saffron brunch is probably the most hyped. Here, you’ve got 220 food stations (not a typo). Whether you’re craving Singaporean chili crab, dim sum, or lamb ouzi, this is your playground. Don’t expect a quiet meal—there’s loud music, party vibes, and themed events almost every week. It’s definitely not a dud option if you want a brunch to remember.

Right across town, Jumeirah Al Naseem’s The Palmery goes big on international food but keeps things a bit more relaxed. You’ll get live grilling, fresh seafood, and enough desserts to keep anyone happy. The setup is open, so you feel airy and unhurried. Plus, the view of the Burj Al Arab from the terrace is an Instagram favorite.

Looking for Arabic flair? Al Qasr’s Saturday brunch is famous for its spread covering everything from prime rib to Levantine mezze to fresh sushi. Plus, their outdoor terrace along the Madinat Jumeirah waterways gives you a break from the city noise—a nice touch after a busy week.

• Table service and buffet options both exist; some rotate depending on season.
• Prebooking is almost always required for these big names—walk-ins are rare, especially on public holidays.
• Dress codes are casual-chic: skip the shorts and flip-flops.
• Kids usually get their own buffet or price, and babysitting corners are fairly common.

Wondering what all these places actually cost, and what you get for the price? Here’s a quick rundown:

For anyone serious about Dubai brunch, these buffets are a rite of passage. Plan ahead, bring an appetite, and be ready to try a little bit of everything—it’s part of the fun.

Trendy Spots Locals Swear By

When it comes to finding the coolest brunches in Dubai, locals have a sharp eye for spots that nail both flavor and vibe. Sure, hotels are famous for their spreads, but ask any serious foodie and they’ll steer you to places with character and a loyal following—think urban, casual, yet unmistakably Dubai.

Common Grounds inside Mall of the Emirates is a favorite for those who crave fresh, healthy options without sacrificing taste. Their avocado toast is a best-seller, but the real win is their breakfast burritos loaded with eggs, salsa, and heaps of flavor. Walk in on a Friday morning and it’s packed with both expats and locals starting their weekend slow.

Another hot spot is The Sum of Us, tucked near Trade Center—run by the same folks behind Tom&Serg. They serve everything from berry pancakes to punchy flat whites, and their homemade pastries actually sell out if you rock up late. The open kitchen, industrial decor, and outdoor terrace give it that laid-back Dubai flair. A recent review in Time Out Dubai said:

“If you want to brunch like a local, The Sum of Us delivers on every level: inventive dishes, relaxed atmosphere, and arguably the best coffee in the city.”

If you want a view with your eggs, check out The Pangolin in Sports City. It’s popular for its South African-inspired brunch with dishes like beef boerewors sausage and homemade bakes. Families and groups love the leafy outdoor deck, especially in the cooler months.

Looking for a playful vibe? Bounty Beets at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi leans hard into the Instagram aesthetic—floral walls, neon signs, and a menu full of gluten-free, vegan, and keto-friendly options. Their all-you-can-eat Saturday brunch turns into a social affair with mocktails and laid-back tunes.

• For reservations at these in-demand places, book early—Dubai’s brunch scene fills up fast, especially on weekends.
• Most places have free parking or valet for brunch guests—double-check before you head out, especially in areas like the Marina.
• Many spots rotate their menus, so ask your server about the latest chef specials.

If you ask a Dubai local for brunch advice, don’t be surprised if they recommend one of these—not because they’re trendy, but because they deliver week after week. That’s what keeps people coming back and photos showing up all over your feed.

Family-Friendly Brunches & Hidden Gems

Finding a brunch spot in Dubai that the whole gang enjoys doesn’t have to be a hassle. Some restaurants know exactly how to balance kid-friendly fun with good food. While the Atlantis, The Palm’s Saffron Brunch can get all the headlines, places like Reform Social & Grill in The Lakes stay packed every weekend for simple reasons—big outdoor play areas, a kid’s buffet stacked with chicken tenders and fruit pops, and relaxed seating where parents don’t feel rushed.

Don’t sleep on Vida Emirates Hills’ Saturday brunch. They do an easy-going, family-friendly vibe with a supervised kids’ corner and healthy options on the menu. The views of the golf course sweeten the deal, especially if you want to relax while the little ones stay busy with arts and crafts. Another gem is Carine at Emirates Golf Club. Their laid-back style, sharing platters, and the nearby gardens mean kids have space to move around without getting bored.

For something away from the usual hotel circuit, check out “The Sum of Us” near Trade Centre. This café-bakery keeps things casual with fresh-made pastries, eggs, and killer coffee. Families love it because there’s zero fuss, staff are great with young kids, and the vibe is a step back from Dubai’s usual glitz. In JLT, Friends Avenue Café is known for its creative kids’ menu and friendly staff. The space is stroller-friendly, and the food is genuinely homey, from fluffy pancakes to healthy avocado toast.

Want a quick side-by-side look? Here’s a rundown of top family picks, what they’re known for, and starting prices:

Many of these spots set themselves apart by offering special deals for kids or freebies for little ones under four. If you’re after a chill *Dubai brunch* scene, these gems beat the mega-buffets hands down. Booking ahead still makes sense—weekends fill up, especially around public holidays or when the weather is cool enough to sit outdoors. Don’t forget sunscreen if you’re brunching on a terrace in winter!

Quick Tips for a Flawless Dubai Brunch Experience

Nailing brunch in Dubai is less about luck and more about smart planning. A perfect brunch means more than just showing up—it pays to know the ins and outs of the local brunch scene. Here’s how you can get the most out of your weekend feast.

• Book Early: Top places like Bubbalicious at The Westin or Traiteur at Park Hyatt are usually packed, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Reserve your spot at least a week in advance through apps like Eat App or directly with the restaurant.
• Dress Codes Matter: Dubai’s brunches can go from relaxed at Surf Café to upscale smart-casual at Zuma. Always double-check dress codes—some spots won’t admit shorts or flip-flops.
• Arrive On Time: Brunch sittings run for 3-4 hours, usually between 12pm and 4pm. Arriving late means missing out on starters and the best dessert picks!
• Check the Kids’ Policy: Many venues like Bread Street Kitchen (Atlantis) or MINA Brasserie are family-friendly, but some places are adults-only or have separate play areas—pick what fits your crew.
• Know What’s Included: Dubai brunches range from buffet extravaganzas (food only) to all-inclusive deals with house beverages, mocktails, and sometimes shisha or pool access.
• Bring Appetite and Budget: Expect to pay anywhere from AED 150 at casual spots to over AED 400 at high-end hotels. Here’s a quick look:

One more thing—keep your phone handy for parking info. Some hotels offer valet, while malls like Dubai Mall or City Walk have plenty of spaces, but weekends can get hectic fast. Also, if you’re catching a late brunch, use Careem or Uber; traffic around brunch hotspots like JBR and DIFC gets thick after noon.

Want that Dubai brunch like a local? Pace yourself, try a bit of everything (don’t skip the desserts), and save room for Arabic specialties—like shawarma or kunafa—that often show up later in the service. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture, especially if you get standout service. Follow these tips and you’ll walk away fed and happy, not overwhelmed.