The best places for breakfast in Dubai: cafes and restaurants

From a humble cup of karak in the courtyard of a century-old house to breakfast by a panoramic pool on the 50th floor of a skyscraper—this guide will help you find the perfect morning in Dubai's gastronomic kaleidoscope.

In Dubai, breakfast is more than just food. It's a ritual to start your day, a cultural experience, and sometimes even the main adventure of the day. With over 13,000 restaurants competing for your attention, simply choosing "where to eat" becomes a real quest. The goal of this guide is to be your navigator through this vast array of options and help you find the perfect spot that perfectly matches your expectations, budget, and mood for today.

How we selected the best breakfast spots

To ensure this guide becomes your reliable companion, we didn't rely on chance. Each place in this selection underwent strict evaluation based on four key parameters:

• Uniqueness of concept: The place should offer a special experience, whether it's an exclusive view, original interior, or authentic cuisine.
• Quality of cuisine and reviews: We focused on establishments with high user ratings (not below 4.5/5) and recognition in reputable gastronomic guides.
• Atmosphere and "Wow Factor": The ability of a venue to create a special ambiance, whether it's the luxury of a premium lounge, the coziness of a family café, or immersion into the history of the Old Town.
• Value for Money: The guide includes places from various price categories, but all of them justify their cost with unique experiences they offer guests.

For memorable experiences and perfect photos

In this category, the focus is not only on taste but also on visual appeal. These establishments are designed to surprise, delight, and, of course, become stars of your social media feeds.

Forever Rose Café – a world of living 2d illustration

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Imagine stepping off the pages of the real world directly into a black-and-white comic. At Forever Rose Café, absolutely everything—from walls and furniture to tableware—is rendered in 2D drawing style, creating a striking optical illusion. The only bright accents in this monochrome world are the visitors themselves, exquisite dishes on plates, and crimson roses on the tables. This is a place where breakfast turns into a true art performance.

• Ideal for: Creating stunning content, dating in an unusual setting.
• Ambience: Fairytale-like, artistic, surreal.
• Average bill: 85–110 AED per person.

Prices are valid at the time of writing this article and may change.

• Location: BoxPark, Al Wasl Road.
• Photo hack: Order desserts or drinks in bright colors (red, yellow) for maximum contrast with the black-and-white interior.

Above the clouds: where to have breakfast with the best views of Dubai

For those who want to start their day with truly breathtaking scenery, these locations offer more than just food—they provide breakfast against the backdrop of Dubai's legendary views.

Aura Skypool – breakfast in the clouds

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Imagine yourself 210 meters above ground level, in the world's first and only panoramic infinity pool with a 360-degree view. Before you unfolds the entire panorama of Palm Jumeirah, with the skyline of Dubai Marina merging into the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Breakfast at Aura Skypool is not just about eating, it's a meditative contemplation of the city from above, where your morning coffee truly feels like it's being enjoyed above the clouds.

• Perfect for: A romantic breakfast, celebrating an important occasion, unforgettable experiences.
• Ambience: Luxurious, exclusive, relaxed.
• Cost: Operates on a minimum order system (from AED 250 per person).
• Location: The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah.
• Special feature: Opportunity to take that iconic photo in the pool where the water line merges with the horizon.

West Beach: two sides of bohemian chic – SĀN Beach or Ula?

The promenade at West Beach on Palm Jumeirah is a true haven for those who enjoy leisurely breakfasts overlooking the sea and the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina. Here, two gems sit side by side, sharing similar DNA but differing in character. How to choose yours?

SĀN Beach is the choice for those who appreciate minimalist design and the atmosphere of a trendy bohemian lounge. Everything here is styled to perfection, and breakfast can easily transition into a photoshoot by the pool against the backdrop of an ideal Instagram-worthy view.

• Perfect for: Leisurely mornings, breakfasts with friends, beach relaxation.
• Ambience: Stylish, relaxed, resort-like.
• Cost: Minimum order from AED 150–250 per person.
• Location: West Beach, Palm Jumeirah.

Ula, in turn, offers a more relaxed and "earthly" Mediterranean resort atmosphere. Here, there is more greenery, coziness, and casualness. It's the kind of place you'd want to visit with family (there's a kids' area!) or a large group of friends, where brunch smoothly transitions into a lazy daytime relaxation.

• Ideal for: A laid-back brunch that naturally flows into daytime relaxation.
• Atmosphere: Resort-like, casual, family-friendly.
• Cost: Minimum order from 150–250 AED per person.
• Location: West Beach, Palm Jumeirah.

Verdict: Looking for style and a polished aesthetic? Your choice is SĀN. Seeking comfort, relaxation, and a family-friendly atmosphere? Head to Ula. Both venues offer an appealing price range and views that won't disappoint.

Immersion in old town culture

To truly feel the spirit of the emirate, head to its historic heart, where old Dubai has been preserved far from the glitz of skyscrapers.

Arabian Tea House – a journey into the past

As soon as you step through the door of this place, the noise of the modern city fades away. You find yourself in the cool courtyard of an old Emirati house, beneath the shade of a sprawling tree. The creaking wooden benches, white walls, blue accents in the decor, and the aroma of spices and freshly brewed Arabic coffee instantly transport you back in time. Arabian Tea House is a true portal to pre-oil era Dubai.

• Perfect for: Cultural immersion, experiencing local cuisine, a peaceful morning.
• Ambiance: Authentic, serene, traditional.
• Average bill: 65–90 AED per person.
• Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
• Must-try: Traditional Emirati breakfast set to taste the variety of local flavors.

Cozy spots for families and locals

Dubai is not just a city for tourists. There are many cozy cafes here, designed for comfortable relaxation with children and leisurely gatherings with friends.

Ella's Eatery – a paradise for families on Palm Jumeirah

This is exactly the place where parents can finally breathe a sigh of relief and calmly enjoy their cappuccino. Ella's Eatery was created by families and for families: it has everything to make both adults and the youngest guests feel comfortable—from an extensive kids' menu and high chairs to changing tables. The friendly, informal atmosphere and views of a small marina make it a real attraction for residents of Palm Jumeirah.

• Perfect for: Family breakfasts, meetings with friends, a quiet morning in a residential area.
• Ambiance: Friendly, cozy, informal.
• Average bill: 40–85 AED per person.
• Location: Palm View East, Palm Jumeirah.

Aqaya Café – serenity by the water in Dubai Creek Harbour

A modern and sunlit café in the new Dubai Creek Harbour area attracts with its calm atmosphere and beautiful views of the water canal and skyscraper skyline. It's an excellent place to start your day in peace, work on your laptop, or enjoy breakfast with young children—there is a convenient playground nearby.

• Perfect for: Breakfast with young children, quiet laptop work.
• Ambience: Modern, bright, peaceful.
• Average bill: 45–60 AED per person.
• Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.

How to plan the perfect morning: practical tips

The choice is made; now it's time to plan your visit. Here are some tips to help make your morning in Dubai flawless.

Do you need to book a table?

• Absolutely necessary: In premium venues with high demand, such as Aura Skypool, booking should be done several weeks or even months in advance.
• Recommended: In popular spots like Arabian Tea House or Forever Rose Café, it's best to book, especially on weekends (Friday, Saturday), to avoid waiting.
• Not required: In most family-oriented and local cafes, you can usually find an available table without prior reservation.

Transportation and parking

• Easy to find parking: In modern locations such as BoxPark (Forever Rose Café) or West Beach (SĀN Beach, Ula), convenient and often free parking is usually provided for visitors.
• Difficult to find parking: In historic areas or densely populated residential communities, finding a free spot can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

What to wear: dress code

• Smart Elegant: For upscale venues like Aura Skypool. Elegant dresses, trousers, and shirts are suitable. Beachwear is inappropriate here.
• Casual / Smart Casual: For most cafes and beach clubs. Stylish yet comfortable casual attire will be your best choice.

How to choose your perfect breakfast in Dubai?

So how do you make the final decision? Ask yourself the main question: what kind of experience do you want this morning to be? Do you want it to become a vibrant story for social media? Are you dreaming of a cultural immersion into the history of the Emirates? Or do you simply need a cozy and reliable place for breakfast with your entire family? Your answer is the key to making the ideal choice.

Ultimately, the perfect breakfast in Dubai is always a combination of two things: what's on your plate and what's before your eyes. Whether it's a fragrant Emirati set served in the courtyard of an old house or the perfect avocado toast against the backdrop of the world's tallest infinity pool, this city knows how to turn morning meals into unforgettable experiences. Whichever place from this guide you choose, it will certainly be worth waking up early for.