Indian buffet restaurants in Dubai are every food lover’s dream. From unlimited servings of butter chicken and paneer tikka to aromatic biryanis and sizzling tandoori platters, the city’s buffet scene captures the spirit of Indian hospitality. At UAE Explorer, we set out to discover where you can experience the most authentic, flavorful, and value-packed Indian buffets in Dubai — whether you’re craving a lavish five-star spread or a cozy desi spot that feels like home.
Why Dubai Loves Indian Buffet Restaurants
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and the love for Indian cuisine is woven into the city’s food story. Buffets offer variety, comfort, and nostalgia — especially for the huge Indian community living here. You’ll find buffets tailored for every occasion: family gatherings, corporate dinners, or weekend indulgence.
A good Indian buffet restaurant in Dubai brings you not just endless food but a complete sensory journey — the aroma of fresh spices, the rhythm of live tandoor cooking, and that warm service Indian eateries are famous for.
1. Amritsr Restaurant – 24/7 North Indian Feast
If you crave authentic Punjabi flavors, Amritsr Restaurant tops the list. Open 24 hours a day, this place ensures your cravings for butter chicken or dal makhani are satisfied anytime. Their buffet combines rich curries, soft naan, and aromatic rice dishes, complemented by lassi and gulab jamun to end on a sweet note.
Highlights:
- Traditional Punjabi buffet with live paratha and tandoor stations
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Affordable pricing and family-friendly environment
- Locations: Al Karama and Sheikh Zayed Road
Signature dishes: Amritsari kulcha, paneer tikka, butter chicken, and jalebi.
2. Ravi’s – A Dubai Legend for Desi Buffets
A long-time favorite in Satwa, Ravi’s Restaurant is synonymous with hearty, budget-friendly Indian and Pakistani buffets. This place has fed generations of Dubai residents and remains a go-to for flavorful curries served in generous portions.
Why people love it:
- Classic Indian & Pakistani dishes at wallet-friendly prices
- Simple seating but unbeatable flavors
- Buffet and à la carte options available daily
Ravi’s buffet typically features biryani, kebabs, daal tadka, and freshly baked naan — food that feels like home.
3. Kitchen 6 – Luxury Buffet at JW Marriott Marquis
Located inside the JW Marriott Marquis, Kitchen 6 offers an extravagant international buffet that gives Indian food a special spotlight. The open kitchens allow diners to see chefs at work, preparing fresh naan, curries, and kebabs.
Why visit Kitchen 6:
- One of Dubai’s largest buffet spreads
- Six live cooking stations (Indian, Asian, Arabic, Western, etc.)
- Perfect for business lunches and family dinners
While not a purely Indian buffet, the quality of its Indian section — featuring butter chicken, dal bukhara, and tandoori meats — makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Indian buffet restaurants in Dubai.
4. Kaleidoscope – Buffet with a View at Atlantis The Palm
For a buffet that combines elegance with variety, Kaleidoscope at Atlantis The Palm stands out. It offers flavors from across the globe, with a dedicated section for Indian dishes like biryani, samosas, and curries.
What makes it special:
- Stunning Palm Jumeirah location
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Daily theme nights including Indian-inspired evenings
Kaleidoscope is ideal for those who want to mix Indian favorites with global cuisines while enjoying views of the Atlantis aquarium and The Palm skyline.
5. Anise – Buffet at InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Set inside one of Dubai’s most elegant hotels, Anise offers a refined buffet that blends international and Indian cuisines. Its open-kitchen concept creates an interactive dining experience, and the Indian counter is often a highlight.
Buffet features:
- Freshly made Indian bread and live curry stations
- Excellent vegetarian and vegan variety
- Outdoor seating with skyline views
The chefs at Anise specialize in subtly spiced curries, kebabs, and biryanis that appeal to both Indian diners and international guests.
6. Amala – Royal Indian Dining at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Located on the Palm Jumeirah, Amala offers a regal dining experience inspired by the Mughal era. Instead of a traditional buffet, they provide a “feast-style” menu where you can enjoy unlimited servings of each dish for a set price — giving you the luxury of a buffet with fine-dining service.
Why it’s a must-try:
- Opulent interiors and royal ambiance
- Unlimited tasting menu — enjoy as much as you like
- Authentic North Indian flavors with premium ingredients
Signature dishes include chicken lababdar, lamb seekh kebab, and saffron pulao.
7. Lal Qila Restaurant – Mughlai Grandeur Meets Buffet
Step into Lal Qila, and you’ll feel transported to a Mughal palace. The decor, the music, and the spread — everything celebrates India’s royal culinary heritage.
Highlights:
- Extensive Indian & Pakistani buffet
- Vegetarian, halal, and vegan dishes
- Themed dining with live tandoor and dessert stations
Their buffet covers everything from seekh kebabs to haleem, biryani, curries, and sweet treats like gajar ka halwa.
8. Absolute Barbecues (AB’s) – The Grill Buffet Revolution
Absolute Barbecues, popularly known as AB’s, changed Dubai’s buffet scene with its interactive grill-on-the-table concept. Guests can cook their own skewers of meats, seafood, and vegetables at the table before heading to the lavish buffet counters.
What’s on the menu:
- Starters served hot on your personal grill
- Extensive buffet with Indian curries, rice, breads, and desserts
- “Wish Grill” section with exotic items cooked live on request
With branches in Karama and Dubai Silicon Oasis, AB’s is perfect for group celebrations and birthday dinners.
9. Bombay Brasserie – Modern Indian Luxury
Located inside the Taj Dubai, Bombay Brasserie blends modern luxury with timeless Indian recipes. While it focuses on à la carte fine dining, it occasionally hosts buffet nights that showcase chef specials and regional Indian delicacies.
Why people love it:
- Artistic interiors with live tandoor show kitchen
- Dishes curated by award-winning chefs
- Extensive vegetarian and vegan choices
Their buffet nights often feature street-food favorites alongside regional curries from Bengal, Punjab, and South India.
10. Kinara by Vikas Khanna – Contemporary Indian Elegance
Helmed by celebrity chef Vikas Khanna, Kinara at JA Lake View Hotel brings creative Indian cuisine to Dubai’s buffet and set-menu scene. The restaurant occasionally offers a tasting buffet that showcases Vikas Khanna’s signature creations.
What to expect:
- Inventive takes on Indian classics
- Beautiful waterfront setting
- Perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions
Kinara redefines what an Indian buffet restaurant in Dubai can be — refined, soulful, and deeply flavorful.
More Hidden Gems Worth Trying
While the top 10 cover the most recognized names, Dubai hides countless smaller buffet spots that deserve attention:
- Barbeque Nation (Al Karama): Live grills, unlimited starters, and a massive dessert counter.
- Claypot (Al Barsha): Affordable daily Indian buffet with homely flavors.
- Sagar Ratna (JLT): Pure-vegetarian buffet specializing in Gujarati and Rajasthani thalis.
- Peppermill (Dubai Festival City): Indian fine dining with weekend buffet promotions.
Average Buffet Prices in Dubai
| Buffet Type | Price Range (AED) | Typical Features |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Indian Buffet | 45 – 80 AED | Homely curries, biryani, dessert |
| Mid-range Buffet | 90 – 160 AED | Live stations, BBQ, more variety |
| Luxury 5-Star Buffet | 200 – 400 AED | Multiple cuisines, fine-dining service |
Prices vary based on location, day, and whether it’s lunch or dinner. Weekday lunch buffets tend to be more affordable, while weekend dinners include premium items like seafood or lamb rogan josh.
Tips for Enjoying an Indian Buffet in Dubai
- Arrive early – Buffets are freshest when the first trays come out.
- Start light – Save room for the main courses and desserts.
- Try regional specialties – From South Indian dosas to North Indian kebabs, explore all sections.
- Balance flavors – Pair spicy dishes with yogurt or bread.
- Don’t waste food – Take only what you can finish; Dubai restaurants emphasize sustainability.
Vegetarian & Vegan Buffets
Dubai’s Indian buffets are inclusive for all diets. Many venues, such as Sagar Ratna, Amritsr, and Lal Qila, dedicate entire sections to vegetarian and vegan food. Expect dishes like chana masala, paneer tikka, aloo gobi, dal tadka, and vegan curries prepared in coconut milk.
Indian Buffet Restaurants for Families
Families love buffet dining because it satisfies everyone’s taste buds. Most of the Indian buffet restaurants in Dubai, including Amritsr, Absolute Barbecues, and Kitchen 6, provide highchairs, kids’ meals, and friendly service. Some even host kids-eat-free offers during weekdays.
Indian Buffet Restaurants for Business Lunches
If you’re hosting a client or organizing a team lunch, buffets like Anise, Kitchen 6, and Bombay Brasserie provide professional environments with a relaxed vibe. They combine high-quality food with quick service — ideal for corporate gatherings.
Halal Indian Buffets in Dubai
Almost every Indian restaurant in Dubai serves halal food. Places like Lal Qila, Amritsr, and Ravi’s prominently display their halal certifications, ensuring everyone can dine confidently.
Best Time to Visit
Most buffets operate during:
- Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Weekend brunches are also popular, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, when restaurants expand their menus with premium dishes and desserts.
The Cultural Experience
An Indian buffet is more than just food — it’s an experience. The hospitality, the colors, the aromas, and the communal atmosphere all reflect the soul of Indian culture. In Dubai, where global dining meets tradition, these buffets create a connection between home and the cosmopolitan spirit of the UAE.
Why Choose a Buffet Over À La Carte
- Value for money: You can try dozens of dishes for one fixed price.
- Variety: Perfect for groups with different preferences.
- Convenience: No waiting for courses — everything’s ready.
- Discover new dishes: From regional curries to fusion experiments.
Final Thoughts – UAE Explorer’s Take
At UAE Explorer, we believe Dubai’s Indian buffet restaurants represent the best of both worlds — authentic Indian comfort food and Dubai’s unmatched dining standards. Whether you want the royal experience of Amala or the street-food buzz of Ravi’s, there’s a buffet for every mood and budget.
So next time your cravings hit, skip the takeaway and head to one of these incredible spots. Let the aromas of cardamom, cumin, and saffron guide you to your next culinary adventure in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the FAQs of Best Indian Buffet Restaurants in Dubai:
1. Which is the best Indian buffet restaurant in Dubai?
Kitchen 6 and Amritsr Restaurant are among the most popular, offering a wide range of dishes and consistent quality.
2. Are there affordable Indian buffets in Dubai?
Yes, budget-friendly options like Ravi’s and Claypot offer buffets starting around 45–60 AED.
3. Do Indian buffets in Dubai serve vegetarian and vegan dishes?
Absolutely. Most restaurants include vegetarian sections, and several such as Sagar Ratna specialize exclusively in vegetarian fare.
4. Are all Indian buffets in Dubai halal?
Nearly all are halal-certified, especially those in Indian and Pakistani communities.
5. What is the average price of an Indian buffet in Dubai?
Expect to pay between 80 and 150 AED per person for mid-range buffets, and 200 AED + for luxury venues.
6. Can I find Indian buffets with live music or entertainment?
Yes, places like Anise and Lal Qila occasionally feature live music or cultural performances.
7. Are there Indian buffets open late at night in Dubai?
Amritsr Restaurant operates 24 hours a day, making it a great late-night choice.
8. Do I need to make a reservation for weekend buffets?
Yes, weekends are busy; it’s best to book in advance, especially for popular spots like Kitchen 6 and Amala.
9. Which Indian buffets are good for large groups or birthdays?
Absolute Barbecues and Lal Qila are favorites for celebrations due to their group packages and festive ambiance.
10. Are Indian buffets in Dubai suitable for tourists?
Definitely! Buffets offer tourists a chance to sample diverse Indian dishes without committing to a single cuisine type.
In summary: Whether you live in Dubai or are visiting, exploring Indian buffet restaurants in Dubai is one of the most satisfying culinary adventures. From the lively streets of Karama to the luxurious dining rooms on Palm Jumeirah, every buffet tells its own flavorful story — and UAE Explorer invites you to taste them all.