Dubai's dining divide: Local spots thrive while tourist bars struggle amid travel shifts
Dubai's restaurant scene is showing mixed results as regional travel disruptions affect tourist numbers. While some venues rely on steady local support, others—especially those in tourist-heavy areas—are seeing fewer visitors. Operators are now focusing on stability, staff retention, and keeping prices unchanged.
Neighbourhood spots like Reform Social and Grill in The Lakes remain busy, thanks to strong community footfall. Dr Naim Maadad, chief executive of Gates Hospitality, noted that local residents continue to dine out regularly. Similarly, BRĒD Bakehouse reports consistent engagement from its loyal customer base, according to Maha Morley-Kirk.
Meanwhile, tourist-dependent restaurants face greater challenges. Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen at Souk Madinat has experienced a sharp decline in visitors, as Paul McGee confirmed. 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant has also seen a slight drop in numbers, Jaime Castaneda revealed.
Rather than raising prices, operators are prioritising guest experience and operational resilience. Maadad emphasised the need for stable supply chains, flexible staffing, and clear communication with teams. Diana Rysbaeva and Morley-Kirk highlighted the sector's ability to adapt, pointing to past disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Recent tourism data shows strong growth, with 17.15 million visitors in 2023—a 19.4% rise from 2022—and 9.31 million overnight guests in the first half of 2024. However, ongoing regional tensions may yet impact dining trends, even as major events like Gulfood 2026 approach.
Dubai's hospitality industry is balancing local demand with tourist fluctuations. With no clear data comparing current dining trends to pre-pandemic Ramadan periods, businesses are watching supply chains and customer behaviour closely. For now, community-backed venues remain stable, while tourist-focused restaurants adjust to shifting conditions.
