Eating out declines in the UAE as consumers tighten spending: report
Roughly half of those who dine out less often say they are cooking more at home.
Nearly a third of UAE residents (31%) say they are eating out less often, according to YouGov’s UAE Dining Report 2025.
The decline is more pronounced amongst Gen X and baby boomers (37%), compared with 29% of Gen Z and millennials.
About 75% of diners say restaurant prices have increased over the past year, a view held by an even higher share of women (82%).
Roughly half of those who dine out less often say they are cooking more at home. Other common reasons include lifestyle changes (39%) and trying to save money (36%).
Amongst people cutting back, most are looking for ways to spend less: 55% seek out discounts—rising to 68% amongst women—and nearly half (49%) are choosing cheaper restaurants.
Dining frequency has dropped most sharply for fast-casual outlets (down 42%), followed by fine dining (39%), fast food (38%), and casual dining (34%).
