Is Al Ustad worth it?
Worth itUnderrated · +28Family-run Iranian kebab house in Bur Dubai since 1978, walls covered in celebrity photos
Worth it. 4.4 across 13,000+ Google reviews; the food matches the reputation for most, though some call it good rather than exceptional.
Hype42How famous and hyped it is
Reality70Evidence-based, votes take over as they come in
4.4 ★ Google · 13,420 reviews— hypegap votes · be one of the first
Been to Al Ustad? Was it worth it?
One tap. No account. Your vote moves the Reality score.Is it worth it for you?
Worth itEditorial verdict until 5 first-timers vote
An easy, authentic old-Dubai meal next to Al Fahidi Metro that fits neatly into a heritage-district day.
Why Reality is 70
Lives up to its fame4/54.4 across 13,000+ Google reviews; the food matches the reputation for most, though some call it good rather than exceptional.
Value for money4/5Generous kebab plates with rice and bread at mid-range prices; reviewers repeatedly call it good value.
Can’t get it elsewhere3/5The 1978 atmosphere and photo walls are one-of-a-kind, but good Persian kebabs are available across Dubai.
Easy to do4/5Walk-in, open late, a couple of minutes from Al Fahidi Metro; evenings can mean a short wait.
What people loved
Tender, juicy kebabs and saffron rice consistently praised; crispy tahdig is a highlightGenuine old-Dubai character: decades of photos and memorabilia on the wallsGenerous portions and fair prices compared with Dubai's hotel restaurantsRight next to Al Fahidi Metro, easy to pair with Al Fahidi and the abra crossingWhat wore them down
Short, kebab-focused menu – 'no fancy spreads or mind-numbing variety'Some diners find the seasoning differs from classic Tehran-style Persian kebabsBusy and noisy in the evenings; better reviewed when visited by dayFame partly rests on nostalgia – several reviewers say good but not the best meal of their tripKnow before you go
See something out of date? Fix it right here.Booking: Walk-in; Google marks it reservable but most diners just turn up. Daytime is quieter than evenings.
HistoryOpened in 1978 by Iranian expat Haji Mohammed Ali Ansari; walls are lined with photos of famous diners, including UAE royaltySource · Checked Oct 16, 2026
Signature dishKebab Khas – a yoghurt and black-pepper marinated kebab in chicken or mutton, served with saffron rice, bread and grilled tomatoSource · Checked Oct 16, 2026
PriceMid-range; Google lists it as moderately priced. A tbreak guide puts Iranian kebab plates in the city at around AED 80 per serving (no official menu prices verified)Source · Checked Oct 16, 2026
HoursDaily 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; Friday opens 5 p.m.Source · Checked Oct 16, 2026
Getting thereBeside Al Fahidi Metro (Green Line), 2–3 min walk; ~25 min by metro or ~15–20 min by taxi from Downtown/Burj KhalifaSource · Checked Oct 16, 2026
Time needed45 min–1 hourSource: Google reviews · Checked Oct 16, 2026
PaymentCards and contactless accepted; dine-in, takeaway and deliverySource · Checked Oct 16, 2026
Opening hours (Google)
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
In their words
“The kebabs were incredibly tender, juicy, and full of authentic flavor. The saffron rice was perfectly cooked”
“The food was good and definitely worth trying, although personally, it wasn’t the best meal I’ve had in Dubai.”
“the spices on the kebabs werent they typical persian style kebabs ive had in the past”
“One of my favorite parts of the meal was the crispy tahdig—golden, crunchy, and absolutely delicious.”
Tips from people who went
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Questions people ask
What should I order at Al Ustad Special Kebab?
The signature Kebab Khas (yoghurt and black pepper marinade), ideally mutton, with saffron rice; reviewers also rate the tahdig.
How old is Al Ustad Special Kebab?
It has been open since 1978, founded by Iranian expat Haji Mohammed Ali Ansari.
Do I need a reservation at Al Ustad?
No. It is a walk-in spot; go by day to avoid the evening rush.
What is the nearest metro to Al Ustad Special Kebab?
Al Fahidi on the Green Line, a 2–3 minute walk.
Is Al Ustad open on Friday?
Yes, but only from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. per Google; other days it opens at 11 a.m.
Better fits, according to people who went
Sources
- What's On Dubai – Legendary hole-in-the-wall eateries (Jul 2025)
- tbreak – Best Iranian restaurants in Dubai
- Google Maps – Al Ustad Special Kebab