Al Ustad Special Kebab
Persian restaurant · Al Hamriya ·

Al Ustad Special Kebab

Persian restaurant · Al Hamriya ·

Legendary kebabs, photos adorn walls, family-run institution

kebabs
iranian cuisine
friendly staff
generous portions
celebrity photos
authentic flavors
mixed grill
kabab koobideh
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by Natasha Amar for Insider
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null
Al Ustad Special Kebab by null

Information

Metro Station - Al Mussallah Rd - near Al Fahidi - Al Hamriya - Dubai - United Arab Emirates Get directions

AED 50–100

Order delivery
Usually a wait
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Lunch reservations recommended

Information

Static Map

Metro Station - Al Mussallah Rd - near Al Fahidi - Al Hamriya - Dubai - United Arab Emirates Get directions

+971 4 397 1933
alustadspecialkabab.com
@ostadi_1978

AED 50–100

Features

•Usually a wait
•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Lunch reservations recommended
•Popular for dinner
•Dinner reservations recommended
•Cozy

Last updated

Jan 24, 2026

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@cntraveler
42,481 Postcards · 5,685 Cities

29 Best Restaurants in Dubai, From Kebab Counters to Late-Night Lounges | Condé Nast Traveler

"A Bur Dubai institution since the 1970s, I appreciated Al Ustad Special Kebab’s casual, welcoming atmosphere, generous Persian platters and warm hospitality framed by walls covered in photos of famous guests. The compact menu focuses on perfectly cooked kebabs—mutton, chicken or beef—served with flatbread or rice, salad and fries; the chicken kebab is a reliable crowd-pleaser." - Claudia de Brito, Sophie Prideaux

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-dubai-restaurants
Al Ustad Special Kebab
@insider
77 Postcards · 13 Cities

"The hole-in-the-wall Al Ustad Special Kabab is a Dubai institution. You'd never guess that this unassuming restaurant in the Al Fahidi neighborhood of old Dubai has served its legendary kebabs to royals, athletes, diplomats, and celebrities."

The best things to eat in Dubai
Natasha Amar for Insider
Al Ustad Special Kebab - Iranian
@eater
391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

The 24 Best Dubai Restaurants | Eater

"Run by the Persian al-Ansari family who immigrated to Dubai 43 years ago, Al Ustad proudly makes classic Irani cuisine in the old area of Bur Dubai. The menu includes kebabs of mutton, chicken, and tenderloin, including some marinated in yogurt before being barbecued and others slow-cooked in mild spices and herbs like dill, mint, basil, chives, fenugreek, and tarragon. Dishes come with khubz (flatbread) or saffron rice studded with roasted dry fruits. Vegetarians should stop by at lunch for options like okra and eggplant. [$]" - Rahma Khan

https://www.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-dubai-uae
Al Ustad Special Kebab
@cntraveler
42,481 Postcards · 5,685 Cities

Dubai: The Layover Hub That’s Truly Worth Sticking Around For

"Pop in and out of the trinket shops and cafés here before stopping for lunch at Al Ustad Special Kabab, a legendary Iranian grilled meat joint just a 15-minute walk from the Dubai Museum."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/dubai-the-layover-hub-thats-truly-worth-sticking-around-for
Al Ustad Special Kebab
@cntraveler
42,481 Postcards · 5,685 Cities

What to Do in Old Dubai: Our Guide

"At Al Ustad, a 38-year-old kebab establishment, meals begin with a complimentary platter of vegetables and small bowls of yogurt with mint and cucumber. From there, the menu is short, sweet, and packed with flavor. There’s hummus and chicken soup, but the kebabs, which are all served with either rice or bread and a small dish of garlic sauce, are the house specialty. Try the Joojeh kebabs, which consist of cubes of chicken marinated in saffron, or the khorak bahraini, which is slightly tangy thanks to a marinade of dry lemon." - Dylan Essertier, Laura Ratliff

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/what-to-do-in-old-dubai-our-guide
Al Ustad Special Kebab

Zaheeruddin Babar S.

Google
Ostadi Kabab probably needs to expand 😂 We were lucky to arrive at a time when seating was immediately available. Although the prices are slightly on the higher side, the kebabs and soup were absolutely worth it. The vibe is unique and full of character, with walls covered in photos and antique pieces that make the experience memorable. The staff, waiters, and even the owner were incredibly lively and welcoming. The owner kept moving around, chatting with customers and taking feedback — no wonder people enjoy coming here. RTA parking is conveniently located right outside, so that wasn’t an issue either. Definitely looking forward to trying more items on their menu. And honestly… I do hope my picture ends up on that wall someday 😄😄

Zhiyi Q

Google
This restaurant is quite famous in Dubai, partly because many celebrities — and even members of the local royalty — are said to have visited over the years. Service is friendly and efficient, and the food is decent overall. For me, the appeal is more about the history and reputation than anything particularly unique in the dishes themselves. Still, it’s an interesting place to try at least once if you’re curious about its long-standing hype.

Hendy O.

Google
Heard about this place before we visited Dubai and decided to check it out after a walk through Old Dubai. We came here for dinner, and what an experience! This place is a true institution. Don't expect fancy decor; the charm here is in its history. The walls are covered in photos of people from all over the world, and there's a fantastic, bustling energy. We ordered a mixed platter, and the kebabs were incredible. The joujeh kabab was tender and a huge hit with our kids. The kabab koobideh was packed with flavour. We also added a side of the salad shirazi, which was nice and fresh and the garlic sauce is an absolute must-get – it takes everything to the next level!

Abdul Hadi bin Abdul R.

Google
Q? Will you go beyond for a recommended restaurant? Well, I would if you happened to be in the country! We want a taste of Persian food in Dubai UAE and was recommended Al Ustad Special Kebab. The name looked simple & innocuous - but wait till you stepped in the place. It’s full of pictures of famous people who had visited. But let’s get back to the food. I was eyeing the rice with lamb shank and we also ordered mutton with barbecued chicken and yoghurt. The rice has a nice texture, flavored that it is a meal by itself. The lamb is cooked just nice, tender that requires no effort to separate the meat from the bone (totally). The accompanying fresh vegetables - cucumber, cut onions, tomatoes & green chili complements the whole meal. It’s kinda quaint old school where the sodas are served in small bottles; and together with the decor (plants, pictures) and friendly waiters, makes up the whole experience. Up a notch when you’re seated with several pictures of Khabib Nurmagomedov (UFC Champion) looking at you! Worth returning? You bet! And thank you for the warm hospitality.

Tas A

Google
We heard the hype and we tried it out. Kababs from this restaurant is very yummy. They have the exact tenderness, spice and taste. We had the platter for 4-5 people. And I will. Give it full marks. Service was very good too. Food came fast. Cleaning crew was fast to do theor jobs as soon as a customer left. Restaurant was crowded but well under control. Very noisy that cannot hear the person across the table. Lots of pictures of popular people coming from all over the world is all over the place. This does make it cumbersome.

Rick Ribble J.

Google
This place is amazing! We ordered the Mixed Grill for 2 and it did not disappoint. When you combine the Kabab with bread and sides you get an amazing bite of food. Perfect amount of food, very quick delivered to the table hot and fresh. Will definitely go again. Staff were very friendly and kind to us. Easy tap to pay network system as in all of Dubai. Again we brought cash for tipping and come from a 20% tip culture in the USA, not sure what the locals do.

Mo R.

Google
I heared quite good things about this food place and apparently, this is a local legend of Al Fahadi neighbourhood. During my recent visit to Dubai, we decided to give it a go and glad we travelled from our hotel to this restaurant. Food was amazing and tasty. We ordered platter for 2 which was about D105 or £22. Generous portion comes variety of kebabs. Place was extremely busy but workers worked tirelessly to serve all customers on time. Your meal is served with yoghurt sauce, two pieces of flat bread and freshly cut salad. It was unique but tasty experience. Interior of shop is fully plastered with limitless pictures of random people as well as celebrities. Its an overkill haha.

Kalyan D.

Google
A Hidden Gem for Authentic Iranian Flavors – A Must-Try in Dubai! If you’re craving authentic Iranian kebabs, Al Ustad Special Kebab (مطعم الاستاد للكباب الخاص) is a place you simply can’t miss! Serving customers since 1978, this restaurant is a true culinary landmark in Dubai. The flavors are rich, authentic, and absolutely delicious, taking you straight to Iran with every bite. Portions are generous, and the food is very reasonably priced, making it great value for money. The staff are warm, courteous, and attentive, which adds to the overall charm of the place. You’ll also spot photos of celebrities and even royalty who’ve dined here — a testament to its lasting reputation and quality. There’s usually a short wait during peak hours, but it’s well worth it. The only small downside is limited street parking, though paid options are nearby. Food: 5/5 Service: 4/5 Atmosphere: 4/5 Noise Level: Moderate Wait Time: Up to 10 minutes Parking: Limited street parking (paid) Overall, a fantastic and nostalgic dining experience — simple, soulful, and packed with flavor. Highly recommended!