
Al Ustad Special Kebab
A legendary Dubai eatery since 1978, serving authentic Iranian kebabs in a vibrant, photo-filled space with a rich history.

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Al Ustad Special Kebab

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Dubai eatery since 1978, serving authentic Iranian kebabs in a vibrant, photo-filled space with a rich history.
Try the Mixed Platter
A great way to sample various flavors, especially the koobideh and chicken kebabs.
Order Garlic Dip
Enhance your kebab experience with this flavorful side. [^D1]

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Persian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+971 4 397 1933
Address
Metro Station, Al Mussallah Rd, near Al Fahidi - Al Hamriya - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Website
alustadspecialkabab.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Iranian Kebabs
Savor succulent, yogurt-marinated mutton and chicken kebabs, a taste of Old Dubai since 1978. [^M1]

Nostalgic Atmosphere
Walls adorned with photos of celebrities & royalty create a unique, historic vibe. [^M6]

Authentic Soulful Food
Experience traditional Persian dishes that evoke nostalgia and are celebrated for their flavor. [^M7]
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try the Mixed Platter
A great way to sample various flavors, especially the koobideh and chicken kebabs.
Order Garlic Dip
Enhance your kebab experience with this flavorful side. [^D1]
Visit Mid-Afternoon
Avoid crowds by dining during less busy hours. [^D3]
Mint Tea to Finish
A refreshing traditional drink to cap off your meal. [^M10]
Tips
from all over the internet
Try the Mixed Platter
A great way to sample various flavors, especially the koobideh and chicken kebabs.
Order Garlic Dip
Enhance your kebab experience with this flavorful side. [^D1]
Visit Mid-Afternoon
Avoid crowds by dining during less busy hours. [^D3]
Mint Tea to Finish
A refreshing traditional drink to cap off your meal. [^M10]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al Ustad Special Kebab is lauded for its authentic and flavorful Iranian kebabs, with many praising the juicy and well-marinated meats. The restaurant's long history and the walls covered in celebrity photos contribute to its unique, nostalgic atmosphere. However, some diners find the food to be average or overpriced for the portion size, and the dining space can feel rushed.
"Al Ustad Special Kebab truly lives up to its name!
This place is a must-visit, and if you’ve lived in or visited Dubai and haven’t been here yet—you’re seriously missing out. The guy at the counter adds so much charm and warmth, making your experience even more memorable. The walls are full of nostalgic memories, and the atmosphere is buzzing with history.
Now, about the kebabs—absolutely worth every bite! Juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. I loved it.
10/10 for taste, experience, and vibes!"
kaif khan
"We thought it would be a quiet affair as we were the only ones. But within minutes the place was full. The shop has around 8 tables. The walls are filled with photos of famous people who have visited. The food shines and stands out. Very juicy and flavorfull kebabs. Definitely worth the hype for great food."
Stanly Cherian
"We ordered the lamb kebab, and the portion was surprisingly large for two people. The meat was delicious, and I really liked that the flavor and marinade varied from piece to piece—it made the meal more interesting. However, we didn’t enjoy the one served with yogurt; it was too sour for our taste.
The staff were friendly, but the overall vibe felt a bit like “eat quickly and leave,” perhaps because the restaurant wanted to free up tables for more customers. One thing that spoiled our experience was the table location—we sat right in front of the bathroom, next to an air conditioning unit. Every time someone went to the restroom, a few people lingered there, and unfortunately, some unpleasant smells reached our table, which ruined the dining mood.
Parking was honestly difficult—the area was very crowded, and it took us a while to finally find a spot.
That said, the food itself was tasty, the tea was excellent, and the restaurant decor—with its many photos—was charming and unique. Overall, a good place for flavorful kebabs."
Fawzia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is most famous for its authentic and delicious Iranian kebabs, particularly the mutton and chicken varieties. [^M1]
The atmosphere is described as easygoing, welcoming, and nostalgic, with walls covered in photographs of celebrities and royalty who have dined there. [^M1]
Diners often recommend the mixed platter for a variety of flavors, or specific kebabs like the 'Khas Kebab' (special kebab) and 'Koobideh'.
Yes, parking can be challenging in the crowded area, and it is often recommended to consider alternative transportation.
While the focus is on kebabs, they offer hummus and rice, and soup. Specific vegetarian dishes might be limited. [^M9]
Visiting during mid-afternoon can provide a less crowded dining experience. [^D3]
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This charismatic Mankool spot is a true slice of Old Dubai, founded in 1978 and still going strong. The walls inside this small, canteen-style eatery are plastered in photographs that pay tribute to the restaurant’s impressive legacy and the many Bollywood and Iranian celebrities and royalty who have dined there. The food at Al Ustad Special Kebab celebrates the Iranian kebab, with juicy chunks of barbecued chicken and mutton marinated in yogurt and served with platters of buttery rice topped with dried pomegranates.
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If you’re not willing to take our word for it (odd choice of reading material but you do you), the fact this local legend has been around (just) longer than What’s On (since 1978); and that it counts royals and international A-listers (many of whom are plastered pictorially across the venue) amongst its devoted patrons; should help to persuade you of its worthiness for carrying ‘Special’ as its middle name. It represents incredible value, delivers outstanding meaty feasts, it’s consistent and a saj-wrapped, nostalgia-steeped, delicious dose of local history.
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A post shared by AlUstadSpecialKababمطعم استادي (@ostadi_1978). A very well-known Dubai establishment, visited by every celebrity you can think of – with their photos all over the walls. A very affordable and tasty mixed grill, make sure to get some of their yoghurt dip.
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Al Ustad Special Kabab is another Iranian comparatively best cheap restaurant in Dubai. It is familiar to Kabab and is the oldest Iranian restaurant in the United Emirates. It is well known due to its aesthetic, and friendly decoration and design.
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The Al Ustad Special Kabab restaurant's reputation is a bit of a problem. On the one hand, it's a hidden gem of an establishment. On the other hand, however, people who know about it (near the Al Fahidi Metro Station) rave about its kebabs.
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⭐ 4.6 (8,000+ reviews)“A hidden gem with the juiciest kebabs in Dubai!. The mutton tikka and special yogurt mix are legendary. No-frills setting, but the taste is unmatched.”*”This place has been serving magic since 1978.
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Ask for their kebab platter which will give you a chance to taste most of their flavours. You can see the photographs of the celebrities and middle eastern leaders who visited the restaurant.
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Al Ustad Special Kabab is a renowned eatery in Dubai, celebrated for its mouthwatering and reasonably priced kebabs. It's a beloved destination for both residents and visitors.
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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.
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A casual family-owned eatery, Special Ostadi Kebab has a unique colourful décor with memorabilia and photographs of diners, including sheikhs and prominent public figures.
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The restaurant serves some of the best fresh kebabs in Dubai with generous portion sizes for a great price, and the place is very popular with locals and tourists.
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Al Ustad Special Kabab: this family-run Iranian joint in Bur Dubai set up shop in 1978. Go here for the authentic Persian char-grilled kebabs.
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Address: Metro Station – Al Mussallah Rd – near Al Fahidi – Al Hamriya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates. Contact Details: +971 4 397 1933
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Al Ustad Special Kebab is a restaurant in Bur Dubai, located in a small alley. It is one of the favorites of many locals and tourists.
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