50 thrifty TIPS!

Short on cash? Here are 50 ways to save as the credit crunch creeps up on Dubai Discuss this article

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Eat on the cheap
19. Aryaas: Aryaas has some of the best, cheapest Indian grub in Karama. It specialised in South Indian cuisine, and the Dhs12 thali is a stomach-busting feast. Dhs5-50 per person.
Karama, opposite Lulu Hypermarket, 04 335 5776

20. Al Bayt Al Baghdadi Restaurant: Grab a friend, or several, and tuck into a whole barbecued fish. The beast is cooked in the traditional Iraqi way (on a bed of coals), and is juicy, flavoursome, and large enough to easily feed four. Dhs51-100 per person.
Al Muteena Street, 04 273 7064

21. Shabestan: Shabestan may not be the cheapest Persian restaurant in Dubai, but it is one of the best, and for what you pay, you get a lot. Dhs100-250 per person.
Radisson SAS, Dubai Deira Creek, 04 222 7171

22. Aangan: Aangan is pretty reasonable if you’re in the mood for something more up-market. The quality of food is excellent, and a sitar player adds to the relaxed vibe. Dhs251-400 per person.
Dhow Palace Hotel, 04 359 9992

23. Rare: This may not be a budget restaurant, but if you’re looking for somewhere swank to take a date, and don’t want to break the bank, this is the place. The view is fantastic and the food is exceptional. Dhs401-600 per person.
Desert Palm, 04 323 8888

24. Enter our weekly competitions, with a minimum value of Dhs5,000 every week. Previous prizes have included trips abroad, luxury local breaks and VIP concert tickets www.timeoutdubai.com.
Approximate saving: If you win just once Dhs5,000

25. If you long for five-star dining, but don't want to pay the price, try the business lunch. Zuma (04 425 5660) and the Exchange Grill (04 332 5555) each offer business lunches at a fraction of the price of their dinner menus.
Approximate saving: If you go somewhere plush four times a year…Dhs1,200

26. Some of the best meals in town are the cheapest, but you have to be flexible with location. Give the Marina a miss, and instead head to some authentic ethnic eats in Deira and Karama. Stuff yourself for Dhs12, rather than Dhs120. For good recommendations on budget restaurants, check www.timeoutdubai.com.
Approximate saving: Dhs5,200 per year

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