The 1985–86 season was the 77th year of football played by Dundee United, and covers the period from 1 July 1985 to 30 June 1986.
United finished in third place, securing UEFA Cup football for the following season.
Dundee United played a total of 52 competitive matches during the 1985–86 season.
Swiss side Neuchâtel Xamax eliminated United in the third round of the UEFA Cup.
The club signed one player during the season with a total public cost of £70,000.