places to visit in dubai cheap

16 best cheap things to do in Dubai

Mar 29, 2021 • 8 min read

Dubai has plenty to do for budget-conscious travelers © shutterlk / Shutterstock

With five-star hotels dominating the skyline and shopping driving the headlines, Dubai is a playground for the rich and famous. However, a sprinkling of local knowledge opens up plenty of inexpensive experiences for travelers on a budget.

Want free drinks, almost-free boat rides and stellar views right across town? Here are the best budget-friendly things to do in Dubai .

Editor's note: During COVID-19 , please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice . Events may be subject to change.

1. Zabeel Park

You could be forgiven for thinking that Dubai is all skyscrapers and six-lane highways, but just past the World Trade Centre roundabout is Zabeel Park , one of the city's largest green spaces. The landscaped park is home to barbecue areas and picnic tables, along with a bike track, a boating lake and a mini-train for kids. Zabeel Park costs Dhs5 ($1.40) to enter, and it's also home to the Ripe Market , held every Friday and Saturday from 9am to 7pm.

The 9 best parks in Dubai

2. Careem bike share

In 2020, Dubai’s public transport authority unveiled a brand new fleet of nearly 800 pay-as-you-go bicycles , and it costs just Dhs20 ($5.45) for an unlimited number of 45-minute rides all day. Take in some of the city’s best views from the saddle, from the neon lights of Dubai Marina at night to the neck-aching sight of the Burj Khalifa .

Dubai now has 265 miles (425km) of cycling tracks across the city, with plans to expand to almost 400 miles (650km) of cycle paths by 2023. Ultimately, 3500 bicycles will be on the streets that can be docked at 350 solar-powered stations across the city as construction is completed over the next five years.

13 best free things to do in Dubai

3. Dubai Fountain Floating Boardwalk

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Floating platforms added in 2017 will get you as close as 30 feet (9m) from the fountains , which can shoot water up to 460 feet (140m). Because of its popularity, it’s not always easy to snag a good spot to watch a Dubai Fountain performance, so the boardwalk will give a perfect front-row view for just Dhs20 ($5.45).

4. Spice Souq

Dubai Mall might be the biggest shopping center in the world, but it’s pretty pricey. Instead, head to Dubai Creek to shop in the traditional souqs (markets). Buy gold, frankincense or spices such as saffron and cinnamon on the Deira side, while over on the Bur Dubai bank, you can snap up pashminas and Arabian-style slippers. Remember to haggle hard for a bargain.

The ultimate shopper's guide to Dubai

5. Abra ride

It lasts less than five minutes, but the most authentic and cheapest way to get across Dubai Creek is by riding an abra, a traditional wooden boat kitted out with a motor and a single bench seat in the middle. Once the abra is full, it whirrs across to the opposite side of the Creek, and you’ll pay the driver just Dhs1 (30 cents) en route.

6. Happy hour and ladies' nights

One way to stretch your drinking budget in Dubai, where alcohol duty is 50%, is by hitting up the happy hours offered by a wide roster of bars, from dives to five-star lounges, on specific days of the week. Discounts range from half-off drinks to two-for-one deals or double measures on selected beverages. Most start early in the evening, usually around 5pm or 6pm, and run for two or three hours.

Many bars and pubs go to extraordinary lengths to lure women with free cocktails, bubbly and nibbles. Some ladies' nights run all night; others only during certain hours. The most popular ladies' nights are Tuesdays and Wednesdays , with fewer deals on other nights and hardly any on the weekends.

7. Dubai Metro

Forget taxis and plump for the Dubai Metro instead. Dubai’s two-line driverless trains offer some of the cheapest public transport trips in the world. Buy a Nol card and top it up, from Dhs3 (80 cents) for a short hop to Dhs7.50 ($2) for a longer trip. The metro opens at 5.30am (10am on Fridays) and runs until midnight (1am on Thursdays and Fridays). You can even go VIP and travel Gold Class, which has free Wi-Fi.

8. Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is Dubai's largest mosque. Daily tours (except Fridays) take place at 10am for Dhs20 ($5.45), run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding . The tours last 75 minutes, and visitors are encouraged to ask any questions they might have about Islam and Emirati culture. Modest dress (ie covering knees and shoulders) is required inside the mosque.

9. Dubai Creek House and Perfume Museum

Step back in time to retrace history at the Dubai Creek House , part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project . The Birth of a Nation exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the emirate's trading history in a hands-on installation, and artifacts from the history of the United Arab Emirates are also on display. With your Dhs15 ($4) entry ticket, you’ll get access to the nearby Perfume House , the former home of a Dubai sheikha. The old building has been restored, and interactive exhibits detail all things scent, smells and fragrance .

10. Dubai Museum

Life in Dubai was wildly different 50 years ago. The city has grown from a small pearl-diving and trading community based around the Creek to what you see today in just four decades. Discover what Dubai was like for the Bedouin and Emiratis at the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort, which charges the princely sum of Dhs3 (80 cents) for admission. Dubai Museum won’t win any awards for modernity, but it’s an interesting portrayal of a way of life that’s changed beyond recognition.

11. Crossroads of Civilizations Museum

The private Crossroads of Civilizations Museum in the Shindagha Historic District provides a fascinating glimpse of Dubai's historic role as a trading link between East and West. On display are hundreds of artifacts from the Ubaids, Greeks, Romans, Babylonians and other civilizations that passed through the region. Highlights include a 7500-year-old bull-shaped vase and a 16th-century Kaaba curtain, as well as a first edition of the 1590 book that first mentions "Dubai." Other galleries display swords, daggers and other historical weaponry used across the region. Entry costs Dhs30 (about $8).

12. Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum

Only discovered in 2002, Saruq Al Hadid sits deep in the desert sands of the southern reaches of Dubai emirate and is believed to have been an iron-age metal factory in operation between 1300 and 800 BC. Excavations have thus far yielded mostly swords, axe heads, daggers and other weapons, some of which are on display in the modern Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum . Entry costs Dhs20 ($5.45).

13. Women's Museum

Try on a burka, find out about Ousha Bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi (the most celebrated female poet in the UAE) and learn about the achievements of local women in the fields of science, trade, education, politics and literature at the region's first museum to train the spotlight on women. Conceived and financed by Emirati psychiatry professor Rafia Ghubash, the Women's Museum occupies three floors of a building called Bait Al Banat (House of the Girls), reportedly because it was the home of three unmarried sisters in the 1950s. Admission will set you back just Dhs20 ($5.45).

14. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

Recently restored as part of the Shindagha Historic District development, the grand Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was the residence of Sheikh Saeed, the grandfather of current Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, from 1912 until his death in 1958. Today, the architectural marvel houses an excellent collection of pre–oil boom photographs of Dubai taken in the souqs, on Dubai Creek and at traditional celebrations. There are also some insightful private images of the ruling Al Maktoum clan. Other rooms feature coins, stamps and documents dating back as far as 1791. Admission costs Dhs3 (80 cents).

The original building dates back to 1896 and was enlarged and modernised several times. Sheikh Mohammed was born here in 1949 and spent the first ten years of his life romping around the three inner courtyards flanked by 30 rooms behind richly-ornamented teak doors and lorded over by four wind towers. Head upstairs to the majlis (reception room) to enjoy nice views of Dubai Creek.

15. Dubai Marina Water Bus

For a scenic spin around the Dubai Marina, hop aboard the Water Bus , which shuttles between the Marina Walk, Marina Terrace, Marina Mall and Marina Promenade every 15 to 20 minutes. It's particularly glorious at sunset or after dark, as boats float past the show-stopping parade of shimmering towers. Nol Cards are valid, or a one-day pass costs Dhs25 ($6.80).

16. Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheef

Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheef , a rare vestige of pre-oil times, was built in 1955 as the summer retreat of Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the father of current ruler Sheikh Mohammed. The traditional two-story gypsum-and-coral structure sports a palm-frond roof, a wind tower and window shutters carved from East African timber. The rug-lined majlis (reception room) is decorated with rifles, daggers, coffee pots, radios and clocks and offers a glimpse into royal leisure living. The palm garden features a traditional falaj irrigation system. Admission costs Dhs3 (80 cents).

This article was originally published in May 2014 and was last updated in March 2021.

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This article was first published May 12, 2014 and updated Mar 29, 2021.

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11 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Dubai (BEST Activities!)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

Looking for cheap things to do in Dubai or places to visit in Dubai for free ? This guide should give you some ideas for the BEST affordable things to do in Dubai. Find out!

Dubai is a very expensive travel destination and the sky is the limit when it comes to the most extravagant things one can do in the city. But don’t despair if you are on a tight budget! There are quite some cheap activities and amazing free things to do in Dubai that will not cost you a Dirham.

In this article, you can find a short overview of the best cheap things to do and free Dubai activities .

The places included in this selection are not just budget-friendly things to do in Dubai, but they are also among the best things to do in the city! These are one-by-one top experiences that are really worth your time, whether you’re visiting Dubai on a budget or not! Take a look below!

READ ALSO: How expensive is Dubai

Here is a list of things to do in Dubai on a budget. First, you can find the best FREE things to do in Dubai, followed by very cheap activities in Dubai.

These are the best free things to do in Dubai:

1. Dubai Fountains

Located next to The Dubai Mall and at the foot of the world’s tallest building – Burj Khalifa – Dubai fountains are the most popular tourist attraction in the city. Watching the impressive musical fountains and the light show is completely FREE of charge!

Without any doubt, this is one of the top places to visit in Dubai for free!

The world’s largest dancing fountain performs daily. There are two afternoon shows starting at 1 pm, 1.30 pm, or 2 pm (depending on the day). In the evenings, there’s a show every 30 minutes from 6 pm to 11 pm.

TIP: If you want to do something special, you can also take a ride on a traditional boat to see the dancing fountains from close by. This tour is not free of charge, but it’s one of the cheapest activities in Dubai and something that many tourists consider a must-do in Dubai. We personally loved it!

2. Dubai Mall: Aquarium and Waterfall

The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. It’s home to 1200 shops, including some of the most luxurious brands. But a visit to the mall will not cost you anything (if you can resist the shops) and is certainly worth it.

You will be impressed by the sheer size of the place, the number of people, and the huge variety of shops. Don’t come here for an hour or two – you can easily spend a day or two!

There are two main Dubai Mall attractions you should not miss: The Waterfall and The Dubai Aquarium.

While the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo tickets are not cheap, you can view the gigantic aquarium free of charge from the mall itself. Very impressive!

Another great free thing to do in Dubai Mall is watching its impressive waterfall. This huge waterfall with sculptures of divers traverses all four levels of the indoor shopping center.

3. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a very lively place and, like most places in Dubai, wakes up after sunset. Dubai Marina Promenade offers some 7km of walkways, and it’s one of the most beautiful places you shouldn’t miss while in Dubai. It’s also completely free to visit!

The liveliest part of the Marina is between The Marina Walk and The Marina Mall. Most shops and restaurants are located here.

Don’t miss the dancing fountains at the entrance to the Marina Walk, right beside Dubai Marina Towers Shows. The shows take place every 20 minutes in the evenings and also during the day on the weekends.

Good to know: Weekends in Dubai start on Friday afternoon and last through Sunday (read more: Dubai facts ).

Dubai Marina is also a popular place for various events throughout the year. There are festive parades during the Christmas – New Year holiday period, music festivals, boat parades, etc… So make sure to check in advance if anything special is happening when you are there.

4. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Worth mentioning among free things to do in Dubai is also Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary . This wetland conservation territory is a great place to see flamingos and other birds in Dubai. And – it won’t cost you anything.

There’s a viewing platform where you can see flamingos. And you can also attend flamingo feeding (usually between 10 – 11 AM).

However, the best time to visit is earlier in the morning, just before the feeding. Flamingos are active and there are fewer visitors. For more info, check the official website .

5. Dubai Beaches

No visit to Dubai is complete without spending some time at the beach! The good thing is that Dubai has various free public beaches that are open and accessible to everyone.

The most popular beaches in Dubai are Marina Beach (or JBR) at The Walk and Jumeirah Beach near the famous Burj Al Arab Hotel.

While Burj Al Arab is a must to see in Dubai, as far as the beach goes, we recommend Marina Beach. It has a variety of playgrounds for kids and there are also lots of dining options on The Walk. It’s probably the most lively of the Dubai beaches.

6. Traditional Markets

For a completely different side of Dubai, make sure to visit the traditional markets – Spice Souk and Gold Souk.

Visiting local markets is always one of the best – and free – things to do anywhere you travel. It’s your chance to mingle among the locals and see all kinds of traditional merchandise that you won’t find in the shops catering to tourists. It’s also a great place to buy some cheap souvenirs to take home from Dubai.

Like everything else in Dubai, the souks come to life in the evening. Don’t forget to bargain in case you decide to buy something.

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Dubai

7. Love Lake Dubai & Al Qudra Area

Worth mentioning among the fun free things to do in Dubai is a visit to the Al Qudra area south of the city. There are some man-made lakes here that form a real oasis in the desert. It’s also a great place to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city!

One of the most famous lakes here is the heart-shaped Love Lake . You can explore the area on beautiful walkways that follow the heart-shaped lakes where you can often see various birds and colorful fish in the lake (feeding is not allowed). In addition, there are many statues of hearts in the beautiful grounds around the lake – perfect for a romantic evening in Dubai.

This place is little known to tourists and more popular with the locals. There are picnic facilities, bbq pits, board games, and bathrooms. It’s a great place to come for a romantic walk at sunset, stargazing at night, or to spend the entire day with a family.

A visit to Love Lake and the other Al Qudra lakes is free of charge. However, the area is located quite far away from the city (see map ) and you need a car (or a taxi) to get there. Luckily, taxis are cheap in Dubai, so a visit here will not cost you a fortune. Just make sure you also arrange a taxi for a ride back!

In addition to the free things to do in Dubai mentioned above and many other things to do in the city , there are also some great CHEAP things to do in Dubai. These are all activities that will not cost you more than a couple of dirhams and will make your visit to Dubai more special. Must do, whether you are visiting Dubai on a budget or not.

Following the same numbering, here are our favorite cheap activities and places to visit in Dubai:

8. Zabeel Park & Dubai Frame

Zabeel Park , probably best known for the famous Dubai Frame, is another great place to visit for those looking for cheap things to do in Dubai. This is a great area where you can explore Dubai deeper without having to spend much money. There’s just a small fee to enter (around 5 AED – 1.2 EUR) and you can easily get here by metro.

It’s a nice green park to relax or play with well-maintained paths for walking, jogging, or bicycling. Locals love to bbq here on a weekend. You can also visit the Dubai Flea Market inside the park and admire great views of Dubai Frame which looks like a huge picture frame.

TIP: The viewing platform of the Dubai Frame offers amazing 360° views of both – Old Dubai on one side and New Dubai on the other. A visit to Dubai Frame is not free of charge, but relatively cheap for Dubai standards – you can check the prices and book tickets here . Kids under 3, seniors, and some others visit free of charge.

9. Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

Dubai Museum is the main museum in the city. It’s located in the old Al Fahidi Fort in Dubai Old Town. Built in 1787, it’s also the oldest existing building in Dubai.

This is a nice little museum to visit for the whole family; it’s not one of those boring places that kids hate. Our boys of 5 and 7 enjoyed the short visit and didn’t get bored for a second! Foresee approximately 45min for a visit.

A visit here is a must-do! It’s a great opportunity to learn more about Dubai, its history, and the incredible transformation into the world metropole it became!

This is one of the best cheap things to do in Dubai! A visit to the museum only costs 3 AED (0.75 EUR) for adults and 1 AED (0.25 EUR) for children. You can find more practical information and opening times here .

Good to know: At the moment of the last update, Dubai Museum is closed for renovations. There are several other museums in the old town that are free or very cheap to visit, so walk around the area and see what’s open.

10. Dubai Creek Water Taxi Abra

Abra is the traditional water taxi on Dubai Creek and one of the fun, cheap things to do in Dubai. A single ride costs 1 AED (0.25 EUR) per person and you pay directly to the driver.

This is not a scenic tour, but a quick way to get between places located along Dubai Creek. It’s also a great way to get from the Old City to Dubai’s commercial business district in Deira where Dubai Souks (traditional markets) are located.

Hop on at the Dubai Old Souq Marine Transport Station on the South side of Dubai Creek and the boat will drop you off in Deira on the other side where you’ll find the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk.

READ ALSO: All you need to know about Dubai public transport as a tourist

11. Jumeirah Mosque

One of the most beautiful mosques of Dubai – Jumeirah Mosque – is also the only one that can be visited by non-muslims. It’s a beautiful building with an architectural style that originated in Egypt and Syria. It’s been first opened in 1979.

You can admire the beautiful architecture for free, but a visit inside requires a ticket. Kids 5-12 can visit free of charge. Kids under 5 are not allowed.

The mosque is open every day except Friday. The dress code is long sleeves and covered legs for everyone and headscarves for women. More info on the official website of the mosque .

Good to know: While you wait for your tour to start, the mosque offers some light Emirati refreshments including Arabic coffee, tea, dates, water, luqaimat, and chebab.

So, this is our short list of the very best free and cheap places to visit and things to do in Dubai.

However, no visit to Dubai would be complete without visiting some of its most remarkable landmarks or joining some amazing tours.

TIP: Even if you are visiting Dubai on a budget, Burj Khalifa is one thing you shouldn’t miss! The cheapest tickets for Burj Khalifa cost about 35-40 USD – money you won’t regret spending. After all, how often do you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building?! Alternatively, check out Dubai Sky Views Observatory . The ticket costs about half the price of that of Burj Khalifa and you can enjoy unparalleled views of Burj Khalifa itself.

READ ALSO: Best tours in Dubai

More information for your visit to Dubai:

• Best Family-friendly Activities in Dubai
• Abu Dhabi Tour from Dubai
• Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park
• What to Wear in Dubai
• Dubai Public Transport
• Dubai in February
• What to See & Do on Dubai Stopover (1-2 Days)
• Dubai Itinerary for 7 Days
• Interesting Facts About Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Monday 21st of November 2022

My wife needs a mobility scooter to get around. How disabled friendly is Dubai?

Wednesday 23rd of November 2022

Hi Brian, I really couldn't tell. It's something you only pay attention to when you need it, so we never really paid attention. In general, there are lots of flat areas (Marina, The Walk on Jumeirah Beach, etc.), so it should be fine. As for the specific attractions, you should check the official websites of the places that you want to visit for more information. Also, keep in mind that the distances in Dubai are big and so you'll need to use the metro or take taxis to get around.

Thursday 6th of January 2022

Hello Jurga, I like your list of free things to do in Dubai. I live in Dubai and Dubai beaches boasting turquoise waters are my best free thing to do in the city. I frequent the Jumeirah public beach to unwind. And the Dubai fountain is great for a first timer in Dubai. Thank you for taking your time on this. Cheers!

Saturday 8th of January 2022

Thanks for sharing your local favorites, Emmanuel.

Rudolph Furtado

Wednesday 22nd of September 2021

As a budget nomad backpacker have visited 81 countrys and almost entire India at the time of writing and found your blog extremely helpful .I am also a blogger / Vlogger and Thanks for your guidiance of a budget travel of Dunai.

Friday 24th of September 2021

Gald to help, Rudolph. Your travel experience sounds really impressive. Good luck with the blog/vlog!

Thursday 4th of March 2021

Cheap taxis in Dubai? I guess it depends on the city you are comparing it with, I find them very expensive

Hi Jazmin, for us, coming from Western Europe, Dubai taxis were very cheap. We usually paid less than 10 EUR for any place we went to (usually rides of 15-20 min). Even the taxi from the airport to JBR (over 30 min drive) was just 25 EUR/30 USD for us. I see that private airport transfers now cost about 35 USD (for 3-4 people). If you take into account the distances they cover, yes, it's very affordable compared to most destinations.

Kulwinder k Hehar

Tuesday 6th of August 2019

Hi I am going to Dubai with my friend. We are going for my birthday. Please can you let me know what kind of clothes we should for September. Thank you xx

Friday 9th of August 2019

Hi, as I already answered to the other comments in our what to wear in Dubai article, you can just wear whatever you would in other places with a similar climate. Just, in my opinion, it's wise to dress respectfully. It doesn't mean you have to cover up completely; Dubai is quite flexible and I think it just gets more and more open-minded since so many tourists come there and people get used to it. Please read the article for more details.

hungryoungwoman

Dubai on a Budget: 16 Cheap Things to do in Dubai

Last Updated on January 25, 2022 by hungryoungwoman

A trip to Dubai doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive despite it being termed as “one of the most expensive cities”. Sure, there are plenty of luxury things to do in Dubai, but what isn’t usually mentioned are the cheap things to do in Dubai which makes Dubai on a budget very easy.

Like my previous guides to Bangkok and Singapore , this Dubai budget trip plan will feature all the things you can do and experience without breaking the bank. Of course, a budget may be different for different people. What’s expensive to me might be affordable for you.

But, I try to give a general idea of how you can enjoy without having to experience luxury treatments. And you can always choose whether or not to indulge in such activities 🙂

This includes

Where to Stay in Dubai on a Budget:

The first step while planning is to pick between budget hotels in Dubai. There are numerous options to choose from depending on the area you want to stay in. I’ve written this in more detail in my guide on the best place to stay in Dubai for all budgets .

But just to give you a brief idea, here are two of my favorite Dubai budget hotels that have most of the facilities and are convenient:

• Rove Hotels: This is always my number one! Rove Hotels are a concept by Emaar properties (who manage top luxury hotels in Dubai) who wanted to tap into a wider audience by introducing a line of the best budget hotels in Dubai.

These hotels are usually located near metro stations, have fantastic staff, comfortable rooms, and are very affordable. Located near Deira City Centre, Trade Centre, Dubai Marina, Healthcare City, and The Parks. Click to see their pictures and prices now

• First Central Hotel Apartments: If you are a family traveling to Dubai and want to make your own food, these apartments have their own kitchenette and options for connecting rooms.

There is a convenience store at a walkable distance with free home delivery and a metro station just minutes away. Click here to see the current price

These are some more budget Dubai hotels meant for budget travel in Dubai:

Saffron Boutique Hotel

Star Metro Deira Hotel Apartments

Class Hotel Apartments

Armada BlueBay Hotel

5 Cheap Things to do in Dubai

There are dozens of cheap and free things to do in Dubai that it is too difficult to count or keep track of. Yes, I know there are probably more luxurious things too but unfortunately, most first-timers to Dubai are under the impression that Dubai can take a lot of your money.

Most tourists to Dubai don’t realize that only about 20% of this country is inhabited by locals and the rest are expatriates. Of which, most of them are working-class people who have a very tight budget every month. Hence, the need for things to do in Dubai on budget.

Here are the top 5 things to do in Dubai on the cheap!

• Take a food tour in Old Dubai

If you truly want to experience the real side of Dubai, I would suggest a tour and stay in Old Dubai. You’ll find lots of things to do in Dubai on a budget here. The area is charming, has the best souqs, street food, and most of the historic buildings are located there

Take a trip to Deira where you will find markets buzzing in the evening. I personally love shawarma which is originally Lebanese but also done by Indians here. You have to try both versions to know your favorite (try the Mexican shawarma that most Indian cafeterias sell if you like spicy food!) For vegetarians, go for the traditional felafel made of chickpeas.

Here’s my ultimate guide on what to eat in Old Dubai, don’t read it when you’re hungry!

Cost: Most items range from AED 5 – 10

• Shop at the old Souqs

Next, take in the souks and learn to haggle like a pro ’cause the shopkeepers might raise the price if you look very touristy! Some of the cheap things in Dubai souqs I like to buy are shawls, spices like za’atar and sumac, and dried rosebuds. I have a DIY walking tour that you can do in my itinerary for Dubai 7 days

Cost: Depends on your haggling skills 😉

• Ride an abra

An abra is a traditional boat made of wood that was used during the olden times to cross water bodies. The souks, food tour, and riding the abra can easily be done in a day as all of these are located at close proximity to each other

One way costs just AED 1 ($0.27)

• Light and water show at Festival City

The Imagine light and water show is another show you must experience after the dancing fountains at The Dubai Mall and is one of the best things to do in Dubai for free. What will be better is if you can snag a table at one of the restaurants in Dubai Festival City that have this view when the fountains start playing from 7 pm every day. There are lots of mid-range options available but can be easily booked during winter

• Explore Dubai on the metro

Visit the metro, look at the map, and pick out a stop! Yes, get random like that and you never know how much you will end of liking that particular place or street. I feel most tourists only spend time here exploring the must visit tourist attractions in Dubai and miss out on the actual culture and life that is lived by residents like me

Cost: A ride on the metro costs a maximum of AED 7.50 with the Nol card

11 Cheap Places to Visit in Dubai 

• Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

To understand more about Islam, the main religion of the UAE, you should try to tour the Jumeirah Mosque. Every day at 10 am and 2 pm, tours are held to educate tourists and residents alike about the religion

It is best to dress modestly in this situation. Ladies should have their heads covered and arms and legs not showing. Men too should hide their knees. It is similar to how you should be dressed for any religious place

Check how to appropriately dress for the mosque in FAQs about what to wear in Dubai from my Dubai Packing List

Cost: AED 25 per person. More info here

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah @ hungryoungwoman.com (@hungryoungwoman) on Nov 27, 2019 at 5:56am PST

• Take in the Burj al Arab from Kite Beach

Burj Al Arab is the sail-shaped building you would have seen on most souvenirs in Dubai. It is actually one of the most expensive hotels in Dubai and visits cannot take place without having a scheduled reservation at either the restaurants or to stay at the hotel.

However, the best way to take in AND capture the hotel is to picnic at Kite Beach. It is surely one of the most instagrammable places in Dubai so you must experience this.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah @ hungryoungwoman.com (@hungryoungwoman) on Dec 2, 2019 at 12:45am PST

I absolutely love visiting Kite Beach around the National Day here (2nd December) as they put up flags in one section of the beach. It’s so beautiful I tell you!

If you are not visiting during that time, there are plenty of options too. Activities, restaurants, or just having a swim in the waters will keep you busy for at least an evening.

Cost: Just one of the things to do for free in Dubai!

• Stroll inside the mall

No budget travel Dubai guide will tell you not to visit The Dubai Mall. Seriously, there are so many fun things to do at the mall which are pretty cheap or even free! Yes, you will have to control yourselves from shopping at their many many retail stores and stay far away from the Fashion Avenue because that’s where the top brands are and that’s exactly what will take your money away (On another note, if you really don’t mind, do take a look and window shop. But the urge to spend is real!)

The Human Waterfall runs across three floors of the mall and is hard to miss if you are walking about. The waterfall depicts human structures diving into the waters and attracts lots of tourists.

Next is the Dubai Aquarium, whether you like sea animals or not, this will surely take your breath away. I always make it a point to stop by and look even if I’m just passing by the area. Of course, you cannot get very close to the glass but there is an alternative if you want to. Get up close with the sea animals here.

The dancing fountains are pretty popular and start every from 6 pm. They are then showcased every half an hour until around 11 pm. Not only are the fountains beautiful to watch, but the view of Burj Khalifa from the spot is spectacular!

I really recommend going up the tower to be at the highest point in the world even if you want to explore Dubai in one day . It’s a bucket list item and the feeling is just amazing! Look at the tickets here.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR TO  VISIT AT THE TOP AT BURJ KHALIFA  AND SKIP THE LINE! 

Cost: Free except for going At the Top of Burj Khalifa

• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

I’ve seen a lot of pictures of celebs and influencers around flamingos in Aruba, but you can get this in Dubai too! The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is Dubai’s best kept secret. Not even most of the residents know about or have been there.

Here you can watch flamingos and other species of birds. The timings are from 9 am until 4 pm and entrance is free

• Catch the sunset at The Pointe

Visiting Dubai on a shoestring budget becomes quite easy when you have plenty of options available. The Pointe is located in Palm Jumeirah and hosts a number of retails shops and restaurants.

What’s best about the place is the beautiful view of the Atlantis from the beach. Instead of going all the way and trying to get a picture up close of the arch (it is very difficult to do that with crowds by the way!), capture the arch from a distance with the beach. I recommend this as one of the things to do in Dubai in the evening as the sky breaks up into colors which is breathtaking!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah @ hungryoungwoman.com (@hungryoungwoman) on Jun 9, 2019 at 1:13am PDT

• Learn about the traditions of Dubai

Al Fahidi Neighborhood is located in Old Dubai and is easily accessible by the metro. you can do a DIY walking tour designed by me and complete the souqs, street food tasting, and museums on one day. I recommend visiting the Dubai Museum to learn about the history of the United Arab Emirates which will give you a good picture of the past and what you now see as the present Timings are from 8.30 am until 8.30 pm in the evenings from Saturday to Thursday. On Fridays, doors open from 2.30 pm until 8.30 pm

Cost: AED 3 entrance ticket for the Dubai Museum

• Take a bus to Abu Dhabi

There are several buses that travel from Dubai to the capital. If you’re researched for an Abu Dhabi guide you will see that the first thing that comes up in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s one of my favorite places in the country as it is just so marvelous. I believe that you have to experience it in person to really appreciate it. Read this guide for more about how to travel to Abu Dhabi to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on this Dubai budget tour

Cost: AED 25 per trip

• Explore Dubai’s own Little India

If you’ve toured around Asian countries, you will notice that most countries have an area called Little India. Well, you can say that Meena Bazaar is that part of Dubai. Anything to do with Indian shopping for clothes, watches, jewelry, or wearables can be done here. There are also tiny restaurants with Indian street food that you can try as a break from shopping

Cost: Depends on what you buy!

• Street Art in La Mer

If you like street art, then head to La Mer, I love how quirky the place is with its random designs and posters that are too hard to not take a picture of! La Mer is also a cool spot to try out a new restaurant or head to the beach

• Visit the Global Village, Dubai

Winter months bring lots of activities here in Dubai. Undoubtedly the favorite place during that time is visiting the Global Village. It is an open themed carnival with stalls belonging to different countries. There are various performances, shows, things to eat, and shop. I recently wrote a full guide on things to do in Global Village which you can check for full information here

Cost: AED 15 entrance ticket

• Dubai Creek Harbour

Another place to make your Dubai trip budget affordable is Dubai Creek Harbour. From this place, you can watch the beautiful skyline of Dubai which is not visible from many places here.

Dubai First-Timers

If you are traveling to Dubai for the first time, there are some things you should know about the United Arab Emirates. Located in the Middle East and sharing borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country but allows for diversity and respects all religions.

Keeping in line with the rules of the religion, the UAE is a modest country hence no PDA and using foul language in public is illegal.

There are a number of things you should know before visiting the city especially visiting Dubai during Ramadan which falls once a year and is a religious month.

Apart from that, there are guides I have written about the best season to visit Dubai and activities to do along with Dubai packing list which will make Dubai on budget relatively easy.

Dubai Budget Tour Packages

If your budget is a little high and you can allow for spending for a few activities, I suggest checking out the following Dubai Budget Tours. Clicking on each will give you more information about each activity:

Want to read more about Dubai? Click here to know everything!

Until then, happy traveling! xx

P.S. If you want to save and read later, then here are some pinnable versions 🙂

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7 thoughts on “ Dubai on a Budget: 16 Cheap Things to do in Dubai ”

Great post 🙂

I was in Dubai a couple years ago and wow I wish I’d had this guide then. Great list of ideas on budget things to do there!

You know where to head next time you’re coming here then 😉

Wow. Literally using this list next time im in Dubai! Thanks!!!!

Glad to help 🙂

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Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

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15 Top Places To Visit In Dubai On A Budget (Under 200 AED)

Table of Contents

If traveling is the food for your soul and budget traveling is just what the doctor has prescribed for you, then come and visit Dubai. Explore the best of the places in Dubai on a shoestring budget. Here is how to save money in Dubai as a tourist. Read on to know more. Simply fantastic!

15 Top Places To Visit In Dubai On Budget (Under 200 AED)

1. jumeirah mosque.

This attractive and monumental model is one of the top Dubai attractions that heartily welcomes non-Muslims too. Visit this mosque during the early evening hours for the best experiences.

• Entry Fee: FREE!
• Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Daily. Guided tours from 10:00 am except Friday

2. Zabeel Park

This massive park is equivalent to the size of 45 football grounds and features numerous species of trees plants and flowers. Get the best of flora experiences here.

• Entry Fee: Free! But there is an entry fee for the attraction inside the park, Dubai Frame: AED 50 (Adult) AED 2 (Child – 3 to 12 years). Entry is free for a child below the age of 3 and senior citizens
• Timings: Sunday to Wednesday from 8:00 am – 10:00 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 8:00 am – 11:00 pm

3. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Get amazed in the underwater tunnel of the most exotic places to visit in Dubai on budget. Make an eye-to-eye bond with the sharks, electric rays, and feel the astonishment.

• Entry Fee: Starting from AED 145 only
• Timings: 10:00am to 12:00am daily

4. The Dubai Fountain

Witness the remarkable fountain dance with glittering lights and energetic sound of splashing water at the Dubai Fountain. Whether you are visiting Dubai on a budget or not, this is a not-to-be-missed experience.

• Entry Fee: AED 20 per person
• Timings: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm Daily

5. Coffee Museum Dubai

Inhale the aroma of coffee in the very air of this place. This museum is a dedication to authentic coffee explorers. Get the taste of freshly roasted historic drinks here.

• Entry: FREE!
• Timings: Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Friday- closed

6. Dubai Dolphinarium

Watch the live dance of Dolphins, and get a glimpse of their innocent acts, also watch them playing with the balls. Adorable isn’t it?

• Entry Fee:  AED 30 for tourists, AED 5 for UAE residents
• Timings: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am – 7:30 pm, Sunday-closed

7. Bollywood Parks Dubai

This Bollywood themed park will entertain your family with many rides, stunt shows, performances, songs, dance and a lot more.

• Entry Fee: AED 99 for everyone and free for children below the age of 3
• Timings: 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily

8. Dubai Spice Souk

This traditional market is filled with the scent of the finest spices that are used to prepare mouth-watering dishes. Take back home an assortment of these as it’s a total value-for-money.

• Timings: Saturday to Thursday from 10:00am – 10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm – 10:00pm

9. Dubai Miracle Garden

The miracle garden in Dubai is a concoction of varied colorful flowers and tall green trees. As you enter the largest man-made gardens on the globe, your lungs fill with the sweet fragrances in the air. 

• Entry Fee: AED 40 (adults), AED 30 (children aged between 3 and 12), free (kids below 2 years)
• Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am – 11:00 pm

10. Ski Dubai

Play in the frosty snow and watch the show of naive and lovable penguins. This is a must-visit place, especially if you are holidaying in Dubai on a budget with kids and family.

• Entry Fee: Starting from AED 179
• Timings: Sunday to Wednesday from 10:00am – 11:00pm, Thursday from 10:00am – 12:00am and Friday from 9:00am – 12:00am

11. Lego land Dubai

This Lego-themed park is the perfect place to go in Dubai on budget with kids. Prepare for a day full of entertainment, games, and sheer fun.

• Entry Fee: AED 155 (adults). Free Entry for children aged 3-12 on their birth date and free entry for children below 2 years
• Timings: Saturday to Wednesday from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

12. Global Village Dubai

The one-stop destination for shopping enthusiasts, food buffs, entertainment seekers, and a lot more. Relish local delicacies on the go.

• Entry Fee: AED 15
• Timings: Saturday to Wednesday from 4:00 pm – 12:00 am, Thursday and Friday from 4:00 pm-1:00 am

13. Jumeirah Public Beach

Walk on the white sandy beach and admire the colored canvas of the sky in the evening with your loved one. All this along with the authentic taste of Middle Eastern delicacies at the local restaurants by the beach.

• Timings: Monday is only children and women from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7:30 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday and Friday 7:30 am – 11:00 AM

14. Dubai Mall

Quench your shopping cravings at the Dubai Mall. The place is filled with numerous shopping outlets, so get the best of the retail experiences here. An ideal spot for window shopping at its best!

• Entry Fee: Free!
• Timings: Every day 10 am – 12 am

15. Diera Perfume Souk

This is the one-stop destination for all the perfume and fragrance lovers and surely one of the priceless places to visit in Dubai on a budget trip. Buy souvenirs and take the bag of happiness home.

• Timings: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm daily

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How to travel in Dubai on a budget (Updated 2024)

By Joan Torres 22 Comments Last updated on April 29, 2024

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Dubai is probably the most expensive and least backpacking-friendly country I have ever been to . Accommodation, food, alcohol and any sort of activity always turn out to be very expensive. On top of this, public transportation is quite limited, therefore on occasions, you are forced to take a taxi.

Besides that, whereas in other expensive cities (such as London or New York), you can always find a cheaper alternative and free events, in Dubai it seems that only the expensive choice is available. For any kind of social event, you always end up paying an exorbitant amount.

And why is that? In Dubai, people have money. All these events are exclusively organized for expats and these expats, are willing to pay whatever is needed in order to enjoy a couple of beers and have fun. They don’t care because they can afford it.

Read: 10 Reasons to visit Dubai

Yeah, backpacking in Dubai on a budget is not easy. This is not a coincidence. Sheikh Mohamed has a very clear objective, which is for  Dubai to become the number one destination in the world for luxury tourism .

However, whereas it’s true that, in order to enjoy fancy Dubai, you need to spend a lot of money, there are loads of free activities and ways to save money. I lived in Dubai for over two years and, as the budget traveler I am, I was always trying to have fun at the minimum cost.

In this backpacking guide to Dubai you find:

Table of Contents

• First quick tips
• Top free things to do
• Cheapest accommodation
• How to save money on food
• How to save money on alcohol
• How to save money on transportation
• How much does a trip to Dubai cost?
• More Information

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With its Total Comfort Plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for countries where health care system is private and expensive, like Dubai.

First quick tips on how to have your cheap holidays to Dubai

In Dubai, activities and events are pretty expensive. Here’s a couple of tips that will help you cut your costs when planning your trip to Dubai.

Remember that, in Dubai, health care is private

If you want to know more options, read how to find the right travel insurance

Get The Entertainer

The Entertainer is an endless series of discounts for hundreds of restaurants, bars and all sorts of activities, which all expats have.

Most of the discounts are 2 for 1 and it is valid for 1 year, from January to December. If you bought it in June, it will be only valid for six months. It’s available in book format and for mobile as well.

If you are alone and plan to stay in Dubai  for just a few days , it may not be worth it to get it. However, if you have friends to share the cost with or you are planning to stay longer, with only going one night out or to do any activity with your kids, you will already cover the cost.

I would never recommend something which I would not trust or use and the truth is that The Entertainer was an essential tool that helped me cut my budget for Dubai after living there for 3 years.

Budget Tours

If you want to get the most budget tours, I recommend you book them through GetYourGuide , a pretty cool website that offers loads of different deals and tours to Dubai at the lowest possible prices. 

Useful Page events

In order to find out about all the events and free activities, I recommend you to check  Time Out Dubai   and  What’s On Dubai regularly.

They announce all cheap and free events.

Top free things to do in Dubai

This Middle Eastern metropolis is not just about massive shopping malls and expensive and glamorous events but, actually, there’s a lot of cheap things to do in Dubai that are very related and aim at experiencing the authentic Emirati culture. 

Camel racing

One of the few things you can do in Dubai to experience the authentic and real Emirati culture. Camels can run very fast and attend a race is frankly impressive. These races usually take place on Fridays from 6am to 8am, but only from November to March. Where?

In the Dubai Camel Racing Club . This is, definitely, on my top list of free things to do in Dubai.

Deira Gold Souq 

If you like gold, apparently, the Deira Gold souq sells some of the cheapest gold-jewelry in the world. However, even if you’re not into gold, strolling down the alleys in search of good picture opportunities is also a lot of fun.

At the Deira Gold Souq, you can also find a store window containing the biggest ring in the world and be seeing dozens of tourists posing for a picture in front of it is an attraction by itself.

Read: How to go backpacking in Oman on a budget

Hindu temple (Shiva and Krishna Mandir)

Although Dubai has a huge Hindu population, Shiva and Krishna Mandir is the only Hindu temple in the city.

The best time to visit it is on Fridays around noon when all the Hindus go there to bring offerings to their gods. It’s located in the heart of Bastakiya, the old part of Dubai.

Street wrestling

One of my favorite ones. This modality of street wrestling is very popular in Iran , Pakistan , and India. On Friday afternoons, the Indian and Pakistani workers, meet and go to enjoy it in the streets of Deira, near the fish market.

The event is not about the fight itself but the atmosphere, really far away from the glitzy and pretentious Dubai.

Read: Saudi Arabia travel guide

Crossing the Creek on a boat 

Pay only one Dirham and enjoy a fabulous ride in the abra, the traditional water taxi to cross the atmospheric Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira on the opposite side. The quaint old wooden boat has a fishtail carved out of wood.

Horse racing in Meydan

One of the best free things to do in Dubai is going to see a horse race, the national sport and also Sheik Mohamed’s favorite. It’s completely free. It takes place on Thursdays at 7pm, from November to March.

A spectacle is guaranteed, and not only because of the horses, but also because of all the different types of people who come and gather.

The general entrance ticket is for free but you can also book more premium seats which allow you access to the bar and restaurant.

For more information, check out the official website .

Walking around Souq Madinat

A traditional Arab souq from the 21st century and built in a fancy Dubai style. There are fountains containing giant turtles and you get to see fantastic views of the Burj Al-Arab.

The Souq Madinat is also a great place to hang out in the evenings, as there is a wide range of bars and restaurants serving alcohol. However, they are quite pricey so you should better come here with The Entertainer .

Wandering around Al Bastakiya

Bastakiya is the old part of the city, which was destroyed during the 80s to build an office complex.

However, thanks to a preservation campaign, the project was stopped and the houses restored. Nowadays, traditional Arab Gulf buildings and homes stand along its streets.

In Bastakiya, you can also find the Dubai Museum which, for only 3 Dirhams, it gives you a great summary of the UAE’s history, from before the black gold times. It also gives you a glimpse of future innovative city projects.

Deira fish market

Update: It’s definitely closed!  If you like walking around markets, Deira fish market is, without a doubt, the most authentic one in the city. And it’s not only interesting to visit, but also sells the cheapest fish in town. It’s a real shame that they closed this market, as it used to be one of the best cheap things to do in Dubai.

Dubai Marina and its skyscrapers

Dubai is about skyscrapers and the good thing is that they are impressive and free to see. The marina is around 8km long, with fancy yachts moored all along the waterfront.

On each side of the marina, there is a mosque (just one has been built so far) which is also worth seeing.

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is a small but beautiful mosque which non-Muslim people can visit and the only cultural site to visit in the new part of the city.

The walk and beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence

By the beach, the area next to Dubai Marina is called Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). It’s sort of a promenade trying to imitate the one in Santa Monica.

There are camels, the beach, clean toilets and free wifi. What else do you need? The Walk is one of the best things to do in Dubai on a budget.

The bottom of Burj Khalifa

What? This is one of the best cheap places to visit in Dubai, right? At 823 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the highest building on Earth and observing it from the bottom is completely free.

Besides, there is a fountain show which takes place every half hour from 6pm on, every day of the year.

Backpacking in Dubai: Best accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers

Land prices in Dubai have massively increased over the past few years. Nowadays, it seems that this has stabilized, however, prices are almost equal to those in Tokyo and London.

If you really want to travel in Dubai on a budget, here’s the best and cheapest suggestions for both backpackers and budget travelers.

Important: In summer, hotel prices tend to decrease drastically. That’s because, in summer, the weather is so hot that many events and activities are temporarily closed. Traveling during this season is way more economical but, to be very honest, it’s not very recommendable. 

Budget Hostel – At The Top Hostel – If you are backpacking in Dubai, this is probably, the best budget option for budget travelers. It’s located right next to where I used to live, in front of the beach, at the most Western-friendly neighborhood in the city (Marina). The hostel is a 66th-floor apartment and it offers several dorms.

Budget Hostel – Backpacker 16 Hostel – This one is cheaper than the previous hostel but the location is not as epic. However, the position is not as bad, as it’s located in Tecom, a neighborhood which is pretty well connected to the metro and just 15 minutes driving from Marina.

Budget Hostel – Backpackers Hostel   – This was the first backpacker’s hostel ever in Dubai. It’s located in Al Karama, home to a large Indian community and where you find the cheapest restaurants in the country. It’s also very close to Old Dubai and Deira. The only disadvantage is that it’s really far away from the cool expat areas but, if your objective is to experience the authentic Dubai, this should be your preferred choice.

Backpacker Hostel –   Backpacker Tina  – Budget hostels are slowly being opened all across the city and, in Marina, Tina is the most budget one. Like most buildings here, everything is great, brand-new and the building has all kind of facilities, including a gym and a pool! If you are a backpacker, this is the best hostel to stay in Dubai .

Couchsurfing

If you are backpacking in Dubai, here the Couchsurfing community is pretty active and finding a couch to surf is feasible. Besides, many events are organized.

Dubai on a budget: How to save money on food

In Dubai, the price of a meal varies significantly among restaurants across the city. One day, you may eat an amazing and filling Vietnamese soup for only $5, and the next day you can end up eating a shitty sandwich and pay more than $30.

What do you need to avoid?

If you really want to travel in Dubai on the cheap, forget about eating in hotels and restaurants where they serve alcohol. They can charge you double just because you can order a beer along with your meal. At the average night pub, a burger can easily cost you around 90AED ($25).

If on top of this you also order a beer, then you’ll end up paying a minimum of $35 for a crappy dinner. So, how to save money on food?

First, remember to get The Entertainer

As I said before, The Entertainer offers 2×1 in most Dubai restaurants, including the ones located in expensive hotels. 

Eat at mall food courts

I know, they don’t serve the best food ever, but many stalls offer reasonably good meals for as little as 25AED. Food is very varied, from Italian to Lebanese, Indian and Oriental.

The best quality-price restaurants

Outside of hotels, JBR and downtown, there are plenty of high-quality restaurants offering good quality meals for only 50-60 AED (around 15USD). Dubai is a city composed of hundreds of thousands of expatriates from all parts of the world.

That means there are also hundreds of restaurants with all types of authentic cuisine. Here’s a list of awesome (and cheap) restaurants which I compiled:  Best (and cheapest) restaurants where the expats go .

Cook at home

If your accommodation has a kitchen, I suggest you buy groceries in the supermarket and cook at home. LULU Hypermarket is the one with the lowest prices. Apart from groceries, they also sell ready to eat meals cheaply.

There’s a LULU in All Barsha, right next to Mall of the Emirates. Other LULUs are in Bur Dubai or Deira. Carrefour is the alternative to LULU. Prices are slightly higher, but the range is larger. There is a huge Carrefour inside Mall of the Emirates. This would be the best way to bring costs down and keep your trip to Dubai on a budget.

Read: A guide to Liwa Oasis and the Moreeb dune in Abu Dhabi

Backpacking in Dubai: How to save money on alcohol

Dubai is a very conservative, Muslim country, therefore alcohol taxes are fairly high. On average, you pay 40AED ($12) for a pint of beer in the most normal bar. Yes, getting drunk in this city is expensive, and getting wasted even more. How to save money on alcohol?

Download Guzzle App

Guzzle is a mobile application which provides 2 for 1 offers on beverages in a large number of restaurants. You can download and use the app for free. They also offer a premium version, which merely gives you a higher number of discounts

Get the best out of the happy hour

Most of the bars in Dubai push for happy hour from Sunday to Thursday, from 5pm to 8pm. Some of the bars offering good deals are Tribeca (Ocean View Hotel), Barasti (Westin Hotel) and Garden 7 (Media One Hotel).

Ladies night

If you are a girl, then this might be your lucky day because loads of bars give away drinks to all girls. Tuesday is the most popular day for Ladies night. The most famous one is China Grill (Westin Hotel). Girls have open-bar all night long. For free. Promise.

Go for a Brunch

If your objective is to get smashed, I definitely recommend you go for a brunch. What’s going for a brunch? For many expats, Friday brunch is sort of a ritual. It consists of all you can drink and eat from 12 noon to 4 pm. There’s no alcohol limit.

Prices range from 150AED to 800AED. The Entertainer   offers 2 for 1 on many of them. If you don’t have it, some of the cheapest and most popular brunches are Pizza Express (Movenpick, JLT) and Double Deckers (Al Murooj Rotana, Downtown).

Buy alcohol at the airport

It seems pretty obvious but the truth is that, in Dubai, you can’t buy alcohol unless you are a resident and have an alcohol license. As soon as you land, go to the airport duty-free, and stock-up on alcohol.

Trip to Barracuda

If you run out of duty-free alcohol, only 60km from Dubai, there’s a liquor store named Barracuda where you can buy alcohol without a license. The downside is that you can only get there by car. If you are renting one, great.

Otherwise, remember to buy enough at the airport. How to get there? It’s located in the Emirate called Ajman. Google maps finds it as  Barracuda Wine Shop, Ajman .

Budget Dubai: How to save money on transportation

If you were to ever ask me what’s the thing I hate most about Dubai, I would say that it’s a city built to move around in exclusively by car. It’s a vast city with a very low population density. Distances are huge.

The area of the city is a perfect 40x40km square and there’s only one metro line that goes through it in a straight line. The bus system is not convenient at all. If you can’t reach a place by metro, you need to go by car. Below, I will show you the cheapest way to travel in Dubai.

The cheapest option. Don’t buy single tickets. Ask for a NOL card at the counter. It costs 20AED, but it comes with 15AED of extra credit. A short trip costs 3AED, whereas the longest one costs 8AED.

The metro is convenient only if you go to the main touristic sites: Marina, Burj Khalifa, Deira or Bur Dubai. If you wish to go anywhere which isn’t close to the metro, I recommend you get as close as possible by metro and take a taxi from there.

Renting a car

Honestly, if you are traveling with other people, you should hire a car 100%.

Gas is cheap and outside of Dubai, there are loads of interesting things to do which are accessible only by car. 

The public bus is not convenient at all, except for one line: line number 8.

It goes parallel to the metro from Marina to Bur Dubai but by the sea. It passes by interesting places such as Souq Madinat, Burj Al-Arab and Kite Beach.

Read: 101 simple ways to save money for travel

Conclusion – How much does a trip to Dubai cost?

Given the huge range of prices, it would be very difficult to estimate an average daily price. However, assuming that you travel by yourself, stay in a budget hostel, travel by metro and eat and drink on a budget, the cost of traveling to Dubai would be:

265 AED = $70 a day

Accommodation – Budget dorm: 100AED

• Breakfast at the hostel
• Lunch at the mall (Entertainer 2×1): 15AED
• Dinner at an Indian restaurant (Entertainer 2×1):  50AED

Beers – 2 happy hour:  40AED

• 4 metro trips:   20AED
• Round trip taxi to go to see the horse races:  40AED

Activities – Only free stuff

More useful information for backpacking in Dubai

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

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• Dubai off the beaten track
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• VPN for Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary
• Best Desert Safaris in Dubai
• Best tours, excursions and activities to do in Dubai
• Travel Guide to Liwa Oasis and the Moreeb dune

22 comments

I loved reading through your article. It was very informative and I got a lot of great tips! Knowing how it’s possible to enjoy Dubai in a budget will certainly attract a lot of travelers!

Hey Agness, thanks for your comment. Yes, the city keeps being not that cheap but there are many things other than luxury and super expensive things! I wish backpackers would travel more to Dubai!

I’m so delighted and found this post worth a read. Dubai is a pleasure for all but these are some must visit

Hi, thanks for your comment. Note that I removed your link, as this is not a place to advertise. If you want to include a link, put it in the ”website” field before commenting

Thank you for sharing your beautiful story and some thoughts of Dubai, very detailed and well written! I would like to commend the Author of this Blog for sharing us an interesting idea. Keep it up a good job!!

Thank you so much for the article as I will be traveling to Dubai next Friday, October 23rd. I will be staying downtown @ The Sheraton Dubai Grand but I got a really good deal as part of the Sheraton rewards program. I have already planned out my activities and when I tallied up my daily expenses it came up to around 30to 50 dollars a day. Great tips and yes I agree hopefully people will realize that it is possible to see Dubai without breaking the bank!!!

Cheers mate! I hope you enjoy Dubai!

I loved reading through your article. These are all what it means to travel. Beautiful adventures I could only dream of.

Thanks for sharing this amazing article here. Just love it. I’m also planning to visit Dubai this year with family hope all these mentioned tips and guide helps me.

Dubai is one of my most favourite places to visit and I am really glad to read all the details given in this article which I wasn’t aware of. Thanks!

Hi there, First of all, this is great because I found Dubai to be the single most expensive place I have ever been period and your comments on alcohol are spot on. You mention you lived in Dubai – for how long and most importantly did you enjoy Dubai? I was really disappointed, it reminded me of Vegas in the Middle East. This said I have friends that flock there year after year. Thoughts? Nikki

Classic post to share, We are planning to visit Dubai and I just shared your post with my friends to see all the things that what we can do in Dubai within our budget. I love the idea about how we can save money with our food expenses and alcohol. Please keep sharing more stuff and if you have already posted something related to Dubai share the link with us.

I was planning for Dubai and I found it to be relatively expensive. But, some of these are really underrated things we can do and that’s for free. Great information, keep sharing.

Hey Joan, I enjoyed reading your post. Yes, anyone can visit Dubai and enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. Despite its reputation as a glamorous and expensive city, Dubai has a lot to offer budget for travellers as well.

Great blog post! I am planning to travel to Dubai this summer and I am going to follow your mentioned tips and places to make the trip successful. I am going to follow the estimated daily cost of $70 in my mind. Keep sharing content like this!

Best Regards,

Thanx for the tips you gave am actually planning to relocate to dubai from Lagos Nigeria in march ,my hubby works in dubai but the problem there is the expensive accommodation

Thank you for this amazing article. You did not mention Airbnb, is that an option you recommend for accommodation in Dubai?

Thank you very much!

Thanks so helpful and interesting! I really like the idea of walking and actually making that the activity, something in London we don’t appreciate.

hi joan, nice article there ! i don’t know if i can afford a trip there, but you gave me some indications… yet you did not mention the theme parks….i wish to take my child there, but prices are huge…at almost 100 euros per person ! any tips for that ?

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THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

Best budget-friendly things to do in dubai.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Dubai Fountain

2. Dubai Miracle Garden

3. Dubai Creek

4. The View Palm Jumeirah

5. Global Village

6. Jumeirah Mosque

7. Dubai Frame

8. Bur Dubai Abra Station

10. Dubai Marina

11. Dubai Crocodile Park

12. Kite Beach

13. Ibn Battuta Mall

14. Jumeirah Public Beach

15. illusion City Dubai

16. AquaFun

17. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple

18. Marina Beach

19. Al Mamzar Beach Park

20. Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

21. Dubai Festival City Mall

22. Quranic Park

23. Al Seef

24. Dubai Tram

25. The Green Planet

26. Sheikh Zayed Road

27. Dubai Dolphinarium

28. Bastakia Quarter

29. Al Qudra Cycle Path

30. Dubai Ferry

What travellers are saying

10 Things to Do in Dubai on a Small Budget

What are the cheap things to do in dubai.

Dubai is often characterized by its extravagance, but you'll still find a variety of activities to enjoy even when traveling on a budget. You'll find numerous parks and other public places that are completely free to access while still offering unique and memorable experiences.

Even if you're splurging on certain parts of your vacation, it's still best to try to keep your budget under control when traveling, so there's always a benefit to enjoying places like this apart from their inherent attraction. Check out some of the best things to do in Dubai on a small budget.

The Dubai Fountain

See a choreographed fountain system.

The Dubai Fountain is a stunning fountain with a system of fountains and lights designed to work together to create a spectacular show accompanied by music. The fountain is located within Burj Khalifa Lake, which stretches for 12 hectares.

The lighting system in the fountain is quite advanced, with 50 color projectors and 6,600 lights. The water from the fountain shoots up to 500 feet in the air. It's accompanied by a wide range of music from classical to contemporary Arabic. You'll find it in the city centre at the foot of the Burj Khalifa tower.

Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd - Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Phone: +971 4 567 2030

Zabeel Park

Check out a vibrant park.

Zabeel Park is a lovely urban park that covers a large space and offers numerous walking paths and entrance gates for your convenience. In addition to the well-kept walking paths, you'll also find pedestrian bridges and different sections to explore.

When you visit this park, which is fairly affordable to access, you can enjoy a variety of activities besides simply walking. You'll also find live music performances here, as well as a skatepark and miniature cricket pitch. See it for yourself just northeast of the Trade Center.

Location: Zabeel Neighborhood, Near Al Jafiliya Metro Station - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Open: Sunday–Wednesday from 8 am to 10 pm, Thursday–Saturday from 8 am to 11 pm

Phone: +971 50 725 2994

10 Best Beach Clubs in Dubai

10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Dubai

10 Best Family Things to Do in Dubai

Dubai creek, find fun around a natural creek.

Dubai Creek is a fun waterway that's home to a variety of things to do along its banks and in the water itself. Around the edges you'll find several stunning restaurants, but if you're not looking to spend anything, you can just enjoy the stunning views along the walkways.

No trip to the creek would be complete without an abra ride. The fee is one of the cheapest you'll find among the city's attractions, and you can journey across the water to the features on the other side. It's located east of the city centre and west of Dubai Festival City.

Location: Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Jumeirah Public Beach

Enjoy a strip of public sand.

Jumeirah Public Beach is a popular beach that lets you enjoy fun on golden sands as well as in the welcoming turquoise waters of the gulf. The whole family can find fun here as well, thanks to the children's playground area.

You'll find plenty to do at this beach, which is open from the early morning to well after sundown. Just make sure you avoid visiting during the afternoon if you're trying to avoid the crowds. You'll find it north of Umm Suqeim 3, which is southwest of the city centre.

Location: Jumeirah - Jumeirah 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Museum

Explore local history.

The Dubai Museum is a popular museum housed in an old building that contains numerous artifacts of local history from long before the discovery of oil in Dubai. It's located in Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest building in the city dating back to 1787. The museum itself opened in 1971.

Inside, you'll find a wealth of knowledge and artifacts, with some dating back as far as 3000 BCE. You'll find old musical instruments and mannequin displays showcasing historic food stalls and pearl merchants. You'll find it in the Al Fahidi district north of the city centre.

Location: Al Fahidi Fort - Al Fahidi - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Phone: +971 800 33222

Global Village

Visit an international shopping destination.

Global Village is a massive shopping and entertainment destination with cultures from 90 countries on display that you can visit for free. Even if you don't plan on buying anything at the shops here, just seeing the wide variety of cultures is a great activity to do on a budget.

The village is organized into 4 main sections including events, carnivals, food and shopping. While some of the shops here can be quite costly, that's not the case for all of them, so you can still stay on budget. Global Village is a few miles south of the city centre near Majan.

Location: Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road - Exit 37 - E311 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Open: Sunday–Wednesday from 4 pm to midnight, Thursday–Saturday from 4 pm to 1 am

Phone: +971 4 362 4114

Enjoy sights and smells

Spice Souk is a legendary market that offers a variety of spices, recipes and flavors that delight the senses and are fairly affordable. You'll find a diverse array of items available with Arabic spices being only the beginning of everything it has to offer.

In this market, you'll find spices from all over the world, though most come from the local subcontinent. Nuts and oils are also available, so you'll find everything you need to bring out the stunning taste of your recipes. Enjoy the aroma in Al Ras across the river north of the city centre.

Location: 41 34th St - Deira - Al Ras - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Open: Daily from 9 am to 11 pm

Phone: +971 50 222 3627

Dubai Marina

Visit an artificial canal city.

Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city that was created in 2003 and offers stunning and impressive views along with plenty of walks and beaches. Lots of shops and restaurants are available along the marina, with some that are friendly for budget-conscious travelers.

Visiting this marina lets you explore a marvel of engineering that even the wildlife seems to appreciate. Despite the canal being artificial, whales are often seen in the water after entering from the open sea nearby. It's located south of the city centre along the coast.

Marina Beach

Find fun at a beach.

Marina Beach is a freely accessible beach where you'll find golden sands and a relaxing atmosphere among what is normally reserved for upper-class living. This beach is a part of Dubai Marina, so it's surrounded by high-end resorts and shops.

The beach is free to access and open to the public, so you can visit while on a budget without a problem. Plus, some of the food stands around the beach let you enjoy a quick bite without breaking the bank. You'll find it on the western end of the marina far southwest of the city centre.

Location: Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Enjoy outdoor fun

Al Qudra is a collection of lakes among a desert oasis where you'll find various outdoor adventures with stunning views and diverse wildlife. If you're looking to get active, you can go on hikes and boat rides through the water and its surrounding natural neighborhoods.

Quite a few bird species call this area home, with about 170 different species being visible including flamingos, geese and swans. Desert foxes are also common here. You'll find Al Qudra about 45 minutes south of the city centre by automobile.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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• The budget traveller's guide to Dubai

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The budget traveller's guide to Dubai

Thu, April 6, 2023

From flights to attractions, here's how you can save big on a week-long holiday and experience the city's best for just AED6,000.

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Flights for aed2,400, hotels for aed1,500, transport for aed600, food for aed700, sights and attractions for aed800.

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16 Cheap Things to Do in Dubai in 3 Days

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » 16 Cheap Things to Do in Dubai in 3 Days

While Dubai is certainly not a cheap city, we’ve called on a local guest author who is sharing her top money-saving tips for visiting Dubai on a budget. She has created a 3-day itinerary including costs and local advice that most tourists don’t know. This article has everything you need to plan a holiday in Dubai, even if you’re traveling on a small budget!

Written by Guest Author: Sarah from Hungryoungwoman

Dubai is synonymous with luxury and high-end travel. But what if we told you that you can visit to this modern city without breaking the bank?

We only had a mere 10-hour layover in Dubai, but we found a handful of free and cheap things to do in this notoriously expensive city. And we’d love to return someday for a longer holiday in Dubai.

We’ve called on a guest author who calls this city home to share some of her top money-saving tips for traveling to Dubai on a budget. She’s also sharing some useful local advice most tourists don’t know.

Having grown up in this famous city in the U.A.E., I can show you some nifty tips that will help you travel to Dubai on a budget. 

I’ve broken down how to spend 3 unforgettable days in Dubai, packed with local hot spots and cheap things to do, so you can stick to your travel budget while still having an amazing time in this city.

And don’t worry, you won’t be missing out by following this itinerary. You can still see the world’s tallest building and the largest shopping mall, but you will leave with a happy wallet!

Day 1: Markets, Museums and Traditional Food in Deira

Deira is an area that still retains part of what life used to be during the olden time for the Arabs.

Spice, perfumes, oils, and textiles are traded in the Souks and the neighborhood has preserved what the homes of the traditional Arabs used to look like.

As a resident here, I’d recommend you start your 3 days in Dubai exploring this area. 

Explore The Waterfront Market

Image by @l.i.l.i.b.e.l.l on Instagram

Your first day starts with learning more about the country and its past. Situated near the Creek, Deira used to have a large fish market where the local fishermen would sell their catch of the day.  

The fish market has now moved to the Dubai Waterfront Market , which is air conditioned and well maintained. If you like seafood, you can purchase it fresh and have it cooked right in front of you.

Cost: Free!

Shopping at the Deira Spice Souq

Also known as the “Old Souq”, this is a huge market that sells all kinds of spices, oils, perfumes, and teas.

Make sure you start early so make it to the markets before the crowds come in. And if you get there early, you can witness the Old Souq during its peaceful hours, which is definitely a sight to be seen. It is quite the opposite of what you may have researched beforehand.

Walk along the stalls and chat with the friendly owners that will tell you about each ingredient and where it originates. The goods are sold by weight and the stall owners expect you to haggle, so be sure to do so to get a good deal for your purchase. 

Recommended items to buy: Zaatar (Arabic spice that tastes similar to crushed thyme) and dates

Cost: Free to wander, but it’s a good idea to budget a bit of money if you want to purchase a souvenir.

Enjoy an Arabic Lunch

If you are looking for lunch, there are a lot of spots nearby where you can grab a bite to eat. 

To experience a taste of Arabic food with a breathtaking view of the Creek, visit Bayt Al Wakeel .

This venue is quite popular, so visit early if you want to get a seat near the water.

Recommended dishes to order: Cold Mezze and Arabic bread

Related Reading: Have just 24 hours in Dubai? Check out this guide to 1 day in Dubai .

Ride the Abra across the creek

After your meal, take a stroll down the Souq and take a ride on the Abra (water taxi).

The Abra, or dhow, is a boat that was used as mode of transport to cross waters in earlier times. It sails on the creek, which was once a great pearl-diving port. Now, it is more of a tourist attraction that lures foreigners and residents alike.  

Cost: AED 1 or $0.27 per trip

Tour the Coffee Museum

Showcasing a range of coffee making techniques and gadgets that are every coffee connoisseur’s dream, the Coffee Museum is free to enter.

There is also a quaint café located in the premises where you can try beans from all over the world. The whole experience is very informative and interesting for coffee lovers like me.

How to get there: Located at Heritage Village, Al Bastakhiya, the Coffee Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except Fridays.

Learn about culture at the Dubai Museum

Just a 5-minute walk from the Coffee Museum, you’ll find the Dubai Museum. It was previously a fort that was used to store weapons but was later transformed into a museum. It is one of the oldest structures in the city that is still standing.

I remember visiting this place as part of one of my school excursions, which was to help educate us about the culture and history of the U.A.E. Learning about the past of the country is truly fascinating when you see how much it has developed now.

You’ll see models of traditional clothing, which can help illustrate an important piece of culture.

Good to know: The traditional clothing of men is an ankle-length shirt that is usually white in color, but also worn in different colors. This is called a “kandura”. The women are dressed in a black garment called “abaya”, and cover their heads with scarf, known as “sheila”.

The galleries display a glimpse of how the Arabs lived before the country was developed. Their houses, souks, and date farms are a surprising contrast to how U.A.E. is today.

Cost: Tickets are AED 3 or $0.82 for adults and AED 1 or $0.27 for children less than 6 years of age. The museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays to Thursdays, and 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays.

Relax with food and a cuppa at the Arabian Tea House

End your first day in Dubai with dinner in the neighborhood in a cute restaurant called the Arabian Tea House where you can experience authentic Emirati fare. Be sure to end your meal with Karak Tea and Lugaimat!

Cost: Approximately AED 210 or $57.17 for two people  

Related Reading: Traveling in Dubai with kids

Day 2: Religion and Lifestyle in Jumeirah  

Your second day will be spent exploring the lifestyle of the modern Arabs in the U.A.E.

Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

The religion practiced by the Arabs in the U.A.E. is Islam, and the prayers are held in mosques.

Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque open to the public in Dubai. Visit the mosque on a guided tour to learn more about the Emirati religion and their traditions.

Important note: Be sure to dress modestly before entering the mosque (known as “masjid” in Arabic). Even though it is quite hot in Dubai, be sure your clothing covers your knees and shoulders. If you are a woman, carry a shawl you can use to cover your head before entering the masjid. Traditional dressing is also available at the masjid. 

Cost: Tickets are AED 25 or $6.81, which includes water, dates, and refreshments. Tours start from 10 a.m. and last for 75 minutes. There are no tours held on Fridays as it is an auspicious day for Muslims. 

Experience Street Art and Food in Trendy La Mer

With a mix of street art and food, La Mer is a new spot that attracts people of all ages.

Since I am an art lover, I find myself fascinated by the street art at La Mer. In addition to beautiful art, there is a range of all types of restaurants, as well as a beach where you can relax for an hour or two if the heat doesn’t bother you.

Good to know: November – March which is the best time to travel to Dubai, especially if you want to visit the beach. Tap here for more fun facts about Dubai .

Cost: Entrance to La Mer is free, although if you are driving a rental car , you may have to pay for basement parking.

Kite Beach & Burj al Arab at sunset

Hop on a bus and go to see the Burj al Arab, also known as the “7 star hotel” in Dubai.

The hotel is known for its grandeur and unique shape. You may notice that it resembles a sail of a ship, as that’s what it was inspired by!

Unfortunately, the hotel does not allow tours for those who are non-guests, but you can stop at Kite Beach for sunset to enjoy the view. The silhouette of Burj Al Arab will grace your pictures, free of charge!

Have a Food Truck Dinner

Have dinner at one of the food trucks located at the beach. A personal favorite of the residents here is Salt.

Cost: About AED 115 or $31.31 for two people

Related Reading: Check out this article on what to do during a short layover in Dubai .

Day 3: Best of Downtown Dubai

Explore the most iconic sights of Dubai on your last day!

See the famous Burj Khalifa

Spend your last day in Dubai by going to see the tallest building in the world. This should surely be on your list, even if you are only spending one day in Dubai .

The views are stunning from the outside and it is fun to see how much you can crane your neck to see the tip of the tower.

If you fancy feeling like you’re on the top of the world, Burj Khalifa offers tours to Levels 124 and 125. The experience of viewing the city from above is truly exhilarating and one that you should not miss if your budget allows!

Cost: Free to look at from below, or $37.49 per person to view from the observation deck.

Booking: You can book your tickets to the top of the Burj Khalifa here .

Editor’s Note: We went to the top of the Burj Khalifa during our layover in Dubai, and the views were totally worth the price (in our opinions!). Nowhere else in the world can you get this high!

People Watch at The Dubai Mall

Visit The Dubai Mall next! The shopping mall is one of the largest in the world, housing some of the most expensive boutique brands.

While those may not be in the budget of the common traveler, the mall has two attractions that are completely free of cost: the aquarium and the dancing fountains.

Aquarium in the Dubai Mall

You can see around 300 sharks and rays in this aquarium, as well as thousands of other sea animals. It is truly phenomenal to be able to see such creatures up close! 

However, being that it is free of charge, the area in front of the aquarium is always crowded, and securing a spot to get a clear look can be difficult.

See a Dancing Fountain Show near the Dubai Mall

Image by @alphaspotting on Instagram

Just as th e name suggests, you can watch water dance to the tunes of Enrique Iglesias or some traditional Arabic numbers. It is directly in front of the Burj Khalifa, so there is an enchanting view of this iconic building too. These shows take place every 30 minutes in the evenings.

I have to admit, growing up in the United Arab Emirates has exposed me to a lot of awe inspiring experiences, but I still stop by and look at these shows whenever I am at The Dubai Mall.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard

If you are not short on time, I’d suggest strolling along the footpath of Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.

Being a local here, I recommend making it to this area even if you have a short layover in Dubai as it really captures the “feel” of the city. Once the sun sets, it feels like the city has come alive, and there are many restaurants to explore as you walk.

My favorite along the street is Mezza House, or if you want to stop for tea, Karak House. The tea is very sweet and is made with milk and served with a biscuit on the side. The location is great for people watching too, so sometimes I like to sit there and work with a cuppa.

Cost: One Karak is AED 13 or $3.54

Transportation in Dubai on a Budget

Try taking the Al Ras Metro, which will bring you to many of the places on this itinerary. Ride sharing apps like Uber or Careem are also a much cheaper alternative to taxis in Dubai.

If you will be exploring outside the city center, it might make sense to rent a car while in Dubai .

Budget Hotels in Dubai

While accommodation in Dubai isn’t going to be cheap compared to many other places in the world, here are some good and (relatively!) affordable places to stay in this notoriously expensive city.

Hot Tip: If you are very limited on your time in Dubai and don’t want to leave the airport, consider staying in Dubai’s transit hotel , which is located inside security at the airport and is super convenient.

Atana Hotel – Only a 5 minute drive away from the Mall of Emirates (hotel offers a shuttle bus), this 4-star hotel has all the fancy amenities at a resonable price. Enjoy the outdoor pool, 3 dining options, and modern fitness room.

Rove City Centre – This spacious and fun hotel is an easy choice since it is only a 7-minute drive from Dubai International Airport. The 3-star hotel has an outdoor pool, sun deck and fitness room.

The Top One Hostel – Having mixed and gender seperated dorms, this hostel is one of the cheapest options you can find in Dubai. It’s only 6 km from the Mall and has a nice common area and a skinny outdoor pool. A good place to meet other travelers to explore the city with.

Planning your holiday to Dubai

Dubai might be known as a luxurious city and it is easy to lose track of your savings when you’re here, but traveling to Dubai on a budget is easy if you use these tips to plan ahead.

An important thing to know is that Friday and Saturday is the weekend here, so expect things to be a little slow during this time (especially cultural attractions). On the other hand, this is when the shopping malls and leisure spots will be crowded, so choose your priority accordingly.

Guest Author Bio

Sarah from Hungryoungwoman

With South Indian roots and being brought up in the U.A.E., Sarah’s childhood has had culinary influences from many countries. Also taking after her dad who was previously in the catering and F & B industry, she has always been eager to learn more about this world of cuisine she grew up knowing.  

Hungryoungwoman is my way of documenting experiences of dining out, cooking, traveling, and sharing all good things that life has to offer. You can also follow Sarah’s journey on Instagram .

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We want to hear from you!

Are you heading to Dubai soon? What are you most excited for? If you’ve been here before, what other tips do you have? We loved to hear them all in the comments below.

Comments (14) on “ 16 Cheap Things to Do in Dubai in 3 Days ”

Great post, Dubai has a lot to offer to all types of traveler and budget. It is all up to an individual and their preference.

Dubai is not cheap but you’ve mentioned good tips that could make trip inexpensive.

The Camel Milk Chocolate, Dubai Dates, Bakhoor, Attars, Gold , Coffee, etc are some of the cheapest items to bring with you. Dubai dhow cruise dinner is also not expnesive if you book with a right dhow cruise company.

I agree with you. Camel milk chocolate is really a good option.

Dubai is indeed not cheap, but – as everywhere in the world – it also depends on the choices you make. And you’ve explained free Dubai things perfectly.

You are right. Author has explained Dubai budget tips perfectly.

You’ve written a great post. I’d say that the average cost of a trip to Dubai, for a week, per person, in 2023, ranges between £550 – 970 (US$650 – 1,186) for budget travelers.

Thank you so much for the information. I’ll be there in January 2023

Hi, thanks for the information about Dubai. It really help me to plan my trip next month. I’ll be in dubai for woman solo traveler. Do you think it save for me to travel alone there ? And can you suggest me which hostel is good if i want to have dormitory stay.

The photos looks great. I liked it. Thanks for sharing!!

We all know that Dubai is a very expensive place. With these tips, we can do a lot of things within budget and without burning a hole in our pocket. Thank you for providing such detailed information.

Very comprehensive blog post on Dubai tour. It is beneficial for all the visitors who are going to Dubai. Thanks for sharing this with us!

Been twice before to Dubai and going again. Many of these places I was not aware, but thanks to you, I will be visiting. Excellent

• Your blog is freaking awesome. I mean really. I love everything about it! And 2. This is such a useful article! Pinning!

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Visiting Dubai on a Budget: Tips, Tricks, and Must-Do Activities

Dubai is known for its glitz and glamour. But what if you’re a traveler with a limited budget?

Can you still experience the magic of Dubai without breaking the bank? The answer is a resounding yes!

Dubai offers plenty of opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to experience the city without compromising on fun and adventure. Let’s find out how you can visit Dubai on a budget, with valuable tips, tricks, and must-do activities.

How To Visit Dubai On A Budget

Timing is everything.

Choosing the right time to visit Dubai can significantly impact your budget. The peak tourist season, which falls between November and April, sees higher prices for accommodations and attractions. To save money, consider visiting during the off-peak season, which is from May to September.

Yes, it’s hotter during this period, but you can find incredible deals on hotels and activities. Just remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to beat the scorching heat.

Affordable Accommodation Options

Dubai offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. While there are luxurious 5-star hotels aplenty, you can also find budget-friendly options like hostels, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels.

Booking well in advance and using hotel booking websites can help you secure great deals on your stay. Additionally, consider staying in areas like Deira and Bur Dubai, which tend to have more budget-friendly options while still offering easy access to the city’s attractions.

Local Transportation

Dubai’s public transportation system is clean, efficient, and budget-friendly. The Dubai Metro and buses cover most parts of the city and are an excellent way to get around. Invest in a NOL card , which provides discounted fares and can be used on all public transport options. Taxis are readily available, but they can be more expensive than public transportation, so use them sparingly.

Dining on a Budget

Eating out in Dubai doesn’t have to be a costly affair. While the city boasts high-end dining options, there are also numerous budget-friendly eateries and street food stalls. Try local dishes at places like Al Reef Bakery or visit the bustling Al Dhiyafah Road, known for its affordable and diverse culinary offerings. You can also save money by dining at food courts in shopping malls or enjoying international fast-food chains.

Plan Ahead and Book Tickets Online

Many popular attractions in Dubai offer discounts for online bookings. Whether it’s tickets to theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure or attractions like the Burj Khalifa, plan ahead and book your tickets online to save money and avoid long queues.

By pre-booking your tickets, you can also take advantage of special online discounts and combo offers that will help you save money. You can book your tickets to Dubai’s top attractions from Platinumlist. 

Free and Low-Cost Things To Do In Dubai

Dubai is home to many free and low-cost attractions. While the most important attractions like At The Top, Dubai Aquarium, and more are a must-visit, you can balance out your budget by adding these pocket-friendly spots to your list.

The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa in The Dubai Mall, is a stunning water and light show that’s absolutely free to watch. It operates in the evenings and is set to music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. You can enjoy the show from the surrounding promenades or even from the water if you take a traditional Abra ride on the Dubai Fountain Lake.

The Dubai Mall is also home to many other exciting and fun things to do. Check out our full guide to Dubai Mall here to find out more. 

Go for a Desert Safari

While desert safaris are often seen as a pricey adventure, there are budget-friendly options available. Look for tour operators that offer more economical packages. You can still experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel riding , and watching the sunset over the dunes without breaking the bank.

Find out everything you need to know about Desert Safari in Dubai with our full guide. 

Visit The Beach

Dubai boasts numerous public beaches that are free to access. Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular choices, offering soft white sands and clear blue waters. Enjoy a leisurely day at the beach, sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the beautiful views.

Check out our full guide to the best beaches in Dubai to find out more. 

Global Village

Global Village is a multicultural festival park that operates from October to April and is one of the best places to visit in Dubai. Entrance is cheap and can be enjoyed by everyone. Global Village offers a glimpse into the cultures of over 90 countries and features a big arcade and rides area that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. You can also enjoy live performances, sample international cuisine, and shop for unique souvenirs from around the world.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is the historical heart of the city and offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past. Stroll along the Creek’s promenade, where you can watch traditional wooden dhows loading and unloading goods. Visit the Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood nearby and explore the Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum for a small fee.

Al Seef is a charming waterfront promenade along Dubai Creek that blends old-world charm with modern conveniences. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, with its traditional architecture, shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can soak in the atmosphere without spending much.

Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is the biggest flower park in the world, which opens during the cooler months from October to April. It is a colorful oasis in the desert, featuring an array of stunning floral displays and sculptures. While there’s an admission fee, it’s still on the lower side and the vibrant and unique sights make it a worthwhile budget-friendly attraction for nature lovers and photographers.

Deira Souq, also known as the Gold Souk, is a treasure trove for shoppers. While gold might be the primary attraction, the souq also features shops selling precious gems, jewelry, and watches. You can browse and marvel at the craftsmanship even if you don’t intend to make a purchase.

Expo 2020 Dubai was a significant event for the city. While the main expo concluded, the Expo City district continues to offer exhibitions, events, and cultural experiences. While the pavilions have a paid ticket, Expo City itself is free to visit and explore for everyone. You can explore the Wasl Dome and the Surreal Fountain and cycle around the area for a relaxing time.

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is an architectural marvel that offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai and is one of the most popular locations for tourists in the city. While there’s a modest entry fee, it’s worth it for the incredible vistas and the unique experience of standing in a giant picture frame.

JBR & Bluewaters Island

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Bluewaters Island offer a lively atmosphere, with shops, restaurants, and a beachfront promenade. You can stroll along the beach, enjoy street performances, and take in the view of Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. Both areas are interconnected by a water bridge and make for a nice stroll in the city.

Visit Dubai’s Public Parks

Dubai has many well-maintained parks and green public parks that are perfect for a relaxing day out and are often free or have a nominal entrance fee. Here are some of the best parks in Dubai that you can visit during your trip.

• Zabeel Park: Located on the base of The Dubai Frame, Zabeel Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in the city. It features jogging tracks, barbecue areas, a mini golf course, and gorgeous views of the city.
• Mushrif Park: Mushrif Park is another excellent option, especially for families. It has a mini petting zoo, riding stables, and extensive picnic areas. The entrance fee is budget-friendly, and you can spend hours enjoying the outdoor amenities.
• Creek Park: Dubai Creek Park is a great spot for a day of relaxation and picnicking. It offers beautiful views of the creek and skyline, a mini-golf course, children’s play areas, and even a cable car ride. The entrance fee is reasonable.

Find all the best parks in Dubai with our full guide. 

Shindagha Museum

For a look into the history and culture of the UAE, Shindagha Museum is a must-visit. The Shindagha Museum complex is a collection of historic buildings that have been transformed into museums that provide insight into Dubai’s rich history and culture. Admission fees are quite affordable, and you can explore the various museums, including the Perfume House, Dubai Creek House, and Heritage House.

Shopping on a Budget

Dubai is famous for its shopping malls and souks. If you’re a shopaholic on a budget, visit the Deira Gold Souk and Spice Souk for unique souvenirs and jewelry. For discounted shopping, head to outlet malls like Dubai Outlet Mall and Dragon Mart.

Free Entertainment

Dubai often hosts free outdoor events, concerts, and exhibitions, especially during festivals like Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer Surprises. Check the event calendars and enjoy some entertainment without spending a dime.

Looking for more budget-friendly things to do in Dubai? Check out our full guide here. 

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and need an itinerary that covers all the best spots in the city, check out our Ultimate Dubai Itinerary!

15 of the cheapest things to do in Dubai and Free Things to do in Dubai

When you think of Dubai, luxury resorts, towering skyscrapers, and high-end dining likely come to mind. However, there are plenty of places to visit in Dubai for free, making it possible to enjoy your time here on a budget.

Keep reading to discover Dubai’s best free attractions and cheapest things to do in Dubai. From historical neighborhoods to pristine beaches, this list has something for everyone. 

If your visit to Dubai is by way of Dubai connect, read more on Dubai Connect here.

1. Marvel at the Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is a beautiful and captivating spectacle of light, music, and water that dances in choreographed patterns across the Burj Khalifa Lake in Downtown Dubai.  Not to mention, this fountain is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai for free! Located right outside the Dubai Mall, this is a must-do while visiting Dubai.

2. Window shop at Dubai Mall

The sprawling Dubai Mall is a world-famous shopping, entertainment, and dining destination, offering an array of luxurious and exciting experiences for visitors from all over the globe. The Dubai Aquarium is located inside the Dubai Mall. While it costs 70 Dirhams to tour the entire aquarium, you can see it for free by checking out the main tank in the mall. This massive spectacle is the world’s largest single acrylic panel, making this one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free.

3. Swim at Jumeirah Beach Corniche

Jumeirah Beach Corniche is a scenic waterfront walkway stretching along the Persian Gulf, providing visitors with stunning views and a pleasant atmosphere. Best of all, it is entirely free.  While you’re here, splash in the water, soak up the sun, and enjoy an afternoon of rest and relaxation accompanied by white sand and blue water. Plenty of local shops and restaurants nearby mean there’s no shortage of dining options after a long day at the beach.

4. Visit the Old Souk

If you want to take a step back in time to Old Dubai, take a stroll through Old Souk, located in Bur Dubai. This traditional market offers a historical shopping experience, so it’s a great place to pick up some local goods or non-branded clothing. As you explore this charming market, you’ll likely notice hand-woven fabrics, local spices, potent perfumes, and dried fruits. There’s no better place to pick up a souvenir, making this one of the best and cheapest things to do in Dubai.

5. St. Mary’s Catholic Church

St. Mary’s Catholic Church is a beautiful and historic church that offers spiritual guidance and community outreach to the people of Dubai. Established in 1967, this is one of the oldest churches in the area, and this historical attraction is completely free to visit.

6. Experience the Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque in Dubai is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, boasting intricate domes and minarets that mark the city’s skyline. This is one of the best places to soak in Dubai’s history and culture. At the entrance, you’ll notice Quranic inscriptions, along with the tallest Minaret in the city, domes of all sizes, and authentic interiors. Architecture enthusiasts and people of faith will surely enjoy this free place to visit in Dubai.

7. Take a picture with Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, which is also located in Dubai, is an architectural marvel that stands 2,717 feet tall, with 160 stories.  While it costs money to get to the top, why pay extra when you can take a free selfie with it from down below? Whether you go to the top or stay at the bottom, this is one of the most popular things to do in Dubai.

8. Explore Burj Nahar

Burj Nahar was built in 1870, covering three watchtowers created to protect the city from outsiders. This monument was built with mud and coral stone, making this one of the most historical places to visit in Dubai for free.  Today, Burj Nahar is surrounded by lush gardens, making it a particularly lovely place to spend an afternoon. 

9. Relax on Kite Beach

Kite Beach in Dubai is a stunning beachfront oasis boasting powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the iconic Dubai skyline. This shore is likely one of the best beaches in Dubai – plus, admission is free. Kitesurfing and kayaking are popular watersports at this beach, along with wakeboarding and paddle boarding. Enjoy sand volleyball and football along the shore if you’d rather stay out of the water. The 14-kilometer running track along the shore is also perfect for a scenic walk or run.

10. Tour the Coffee Museum

If you’re a coffee lover, this museum is a must-visit in Dubai. The Coffee Museum is an interactive and educational experience that showcases the history and culture of coffee from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, learn about the different types of coffee, and enjoy a cup of joe at the on-site cafe. Best of all, museum admission is completely free! If you have some cash to spare, don’t forget about the gift shop, featuring books, recipes, barista equipment, and home brewing tools.

Read reviews of the coffee museum in Dubai

11. Ride an Abra

Abra means “to cross” in Dubai, so that’s exactly what you’ll do while riding an abra! This part-boat, part-raft structure crosses Dubai Creek.  While an abra ride isn’t completely free, it only costs $0.30, so it’s worth mentioning! This traditional ferry system is a great way to experience Dubai like a local while admiring the city’s iconic skyline and traditional architecture.

12. Discover Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

While many travelers think of skyscrapers and luxury when it comes to Dubai, Al Fahidi shows another side of this city. Al Fahidi provides a glimpse into the city’s past with its traditional architecture, museums, narrow alleyways, and vibrant markets – it might even feel like you’ve stepped back in time.  Exploring this fascinating neighborhood doesn’t cost a dime, making it one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free. 

13. Hike in Hatta

Hiking in the beautiful mountain village of Hatta, located a short drive from the city, is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free. Visiting this area is a great way to explore the stunning natural landscape and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hatta Heritage Village is situated in the Hajar Mountains, an important part of the UAE’s landscape. The town is surrounded by dramatic rocky terrain and is home to several archaeological sites, including ancient forts and watchtowers. It is also known for its traditional mud-brick architecture, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. Hatta hosts a weekly camel market and a vibrant souk full of local crafts and souvenirs. Hatta is an excellent spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Several lakes and rivers are nearby, which are great for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. Many visitors come here for paragliding, camping, and even to sample the local restaurant scene. While Hatta is a short day trip from Dubai, about an hour and a half drive away, it’s one of the best ways to experience this area authentically. Plus, exploring this area on foot doesn’t cost a thing!

14. Watch the flamingos

If you’re an animal lover, watching the flamingos is one of the best free things to do in Dubai, especially with kids. You can find these colorful birds near Ras Al Khor road – and there are plenty of them! You can also visit the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary, which is free of charge. In this wildlife sanctuary, guests enjoy the hiding huts where you can use your binoculars to spot these incredible creatures.  If you have a few dollars handy, enjoy the area’s kayaking, horseback riding, biking, and paragliding. There’s no better place to experience Dubai’s stunning nature and wildlife!

15. Stroll Alserkal Avenue

If you are an art enthusiast, Alserkal Avenue is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free! Alserkal Avenue is an art and culture hub located in Al Quoz, an industrial area of Dubai.  Founded in 2007, it has since become a vibrant district for the city’s cultural and creative community. The Avenue houses a variety of art galleries, design studios, concept stores, and creative spaces, as well as several innovative and educational initiatives. Alserkal Avenue was founded as a creative space for the city’s artistic and cultural community. Spanning an area of ​​approximately 500,000 square feet, the Avenue is home to over 70 art galleries. Don’t forget about the variety of cultural events you’ll find here, such as artist talks, film screenings, art fairs, and workshops.  If you get hungry after experiencing all that art, grab a bite to eat at the wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and bars throughout this district, providing a perfect place to relax and socialize. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of activities, Alserkal Avenue has become a popular destination for residents and tourists.

Whether you want to experience the local history or marvel at the wildlife and landscapes, there are plenty of places to visit in Dubai for free. With so many free things to do, Dubai is an excellent spot for travelers on a budget! 

Is Dubai Overrated? 

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Is Dubai Overrated?

Dubai is one of the most talked-about travel destinations, with its luxurious hotels, towering skyscrapers, and man-made islands. However, is it all worth the hype? After my 23-hour stopover in Dubai, I can confidently say that Dubai is overrated. Let’s explore why. I’m usually the person to run the other way when people are flocking…

16 Affordable Destinations To Visit In Dubai

One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), Dubai is both a province and the eponymous capital city. This modern, glittering, coastal metropolis is where the UAE's vast oil-derived fortunes are brazenly on display — this place is no shrinking wallflower. The population of marquee architectural wonders, giant malls, vertigo-inducing skyscrapers, and fleets of high-octane sports cars have created a globally recognized image of fast-living, faster-developing Dubai. 

And yet, this city works hard to keep in touch with its past, some of it very much alive and thriving. For visitors on a budget, the city offers a wealth of things to do and see that won't have them draining their bank account within seconds of touchdown. From unique museums that celebrate the emirate's humble beginnings to realms where gold stretches as far as the eye can see, Dubai is home to affordable alternatives that perfectly complement the city's more ostentatious, outlandish, and outrageous features.

Take a look at today's Dubai — the shiny towers, the canyon of skyscrapers that soar above the surrounding, pancake-flat land, the spanking new malls, and the exotic cars that roar through the streets — and it's hard to imagine what the city used to be like. But an older, low-rise part of Dubai still exists, and you can see it in Deira, which embodies the emirate of days past. It stands as a sober contrast to the glitz and glamor that floods public perception. 

To get a feel for the place, take an abra, or water ferry, to Deira. Costing less than $0.50 and crossing Dubai Creek, these bare-bones wooden boats are a fine introduction to the practical, no-frills area of Deira, one where you will come across old souks, cheap places to eat, narrow alleyways full of history, and the under-appreciated expats that plays a critical role in the city's day-to-day running.

The Dubai Fountain

For fans of the silver screen, the Burj Khalifa building might look familiar — it's the tower that Tom Cruise scaled in "Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol."  For others, the Dubai landmark stands out for its superlatives. It's the world's tallest building (more than 2,700 feet in height), the world's tallest free-standing structure, and has the highest outdoor observation deck in the world (hold on to your hats, it's windy up there). Sitting in front of this soaring, needle-like structure is the Dubai Fountain, which, not surprisingly, boasts an accolade of its own — it's the tallest performing fountain in the world. 

More than being a siphon that regurgitates water in pretty arcs, the Dubai Fountain is a spectacle that's become a tourist attraction, with jets stretching along 900 feet of a 30-acre lake. Alongside the water, the bright lights and color projectors perform choreographed movements and displays to classical tunes, Arabic favorites, and even cinematic soundtracks. Best of all, it's free to watch, though tickets are available for the Boardwalk viewing platform in the lake.

Located in Deira, the Gold Souk is a glittering prize, quite literally. An old, traditional market, it comprises shop after shop with shiny gold items, from chunky bangles and necklaces to slender, ornate earrings and rings. The choices are overwhelming, and while the place isn't for the budget-minded shopper, it's a great place to window shop and if you do purchase, know that prices are reasonable (relatively speaking!). Given the bright lighting and the amount of gold on show here, it sometimes feels like you're staring into the eye of the sun as you walk around. 

Gold, however, isn't the only pricey item sold here, with diamond jewelry and precious gems also offered. A three-minute walk away finds the Spice Souk, just as notable for its variety of colors as the Gold Souk is known for its ubiquity of gilt. This market is a feast for the eyes and senses, with vibrantly colored dried flowers and herbs piled into woven containers, and the fragrant scent of ground spices filling the air. Close by, the achievements of women in the U.A.E. come under the spotlight at the Women's Museum, where entry is U.A.E. Dirhams 20 (about $5.50).

Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Musuem

With a name that translates to way of the iron, this museum, that costs U.A.E. Dirhams 20 to enter, looks at archaeological finds from a remote metalworking hub discovered in the desert, and that dates back three thousand years. The building itself reflects the arid surroundings, an angular, sand-colored structure situated in the city's heritage district. Inside, the collection catalogs items found in the dunes of southern Dubai in 2002 by Dubai's ruler who, while on a helicopter ride, noticed uneven patterns in the dunes below. 

Archaeologists worked tirelessly to uncover what lay beneath, and the fruits of their efforts are beautifully displayed. Visit and you'll see arrowheads made from flint stone, and a bronze axe with a tapered head that speak of the fine craftsmanship of the time. Audiovisual displays recreate the excavation site while workstations in a laboratory section allow you to get a feel for the arduous exertion made by the specialists who sift through the sands.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Despite all the totems in Dubai that attest to the achievements of humankind, the emirate is also no stranger to areas of outstanding natural beauty. These include the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, which sits on the edge of the city, close to the design district. Entry to this refuge is free, with no need to make prior appointments or bookings — you just walk in, show identification to register, and enjoy the sights. 

While the views of the skyline are pretty spectacular seen across the waters of Dubai Creek, the real reason to come here is for the abundant bird life, with three dedicated spots set aside to watch these avian wonders. The Lagoon Hide sits by the still creek, and from this vantage, you can spot raptors and waders. No visit to Ras Al Khor is complete with a stop at the Flamingo Hide, with thousands of flamingos lending the foreground a vivid pink tint.

Alserkal Avenue

It's hard to justly describe what Alserkal Avenue is — it's certainly not just the name of a road, as its label suggests. More accurately, this is a contemporary arts entrepot located in one of the city's industrial sectors. Established in 2007 by a local entrepreneur, Alserkal Avenue is a 500,000-square-foot assemblage of buildings and spaces that play host to edgy contemporary art galleries, organizations that focus on the arts, fashion labels, performance and community spaces, and new businesses eager to tap into the local market. 

This is a buzzing hub, one where ideas thrive and the energy of innovation and creativity pulses through the place, which is free to wander. In addition to all those cottage industries, Alserkal Avenue is also where to find Concrete, a multi-dimensional exhibition space that can host art exhibitions, fashion shows, dance performances, and more, and was designed by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture, founded by avant-garde Dutch starchitect Rem Koolhaas.

Located right in the heart of Dubai, next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall has stats that make it seem like a bonafide tourist attraction rather than a complex for shopping. More than 100 million people pass through its doors each year, visiting the 1,200 shops scattered throughout the center. Some also come to eat at the 200 restaurants, or experience the various attractions that are here, including an ice rink. It's popular, and also elegant, with plenty of natural light, attractive pieces of public art, and beautiful white Statuario marble floors. 

The two main parts of the mall are Fashion Avenue, where luxury designer brands vie for your attention (and money), and the Souk Al Bahar, or sailor's market, with shopping, dining, and views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. This is a fabulous location to do some window shopping, and even better, you can look into the vast tank of next door's Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo for free — this is also a popular spot, so don't expect to be alone.

Even though Dubai's vertical achievements might grab all the headlines, there remain fantastic facets of the city that are more, geographically speaking, down to earth. The city offers fantastic beaches, which can be comfortably enjoyed for free, year-round, thanks to the emirate's climate (warm winters, scorching summers, a mix of the two in between, and virtually no rain). Though some beaches are private, reserved for the guests of hotels and resorts, visitors aren't starved of stretches of sand that are free to roam. 

Jumeirah Beach is a long stretch of sand dotted with five-star properties, making access to some parts of it off-limits for the casual beachgoer. The free section is at Jumeirah Open Beach (also known as Jumeirah Public Beach), a pretty slice of sand that has excellent views of the sail-shaped, iconic Burj Al Arab. For a closer view of Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah (a scattering of artificial islands with homes, resorts, and restaurants), head to the Lilliputian Al Sufouh Beach. And for some visual stimulation beyond just turquoise seas and soft sand, Kite Beach is a haunt for kite surfers young and old.

Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheif

Visiting the home of a royal family is always a treat, palatial spreads that are an eye-opening introduction to how the lives of the rich and famous operate on a different plane from us mere mortals. This place, a former summer home of one of Dubai's rulers, might fall into the category of a royal residence, but it's a much more restrained experience than the typical regal retreat. 

It was originally built in 1955 in the Jumeirah part of the city (so it's very central), where a date plantation once stood, and today costs U.A.E. Dirham 3 (about $0.80) to enter. A modest structure, restored in the 1990s and transformed into a museum, it is made of coral and the soft mineral gypsum, using smart architectural techniques to ensure constant ventilation. Highlights include the terrace where dates were dried and where residents slept on cool nights, filled with artifacts like copper buckets, local rugs, and daggers that speak to its former existence.

Naif Museum

Housed in a building of clay, this free Deira museum, located where Naif Street becomes Sikkath Al Khail Road, traces the evolution of Dubai's police force. Opened in 1939 as a main police station and also a small prison, the institution now sits next to a functioning police station, seamlessly bringing together the past and the present. People might wonder what the police force does in Dubai, given that the emirate has exceptionally low crime rates — there is very little tolerance of criminal acts, with foreigners that are guilty of crime deported, a deterrent that has proved to be extremely effective. 

Inside this small exhibition space, where entry is free, you'll peruse mannequins dressed in old police uniforms, wander past displays of police weapons like sturdy long-barrelled rifles and chunkier, powerful machine guns, and look over police documentation and images pulled from the station's huge trove of archives.

Jumeirah Mosque

The U.A.E., like most countries in the Middle East, counts Islam as its dominant religion, and mosques can be found all over the nation. Dubai is no exception, with places of worship dotted around the city, though perhaps none is as striking as the Jumeirah Mosque. Its doors first opened in 1979, gifted to Dubai by its former leader Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum (the father of the emirate's current ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum). 

It's a graceful, elegant structure, with the capacity to hold 1500 worshippers, with architecture synthesized from styles found in Egypt and Syria. While Muslims will come here to pray throughout the day, anyone can visit this manmade beauty. Public visits, available most days of the week, cost U.A.E. Dirham 35 (about $9.50), and are part of a program called "Open Doors. Open Minds" that aims to further understanding of the religion. The tour comes with a guide who can answer any questions, the opportunity to take photographs, and light refreshments.

Textile Souk

In Bur Dubai, across the creek from Deira, the Textile Souk promises visitors a riot of color. Its location places it close to a Shiva Hindu temple (free to visit) and also the Dubai Museum (a fabulous destination that is the oldest building in the emirate, but that is currently closed). Every imaginable fabric — in every imaginable shade — is for sale at this market that inspires many a cherished outfit. 

You'll find stalls with silk, cotton, embroidered fabrics, rolls of cloth in every hue and at prices that will align with any budget. And for wannabe fashion designers — or hobby-horse dabblers in clothes making — the bazaar is also the perfect spot to source accessories like buttons, lace, sequins, bows, rivets, and stones. Beyond unfinished textiles, visitors can purchase ready-made clothing and shoes, cushions (with beautifully embroidered covers), carpets, shawls, and much more to make you, and your home, look great.

Dubai Marina

Sure skyscrapers, fast cars, and sparkling jewels all scream money, but so do boats, especially large, gleaming ones that nestle alongside those soaring towers. Dubai Marina is both a place where you'll encounter plenty of those yachts, and the name of a swish neighborhood that has resorts, fancy residential apartment buildings, fabulous places to eat, and plenty of excellent photo subjects. Anchoring the district is the Dubai Marina Mall, with high-end stores galore and an indoor play area for children called Jump N Fun. 

To get a sound handle on the area, take a stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk. A paved walkway that curls around the marina's waterfront, the path will bring you past shops and restaurants (some have al fresco terraces to let you soak in the view over a nibble), open-air plazas that host performances and pop-up events, and of course, past the scores of yachts that will turn you green with envy.

Global Village

This world is a rich and varied place, one whose people have so much in common, and yet whose differences are cause for celebration, not division. That wealth of commonality and diversity is explored through entertainment, food, and public spaces at the Global Village, located in the outer reaches and reachable by public buses. Ladies and families might want to visit on Tuesdays, a day set aside for them. While some travelers might find the idea of this theme park a little kitschy, there's something earnest and admirable about a destination that showcases the distinctive cultures found across the planet. 

Pavilions illustrate the architecture and artistry from different parts of the world (great places to take photos that show you've traveled around the globe in a few hours), while more than 200 restaurants and stalls highlight the culinary prowess of a catalog of countries. Entertainment includes live acrobatic shows, workshops with film directors, musical performances, and even the chance to learn Bollywood dance moves. Entry starts at U.A.E. Dirhams 18 (about $5).

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

A historical part of Bur Dubai, Al Shindagha sits across the creek from Deira, and it's where the forefathers of the current ruler settled in the late 1800s, declaring independence from the neighboring (and largest) emirate Abu Dhabi. It's a part of the city that is deeply connected to the royal family, a heritage district today, and home to the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House. This former compound of the royal family bears the name of the grandfather of Dubai's current leader and is where he lived from 1912-1958. 

The building, a seedling that sprouted in 1896 before expanding to its present-day footprint, is anchored by three breathtaking courtyards. In addition to the open spaces, the complex captures the imagination through wind towers that catch and circulate air, arched doorways, and vaulted ceilings. You'll also pore over ornately carved teak doors, old coins, rare stamps, and views of the creek from the terrace. Entry is only U.A.E. Dirham 3 (about $0.80).

Another fine public beach not to miss is La Mer (French for The Sea, not a particularly original name for a beach), where the fine sand is complemented by family friendly rides and attractions. What makes it even more attractive as a destination is that the area around it has some astounding, Instagram-primed street art. While there aren't any specific streets or spots where it's concentrated, the shopping areas near the waterfront and the waterpark have plenty to show — you'll find murals on corrugated panels on the side of buildings, colorful paintings on walls, whimsical portraits and scenes that incorporate public pipes, and splashes of creativity where you might not expect it. 

Some of the highlights include a pair of bright angel wings, a child with a blue face sipping from a straw that's actually a pipe painted red-and-white, a giant faucet on the side of a building with painted drips of water on the ground below, and a purse-lipped kid with sunglasses on urging you to stay cool. Now that's cool.

THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

Best budget-friendly things to do in dubai.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Dubai Fountain

2. Dubai Miracle Garden

3. Dubai Creek

4. The View Palm Jumeirah

5. Global Village

6. Jumeirah Mosque

7. Dubai Frame

8. Bur Dubai Abra Station

10. Dubai Marina

11. Dubai Crocodile Park

12. Kite Beach

13. Ibn Battuta Mall

14. Jumeirah Public Beach

15. illusion City Dubai

16. AquaFun

17. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple

18. Marina Beach

19. Al Mamzar Beach Park

20. Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

21. Dubai Festival City Mall

22. Quranic Park

23. Al Seef

24. Dubai Tram

25. The Green Planet

26. Sheikh Zayed Road

27. Dubai Dolphinarium

28. Bastakia Quarter

29. Al Qudra Cycle Path

30. Dubai Ferry

What travellers are saying

Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Free: 33 Cheap & Free Things To Do in Dubai

Dubai has earned quite the reputation as a playground for the rich and famous, thanks to Instagram celebrities out and about on supercars and superyachts, Youtubers posting helicopter ride videos, and more luxury hotels than even I, who reviews and writes about them for a living, can keep up with.

But when I’m asked if the city I call home is all this and nothing else, I shake my head furiously and say, “Of course not”. After all, I personally own neither a supercar, nor a yacht.

If you’re traveling to Dubai on a budget, and wondering if there are any cheap or free things to do in Dubai in 2023  and beyond, then worry not- I’ve got your back with this detailed guide to the best places to visit in Dubai for free .

It’s true that much of the city’s offerings are designed to be exclusive but this is as much a city of real, regular people as any other. You know, people who live in apartments and take the metro to work, like to go to cool cafes and watch movies and do the same kind of routine stuff that people do in other cities?

Unfortunately, the western media has decided to go with a certain, often exaggerated, image of the city and ignore exploring its other faces.

That’s why I tell most new friends I make on the road that if they’re ever in Dubai, they should let me know- so I can tell them where to find the real, raw (okay, maybe not as gritty as other cities) parts of the city and so that they don’t go away with the same image that’s been drilled into their minds by popular media.

You might also be interested in my posts about what to wear in Dubai, best romantic hotels in Dubai , and the most interesting Dubai day trips .

Right then, let’s get to it. Here’s my ever-expanding ultimate list of cheap and free things to do in Dubai and the best places to visit in Dubai for free , in no particular order.

By the way, you can also join our Dubai Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you’ll find plenty of free resources, practical information and insider tips to help you plan your trip to Dubai. Click on the image below to join.

I’ve also added a map of the best places to visit in Dubai on a budget that you can save and share to help plan your trip. You might also be interested in my posts on where to stay in Dubai for every budget and how to go from Dubai Airport to the city center .

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Dubai on a Budget

Click on the top left to expand the index and see a list of places mentioned in the map. Below the map in the article you’ll find what to do in each of these places. 

Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Free & Cheap and Free Things to do in Dubai

Spot flamingoes and go bird watching at ras al khor wildlife sanctuary.

The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers, is something of a secret in Dubai, unknown even to many long-time residents and one of the most fun free family activities in Dubai. If you’re visiting Dubai with kids when the weather in Dubai is good, they will love this experience.

The wetland reserve is home to migratory birds such as the grey heron, cormorant, osprey, and black-winged stilts, among others. There are three hides here, of which at the more popular Flamingo Hide, you can see lots of pink flamingoes.

The hides are free to enter and open from 9.00am to 4.00pm except on Fridays. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups.

Tip: If you’re getting here by taxi, you will probably need to use Google Maps- just search for Ras Al Khor Flamingo Hide Viewing Area (or click here) .

Wondering where to stay in Dubai? Here’s my guide to hotels and apartments in Dubai for every budget.

Watch the Dubai Fountain Dance By The Burj Khalifa

There’s two reasons to head to the lake just outside the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. One, to stare up in amazement at the architectural marvel that is the world’s tallest skyscraper and two, to see the Dubai Fountain, formerly the world’s biggest dancing fountain  ( before the Palm Fountain came along) sway to the tunes of international artists.

The Dubai Fountain, in my opinion, is simply the best of all free things to do in Dubai Mall.

The water reaches heights of 500 feet and the performance, enhanced by lights takes place inside the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake. If you don’t mind the 60 Dirhams charge, then you can actually cruise the lake in a boat and watch the show onboard.

Personally, I find the free option of watching from the promenade or the bridge that connects to the Souk Al Bahar just as great.

For a particularly romantic spot, head to one of the steps of Souk Al Bahar (after you turn right coming over the bridge from the Dubai Mall. Show times are from 6.00pm to 11.00pm daily, every 30 minutes.

Location on Google Maps: The Dubai Fountain

See The World’s Biggest Fountain

Since we’re on the subject of fountains- and you’ll see that Dubai loves fountains- they’re outside hotels and in financial districts and malls and outside the Dubai Opera and on roundabouts and intersections, and well, possibly everywhere they can be. But while you’re in Dubai, don’t miss the world’s biggest fountain (but of course) Palm Fountain on Palm Jumeirah, the palm-shaped archipelago home to beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and malls. 

Located at The Pointe , the multi-colored Palm Fountain is spread over 14,000 sq ft of seawater and performs choreographed dancing fountain shows every evening, shooting water up to 105m in the air. The three-minute shows, free to watch, take place every 30 minutes, each time to a different song, from 6pm to 10.30pm on weekdays and until midnight on weekends. 

Location on Google Maps: The Palm Fountain

Have an Epic Beach Day at Kite Beach

Kite Beach is definitely my most favorite free-to-enter spot in Dubai and it’s where you’ll find me most weekends during the cooler months. Kite Beach is a public beach, Dubai’s largest, on the Jumeirah coastline.

While the beach is open round the year, it’s liveliest between October and March (which is the best time to visit Dubai ) when the weather cools down considerably.

This is where the city’s cool kids, hipsters, yogis, and good ol’ regular folks come to hang. Plus it’s an excellent things to do if you’re visiting as a family, among other cool things to do in Dubai with kids . 

There are beach loungers (available to rent) but you can also just bring your towels, umbrellas, tents, or beach chairs and enjoy the sun, sand and water. If you like the idea of some beach time, then this is also one of the most fun and cheap or free family activities in Dubai.

If you walk along the water in the direction of the Burj Al Arab (the massive sail-shaped hotel you see), you come upon the quieter Sunset Beach, which as the name suggests, is one of Dubai’s best sunset spots.

On Kite Beach, there’s plenty of food trucks and cafés (reasonably priced), but if you’re not in the mood to spend, bring a picnic.

This beach also offers activities like trampoline, volleyball, free yoga and fitness events, and the occasional live entertainment. Bring a Frisbee, volleyball, and a picnic and make this one of your favorite things to do in Dubai with kids.

At one end of the beach, you’ll see kitesurfers practicing and you can also rent kayaks or book watersports such as Jet Ski.

Location on Google Maps: Kite Beach

Wondering what to wear in Dubai? Here’s my guide to how to dress right when in Dubai.

Have a picnic or barbeque at dubai creek park.

When you’re craving a bit of outdoor time and green spaces in Dubai (and that will inevitably happen if you stay long enough), head to one of the city’s oldest parks- Dubai Creek Park, also known as Creekside Park. Now, entry is not free, but at only 5 dirhams, visiting this park is one of the cheapest things to do in Dubai.

This beautiful park by the Dubai Creek is massive, with separate areas for barbeque and picnics, and can also be explored by bikes for hire. There are some great photo spots as you walk along the bank overlooking the water.

If you’re on a budget, head to a neighborhood Carrefour or Spinneys, pick up a few sandwiches and juices and head here for a picnic during the cooler months that are the best season to visit Dubai .

Inside the park, there’s a childrens’ play area, theater, mini-golf and go-kart track. It’s also home to the Dubai Dolphinarium and Children’s City, an indoor children’s educational entertainment centre.

This family-friendly park, isn’t necessarily a tourist attraction, but is great if you’re traveling to Dubai with kids.

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Creek Park

Visiting Dubai? Get Your UAE Visa Online

Enjoy the views & visit a local market at the jumeirah fishing harbour.

One of the unusual things to do in Dubai, and a real insider secret not even known to many residents- seriously I am somewhat kicking myself for sharing this here because I’ve never seen tourists or tourist groups here- is to visit the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour.

So why am I telling you this? Do I want this ridiculously beautiful Dubai spot to become a playground for tourists? 

Of course not.

But when tourists come to Dubai, and tell me that my hometown is nothing but a glorified theme park for adults, one that has no soul, yadda yadda yadda, I get really mad. Just because they don’t know where locals go to eat, drink, shop, does not mean that these places don’t exist.

At the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, you’ll find a stretch of gorgeous coastline home to a harbour where one section is full of yachts, and the other is full of fishing boats. Also here are fishermen’s accommodation quarters.

Wandering around the area, depending on the time of day, you’ll see them bringing back their boats laden with fresh catch, working with ropes, cleaning shells, and going about their daily business.

There is a small neighborhood fish market where you can buy seafood cheaper than you’ll find in hypermarkets and large supermarket chains around Dubai. The fishermen love a bit of banter and they’ll proudly show you their fish in the hopes that you’ll buy some.

The harbour is quite long and has three sections with benches to sit at along the way and a supermarket.  In one of these, Fishing Harbour 1, is a mall with some great reasonably priced seafood restaurants  where you can dine al fresco (in good weather) with harbour views. 

Tip:  If you’re visiting at a time of year when it’s agreeable to be outdoors , combine a visit to Kite Beach with a visit to the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. You can actually spend a day, first on Kite Beach, and then a 20-minute walk to the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour to hang out here. 

Location on Google Maps: Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1

For more FREE resources and tips to help you plan your Dubai trip, join my Dubai Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you’ll find updated and new info about attractions and things to do. 

Walk Along the Dubai Canal Boardwalk

Even as someone who has spent the better part of her life in Dubai and should be used to the city’s dynamism, I still continued to be amazed by how much Dubai has changed from its days when I was growing up here.

One of the places where this really hits home is the Dubai Water Canal that completely changed what the cityscape looked like.

In good weather (October to March/April), the Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk, a Dubai must-see spot, is a fantastic place for a stroll and to take in the skyline views.

On the 3.2km long boardwalk that connects Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah, you’ll see people running, families strolling and of course, Dubai’s skyscraper and skyline-loving photographers.

The boardwalk offers access to three bridges over the canal, including the Tolerance Bridge that is also a great spot to appreciate the beautiful views over the water.

Here you’ll also see a colorful waterfall curtain that opens up to let dhow boats (that you can go on a cruise on all the way to Dubai Marina- chargeable) through. There’s no entrance fee to the boardwalk.

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Water Canal parking

Photograph Street Art & Enjoy Beach Time at JBR

The JBR beachfront promenade is a lively and fun place to spend an afternoon or evening for free or on the cheap. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes here and an open-air shopping mall called The Beach JBR with boutiques, shops, and a cinema. Across the street are cool murals that are very instagrammable.

You can visit here for free and spend some time on the beach, followed by a stroll spotting the cool street art that is inspired by everything that makes Dubai unique.

Take an Abra Ride across the Creek

As a kid, one of my most favorite things to do in Dubai used to be to hop onboard an abra or a traditional wooden dhow boat that plied the waters between old Dubai (or Bur Dubai) and the souks of Deira. At a cost of just 1 dirham even today, an abra ride is still one of the best cheap and fun things to do in Dubai , especially if you’re on a budget.

The best part is that this isn’t just some touristy activity.

Many locals who need to get across the creek, whether it’s early in the morning to get to work, or late evening to get to the souks in Deira or back home, still take the abra for two reasons- one it’s cheap, and two, it helps them skip the rush-hour traffic.

Plus, who can deny the romance and joy of being on a boat, even if for a few minutes? This is a chance to slow down and see one tiny but precious aspect of Dubai that remains unchanged.

Time your visit to reach here just before sunset, so that you can enjoy the sunset and the view of hundreds of migratory seagulls from the boat.

You can go across the creek in either direction from the old Dubai souks to Deira and disembark and explore the area, or just stay on the boat to do a return trip.

Afterwards, walk along the water in old Dubai, or explore the old souks on both sides of the creek.

Location on Google Maps: Bur Dubai Creek

Get Lost in the Old Souks of Bur Dubai and Deira

Depending on where you’re coming from, your interest in Dubai’s famous shopping malls might wane after a while. Anyway, if you’ve seen the Dubai Mall, there really isn’t anything you’ll miss by skipping the other malls.

Instead, head to one of the city’s old (but now restored) souks or covered markets that are one of its most worthy points of interest in Dubai. The souks are also excellent places to go souvenir shopping in Dubai .

The old souks in Bur Dubai (the old souk and textile souk along the creek) and Deira ( spice and gold souks ) are full of character and offer plenty of photo opportunities.

If you’re in the mood to buy, prices here are very reasonable and you absolutely should bargain (start at half the quoted price and go from there). The sellers are very friendly, come from South Asia and the Middle East, and speak good English.

Here, you’ll find frankincense, oud (traditional perfume), dried-fruits, nuts and dates, as well as souvenirs plus local traditional dress, scarves and shawls and jewelry. You can also buy beautiful fabrics and sarees (think pretty lace and silk) in the textile souk and a variety of spices in the Spice souk .

Even if you don’t intend to buy gold jewelry, head to the Gold Souk to see extravagant window displays of wedding jewelry and exquisite pieces fit for royalty.

You can begin your walking tour of the souks in Bur Dubai, around the textile souk and old souk. Stop by the Iranian Mosque here- the ornate exterior is nothing short of spectacular. Then, take an abra across to visit the gold souk and spice souk in Deira.

Location on Google Maps: Bur Dubai Old Textile Souk , Iranian Mosque , Deira Gold Souk and Deira Spice Souk

Wander around Meena Bazar

When you look up online lists of Dubai tourist attractions, Meena Bazar hardly, if ever, makes it to the list, but that is a shame. It’s no secret that Dubai is home to a large and vibrant community of Indians. Y

ou can think of Meena Bazaar as Dubai’s very own ‘Little India’- home to many Indians, Indian restaurants and shops selling traditional Indian clothing, beautiful embroidered fabrics, shoes, costume jewelry, and gold and diamond jewelry.

While this is one of the oldest parts of the city, surprisingly with how Dubai has changed, it has now become one of the off-the-beaten-path places to go in Dubai.

Walking in the streets of Meena Bazaar feels different from the rest of the city and people here are especially friendly. Shopping here means you’ll be showered with attention and treated like a VIP.

Don’t shy away from haggling like an Indian- most sellers will offer substantial discounts if you pretend to walk away.

There are also many tailoring shops here, for both men and women, where you can get traditional clothing stitched as well as custom-made suits, tuxedos and evening gowns, all at great prices. When you get tired of shopping or window-shopping, you can stop by at one of the restaurants for chaat- Indian street food, falafel or shawarama.

Location on Google Maps: Meena Bazaar

Visit The Oldest Building in Dubai at The Dubai Museum

(Update: As of April 2022, the Dubai Museum is closed for renovation until further notice)

In a city where everything is new and shiny, and getting newer and shinier, the old and rare is worth visiting, no? But its age isn’t the only reason why you should head to old Dubai and visit the Al Fahidi Fort, that was built in 1787 and is the oldest built structure in Dubai.

This defensive fort, that has been the Sheikh’s residence as well as a prison during its lifetime, houses the Dubai Museum (that is one of the oldest Dubai tourist spots) since 1971 and is interesting to anyone curious about Dubai’s growth through the years.

Visitors can get familiar with what life looked like in the emirate in different environments- the desert, oasis, mountains, and along the coast. The exhibits include pottery, weapons, books and documents, drawings, clothing, jewelry, and coins, as well as models of homes, schools, markets, and farms.

It’s a fascinating and intriguing look into the Dubai of pearl divers and fishermen, blacksmiths and tailors, and shipbuilders and merchants, where the few decades before our times feel like centuries.

At an admission fee of just 3 dirhams (only 1 dirham for children under 6), the entrance is as good as free.

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Museum

Wander in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

An easy walk from the Dubai Museum and the Al Fahidi metro station, don’t miss a wander around the old restored houses in Al Fahidi . These houses once belonged to wealthy pearl merchants. Today they house cute cafés and restaurants, studios and museums, some free to enter. The free to enter Coffee Museum here is a great place to learn about the heritage of coffee-making in the region and enjoy a cup of coffee. For a local breakfast or a cup of tea, head to Arabian Tea House or the XVA Cafe. 

Location on Google Maps:   Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Get Lost in the Lanes of Al Seef

I’ll admit, like much of Dubai, the heritage-inspired neighborhood of Al Seef , just by the creek, is newly built. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that it blends right in with the neighboring Al Fahidi Historical District and is a pleasant addition to the city’s outdoor spots.

One half of the area that is one of the best places to visit in Dubai, has architecture that is traditional, mud-colored and complete with arches and romantic wind towers that look even more beautiful in the soft glow of fairy lights and nighttime lighting. Fishing nets placed along the waterfront promenade are a nod to Dubai’s fishing heritage.

Here you’ll find cafés, restaurants, ice cream shops, and stores selling Dubai souvenirs such as oud, frankincense, and kaftans, jewelry, perfumes and more.

Walk further along the creek and the architecture becomes decidedly sleek and modern, sort of as an ode to Dubai’s architectural evolution through the decades. Here, you’ll find more restaurants and cafés as well as shisha cafés.

During the cooler months between November and April, Al Seef plays hosts to several outdoor events, festivals and live entertainment.

If you’re a photographer, I highly recommend visiting- it’s one of my favorite photo spots in Dubai. If you don’t mind spending the 80 dirham entrance, check out the Museum of Illusions here.

Location on Google Maps: Al Seef

Wander around City Walk

Another one of Dubai’s popular hip, urban districts, City Walk is best explored during the cooler months or in the evenings. The architecture here is interesting- a mix of contemporary sensibilities and sleek design, made only better by featuring street art by notable artists who were invited from all over the world.

Expect boutiques selling one-of-a-kind merchandise in fashion, art and design and niche chocolatiers, as well as cafés and restaurants with al fresco seating that looks out on the lively pedestrian areas of the precinct.

If you’re on a budget, you can walk around and enjoy the free live entertainment that can be often found here. If you’re in the mood to dine, you can choose from restaurants serving a variety of cuisines from Indian and Turkish to international.

If you’re visiting with a group or family with kids and teens, it’s worth checking out Hub Zero for a few hours of games and activities (for adults and kids).

City Walk is also home to the Green Planet , an indoor rainforest home to over 3000 plants, flowers and different species of birds and animals- perfect for wandering around in (for an entrance fee of 95 dirhams) when it’s too hot outside.

Location on Google Maps: City Walk , Hub Zero and The Green Planet

See The World at Global Village

Global Village is a family-friendly festival park that is one of those rare Dubai attractions that still exists from the time I was a little girl growing up in Dubai.

The festival park that goes on from November to April each year has only grown in scale and in terms of attractions and things to do, and I still go every year. If you visit during this time, then this should be high up on your list of cheap, fun and family-friendly things to do in Dubai.

Inside the massive space, you’ll find pavilions set up by over 70 countries and in some cases- continents (such as India, Egypt, Russia, Morocco, Far East, Turkey, Africa, and USA). Each of these pavilions feature stalls selling unique merchandise, from clothes, jewelry and shoes to household items, furniture, décor, and also food products and cosmetics.

Entrance to Global Village costs only 15 dirhams.

If you don’t intend to shop, you can watch free live shows such as traditional dances, theater and drama, aerialists and circus performers at various performance areas within the park. You can get a schedule of events from information when you enter or check it out online before you go.

If you want to shop, and you should because you can find both unique products at good prices here, then check out the following pavilions: Far East (for shopping clothing, shoes, household items on a budget), India (for tea, traditional clothing and Pashmina shawls), Africa (for fantastic deals on home décor, furniture, art, and carved wood items), Iran (for spices and nuts) and Russia.

The food is a real highlight at Global Village . Here you’ll find food from all over the world- Indian street food, Turkish pide, Bosnian kebabs, Dynamite shrimps, crispy churros, Persian grilled meats, Thai curry, Japanese street food, and what have you.

You can either sit down at one of many restaurants or head to what I like to call the food lane- that is full of food stalls where you can try a little bit of everything but eat while you stand or walk around.

In the current season (2018-19), you’ll also find the Middle East’s first floating market right in front of the Far East Pavilion with food stalls on boats selling Asian dishes.

While you’re there, you should also check out Carnaval , a fun fair that features rides and games for all ages plus families. You have to pay additionally for the rides and games but it’s worth checking out if you have an entire day to spend at Global Village. As one of Dubai’s best family activities, you can actually make a day out of a visit to Global Village.

Tip: If you’re visiting Global Village by public transportation, taking a taxi might cost you a fair bit. Instead take a public bus to get here.

Bus No. 102 from Rashidiya Metro Station

Bus No. 103 from the Union Metro station

Bus No. 104 from Al Ghubaiba Station

Bus No. 106 from Mall of the Emirates Station

Location on Google Maps: Global Village

Free Theater, Stand-up Comedy & Live Entertainment

If you’re on a budget and looking for some live entertainment in Dubai that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, then it’s worth checking out one of many free community events at venues such as Courtyard Playhouse , a performing arts venue that hosts stand-up comedy, improve, theater and movie screenings that are free to attend.

Now while there’s no entrance or ticket fee, they do appreciate a small contribution at the end of the show as a token of appreciation. These events are organized and performed by volunteers who are members of the local community and have regular day jobs. While you’re there, grab a bite to eat and coffee at the very cool Cassette . 

If you want an evening of laughs to add to your list of fun things to do in Dubai, check out similar free to attend events by Dubomedy , the city’s first school of comedy, that organizes comedy nights at various hotels around Dubai.

While you don’t have to buy tickets to some of their events, any food/drinks you consumer during the show in the venue are of course to be paid for. Both Dubomedy and Courtyard Playhouse also host workshops for adults and kids as well as corporate events.

Location on Google Maps: Courtyard Playhouse

Browse Organic Produce & Crafts at Ripe Market

After years of consuming imported produce, over the last few years there has been a notable shift of preference within Dubai’s community towards sustainable, local and organic produce as well as homegrown concepts.

You can browse local produce, organic fruits and vegetables as well as arts, crafts and handmade jewelry by local artists and artisans at Ripe Market .

During the cooler months, Ripe Market is hosted at the Dubai Police Academy . During summer, you’ll find it indoors at the Times Square Center.

In addition to shopping for fresh produce and crafts, there’s live entertainment as well as food trucks and stalls by homegrown concepts. You’ll find everything from delicious khameer and shawarma sandwiches to burgers and tacos here. This lively family-friendly event is a hit with local residents and a great way to see what it’s like to live in Dubai.

Tip: The location of Ripe Market has changed a few times over the recent years, it’s best to check the website before you go.

Location on Google Maps: Ripe Market

Appreciate Art at Free Events in Dubai

If you’re interested in exploring Dubai’s art scene, head to the art district of Alserkal Avenue that’s home to a number of art galleries. You can walk-in and view their exhibitions showcasing the work of local and international artists for free.

There are also design studios and a few co-working spaces here. The area also hosts art festivals and events and exhibitions through the year.

Alserkal Avenue has developed into a hotspot for artists, designers, photographers and other creators over the year and has led the way in developing the city’s art scene.

It’s also worth checking out if your visit coincides with the Quoz Arts Fest , a two day event with workshops, performance art, art walks, screenings, theater, talks and discussions, and exhibitions that charges a minimal, affordable entry fee of AED 25 for a day pass.

If you’re interested in all things art, design and music, it’s also worth checking out Dubai Design District and the art galleries in DIFC for any free-to-attend events, workshops and exhibitions.

If you visit in March, do not miss the art festivities around Dubai Art Season and in particular the Sikka Art Fair  that transforms the Al Fahidi Historical district into a hub of art, design and music lovers.

The traditional houses here turn into artist studios, exhibition venues and theaters with movie and documentary screenings. The courtyards play host to live music, theater, dance and performing arts venues.

I’ve been going every year for the last few years and I’m simply blown away by the creativity that is found here. Entrance is free.

Many art galleries around the city also open their door to the public for free exhibitions around this time.

Location on Google Maps: Alserkal Avenue , Dubai Design District , Dubai International Financial Center DIFC and Al Fahidi

Learn about the History of the UAE at the Etihad Museum

The new Etihad Museum in Jumeirah is built at the site where the constitution of the UAE was signed in 1971 and is an excellent place to learn about the history and development of the UAE through interactive exhibits, audio and visual presentations. Entrance is 25 dirhams.

Location on Google Maps: Etihad Museum

Watch the IMAGINE light and water show at Dubai Festival City

While you may or may not want to go shopping in Dubai Festival City Mall, the IMAGINE light and water projection show that features 30 fountains and fire, and is the world’s largest water screen projection and largest permanent projection mapping in the world is a totally good reason to visit. The shows play every day, are free to attend and can be viewed from the waterfront promenade.

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Festival City Mall

Visit a Mosque with the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

If you’re interested in learning about local culture and the religion, then visiting the Grand Jumeirah Mosque with the SMCCU is highly recommended. For just 25 dirhams (children under 12 can come for free), you get a guided tour of the mosque, plus the chance to ask all the questions you may have about the religion and culture in a safe, friendly space.

You’re treated to dates, tea, coffee and traditional pastries.

If you’re visiting Dubai during Ramadan, you might want to read my guide to what to expect during Ramadan .

Tip: The tours are run everyday at 10am from Saturday to Thursday. You don’t need to book in advance but you should reach there by 9.45am so you have enough time to register.  

Location on Google Maps: Grand Jumeirah Mosque

Enjoy the Serenity at Al Qudra Lakes

Just a 30-40 minute drive from Dubai, the Al Qudra Lakes are a series of manmade lakes in the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve that offer a quick escape from city life, and the kind of attraction you don’t expect to find in Dubai.

These lakes are home to a variety of wildlife including over 170 bird species including flamingoes, swans, and geese, and animals such as oryx and desert foxes. At present, there is no entrance fee, and hence this is one of the best free things to do in Dubai, especially if you like nature and wildlife.

Locals in the know head to Al Qudra Lakes on weekends during the cooler months and spend their time walking around the lakes, watching the birdlife, and cycling on the Al Qudra Cycling Track .

The intertwined heart-shaped Love Lakes are a protected nature reserve where cars aren’t allowed but you can head to the viewing platforms to admire the view. There are also other lakes in the area.

There are of course, no entrance fees to the lakes but facilities are basic. There are barbeque stands that you can use. You’re not allowed to barbeque on the sand or stay overnight at the moment. There are no toilets at the site.

The Last Exit Al Qudra food truck park is the closest place with toilets, but this might change in the future.

Tips: Google Maps might not get you to the exact spot- so follow the signs from the Last Exit food truck park. If you’re lost, stop and ask someone for directions.

Outdoor Adventures in Hatta

If you’re visiting Dubai and have a friend in Dubai whose car you can borrow or with whom you can get a ride, then you should totally do the 90-minute drive from Dubai to Hatta in the Hajar mountains for a bit of outdoor adventure.

Hatta is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free.

If mountain biking sounds exciting, bring your bike and ride the marked bike trails through hills and dry wadis, maps and information available at Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Center .

Alternatively, you can visit the beautiful Hatta Dam with turquoise waters that offer opportunities for kayaking with Hatta Kayak . If you’d rather hike, then set off on the trails behind the dam. The Hatta Wadi Hub also offers guided hikes in the area.

In Hatta, you can also visit the Hatta Heritage Village – a museum that showcases what life was like in the old days in various villages around the UAE. Walk around the reconstructed houses, a fort and watchtowers, and a mosque and see exhibits and artefacts that highlight Emirati heritage.

Location on Google Maps: Hatta Kayak , Hatta Heritage Village and Hatta Wadi Hub

Get a Perfect Photo of the Skyscrapers in Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina promenade is an excellent place to stroll around as you admire the many skyscrapers that rise above on both sides of the marina, join residents as they run or cycle along the water, or sit down for a cup of coffee or a meal.

This is also a great place to get that perfect picture of the skyscrapers and there’s one spot that, in my opinion, gets you the best image.

Since, unlike a lot of photographers who geo-tag their photo locations as ‘somewhere in the world’ or just ‘Dubai’, I believe in sharing and really do want you to get a great photo of the skyscrapers on your vacation, I’m going to go ahead and tell you where to go.

I actually spent a fair bit of time scouting out photo locations in the area for a photography assignment and came to the conclusion that the bridge at Al Emreef St (connecting Marina Hotel Apartments and Dusit Residence Dubai Marina) gets you the best photos, if you’re just walking around as a tourist and don’t have access to hotel rooftops or one of the skyscrapers.

Location on Google Maps: Al Emreef Street , Dubai Marina

Good Life on a Budget: Pool Days and Pool Passes in Dubai

Pool passes and pool days in Dubai are perfect examples of how us Dubai residents like to live the good life on a budget- we are not all millionaires, you know. Many five-star hotels in Dubai offer day-long pool passes to non-resident guests for a price that sometimes also includes vouchers you can use at the pool bar and restaurant. If you’re ballin’ on a budget, the key is to look for weekday deals or special ladies’ days (if you’re a woman) when pool passes tend to be cheapest.

For example, the adults-only WetDeck at the W Dubai on Palm Jumeirah offers sun-loungers for a mere AED 100 on weekdays which includes AED 100 credit that you can redeem towards food and beverages. At that price, you can access their private beach, WETDeck with its pool bar, water loungers, and one of several pools at the hotel. If that doesn’t sound like a steal, I don’t know what is?!

Another spot with excellent value for money is the gorgeous and upscale WHITE Beach at Atlantis The Palm- a weekday (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday) pool day here costs AED 150 and is fully redeemable on food and beverages, while Tuesdays is Ladies’ Day and costs the same, redeemable, along with free-flowing wines and cocktails for ladies!

If you want to hang with the cool kids, head to FIVE Beach- pool passes here cost AED 100 for ladies on weekdays and are fully redeemable, while they’re AED 150 for for gents on weekdays, of which AED 100 is redeemable. You get access to their private beach, sun loungers, glass-walled swimming pool, and jacuzzi!

The Ritz Carlton is a family-friendly option that offers pool days for AED 200 on weekdays, of which AED 150 is redeemable.

Rent a Bike & Go Cycling at Mushrif Park

In 2020, Dubai became a city that loves to bike and now you’ll see cycling tracks around the city with bike rental shops next to each one. The best part is that it’s free to use the tracks and bike rentals are available for as low as AED 30 an hour with further discounted rates for a couple of hours. 

In my opinion, the most beautiful and relaxed cycling track is the 10km loop at Mushrif Park . The track takes you on gentle slopes and turns that wind through forested areas, some lush, green residential areas and around the perimeter of Mushrif Park. There’s a smaller 4km loop inside the park as well. This track is suitable for beginners as well as advanced cyclists. Rent a bike from the bike shop Al Motamaiez , close to it, or another one around Dubai before you go. 

Location on Google Maps: Mushrif Park and Al Motamaiez Bicycles Rental

See a World of Flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden might be one of the most instagrammable spots in Dubai and at an entrance fee of 50 dirhams, I can’t really decide if it’s cheap, but for what it’s worth, it doesn’t qualify as expensive either (not if you’re just paying for one), so I’ll include it in this list and let you decide.

If you’re visiting between November and May, then head to the Dubai Miracle Garden to see over 150 million flowers and flower-sculpted arches, palaces, structures, and arrangements that can only be described as fantastical.

There is a floral clock, sculptures such as an Emirates A380 aircraft and the Burj Khalifa, made entirely out of flowers, giant swans that line walkways, gazebos, mansions, and castles, and a larger than life teddy bear.

Kids and adults will love the Disney Avenue and the incredible 18m high Mickey Mouse that is the world’s largest topiary structure. Then of course, there are the insta-famous passages with heart and butterfly-shaped arches and another with colorful umbrellas.

If you like butterflies, you can also check out the neighboring Dubai Butterfly Garden that’s home to over 15,000 butterflies. There’s a separate entrance ticket that costs 55 dirhams at the time of writing. But, in my opinion the Dubai Miracle Garden offers more value for money.

Tip: There really is a lot to see, so plan a visit taking between 2-3 hours at the minimum. Bring a bottle of water and wear comfortable walking shoes. There are plenty of restaurants and food stalls here, but you can also bring your own food.

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Miracle Garden

Eat on the Cheap in Dubai

So you’re visiting on a budget but still want to eat out? Don’t worry, Dubai has plenty of options to eat on the cheap, whether it’s Indian, Lebanese, Persian or Japanese food. But to be fair, that requires a whole other article- so, what I’ll do here is to point you in the general direction of neighborhoods where you’re likely to find more options on a budget.

Head to Bur Dubai, Karama, Deira or Satwa- essentially neighborhoods in old Dubai if you want more bang for your buck when it comes to eating on the cheap. Also remember if you want to try Middle Eastern cuisine, then you’re in for a treat because Lebanese food tends to be kind to your wallet.

Some recommendations for Middle Eastern food are Al Ustad Special Kebab (legendary Persian kebabs), Aroos Damascus , Al Mallah , Beirut restaurant & grill , Lebanese Village , Zaatar w Zeit , Kris Kros , Sikka Café , and Al Damyati & Iskandaron .

For South Asian cuisine, check out Ravi , Kamat , Delhi Darbar , Jaffer Bhai’s , Sind Punjab , Aryaas Veg , Haji Ali Juice Center , Bombay Chowpatty , Rajdhani , Swades , Kulcha King , The Meating Room , Puranmal , Bikanervala , Saravanaa Bhavan , Yalla Momos , Elco Restaurant , and Chicken Tikka Inn .

For Asian cuisine, check out Chin Chin , Eric’s , Chowking , Hot Palayok , and Betawi Café .

Google Maps Locations linked above.

Visit Madinat Jumeirah and the Christmas Market

Madinat Jumeirah and its old-world souk is a fantastic place to spend a few hours and take photos. The architecture of the sand-colored buildings that house the souk and hotels here is traditional with wind towers rising up above palm trees along a canal. Wooden abra boats carry people around the romantic waterways for a fee.

This is a great place to visit in the evenings around sunset so you can stay after dark and see how it all looks when lit up. In the souk and along the promenade are many restaurants, bars and cafes, and this really is a great place to enjoy Dubai’s nightlife as well. By the way, if you have a reservation at one of the restaurants around the canal, your boat ride is free.

I know you don’t think of Christmas markets when you think of Dubai, and that’s fair. Our Christmas markets have nothing on European Christmas markets but hey, it’s what we have for now, and we make the best of it.

The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market that is held for a week in December is the best Christmas market in my opinion. Entrance is free and the market is spread over a large area in Madinat Jumeirah.

There are stalls selling all things Christmas (such as decorations, ornaments, candy, cookies, cakes, and gifts), food stalls selling everything from pizza and chicken wings to doner and hotdogs, and you can also buy mulled wine as well as other drinks.

There are rides and play areas for children, complete with fake snow and the chance to build a snowman or play in the snow. The atmosphere is very lively; dancing Santas take passengers around the brightly lit canals on wooden boats, and fairy lights shine above you as you enjoy the live music and carols.

Considering that this is free to enter, you really should check it out if you’re visiting Dubai in December.

Location on Google Maps: Madinat Jumeirah

Free Nightlife for Ladies

Dubai really is a great city for the nightlife, if you enjoy that sort of thing on your travels. If you’re looking for places to visit in Dubai at night, there are many many bars and pubs, for every budget and style, and there are new ones opening every day (literally, no exaggeration).

And if you’re a woman who likes to go out in Dubai, you’re in for a treat because there’s a Ladies Night happening somewhere every day of the week.

Many bars and pubs offer ladies between three to five complimentary drinks, or free drinks all night, as well as offers on food on their Ladies Nights.

Yes, that means if you’re on a girls’ trip, then it can cost you nothing to party it up in Dubai. While most of the Ladies Nights are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, there are some on other days of the week.

I’ll recommend a few especially great Ladies Nights, but check online as well because there are new ones being announced all the time. It’s also best to call these bars and confirm before you go, in case of updated events and schedules.

• Soho Garden (Ladies Nights on Wednesdays- complimentary drinks for ladies until 12am)
• Flair No. 5 , The Ritz Carlton DIFC (Ladies Nights on Mondays- 4 drinks plus a snack for 99 dirhams)
• McGettigans JLT (Ladies Nights on Mondays- 4 complimentary drinks from 6 to 10pm)
• The Stables (Ladies Nights on Mondays- 5 complimentary drinks from 7.30pm to 1am)
• 1 Oak , JW Marriott Marquis (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- unlimited drinks till 3am)
• Armani/Prive (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- free entry and unlimited drinks till 3am)
• Asia Asia (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- 3 complimentary drinks till 1am)
• Bar Rumba , The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- unlimited drinks from 7 to 11pm)
• Industrial Avenue , The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- unlimited drinks till 3am)
• Cargo (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- 3 complimentary drinks from 8pm to 2am)
• Casa Latina (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- 5 complimentary drinks from 8pm to midnight)
• Lock, Stock & Barrel (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- 3 complimentary drinks)
• Lucky voice (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- 5 complimentary drinks)
• Zero Gravity (Ladies Nights on Tuesdays- upto 6 free drinks till 2am)
• Ramusake (Ladies Nights on Wednesdays- complimentary drinks until 1am)
• The House Party Bar (Ladies Nights on Wednesdays- 3 complimentary drinks)

Play Mini-Golf at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club

A game of mini-golf at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club costs just AED50 per person at the time of writing. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon at what is a beautiful driving range in one of Dubai’s most popular golf clubs located by the creek. 

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

Stroll Around Bluewaters Island 

Take a stroll along the waterfront on Bluewaters Island and admire Ain Dubai or Dubai Eye, the world’s tallest ferris wheel at 210m, which is the crown-jewel of the lifestyle destination. If you get hungry, get a snack at one of the stalls on the waterfront promenade or sit down at one of the restaurants. From there on it’s an easy walk to the outdoor retail area where you’ll find boutiques, specialty stores, dessert parlors and cool cafes. You can even walk here from Jumeirah Beach Residence by taking the pedestrian bridge. 

Location on Google Maps: Bluewaters Island

Visit the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

The new Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is more than a library, it’s Dubai’s largest cultural center that fosters education, creativity, and innovation. The architecture of the seven-floored building is remarkable with it being built to resemble a  rehl , the traditional wooden book rest used to hold the Quran. There are fantastic views over the Dubai Creek to enjoy while browsing through a vast collection of books in every field and genre.

There are ten main library collections as well as a host of community events. Entry is free and you’re allowed to sit in one of the various spaces and read to your heart’s content, but be sure to reserve your visiting slot online in advance. It’s closed on Sundays.

Take a Day Trip To Wadi Shees

If you’ve got a rental car in Dubai or can find someone to take you, I highly recommend a visit to Wadi Shees , just a 90-minute drive to the east coast of the UAE. This is an easy day trip from Dubai that should not be missed if you love nature. There’s an easy nature trail here that takes you through date plantations and a village, as well as Al Rafisah Dam where you can go kayaking and enjoy a picnic. Read my post about Wadi Shees to plan your trip, and other day trips from Dubai . 

Where To Stay in Dubai on a Budget

Dubai can be very expensive during the peak season with hotel prices increasing drastically. For cheap hotels in Dubai, look at options in the older areas of the city such as Bur Dubai, Mankhool, Satwa, Oud Metha or Deira. In new Dubai, there are some budget-friendly hotels in Al Barsha and on Sheikh Zayed Road as well as in Dubai Marina and JLT.

Hostels and guest houses are rare (there’s just one hostel I know of and it really just is the bare minimum). Recently, there have been quite a few nice budget hotels that have opened up in the city, and I’ll keep adding to this list as I find and hear of new ones.

Read my guide to Dubai hotels and apartments for every budget to decide where to stay in Dubai .

Golden Sands Hotel Apartments

Number One Tower Suites

Hilton Garden Inn Al Mina Dubai

Emirates Grand Hotel Dubai

Golden Tulip Al Barsha

Chelsea Gardens Hotel Apartments

Four Points by Sheraton Dubai

CityMax Hotel Dubai

Ramada Jumeirah Hotel

Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Ibis World Trade Center Dubai

Ibis Styles Jumeirah 

Rove Healthcare City

Rove Downtown Dubai

Rove Trade Center

Rove City Center

City Seasons Hotel Dubai

Grand Excelsior Bur Dubai

Gloria Hotel Dubai

President Hotel Dubai

Don’t feel overwhelmed while planning your Dubai trip.  Join my Dubai Travel Planning Group on Facebook for FREE resources, tips, and updated and new info about attractions and things to do. 

What To Pack

Read my complete guide on how to dress in Dubai to know exactly what to wear in different situations and settings in Dubai. You might also be interested in my post about the weather and the best time to visit Dubai to plan your trip.

For the cities:  The cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have huge expat populations and are essentially very cosmopolitan. It’s common for women and men to be dressed as they would be in the Western world. The residents are very fashionable and very rarely do you see people dressed sloppily.

Women wear dresses, jeans, skirts and even shorts and tank tops. That being said, it’s best to steer clear of clothing that’s too revealing and dressing appropriately (depending on where you are) so as not to attract unwanted attention or hurt the feelings of locals (who’re conservatively dressed in keeping with their culture).

So while it’s common to see women wearing super short dresses in nightclubs, that isn’t the best way to show up at the mall or on the metro. If you’re not sure about how much is too much, keep your knees and arms covered and you should be okay.

While visiting a mosque, men and women must cover their arms and knees.

Nicer nightclubs and restaurants require men and women to be dressed impeccably in formals or smart-casuals. Some may not let you enter in T-shirts, sneakers or casual clothing.

Carry a pair each of walking shoes or sandals and something formal/stylish for fancier places.

For the outdoors:

In summer, light, breezy and breathable fabrics are recommended to keep you cool. In winter, a light to medium jacket should suffice.

Swimwear is allowed at the beaches only. Don’t expect to cross the street in beachwear or ride the metro to the beach wearing skimpy clothing.

Get Your UAE Visa Online

Best Time to Visit Dubai

The city really comes alive between the cooler months of October and April- the best time to visit Dubai. There are tons of outdoor festivals and events, many free to attend. You can actually take advantage of our amazing outdoor spaces such as La Mer, Al Seef, and Kite Beach.

For a full breakdown of weather in Dubai and what to expect, read my guide to the best time to visit Dubai . 

Tours in Dubai

Languages spoken.

Arabic and English

In certain areas, you’ll also hear a lot of Hindi, Malayalam, Farsi and Urdu, among other languages, because people from the Indian subcontinent and other countries in the Middle East were among the first to have moved to the country for a living.

But almost everyone speaks English, signs and instructions are mostly mentioned in English and you should be okay even if you do not speak a word of Arabic.

The Arabic greeting As-salamu ‘alaykum is answered with W’alaykum as-salam . An informal Hello is Marhaba  and thank you is  Shukran .

Need to Know

Regardless of how modern the cities are, this is still the Middle East- it’s important to understand that the culture is different from the west.

So public displays of affection, wandering the streets inebriated, and giving bear hugs to people you’re meeting for the second time are big no-nos.

Alcohol is served only at licensed establishments which are usually restaurants, bars, pubs, lounges or nightclubs attached to or inside a hotel.

If you’re visiting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, you should be aware of the right etiquette. You can check my guide to Ramadan in the UAE .

Join my Dubai Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you’ll find plenty of free resources, practical information and insider tips about cool restaurants, cafes, instagrammable spots, attractions and things to do in and around Dubai. 

Looking to book a hotel in  Dubai ?  Check out these great options:

• Rove Downtown Dubai – Budget-Friendly & Great Value
• Renaissance Downtown Hotel Dubai – Mid-Range & Great Location
• Jumeirah Al Qasr – Ultimate Luxury, Dubai Style
• XVA Art Hotel – Heritage Boutique Hotel

Additional Reading

Where To Stay in Dubai: The Dubai Hotel Accommodation Guide for Every Budget

Best Places To Stay in Dubai for Couples (The Most Romantic Hotels)

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara Review: Stay at Abu Dhabi’s Grandest Desert Palace

Guide to Ramadan in Dubai

What to Wear in Dubai: The Ultimate Guide

How to go from Dubai Airport to City Center

Best Day Trips from Dubai

Best Things to Do in Khor Fakkan

Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Cheap & Free

Best Cafes in Dubai for Great Coffee and Good Vibes

What to Buy in Dubai: Best Souvenirs from Dubai

Wadi Shees: Nature Trails and Kayaking on this Dubai Day Trip

How to spend 48 hours in Sharjah

Chedi Al Bait: Tasteful Luxury in a Heritage Setting

Should You Rent a Car on your Dubai Vacation?

13 Countries to Visit From Dubai On Your Holiday

Stay at the Only Wildlife Safari Resort in the UAE

20 Signs I’ve Been in Dubai Too Long

Dubai Through the Eyes of an Old-Timer

Almost Wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Travel Blog

Heading to Abu Dhabi? You might want to check out my post on what to do in Al Ain and the UAE’s only wildlife safari on an island.

Have you been to Dubai or do you live here? What would you add to this list?

hygiene for all

Friday 11th of November 2022

good article that gives detailed information about Dubai. it is very helpful

Fiona Manonn

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

You did a great job..and research thank you so much..

Sunil Chawla

Saturday 12th of October 2019

Lovely Blog Highly Informative Thanks for sharing

Mukarram Nisar

Sunday 1st of September 2019

I have loved the way you told how and what to do in Dubai, some of the amazing spots and things to do. Loved your 10 minutes read.

Monday 26th of August 2019

Great post, really loved it. Most people visit Dubai for beaches, theme parks and its modern architecture but, I think everyone should visit the old Dubai.

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A list of all the amazing things to do in Dubai for FREE!

• Cultural activities
• Outdoor activities
• Historical attractions
• Other Free Things To Do

Planning to visit the emirate to take a much-needed break? Although Dubai is known for magnificent skyscrapers, opulent hotels and luxury shopping, you can still have a great time here without breaking the bank. Everything hinges on how you plan out your trip. If you are on a budget and want to find out the best free things to do in Dubai, we’ve got your back!

There are many places to visit in Dubai for free, from historical neighbourhoods to natural retreats. So, without further ado, let’s dig in.

EXPLORE THE CITY’S RICH CULTURE

The city is a fascinating tourist destination, more so because of its rich culture. It is an interesting combination of the old and new. Amongst the towering skyscrapers, you’ll find glimpses of a bygone era. So if you want to learn more about the golden city’s culture, here are some of the best places to explore Dubai’s culture .

1. THE STREETS OF AL SEEF 

A perfect mix of old and new Dubai, Al Seef Dubai is one of the best free places to visit in Dubai. It is situated along the Dubai Creek, revamped and brought to life by Meraas. It is one of the best free places to visit in Dubai. While Al Seef is open 24/7, the retail outlets are open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekdays. On weekends, the timings are from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.

You can enjoy views of the creek’s waters at this trendy destination. Furthermore, Al Seef is famous for hosting various festivals which feature some of the best free activities in Dubai, so keep an eye out for those if you plan to visit.

• Location: Dubai Creek
• Retail: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Food and beverages: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm | Friday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• Contact: +971-800-73-8245

2. TREAT YOURSELF TO THE STREET ART AT AL KARAMA

Take a walk through the vibrant streets of Karama, one of the best places with street art in Dubai and spot larger-than-life murals on 18b Street. There are stunning art pieces displayed across the street — part of an ambitious project to give the older buildings of Karama an urban facelift.

Art lovers will certainly enjoy this free activity in Dubai. So head to the bustling centre of Old Dubai and appreciate the street art that covers everything from 3D art to graffiti and abstract paintings.

• Timings: Open 24/7

3. TOUR THE GRAND BUR DUBAI MOSQUE

If you want to witness the grandeur of Arabic architecture in all its glory, head to the Bur Dubai Grand Mosque . An incredibly beautiful facility, the Grand Mosque is located in one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, which can accommodate 1,200 people. It also features the tallest minaret in Dubai (70 meters tall), resembling a lighthouse.

• Location: Opposite Dubai Museum, near Rulers Court Office, Bur Dubai

4. LET YOUR INNER ARTIST OUT AT ALSERKAL AVENUE

If the streets of Al Karama aren’t enough, head to the famed AlSerkal Avenue . This is where you get to experience art in all its glory. Different exhibits and shows are organised every week.

• Location: 17th Street, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1
• Timings: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 07:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-333-3464

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alserkal Avenue (@alserkalavenue)

5. VISIT THE CAMEL RACING FESTIVAL

Dubai’s famed Camel Racing Festival is the best way to see these majestic creatures outdo each other. Best of all, it’s free.

Celebrating a sport deeply rooted in the region, much like the city itself, the festival is one of the best free activities for those who like to explore the country’s culture. What’s the best way to experience camel racing in Dubai ? Plan your trip during the Al Marmoom Heritage Village Festival.

The annual competition attracts thousands of visitors every year. It’s one of the best things to do in Al Marmoom . You can also explore the nature reserve and indulge in other activities too.

• Location: Al Ain Road, Al Marmoom
• Contact: +971-4-832-6526

6. EXPLORE A BEACH LIBRARY

If you want to catch up on your reading without skipping the beach, visit any of the city’s free beach libraries. You can find these libraries on several public beaches in Dubai, including Al Mamzar Corniche and Umm Suqeim 1 .

7. VISIT THE OLD SOUKS

A shopping spree isn’t cost-free under usual circumstances, but there is no rule against some window shopping.

Malls and stores aside, the traditional souks in Dubai provide enough free entertainment, especially for new visitors.

The Dubai Spice Souk, Old Souk Dubai and Deira Gold Souk are examples. You don’t have to buy anything. The trinkets, spices and colourful garments on display offer plenty of Insta-worthy opportunities. It’s one of the best things to do in Dubai for free.

• Location : Multiple Locations
• Timing: Until 9:00 pm

BEST FREE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN DUBAI

From free camping spots to verdant parks, wildlife and more, Dubai is also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the best Dubai places to visit for free for those who love the great outdoors.

8. PLAN A PICNIC AT PUBLIC PARKS IN DUBAI

The parks in Dubai are a natural first pick for your “best places to visit in Dubai for free” list. From picnic spots to barbecue facilities and play areas for kids, the city’s public parks are ideal for Dubai families looking for cost-free leisure pursuits.

Free entry facilities include Al Barsha Pond Park and Burj Park. Although most of the parks offer free access to differently-abled visitors and children under a certain age.

9. SEE THE FLAMINGOS AT RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Next on our list of places to visit in Dubai for free is the  Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary . Home to many bird species like flamingos, the sanctuary is an ideal way to witness flocks in their natural habitat without spending a dime.

Periodic feeding sessions allow visitors to see the birds up close. Also, you won’t have to worry about getting scorched by the sun, because the viewing areas are shaded and airconditioned, making it one of the best free indoor spots in Dubai. 

• Location: Building 20, Baniyas Road, Deira Area
• Timings: Winter (October – March), 07:30 am – 05:30 pm | Summer (April – September), 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
• Contact: +971-800-900

10. HAVE A BEACH DAY

Visiting the beach is the best plan for anyone looking for free things to do in Dubai. Head to free-entry beaches in Dubai and take advantage of the facilities, including running tracks, volleyball courts and skate parks.

Some popular public beaches in Dubai include the JBR beach , Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach.

11. HAVE A BBQ AT AL QUDRA LAKE 

One of the most popular BBQ places in the city, Al Qudra Lake offers its visitors some of the best free things to do in the city. 

This is also one of the most popular free things to do in Dubai during the Eid holidays and long breaks! It is one of the best BBQ spots in Dubai .

12. Go Camping at Al Qudra

Al Qudra Lake is also one of the best UAE camping spots . There are no charges for entering the park, and you won’t have to spend anything to pitch a tent either.

But make sure you bring everything for a campfire if you plan on staying overnight, as it can get chilly.

13. GO CYCLING

Al Qudra is also a major attraction for both professional and amateur cyclists. One, you get to cycle while enjoying the pristine views of the lake. Secondly, it’s free, as long as you bring your own bike. Bike rentals are available at the Trek Dubai store near the track. It is also one of the best cycling trails in Dubai .

You can also go cycling at Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park . Other places, like the Dubai Autodrome, also offer free access to their tracks on certain days of the week.

HISTORICAL PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI FOR FREE

Dubai was once a modest fishing village before it rose to fame as a luxury tourist destination and skyscraper haven. You can see the city’s architecture when its economy relied on pearl diving and fishing — by wandering the streets and visiting some of the museums. Here’s a list of all the places to visit in Dubai with family for free!

14. EXPLORE THE BASTAKIYA

Want to explore Dubai’s history? Visitors can experience the heritage and culture of the UAE in the historical neighbourhood of Bastikiya free of charge! Also known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood , Al Bastakiya offers a glimpse of the city’s old architecture similar to traditional desert homes in the UAE.

• Location: Al Fahidi Historical District 
• Timings: Open 24 hours

15. GO TO THE HATTA HERITAGE VILLAGE

Another place where you can learn more about the city’s history for free is the Hatta Heritage Village . If you ever wanted to know what the city looked like before the oil and tourism industry made it the modern Utopia we know, this is the best place for you.

The village features forts, citadels and towers. You can also visit the “Bait Al Wali”, the home of the local ruler of the time.

• Location: Hatta (Around 134 kilometres along the Hajar Mountains area)

16. VISIT THE FREE MUSEUMS IN DUBAI

Looking for  free things to do in Dubai with kids ? Take them to any free-entry museums in Dubai, such as the Coin Museum and Coffee Museum. These museums offer kids a chance to learn about the nation’s history and view artefacts from the past.

OTHER FREE PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI

Apart from museums and natural wonders, here are some other fun activities and places to visit in Dubai for free.

17. BIND YOUR LOVE TO THE LOVE LOCK BRIDGE AT THE YARD

Looking for a pocket-friendly date night? Head to the Love Lock Bridge at the Yard with a lock and key. You can place a lock customised with the initials of you and your loved one to the bridge, and toss the key off the bridge. No need to travel to the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris for this experience!

The Love Lock Bridge at the Yard is easily one of the fun things to do in Dubai for free with your loved one. The Yard is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai for free. However, if the Love Lock Bridge is not something you’re looking for, there are plenty of other activities at The Yard . 

• Location: Al Khawaneej Last Exit D89
• Al Seef Timing: Open 24 hours

18. VISIT LA MER

Another great free place to visit in Dubai is La Mer. Complete with quirky installations and colourful street art, La Mer is one of the  top selfie spots in Dubai . There is also La Mer Beach, which offers visitors a range of fun watersports activities for the whole family! And if the urge to splurge hits, you can always shop at the stores in La Mer .

Our review of La Mer will help you know all the details about the location and its attractions.

• Retail: Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• Restaurants and cafes: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• Contact: +971-800-637-227

19. CATCH A GLIMPSE OF AIN DUBAI AT BLUEWATERS ISLAND

Bluewaters Island is another one of the popular places to visit in Dubai for free. The area is home to Ain Dubai – the largest observation wheel in the UAE.

The best way to get to the island is by car, as no direct metro or bus route goes there. If public transportation is your only option, the closest metro station to Bluewaters Island is DMCC, but you must hail a cab to get there.

20. TAKE A WATERFRONT STROLL ON THE MARINA WALK

The Dubai Marina Walk is a popular tourist spot in the city. Enjoy a relaxing stroll with the family or even a jog across the Marina Walk. The waterfront and the docked yachts make for some spectacular views. 

21. WATCH THE DANCING FOUNTAINS IN DUBAI

This is probably the most popular among free things to do in Dubai. Just head to Dubai Mall and enjoy the spectacular show of the world’s largest choreographed fountain system the Dubai Fountain , that dance to the popular tunes of Whitney Houston and Celine Dion and many more. It is among the best family places to visit in Dubai for free.

• Location: Dubai Mall
• Timings: Every half hour in the evenings, from 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm.

22. WATCH THE WATERFALL AT THE DUBAI WATER CANAL

The Dubai Water Canal is one of the top places to visit in the emirate and a natural pick for places to see in Dubai for free. The 6.4km artificial canal also features a 3km running track and a 12km cycling path, making it the perfect spot for fitness enthusiasts looking for free places to exercise in the emirate.

Nevertheless, if working out is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of open spaces and benches along the waterfront of the Canal where you can kick back and relax. There is also a mechanical waterfall, that changes colours and acts as a curtain when boats pass through it. 

You can get to the Dubai Canal by car or metro. If you travel by car, you can park at the ‘Dubai Water Canal Walkway Parking’ and walk to the canal. For those using public transportation, the closest metro station to the Dubai Canal Waterfall is the Business Bay; from there, the Dubai Waterfall is a 5-minute walk away.

23. SHARE SOME LOVE AT LOVE LAKE

Considered one of the best romantic spots in Dubai , Love Lake at Al Qudra offers a fun way to explore the desert. The entire area of Love Lake has been crafted in a way that the lakes and fauna of the area, spell out the word ‘Love’ with two hearts. One of the fairly new things to do in Dubai for free, this place comes equipped with shaded areas with fire pits and facilities such as washrooms. 

• Location: Al Qudra Lake, Dubai

24. ENJOY THE SUNSET AT THE VIEWING DECK AT DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR

If you’re wondering where to go in Dubai at night for free, look no further than Dubai Creek Harbour . It is located between Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. The area is popular for its picturesque views. The Viewing Deck has added to the attraction of this place, which is an extension of the Grand Creek Harbour development.

So if you want to enjoy the glitzy Dubai skyline or want to bask in the glow of a setting sun, you should add the Viewing Deck to your must-visit list. The platform is free to access by all and can be easily regarded as one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

FAQS ABOUT THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI FOR FREE

Where can i go shopping in dubai.

You can go shopping in Dubai at traditional souks such as Deira Gold Souk and Old Souk. Other options to explore include the famous Dubai Mall, Boxpark and The Beach at JBR.

ARE THERE ANY THEME PARKS IN DUBAI?

Yes! Some of the best theme parks in Dubai include Aquaventure Waterpark, Motiongate Dubai and Legoland.

CAN I VISIT DUBAI MALL FOR FREE?

Yes you can! In fact, there are certain free things to do in Dubai Mall, such as exploring the Fashion Avenue. See the human waterfall and enjoy the fountain show.

WHICH ACTIVITIES ARE UNDER AED 100 IN DUBAI?

There are plenty of things to do in Dubai under AED 100 . You can visit the Miracle Garden, Dubai Garden Glow, Safari Park, Flying Cup and Dubai Frame.

That’s everything about the places to visit in Dubai for free and cost-free things to do. If you are not on a budget, here are other things to do in Dubai . Want to walk on the wild side? Sign up for some exciting adventures in Dubai during your next trip. For die-hard thrill-seekers, there are some extreme things to do in Dubai .

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very informative

Thank you so much for your feedback!

Thank you for this, I will sure have a splendid time with family visiting dubai next year

Hello! We’re glad to be of service.

Our blog has a lot of information helpful for anyone visiting the UAE for the first time. This includes attraction reviews, tips on travelling around the city using public transport and even a guide to the Dubai Airport. A quick search on our blog can get you all this information and more. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, do reach out to us. We will try out best to get the information to you.

Thnks its really vry helpful

Hello Kiran, thank you so much for your feedback!

Thank you, the information was very helpful.

Hello Jemima, thank you for the kind words of appreciation. We’re glad to know our article was helpful to you.

Thank you. Very informative

love all of these they helped with my school presentation thanks. UwU

That’s amazing, Brittany! If you need any more information on the latest attractions and activities in Dubai, you can also check out the Pulse section of our blog.

Thanks, This article was very helpful … Well done bayut team.

Hello! Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re grateful for readers like you.

It’s awesome I like it

Thank you so much! We’re happy that you’re happy!

Hey ED! Thank you for this wonderful post! I feel being physically there — in every places you’ve mentioned here — even I’m not ( just seating here in our kitchen) Lol. It actually gives me a good feeling.

Also, it’s very informative. Will read other linked post under this article. I really appreciate your research and choice of place. Thank you so much!

Thank you so much for your kind words! We hope you enjoy reading the other posts too.

Hi I want to know if the flamingos at Ras al Khor wildlife center hass any more animals ???

Hello! According to the Dubai Municipality website, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to countless species of birds, reptiles, fish and invertebrates. However, birds are the most prominent with over 180 different specie calling the sanctuary home.

I must say you have written it very well that while reading this it made me feel that i am experiencing it personally. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you for your kind words Dipika!

Definitely I will visit all these places

That’s amazing! Let us know which one is your favourite!

So glad to know you enjoyed this post!

I am from the UAE and I visited half of these places. I really recommended it. As you know UAE has all the places that a person wish for. Yes, also all these places Bayut are talking about they are free and also beautiful.

That’s amazing! Which of these spots did you love the most? We’d love to know. 😀

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