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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?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

7-Day Dubai Trip Costs & Tips To Save Money When Visiting Dubai

Wondering if Dubai is expensive for tourists and how much money you should take for a week in Dubai? Below you’ll find my 7-day Dubai trip costs in AED, USD and GBP, and helpful tips to save money when visiting the city.

When I started planning my trip to Dubai, I wasn’t sure how much it would cost me.

Dubai is known for being an expensive destination, thanks to its abundant wealth, luxury shopping, upscale skyscrapers, and a staggering range of top-notch hotels.

As more and more people started vacationing in the so-called “City of Gold”, many of us started thinking about how affordable Dubai can be and also the possibility of making this dream come true.

I, finally, visited Dubai and had a fantastic time! I tracked all my Dubai travel expenses to write this post and give you a better idea of how much money you would spend on a trip to Dubai.

If you want to know the average cost of going to Dubai, I’ll tell you everything here. There is also a full breakdown of my Dubai trip costs.

Most popular tours in Dubai:

Table of Contents

Is Dubai expensive to visit?

Dubai is as expensive as other major cities in the world, such as New York, London, and Paris.

The difference is while in these three cities, there are several free things to do and you can simply walk around sightseeing, Dubai isn’t a walkable city and, basically, you have to pay to visit all the tourist attractions.

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Dubai?

As soon as I posted some pictures of Dubai on social media, my friends and followers got so excited.

They started sending me messages and in unison asking me: “Is Dubai expensive for tourists?”, and “How much does it cost to go to Dubai?”.

Your Dubai travel costs will vary according to your travel style. If you only stay in five-star hotels and resorts, go fine dining, and take taxis it will cost more than staying in three-star hotels, eating where the locals eat and using public transport.

If you’re concerned about how much money you will spend in Dubai, you should plan your Dubai travel budget carefully to be financially prepared for your trip.

Before showing my Dubai trip costs breakdown, let me give you a hint of your main expenses.

The first part of your budget to travel to Dubai will be spent on your round-trip flight tickets.

I bought the tickets with KLM, from London to Dubai, with a connection in Amsterdam less than one month in advance of my trip and paid a very good price, £290.

The average price of a direct round-trip ticket to Dubai, from London, is £499, with British Airways as well as Emirates. And from New York is US$950 with Emirates Airline.

Travel Insurance

It’s required by the United Arab Emirates government that all travellers must have travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage when visiting the country.

Don’t worry because it won’t cost you much, but can save you a couple of hundred bucks if you get sick, something unexpected happens, and your luggage gets lost or stolen.

World Nomads, one of the most popular travel insurance companies among independent travellers, is usually my personal choice.

I spent £64,80 on travel insurance on my one-week trip to Dubai.

Get a quote with World Nomads here .

SafetyWing , another company I sometimes use, also covers COVID-19 and quarantine outside of your home country (US$ 50/day for up to 10 days).

• Don’t miss: 25 Best Things to Do in Dubai

Accommodation

A big part of your budget to travel to Dubai will be the cost of your hotel room.

In my case, almost 30% of my 7-day Dubai trip costs were spent on accommodation.

It’s because hotels in Dubai aren’t cheap. Particularly during the Expo, when I visited it, and in the peak season (from December to February).

The average cost of a good 3-star hotel room in Dubai, for two people, with breakfast included is 700 AED (£157 / US$190).

But if you’re on a budget you can find a wide range of affordable hotels in the old town, where you can pay an average of 300 AED (£67 / US$82) for a double bed single room with breakfast.

I stayed in three different hotels in Dubai and in three distinct neighbourhoods because I wanted to explore the city better. I spent approximately 3,644 AED (£817 / US$992) on accommodation in Dubai.

• Read next: Where to Stay in Dubai – Best Areas & Hotels

Transportation

Your expenses with transportation in Dubai will not only depend on where you’ll be based in the city but also on the mode of transportation that you’ll use.

Dubai is a metropolis, and the most popular points of interest are spread out all over the city.

But Dubai has an excellent public transport network and it’s an easy city to navigate. You can take the metro, buses, tram, water buses and even the monorail.

If you hire a car or take taxis, they aren’t expensive, you can get to your destination much quicker. But it will add up to your Dubai trip costs.

I mainly used taxis to get around Dubai, but I also took the metro. I spent 833 AED (£187 / US$227) .

Tours and Tourist Attractions

Of course, once you’re in Dubai you’ll want to take tours, visit some tourist attractions and have wonderful experiences.

Climbing to the top of Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), admiring the stunning view of the palm islands from The View at The Palm, strolling around the picturesque Dubai Miracle Garden, riding the glass slide at Sky Views, and taking a desert safari tour, are some of the best things to do in Dubai.

To have a better idea of how much money these things cost in Dubai, here are some examples:

• The Top of the Burj Khalifa : 159 AED (£35/ US$43)
• Sky Views Dubai : 80 AED (£18 / US$22)
• Dubai Miracle Garden : 95 AED (£21 / US$26)
• The View at The Palm : 100 AED (£22 / US$27)
• Dubai Hop-On Hop-Off Bus : 255 AED (£58 / US$68)
• Private Dubai City Tour :382 AED (£87 / US$104)
• Day Trip to Abu Dhabi : 445 AED (£100 / US$120)
• Desert Safari with Camel Ride, Sand Surf & BBQ : 297 AED (£66 / US$81)
• Museum of the Future : 149 AED (£33 / US$41)
• Sunbed at JBR Beach: 120 AED (£27 / US$33)

I spent 3064 AED (£682 / US$834) on tours and attractions, about 29% of the total cost of my 1-week trip to Dubai.

Food and Drinks

With a wide range of restaurants in Dubai, you’ll be spoiled for choice when visiting the city.

There are cheap restaurants, popular restaurant chains (McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Nando’s, etc) and high-end restaurants.

The amount of money you’ll spend on food and drinks in Dubai will depend on the restaurants you go to. It can be as little as 20 AED (£4.50 / US$5.50), if you go to a simple restaurant, or as much as 1225 AED (£274 / US$333) if you opt for a ‘7-course Tasting Menu’ at Atmosphere , the world’s tallest restaurant at Burj Khalifa.

The prices of drinks will depend on the restaurant. Alcoholic beverages are more expensive in Dubai than in other major cities though.

I only went fine dining once in Dubai. Some days I was so tired and hungry, that I didn’t make much effort to find a nice restaurant. I ended up eating, for example, at McDonald’s, something that I don’t do back home.

I spent 1072 AED (£240 / US$292) on food and drinks in Dubai.

Now that you have a general idea of how much it costs to travel to Dubai for a week, I’m going to break down my Dubai trip costs.

• You may also like: Best Places to Visit in Doha, Qatar

My 7-Day Dubai Trip Costs Breakdown

• 5 nights at Leva Hotel and Suites, Opposite Downtown : 3,858.85 AED for three people (1286 per person)
• 2 nights at Rove Dubai Marina : 2,022.51 AED
• 1 night at Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira : 335,46 AED

My total costs with hotels in Dubai for a week: 3644 AED (£817 / US$992)

• Taxis: 724 AED
• Metro: 80 AED
• Water taxi: 4 AED
• Bus: 25 AED

Total: 833 AED (£187 / US$227)

Tours and Attractions

• Sky Views: 80 AED
• Burj Khalifa: 174 AED
• Dubai Miracle Garden: 75 AED
• The View at The Palm: 70 AED
• Desert Safari: 202 AED
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: 63 AED
• Discover Scuba Diving at Deep Dive Dubai : 1800 AED
• Yacht Party: 300 AED
• Day use at Beach by Five at Five Palm Jumeirah Hotel: 300 AED

Total: 3064 AED (£682 / US$834)

P.S. : More than half of my expenses on tours and attractions in Dubai were with Deep Dive Dubai. I know it can be a bit costly, but it was one of the most unique and coolest things that I did in the city.

• Suggested read: Doha Travel Tips – Things to Know Before Travelling to Qatar
• Lunch with soda at Iran Zamin Dubai Mall: 74 AED
• Dinner at Pizza Hut Dubai Mall: 61 AED (Pizza: 45 + Mojito: 16 )
• Lunch at Señor Pico at Palm West Beach: 154 AED (Out to lunch 3-meal course: 79 + Mojito: 75 )
• Dinner at Mc Donald’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: 27 AED
• Lunch at Marina Pot: 29 AED
• Dinner at Glückspilz, The Pointe – The Palm Jumeirah: 100 AED
• Lunch at Joe’s Crab Shack: 109 AED
• Dinner with drinks at Ninive : 320 AED

I didn’t list all the restaurants that I went to during my 7 days in Dubai. The ones above are to give you an idea of the price differences.

The total amount spent on food and drinks was 1072 AED (£241 / US$292) .

It’s an average of 153 AED (£34 / US$41) per day and I think it’s excellent.

Again, sometimes I didn’t put too much effort into looking for a nice restaurant.

I believe that you can put on your Dubai travel budget 200 AED (£45 / US$55) to spend per day on food and drinks, if you have breakfast included in your hotel reservation, like me.

Miscellaneous

• Sunscreen: 51.45 AED
• 10Gb internet with DU: 139 AED
• Tips: 75 AED

Total: 265 AED (£59 / US$72)

How Much is a 1-Week Trip To Dubai?

I’d say that the average cost of a trip to Dubai, for a week, per person, in 2023, ranges between £650 – 970 (US$795 – 1,186) for budget travellers. For a mid-range budget, expect to spend around £1,300 – 1,950 (US$1,590 – 2,385), and for a luxury holiday anything from £3,800 (US$4,650) upwards.

A couple can expect to spend an average of £3,300 (US$4,036) for a week in Dubai.

* Airline tickets not included.

The total cost of my 7-day Dubai trip was 10,575 AED (£2,354/ US$2,879 ), including the airline tickets and travel insurance.

Of course, I could’ve spent less money, if I had booked my hotels in advance (as I always do), taken the metro more, eaten where locals eat and not gone diving at Deep Dive Dubai.

But this is why I travel for. To have unique experiences and create memories that I will treasure forever. So should you!

Tips for Saving Money When Visiting Dubai

If you’re travelling to Dubai on a budget, let me give you some advice based on my recent trip and travel expertise.

The best time to visit Dubai is from December to February when is not too hot. But this is also when hotel rooms are more expensive, especially during the holiday season.

If you want to save money on your trip to Dubai, you should avoid the peak season and go in November, March or early April.

I was there from the 15th to the 22nd of March and the weather was good, although on two days the temperature reached 36C. In the evenings there was a pleasant breeze.

Below are some more specific tips for saving money when travelling to Dubai.

If you want to save some money on airline tickets, you should book a flight with a connection. You can find great deals with KLM, Air France, Lufthansa, Swiss and Qatar Airways .

And if you’re in Europe, you can even fly to Dubai for less than £200 with low-cost carriers. Just book a ticket with Ryanair, Easy Jet or Wizz to Budapest, Vienna, Sophia, Athens, or Bucharest, for example, and from there book another ticket to Dubai with Wizz Air / Pegasus.

To find the best deals on airline tickets, go to Skyscanner , the website that I use, trust, and recommend.

To save money on accommodation in Dubai, my recommendation is to stay in the old town.

There are many cheap hotels and restaurants in Deira, which makes the area perfect for budget travellers.

It’s a bit far from most of Dubai’s points of interest, but you can use public transport. It’s also close to the airport and you can pay only 3 AED (£0.67 / US$0.82) on the metro from Deira to Dubai International Airport.

Another option is to stay in a hostel. There are great hostels in Dubai. This one at the marina has even a fitness centre, and this one is good too.

If you don’t want to spend much on tourist attractions, my recommendation is to put on your Dubai travel budget the ones that you really want to see and buy the tickets online in advance to save you some time.

Another option is to buy combo tickets, like this one for Dubai Aquarium + Burj Khalifa , or this one that you can choose from three to seven attractions.

When you arrive at Dubai Airport, get a free 1Gb tourist sim card at the immigration. With this sim card, you can use the internet on the metro, bus and taxis for free for 60min daily.

There’s free Wi-Fi everywhere and you might not need to top up your card during your stay.

P.S. : The free tourist sim card is very easy to activate and top up (via the Du app). It’s cancelled once you leave the country.

Undoubtedly the best way to save money in Dubai on transportation is to take public transport. Taxis only when you can’t easily reach the desired destination.

Go to the ticket booth at any metro station and buy the silver card instead of the red one as the rides are much cheaper and you can top up the card as much as you need.

These are my top tips to save money on a trip to Dubai. If you have some more, let me know in the comments below.

Safe travels and have fun in Dubai.

More posts that might interest you:

• 07 Hidden Gems in Dubai To Visit on Your Next Trip
• How to Save Money on a Trip to New York
• Cuba Travel Costs – Per Day / Destination
• Travel is Much More than Taking a Picture for Your Instagram

Don’t forget to save these pins for later 😉

• Book Your Flight Find deals on airlines on my favorite search engine: Skyscanner . Be sure to read my How to find cheap flights article.
• Rent A Car Rental Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal.
• Book Accommodation Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. But Hotels.com and Hilton Hotels have very interesting reward programs.
• Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! I always use World Nomads  for short-term trips and SafetyWing for long-term ones. Find out why Travel Insurance: Much More Than a Precaution, a Necessity .
• Book Tours in Advance Book unforgettable experiences and skip-the-line tickets with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book Ground Transportation BookaWay offers a stress-free experience with secure payments and no hidden fees. You pay online and receive your itinerary by email.
• Luggage Solutions Rent your luggage with Cargo or if you need to drop off your own luggage and enjoy your time without dragging it all over a city, find a LuggageHero shop here.
• Get a Travel Card Revolut Card is a pre-paid debit card that enables cash machine withdrawals in 120 countries. I’ve been using my Revolut Card for over a year and never paid foreign-transaction fees again. Get your Revolut Card with free shipping here .
• Packing Guide Check out my How to Pack a Carry-on Luggage For a Five-month Trip to help you start packing for your trip. Don’t forget your camera, chargers and other useful travel accessories.

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Ultimate Guide to Visiting Dubai: 7-Day Detailed Itinerary with Costs

The ultimate travel guide to dubai.

Sara Santos | September 26, 2023 May 9, 2023

We spent seven days in Dubai in February 2023. We did a lot of research about the best places to visit, must-do experiences, how to use public transportation, where to stay, and much more.

In this article, we’ll share with you our detailed 7-day itinerary with tips, costs, and our honest opinion about the places we’ve visited, so that you can take out the most of your visit to Dubai.

Visiting Dubai: Practical Information

• Best time to visit: winter (from November to February)
• Currency: AED
• Language: UAE’s official language is Arabic, but English is spoken by almost everyone in Dubai
• Visa: check visa requirements
• How to get there: Dubai Airport or Abu Dhabi Airport
• How to get around: taxi (check the Careem app) and public transportation
• How to pay for stuff: cash and card are widely accepted
• Plugs : plug type is G (like in the UK)
• Safety : one of the safest places in the world when it comes to crime

Summary of Dubai 7-Day Itinerary

Day 0 in Dubai : Arrive and Check-in at your Accommodation

Day 1 in Duba i: Palm Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah

Visiting The View At the Palm

Ride at the palm monorail, the pointe – best place for pictures of the atlantis, visiting jumeirah souk madinat, dinner and stroll at dubai marina.

Day 2 in Dubai : Jumeirah Mosque and Burj Khalifa

• Cultural Tour at Jumeirah Mosque

Ethiad Museum (alternative)

• At the Top of Burj Kalifha
• Dubai Fountain Show

Dubai Downtown

Day 3 in Dubai : Mall of the Emirates and Old Dubai, and JBR

Ski at Mall of the Emirates

Explore old dubai and visit the souks, stroll jbr walk – jumeirah beach residences.

Day 4 in Dubai : Desert Adventure

Day 5 in Dubai : Etihad Museum, Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, and Global Village

Ethiad Museum

Dubai frame, museum of the future, global village, miracle garden.

Day 6 in Dubai : Aquaventure Waterpark

• A Day at the Aquaventure Waterpark

Day 7 in Dubai : Day Trip to Abu Dhabi and Going Back Home

Day 0 in Dubai – Arrive and Check-in at your Accommodation

We assume that your flight will arrive later in the afternoon like ours. So you won’t have much time to explore and you’ll go straight to your accommodation. If your flight arrives early in the morning or in the afternoon, you can skip to the next day. 

How to Get To Dubai?

We arrived at the Abu Dhabi airport from Bari (Italy) at 18:30. The flight cost 39.99€ per person with Wizz Air (only a small bag). You can get similar prices with Wizz Air from other European cities.

Depending on where you’re flying from, you might want to go to Dubai Airport (DXB) instead. You can use Skyscanner to check the best prices for flights to Dubai.

Do you need a Visa to travel to Dubai?

We have Portuguese passports, so we got our visa on Arrival. The process was super simple and quick. Check the following website to see the visa requirement for your passport.

• Dubai Visa Rules

How to Get a SIM card in UAE?

After that, we got a SIM card from Virgin right after passport control. We paid 150 AED for 21 GBs for 7 days (limited to 3GB per day).

There’s also another popular internet provider called du . If you arrive at Dubai airport, you’ll get a free SIM card with 1GB.

You’ll find counters to buy SIM cards in most malls and some metro stations as well.

Alternatively, you may opt to buy an e-SIM using the airalo app. If you use my referral code, you’ll get a 3$ credit. Use the referral code below on your first purchase:

How to Get from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?

• Abu Dhabi Airport Express Bus : the cheapest and most practical way to go from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai is using the Abu Dhabi Express Bus. It runs every hour 24/7 and the journey takes approximately one hour. The price is 35 AED per person.
• Taxi : you can get a taxi from Abu Dhabi airport direct to your accommodation in Dubai.
• Private transfer : you can book a private transfer in advance using GetYourGuide , for example.

Once we got to the arrivals hall, we purchased a ticket to the Abu Dhabi Airport Express Bus to Dubai. This is the most convenient way to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi. At the moment, there are no machines to buy tickets. You buy the ticket at the counter when you arrive. The ticket is valid for a certain departure hour. It costs 35 AED per person and the journey takes approximately one hour.

There are buses every hour 24/7. We recommended checking the Abu Dhabi Airport Express bus website for more information .

The bus arrives at Battuta Mall in Dubai, where you can get the metro from there to your accommodation, or get a taxi if that’s more convenient.

Once in Buttuta Mall, we catch the metro to our hotel’s nearest metro station. From the metro station to our apartment was a 20-minute walk. On the way there, we stopped at the Marina Mall to have some dinner. A 20-minute walk was possible because we traveled in the winter. Otherwise, it might be impossible to walk such a distance in Dubai’s summer temperatures.

Using Dubai’s public transportation is super cheap and easy (with the help of Google Maps).

How to Get from Dubai Airport (DXB) to your accommodation?

If you’re arriving at Dubai international airport (DXB), there are several ways to get to your accommodation:

• by taxi : you can get a Taxi to your accommodation. Taxis in Dubai are super affordable. For example, a ride from Dubai Airport to Dubai Mall should cost approximately 55 AED.
• by metro : there are stations on Terminals 1 and 3, with both stations on the Red Line. The trains are safe, modern, and comfortable. To ride the metro, you need a nol card. Learn more about nol card here .
• by bus : depending on where you’re staying, it might be more convenient to go by bus. You need to buy a nol card in advance to use the bus—you can’t pay directly to the driver.

Where to Stay in Dubai?

If you’re in Dubai for the first time, we recommend staying near Dubai Marina, JBR, or the area around Burj Khalifa. Those are lively zones where you’ll always have something going on at night with plenty of restaurants and great access to public transportation to all the most important highlights. If you’re on a budget, you can stay in Deira or Bur Dubai where you’ll find the most affordable stays.

Try to book your accommodation in advance so that you can get better options for a better price. We booked our accommodation using Booking and besides receiving 10% back to use in future stays, we also got 40€ to spend on attractions.

>> Click here to book your hotel in Dubai

We stayed in an apartHotel in Dubai Marina—the Royal Regency Suites. We booked a studio apartment, but we were upgraded to a one-bedroom apartment. The staff was great. The apartment was huge and with a great view of Dubai Marina (see picture above). It was only a 5-minute walk to the Marina Walk, a promenade with shops, restaurants, and views of super modern skyscrapers.

We also had access to the hotel pool and gym, but we were so busy visiting all the city highlights that we didn’t even step foot there.

How to Use Dubai’s Public Transportation?

To use Dubais’s public transportation as a tourist you need to buy a nol card . There are several options for nol cards. As a tourist, we recommend getting a red nol card. A red nol card costs 2 AED. You can get a card from ticket machines at metro stations. You can top-up your nol card with different products:

• Trips (1-zone, 2-zone, or 3-zones);
• Cash : you tap your card when you enter and exit the metro/bus. It will automatically calculate the amount to deduct from your card.
• Day ticket : unlimited travel using public transportation like metro, tram, and bus (the monorail at Palm Jumeirah is not included)  

Once you buy a product on your nol card, you can only top up with the same product. If you have a day ticket, and on the following day you only want a trip, you’ll need to get a new nol card.

You can top-up your nol card up to five times. After that, you’ll need to get a new nol card. The ticket machines accept cash and card. Please note that bus stops don’t have ticket machines (at least we didn’t see any on the ones we used).

Here’s a summary of the costs:

• Nol card price: 2 AED
• Day ticket: 20 AED
• 1-zone trip: 4 AED
• 2-zone trip: 6 AED
• 3-zone trip: 8.50 AED

These are the prices for the economic class. You may opt to get the same products but in gold class, which is double the price.

For the most up-to-date information and prices, check the RTA website .

Cost of day 0 in Dubai

Food: Dinner at Marina Mall (2pp): 35€

Transportation:

• Abu Dhabi Airport Express to Dubai (2pp): 18€
• nol card + 1-zone trip (2pp): 3€

Virgin SIM card 21GB: 38€

TOTAL: 94€ (2pp) → 47€ per person

Day 1 in Dubai: Palm Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah

On this day, we visited Palm Jumeirah, the famous tree-shaped artificial island, and Madinat Jumeirah, a promenade with great views of Burj Al Arab.

Day 1 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities :

• The View at the Palm
• Monorail ride at Palm Jumeirah
• The Pointe (best view to Atlantis hotel)
• Souk Madinat
• Burj Al Arab
• Marina Walk

The best way to see Palm Jumeirah is from The View at the Palm . We got a taxi ride from our apartment to The View at the Palm. The entrance is done through the Nakheel Mall. We recommend buying your tickets in advance to avoid spending time in lines. Check the links below to get your tickets to the View at the Palm. Your ticket will be valid for the day and time you specify.

The visit starts with an animation projected on the floor with an explanation of the construction of the island by a guide. The audio was quite bad, so it was a little difficult to understand what was being said.

After that, you’ll watch a short video (that seems like an inspirational video) about the dream of creating the island. When the video is over, you’ll get to a room with several facts and curiosities about the island and its construction. In my opinion, this room was very interesting, but I saw many people going straight to the next part, without even looking at this room. Don’t rush your visit. You can spend any time you need before going to the actual viewpoint.

Finally, you’ll enter an elevator to go to the top of the building to actually see the Palm. From the top, you can see the shape of the island and the famous Atlantis Hotel on the opposite side. You can also see several other interesting sights. You can see Burj Al Arab (the famous seven-star hotel), the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel on the Bluewaters island, and if you’re lucky and there isn’t much fog, you can also see Burj Khalifa.

Taking good pictures in this place might be quite challenging because there are some metal bars all around the windows. Additionally, we visited near midday and the sun was not helping to get a good light.

We spent approximately one hour at the top to take some pictures and soak up the views and we think that was more than enough.

If you don’t want to spend much money on food for lunch, take the time to lunch at the Nakheel Mall after you visit the Palm. We went to the Waitrose supermarket. You can get super cheap pastries and other already-made meal options.

Now that you are at the Nakheel Mall, it is super convenient to catch a ride on the Palm Monorail. From the Monorail, you can get very interesting sights along the journey. So, in our opinion, this ride is an attraction in itself. Additionally, it’s also a cheap way to get to the Pointe. A nice beach with a great view of the Atlantis Hotel.

You can get to the Monorail from the Nakheel mall. Just follow the signs for the Monorail. Buy a one-way ticket to the Pointe. You need to buy the tickets from the counter. There aren’t ticket machines. The ticket from Nakheel Mall to The Pointe costs 5 AED per person.

Try to go in the front of the monorail to get the best views. I was a bit disappointed because the front windows are quite small and there were too many people so that we could get a nice view at the front.

We got out at The Pointe Station and we took some pictures from the monorail station. It actually has a great view of the Atlantis Hotel. From there, we went to The Pointe beach where we eat ice cream and relaxed a bit on the beach with some views of the Atlantis Hotel. This is a very nice place to get those insta-worthy pictures.

This beach is public and you can lay down on the puffs provided for free. It’s nice to visit this place, but I don’t recommend it if you have the idea of actually going to the beach and the water. This is a super touristic place, there are always people coming, going and taking pictures. The beach is small and the water is very shallow.

Once we’ve had enough of that place, we caught the monorail back to the Palm Gateway. It costs 10 AED per person. From there, you can get a bus or a taxi to Souk Madinat Jumeirah (use Google Maps to see the best route). We caught a bus, and we had to walk for about 10 minutes.

Jumeirah Souk Madinat is like a mall with an old style resembling the old souks. It has a promenade with restaurants and stores and great views of the Burj Al Arab hotel.

If you want to see Burj Al Arab from close, you can walk from there. It’s approximately 10 minutes on foot. It was already dark when we got there. So, we weren’t able to get good pictures. If you want to get good pictures, we recommend getting there earlier.

If you want to experience the luxury of the seven-star hotel from the inside, you can get a guided tour of the hotel. Check the tickets to the Burj Al Arab guided visit here .

Because we were staying at Dubai Marina, we caught a taxi to our accommodation. You can go to Dubai Marina to have dinner, or decide to have dinner at Souk Madinat if it’s more convenient for you.

We had dinner at Habib Beirut and the food was really good. After that, we went for a stroll on Marina Walk.

Alternatively, you can also book a yacht cruise along Dubai marina with dinner included. Check the different alternatives on Get Your Guide .

We like to book our activities in Get Your Guide because you can cancel up to 24 hours if your plans change and you can check the reviews of hundreds of other people. Additionally, you get 10% off on your first bookings.

Cost of day 1 in Dubai

• Breakfast: at the apartment (2pp): 3.5€ 
• Lunch at the supermarket (2 pp): 4€
• Ice cream at The Pointe (2pp): 7.50€
• Dinner Habib Beirute (2pp): 44€

Activities:

• The View at the Palm (2pp): 49.90€
• Taxi ride (Dubai Marina to The View at the Palm): 11.50€
• Palm monorail ride (2pp): 7.5€
• Palm Gateway to Souk Madinat Bus (nol card + ride) (2pp): 5€
• Taxi ride (Burj Al Arab to Dubai Marina): 10€

TOTAL: 143€ (2pp) → 71.5€ per person

Day 2 in Dubai: Jumeirah Mosque and Burj Khalifa

On our second full day in Dubai, we went to visit Jumeirah Mosque, went to the top of Burj Khalifa, and explored Dubai downtown.

On this day, we would make a lot of trips by public transportation. So, we decided to get a nol day ticket. The card costs 2 AED and the daily ticket costs 20 AED. Getting a day ticket is super convenient to get around because you don’t have to worry about the balance on your card and you can take any type of public transportation.

Day 2 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities :

• Jumeirah Mosque and/or Ethiad Museum

At the Top of Burj Khalifa

Jumeirah mosque visit.

Jumeirah Mosque is the only Mosque in Dubai that can be visited by non-muslims. They offer cultural tours every day, except Fridays, at 10:00 and 14:00. No prior booking is required. Just make sure you get there half an hour earlier to register and eat some breakfast at the included buffet. It costs 15 AED per person. For more information, check the Jumeirah Mosque website here .

To visit Jumeirah mosque make sure you dress appropriately. Women and men must cover their legs and shoulders and women must cover the head. If you don’t have a scarf to cover your hair, you can buy one there. Additionally, they provide an abaya for women or kandora for men, if you are not dressed appropriately.

During this visit, they explain the basics of the Islamic religion including the purification ritual. You can also ask any questions about their culture and religion. This visit was very interesting, and I totally recommend it to anyone that wants to know more about their culture.

Next to Jumeirah Mosque is Ethiad Museum. This museum explains the founding of the UAE and information about the founding fathers of the seven different Emirates. It also includes a visit to the Union House, the birthplace of the UAE in 1971, and the Guest Palace.

The museum is huge and the building is a beautiful piece of architecture.

We didn’t have the time to visit this museum on this day because we had already a booking for Burj Khalifa in a couple of hours. So, we ended up visiting this museum on another day. If you have the time and want to know more about the foundation of UAE and its founding fathers, take a visit to this place. Admission costs 25 AED. You can buy the tickets when you arrive.

The next stop on our itinerary is Burj Khalifa—the highest building in the world with 828 meters.

The best way to get there is by metro. The entrance to the Burj Khalifa is made through Dubai Mall. There’s a metro station that stops at Dubai mall. So, this is a very convenient way to get there.

Dubai Mall is huge, so take some time to visit the mall and its attractions.

It is home to the biggest aquarium. You can see the aquarium from the outside for free. You can also get tickets for the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Make sure you get your tickets in advance. There’s a combo ticket that includes a visit to the Top of Burj Khalifa and a visit to the Aquarium and underwater zoo.

In the Dubai Mall, there’s also a very interesting waterfall that it’s worth visiting.

We ended up not visiting these attractions on this day, but make sure you take a look at them on the same day you visit Burj Khalifa if you have fewer days in Dubai.

If you want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, make sure you buy your tickets in advance. You need to choose the day and time of your visit. Some hours are more expensive than others. You can get a ticket to floors 124 and 125 or a ticket that also includes floor 148. The ticket to floor 148 is almost four times more expensive than the other ticket. But, it may be worth it if you want to get a premium experience with fewer people.

You can get tickets to At The Top of Burj Khalifa using the Get Your Guide app. You can get a 10% discount code to use on your first purchase.

The Dubai Mall is huge and it might be a little difficult to get to the entrance of Burj Khalifa. Once you get into the mall, go down to the ground level, then catch the elevator to the lower ground (LG). After that, just follow the signs to At the top of Burj Khalifa . The visit to the Burj Khalifa might take some time. So, don’t go there hungry. You can eat something at the Mall food court. Or if you want to save some money like us, go to the Waitrose supermarket and eat something from there.

There were many people at the entrance to Burj Khalifa, but it was pretty quick to get to the elevators, around 20 minutes. The elevator is pretty fast and you can feel the changes in pressure on your ears.

Once you reach level 124, you can soak up the views around the building. There were many people at the top, all wanting to take pictures in the windows. It is pretty difficult to get some decent pictures with so many people and the reflections on the windows (depending on the time of the day).

Don’t forget to also go to level 125 using the stairs. The views are almost the same, but there are few people there, so it might be better to take some pictures.

We spent about one hour at the top and it was more than enough. The line for the elevator to go down took about 10 minutes.

If you don’t want to spend so much money to visit the top of Burj Khalifa, seeing it from the ground level, outside Dubai Mall is also a great experience.

Right outside the Dubai Mall, it’s where the famous Dubai Fountain Show takes place every day every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 10:30 PM (weekdays) or to 11:00 (weekends). It’s the world’s tallest performing fountain (as high as 140 meters). It takes about three minutes and it’s accompanied by different songs.

The show is free to watch. There are plenty of people waiting to see the show, but we were always able to get a good place.

If you want a better experience of the Dubai Fountain show, you can go on a traditional abra boat ride during the show .

There are plenty of restaurants around the fountain. We ended up having dinner at KFC with a great view of the fountain.

The whole area around the Dubai Fountain is worth visiting and exploring. We took some nice pictures at Downtown Palace and at the Burj Park at night and we saw the fountain show from several different angles.

We also visited the place where the famous Wings of Mexico are located. There was a line of people that wanted to take a picture there. To be honest, I didn’t find it much interesting, so I didn’t take a picture there.

After a long day, we took the bus and the metro to get back to our accommodation at Dubai Marina.

Cost of day 2 in Dubai:

• Lunch at the supermarket (2 pp): 9.5€
• Dinner KFC (2pp): 15€
• Jumeirah Mosque Visit (2pp): 7.5€
• At the top of Burj Khalifa level 124, and 125 (2pp): 88.50€
• Nol card + daily ticket (2pp): 11€

TOTAL: 129€ (2pp) → 64.5€ per person

Day 3 in Dubai: Mall of the Emirates, Old Dubai, and JBR

On our third day in Dubai, we visited the Mall of Emirates, the area of Old Dubai, and the JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences) area. While we don’t think the Mall of the Emirates is worth a detour, Old Dubai is a must that you should not skip.

For this day, we topped up our nol card with a day ticket—the most convenient for all the trips we did on this day.

Day 2 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities

• Mall of the Emirates (Ski Dubai)
• Al Seef, Al Fahidi, and Al Bastakiya Historic Neighbourhood, and traditional souks
• Dubai Museum
• Traditional Abra boat from Bur Dubai to Deira
• Traditional Deira souks: gold souk, spice souk, textile souk, and perfume souk
• JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences)
• Bluewaters Island (Ain Dubai – World’s biggest and tallest Ferris Wheel)

On this day, we needed to buy a power adapter. Because the Mall of the Emirates was on the way, we decided to make a stop there.

The Mall of the Emirates is house to the Ski Dubai. An indoor ski resort where you can ski, snowboard and experience other winter activities. You can actually see the ski slopes without having to actually enter Ski Dubai. In my opinion, the place was quite disappointing. You can’t see much from the outside, and the place seems quite small. Probably the experience is different if you pay to actually go there skiing. The prices are quite affordable for such an activity and they even provide all the gear.

As in other Malls in Dubai, there are plenty of places to eat. We eat at a super cheap Lebanese restaurant in the Mall. One menu was more than enough for the two of us.

In my opinion, this wasn’t worth the detour and there are better attractions in Dubai.

This part of Dubai is super interesting and different from all the other attractions and places. So, we really recommend visiting this area. To get there by public transportation, exit at the Bujurman Metro station.

After getting out of the metro station, we walked for about 15 minutes to Al Seef.

From there, we explored Al Fahidi and Al Bastakia Historic Neighbourhood. These places are super beautiful and showcase the old traditional Arabic houses and wind towers made of sandstone. There are plenty of places to take great pictures and souks where you can buy some souvenirs.

We also suggest taking a look at the Wall of Old Dubai and visiting Dubai Museum. The Dubai Museum is housed on the Al Fahidi Fort and it showcases Dubai’s history and its original heritage. Basically, you can see how people used to live before the discovery of oil in the UAE. The entrance fee is just 3 AED. Unfortunately, at the time of our visit, the museum was temporarily closed. But, we think it is well worth the visit. Combining this museum with the Ethiad museum will give you a better idea of Dubai’s history (both old and most recent events).

If you’re hungry, stop by the Arabian Tea House Restaurant and Cafe. This place is super well-rated and with great decoration for awesome pictures. We didn’t go there, we just passed by and it was almost full. If you want to take some good pictures, they have a set outside of the cafe where you can take pictures for free.

We continued walking to Deira Creek until Bur Dubai Station to ride a traditional abra boat to Bur Dubai at the other side of the creek. The journey takes about 5 minutes, and only costs 1 AED per person (you pay directly on board to the driver)—absolutely recommended. You can also book a private abra boat for a tour around Dubai Creek. While you’re waiting for the next boat, get some juice from the street sellers. We bought a pineapple juice (10 AED) and it was delicious.

Once we arrived at the Deira district, we explored the traditional souks: perfume souks, textile souks, spice souks, and the famous gold souk. The sellers are a bit pushy on these souks, but nothing out of this world, just say “no, thanks” and continue walking. If you don’t want to be bothered too much by the sellers on the souks, go in the late afternoon, after 4 PM for example. The sellers are already tired and won’t bother you too much. At least, that was what we experienced.

If you prefer, you can also take a guided tour of the souks and old Dubai . I think it must be a rich cultural experience.

If you want to buy something, don’t forget to haggle over the price. They will always start with a price that is way higher than it is worth—make sure you have an idea of the price of the things you want to buy so that you don’t end up paying more. For example, I’m sure I paid too much for a bracelet in a gemstone store, even though I could reduce the price to half. If you want to buy some simple souvenirs like magnets, little purses, and bookmarks, you’ll find plenty of options at very affordable prices.

At sunset, we returned to Bur Dubai, also by abra boat. We were presented with a magnificent sunset with seagulls flying over the water. You can also opt to catch a ferry to another part of Dubai. For example, we could have caught a Ferry to Dubai Marina. It would have been a good experience to see Dubai’s coastline from a different perspective.

After visiting old Dubai, we got back to Dubai Marina. From there, it’s just a 15-minute walk to JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences).

This is a lively area by the coast along Marina beach and The Beach. It’s bordered by a promenade, the JBR Walk. The JBR Walk is filled with restaurants, stores, and perfume vendors. It’s also where you’ll see some people riding their luxury cars. We had dinner there at an Indian restaurant. If you fancy something more adventurous, you can have Dinner in The Sky. You’ll eat on a dining platform suspended by a crane—I’m sure you’ll get great views from there and a wonderful experience.

From JBR you have a lovely view of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest and tallest Ferris wheel located on Bluewaters Island. If you like walking and you’re visiting in the winter, we recommend walking there and admiring the scenery of the super modern JBR skyscrapers. You can also opt for dining or eating ice cream at Bluewaters Island instead of JBR.

Cost of day 3 in Dubai

• Breakfast at the apartment (2pp): 3.5€ 
• Lunch at Dubai of the Emirates (2pp): 7.40€
• Pineapple juice: 2.50€
• Dinner at India Palace (2pp): 38.50€
• Souvenirs: 45€
• Top up Nol card with daily ticket (2pp): 10€
• Abra boat from Bur Dubai to Deira and return (2pp): 1€

Total: 108€ (2pp) → 54€ per person

Day 4 in Dubai: Desert Adventure

This is one of the top experiences you cannot miss in Dubai: a desert experience. You’ll need to book a guided tour to visit the desert. We book ours using Get Your Guide . There are many tour providers with different packages to choose from. All tours that I’ve seen will pick you up at your hotel or a place nearby. Choose yours accordingly to what you want to experience.

Here’s a list of the activities provided by most tour operators:

• Dune bashing : you go on a jeep that drives at different speeds over the soft dunes—this was our favorite part of the experience;
• Sandboarding : it’s similar to snowboarding but you go down on sand dunes—it was fun and not scary at all;
• Camel ride;
• Bedouin Camp visit with dinner included;
• Camp activities : shisha, henna painting, photos with falcons, and shows (tanoura, belly dance, and fire shows).

Dubai Desert Safari – How much does it cost?

The cost of a desert tour in Dubai will greatly vary depending on what’s included in the package. Group tours can start as low as around 30€ per person to 150€ depending on the tour operator and the activities included.

The cheapest Dubai desert tours usually include dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel ride. It’s a great option if you want to have a desert experience without spending a lot of money.

Most complete tours include all the activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, quad biking, a visit to a bedouin camp with dinner or lunch, and camp activities.

The tour we booked costed around 50€ per person and it included dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride, quad bike (for an extra cost), visit to a bedouin camp with dinner and camp activities (free and extra cost activities).

For you to have an idea of what a desert tour looks like, we’ll describe our experience. Please note that it might be different from other tour providers.

Dubai Desert Safari – What it’s like? Overview and our Opinion

When you book your tour, you need to provide the place where you’re staying and they will pick you up at your accommodation or at a place nearby. Our guide picked us up at around 2 PM. The car was a 4×4 Toyota Landrover and it takes 6 people plus the driver.

After picking up everyone, he drove for about 50 minutes to a meeting point with other cars from the same and other tour operators. The meeting point was basically a place on the road next to the desert with a cafe, restrooms, and several vendors selling the typical desert head scarf and souvenirs.

Quad Bike Ride

At the meeting point, there was a closed track if you wanted to ride a quad bike for an additional cost.

Some tours already have the quad bike option included (of course, they are more expensive). We opt not to do the quad bike activity. To be honest it didn’t seem worth it because it was in an enclosed flat terrain. I believe there are other tours with different quad-biking experiences where you actually ride in the desert. We stayed at this place for approximately 40 minutes. After that, all cars departed at the same time to the desert.

Stop for Pictures

We finally entered the desert terrain and just after three minutes, we made a stop to take some pictures. To be honest, there wasn’t much opportunity for nice pictures because all cars started arriving with people that also wanted to take pictures. So, it was a bit difficult to get some decent photos without cars or people in the background. Our guide was super nice and took some pictures of me and my boyfriend, even though they didn’t turn out that well.

The place is very different compared to what you see on Instagram pictures. You’re not that far from the road, you can see the buildings at the side of the road; there are some green bushes on the sand; there are many other people also having the same experience.

Dune Bashing

After approximately a 20-minute stop for pictures, the actual dune bashing started. This part was my favorite, the driver turned on some super cool music remixes while driving through the dunes. This is way more fun than it seems. When talking to the other guests on our tour, this was also their favorite part.

Sandboarding

Next, we stopped for sandboarding (our car and all the other cars on the tour). Our car was the first one to arrive at the sandboarding point, so we didn’t have to wait to experiment sandboarding for the first time. It was easy and super fun, so make sure you give it a try—it’s included in almost all desert experiences. While we waited for the others, we took a few more pictures.

It was time to go to the camp to ride the camels and have dinner. But before that, the drivers stopped in a place to adjust the tire pressure and clean the sand from the car. There were also some simple stores in this place. They will clean the sand from your feet and footwear for free but will push you into their stores to buy something.

Sunset and Camel Ride

After approximately 20 minutes, we headed to the camp for the sunset, camel ride, and dinner. The camel ride was included in our package, but we preferred not to do it and just watch the camels. I’m not a fan of riding animals, but these seemed very well looked after.

Additionally, the ride was pretty short, about two minutes. The line to ride the camels was not that long, so there’s no excuse if you really want to do it. They take a picture of you on the camels and will try to sell it during the dinner.

I was pretty disappointed with the sunset. The view from the camp wasn’t the best, and when we arrived the sun was already too low. I believe watching the sunset from the actual desert would be more interesting or if we have arrived earlier it would have been better.

Diner and Bedouin Camp Activities

Finally, we entered the camp. The camp looks pretty good with a nice decoration from the inside and there are some camp activities that you can do.

There was a designed shisha place where you can smoke for free (already included in the package). If you wanted to take it to your table you had to pay a small amount. You have access to unlimited soft drinks, but you’ll need to pay for alcohol. You can do a small (pretty small) henna tattoo for free. If you want something bigger, you’ll have to pay. You can also take pictures with a falcon for a small fee (there were other tour operators that already included this in the price).

When you entered the camp, you can get Arabic coffee and tea and you can go straight to the starters. To be honest I don’t know the name of what we eat. But you can take a look at the picture above.

After a while, the tanoura dance started. This is a folkloric dance performed by men with big skirts. The performer spins throughout the whole show without stopping. It’s pretty impressive and I really enjoyed this show. This was followed by a fire performance that was also pretty good.

Finally, it was time for dinner. There was a vegetable, salad, and sidedishes buffet and some traditional barbecue. There were plenty of options in the buffet. We were served generous portions and the barbecue was pretty good, especially the chicken skewers.

The dessert included some traditional pastries and food. Some of the cakes were good and others I didn’t appreciate that much.

The last performance was a belly dance show, which in my opinion wasn’t that good. The dancer was good, but the show was a bit awkward. Once the belly dance show was over we headed back to the car for our 50-minute drive to our accommodation. We arrived at our hotel around 10 PM.

Dubai Desert Safari — is it Worth it?

So, was the Dubai Desert Safari worth it? Absolutely. It’s a must, especially if you’ve never been to in the desert before. I described in detail our Dubai Desert Safari experience. Please note that it might be different depending on the tour provider. This was one of the highlights of our visit to Dubai and for the price (only 50€ per person with dinner included), it was well worth it.

There were some things that were not exactly as I was expecting, but that’s also part of the experience. The red sand dunes were beautiful and the colors are amazing. There are many camps spread throughout the desert land for different tour operators. Something that disappointed me a lot was the number of small plastics and plastic bottles on the sand dunes next to the camps.

There are other more complete and more expensive tours that include more activities. For example, some tours already include falcon pictures and Arabic attire, as well as quad biking. On our tour, this was not included in the price (it was available for a small fee). Those were not activities that we were interested in, so we thought it wasn’t worth it to pay more than 100€ per person.

See what the different tours have to offer and choose wisely. Some tours also offer spending the night in the desert with the possibility of stargazing—I believe this should be an amazing experience.

Cost of day 4 in Dubai

• Dinner (included in the desert tour)
• Dubai desert tour (2pp): 100€

Total: 104€ (2pp) → 52€ per person

Day 5 in Dubai: Etihad Museum, Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, and Global Village

On this day we visited the Etihad museum, the Dubai Frame (the largest frame in the world), and the Global Village. An alternative to this itinerary is to visit the Museum of the Future instead of Dubai Frame and Miracle Garden instead of the Global Village.

Day 5 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities

• Dubai Frame and/or Museum of the Future
• Global Village and/or Miracle Garden

If you’re visiting Jumeirah Mosque, we recommend visiting the Etihad museum on the same day because they are very close to each other. We didn’t have the time to visit on that day, so we decided to include it on this day. This museum explains the founding of the UAE and information about the founding fathers of the seven Emirates. You can visit the Union House and the Guest Palace. To go there you can catch the metro and then the bus. There’s a bus stop just a 5-minute’s walk from there.

The next stop on our day was the Dubai Frame. There’s a bus next to the Ethiad Museum that stops right at the entrance of the Dubai Frame. We had already bought our tickets in advance so we went straight to the entrance. We went on a Friday afternoon and it was pretty crowded. We had to wait approximately 30 minutes before entering the frame.

The visit starts by showing some representations of the craftsman in old Dubai and how life was to look like in the old days.

After that, you go by elevator to the top of the frame. It has a big glass wall, so you can actually see it going up. Once you reach the top, you can walk on a glass floor and see old Dubai on one side of the frame and modern Dubai on the other side. It’s quite interesting to see the differences between those places. You can also see the famous Sheik Zaeyd picture from there. We spent about 40 minutes at the top of the frame and it was more than enough.

Going down to the ground floor, you’ll be presented with some modern 3D projections showing what Dubai can look like in the future with modern technology. Right before going out, there is some information with statistics about the constructions of the frame.

Is Dubai Frame worth visiting? In my opinion, it depends. Dubai Frame is a great piece of architecture and the visit is a great experience. From the top, you can see old Dubai on one side of the frame, and modern Dubai on the other side. Even though I liked the visit, I don’t think it is a must, especially if you’ve already gotten to the top of Burj Khalifa and The View at the Palm. However, I absolutely recommend stopping by the frame to appreciate its nice architecture and taking some great pictures with the frame for free without having to go to the top.

We didn’t have to pay to go to the frame, because we’ve received credits to spend on attractions on Booking.com .

Instead of Dubai Frame, you may opt to go to the Museum of The Future. Or you can visit both. The Museum of the Future opened in February 2022, so it is a very recent attraction. It features several interactive exhibits about what Earth and our lives would look like in the future. I recommend booking your tickets way in advance. We really wanted to visit this museum and it was already sold out a month in advance. I’ve heard very good reviews about this museum, so don’t miss it.

Make sure you also take a look at the museum from the outside. The building’s architecture is unique and absolutely marvelous

After our visit to the Dubai frame, we got a taxi to Global Village. In our opinion, the best way to get there is by taxi. There are some packages that already include transportation when you book your tickets to the Global Village.

The Global Village is a themed park that features several pavilions representing different countries or continents of the world. You’ll find typical products, food, and dance shows from different countries. The park also features different amusement rides, that are not included in the ticket price.

There are many food stalls selling street food from different countries. We tried several different foods and everything was delicious. The park only opens in the late afternoon and is most beautiful after sunset, when they turn on all light decorations.

We really enjoyed our visit to Global Village and the admission ticket is super affordable, less than 6€. This is a great place, especially for those who have kids.

To get back to your accommodation, you can get a taxi when you exit. There’s a huge car park with a huge line of taxis (I’ve never seen so many taxis in the same place before).

Instead of Global Village, you may opt to visit the Miracle Garden. It’s only open during the winter and spring months. It is one of the world’s largest flower gardens and it features numerous flowers arranged in different shapes and patterns, one of the most famous is the A380 airbus, the Mickey Mouse sculpture, and the path with the heart-shaped decorations.

Here you’ll also find a butterfly garden, a floral castle, and various themed areas. We didn’t have the time to visit this place, but from the pictures we’ve seen, it seems out of this world.

Like the Global Village, the best way to get there is by taxi. You can also get packages with tickets and transportation included.

Cost of day 5 in Dubai

• Food at Global Village (2pp): 22.50€
• Top up Nol card with daily ticket (2pp):: 10€
• Taxi from Dubai Frame to Global Village: 19€
• Taxi from Global Village to Dubai Marina: 17.50€
• Ethiad Museum (2pp): 12.50€
• Dubai Frame: 0€ (paid with credits on Booking.com)
• Global Village: 0€ (paid with credits on Booking.com)

Total: 85€ (2pp) → 42.50€ per person

Day 6 in Dubai: Aquaventure Waterpark

On this day we visited the World’s largest waterpark, the Aquaventure Waterpark. We also visited the Dubai Mall Aquarium that we didn’t have the time to visit on the other days.

Day 6 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities

• Aquaventure Waterpark
• Dubai Mall Aquarium

A Day at the Aquaventure Waterpark – What it’s Like

We love waterparks and amusement parks, so we shouldn’t miss a visit to the World’s Largest Waterpark, the Aquaventure Waterpark located at the Atlantis Hotel in Palm Jumeirah. If you’re staying at the Atlantis hotel, you can get free access to the waterpark. You can also get free access on the week of your anniversary.

The entrance to the Aquaventure Waterpark was not cheap. It cost approximately 80€ per person. There are other affordable options like the Wild Wadi waterpark, or Legoland aimed at the younger crowds.

If you’re not a fan of waterparks, you may opt to go to an amusement park, some of the best options are MotionGate and Warner Bros, Bollywood, or IMG Worlds of Adventure.

We arrived at the Aquaventure Waterpark before the opening time, and there were just a few people. You can rent a locker to save your most valuable stuff, but most people just let their bags on the sunbeds. We also left our stuff on the sunbeds without any problem. Because we like to travel light, we diddn’t bring our watershoes, but no problem, we can get water socks for free from the Guest Services stalls along the park.

The best rides are divided around three main towers: Tower of Neptune, Tower of Poseidon, and Trident Tower. We experimented almost all rides on these towers in the morning without any crowds. We even repeated some of the rides.

There are also two great areas for the little ones: the Splashers Island & Mountain, and the Splashers Lagoon & Cove. You can also find experiences with dolphins and sea lions. Additionally, you also get access to the Aquaventure Beach. To be honest, with such a big waterpark, I don’t think it’s worth to spend your time on the beach when you paid so much for the waterpark entrance.

There are several places where you can eat. We ordered a hot dog menu for the two of us and it was just the right amount so that we could get back to the slides right after.

In the afternoon the lines were bigger and sometimes the waiting times were up to 45 minutes. If you don’t want to wait in the lines you can buy a Aquaexpress pass to skip the lines.

We visited the waterpark in the Winter (February 2023) and around 4 PM it started to get a little bit chilly. Even though, we stayed in the water until closing time.

There are changing rooms next to the exit, where you can change clothes and have a shower, but it was super crowded at closing time.

After your visit to the Aquaventure Waterpark, you can visit the Lost Chamber Aquarium. You can get a combined ticket for both attractions. We did not visit the Aquarium but we’ve seen beautiful pictures of it.

At the exit of the Atlantis, we got a free shuttle bus to Marina Mall. We didn’t even know this kind of shuttle existed, it was pure luck that we found it at the exit.

How to Visit Aquaventure Waterpark? Our tips

After visiting Aquaventure Waterpark, here are our best tips to make the most out of your visit:

• Go on a weekday for fewer crowds (except Friday);
• Buy your tickets in advance;
• Arrive early, around 30 minutes before opening time;
• When you arrive (early), go straight to the rides. We were able to experience all the best rides without waiting in line;
• Get free water socks in the Guest Services stalls for free to protect your feet;
• Food portions are big. Share a portion with your partner. It will save money and you’ll be able to go back to the rides after a few minutes;

Dubai Downtown (Again)

Since it was still early when we left the Waterpark, we decided to visit Dubai Downtown (Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and Fountain Show) again. We visited the Dubai Mall Aquarium (just from the outside, but you can buy tickets for a complete experience), and watched the Fountain Show several more times. We had Dinner at Five Guys with a view of the Dubai Fountain.

Cost of day 6 in Dubai

• Lunch at Aquaventure Aquapark (2pp): 18€
• Dinner at Five Guys (2pp): 38€
• Ice cream at Dubai Mall: 4.80€
• Taxi from Dubai Marina to Aquaventure: 12.50€
• 2-zone ticket nol card (2 trips) (2pp): 6€
• Aquaventure Waterpark (2pp): 160€

Total: 243€ (2pp) → 121.50€ per person

Day 7 in Dubai: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi and Going Back Home

Our flight back home departed from Abu Dhabi airport around 10 PM, so we decided to visit the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque on this day.

If your flight is from Dubai airport, maybe it is better to go on a complete guided tour of Abu Dhabi. It includes the most famous Abu Dhabi highlights including the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. There are plenty of tour options to choose from.

Day 7 in Dubai: Visited Places and Activities

• Battuta Mall
• Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

Visiting Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

Visiting the Sheik Zayed Grande Mosque is free, but you need to register before. You can register on site or in advance. We registered when we arrived. The entrance to the mosque is done via a shopping mall. There, you can register for your visit. There are plenty of stores where you can buy a hijab and abaya or have something to eat. There’s also a cloakroom where you can leave your belongings. We didn’t know this beforehand and we paid to store our backpacks at the airport.

To visit the Mosque both men and women need to cover their shoulders and legs. Additionally, women need to cover the head. If you’re visiting during the day, we also recommend using sunglasses, the light reflection on the white marble makes it difficult to open your eyes.

I don’t have words to describe the beauty of the Mosque and the attention to detail that was put into building this place. It’s absolutely breathtaking. You can take pictures at the mosque without any problem. The best places for pictures are even marked with a photo stop sign.

There are free guided visits to the mosque. Check the timetable at the entrance. We took the guided visit and we enjoyed it very much. The guide explains some interesting facts about the Mosque’s architecture and you can also walk on the carpet inside the Mosque while he explains all the details. Did you know that it has the largest hand-woven carpet in the world?

We recommend spending some time in the Mosque and waiting for the sunset so that you can see the Mosque at night.

After our visit to the Mosque, we headed to the airport, which was just 15 minutes by taxi.

Qasr Al Watan (if you still have time)

If you still have time in Abu Dhabi, consider visiting the Qasr Al Watan, a beautiful presidential palace of the United Arab Emirates. The entrance is not free. Prices start at around 17€. I’ve seen some pictures of the Palace and it is stunning. A visit not to miss if you have more time in Abu Dhabi.

Most Abu Dhabi day tours already include this in their itinerary.

Cost of day 7 in Dubai:

• Breakfast at the apartment (2pp): 3.5€
• Lunch at Battuta Mall (2pp): 17€
• Dinner at the Abu Dhabi Airport (1 menu for 2): 15€
• 1-zone nol ticket (2pp): 2€
• Bus from Battuta Mall to Abu Dhabi Airport (2pp): 18€
• Taxi from Abu Dhabi Airport to Sheik Zayed Mosque: 15€
• Taxi from Sheik Zayed Mosque to Abu Dhabi Airport: 15€
• Luggage storage at the airport: 14€

Total: 99.50€ (2pp) → 50€ per person

Itinerary Suggestions for 1, 2, and 3 Days in Dubai

If you’ll spend fewer days in Dubai, adjust the itinerary accordingly to the activities you would like to do. The places we recommend if you just have a few days are Burj Khalifa and the whole Dubai Downtown area, Old Dubai, and a Desert Adventure.

1-Day Dubai Itinerary

If this is your first time in Dubai, and you only have one day, we recommend visiting Burj Khalifa and the whole nearby area. You’ll find plenty of things to do to keep you busy all day.

Here’s our suggestion of things to do if you only have one day in Dubai:

• Go to At The Top of Burj Khalifa
• Visit Dubai Mall and the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
• Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
• Explore the whole Dubai Downtown area

2-Days Dubai Itinerary

If you have two days to spend in Dubai, and you’re a first-time visitor, we recommend visiting Burj Khalifa and the whole nearby area and Old Dubai. Alternatively, you can also visit Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina instead of Old Dubai.

Here’s our suggestion for a 2-day itinerary in Dubai:

• Learn about arabic culture and Islam on a visit to Jumeirah Mosque
• Explore Al Seef, Al Fahidi, and Al Bastakia Historic Neighbourhood
• Shop on traditional souks: gold souk, spice souk, textile souk, and perfume souk
• Visit Dubai Museum
• Go on a Traditional Abra boat from Bur Dubai to Deira
• See Palm Jumeirah from The View at the Palm
• Go on a Monorail ride at Palm Jumeirah
• Relax at the Pointe (best view to Atlantis hotel)
• Explore Souk Madinat and appreciate the views of Burj Al Arab
• Go for a stroll on Marina Walk

3-Days Dubai Itinerary

If you have three days in Dubai, we recommend adding a desert tour to the previous suggestions.

7 Days in Dubai – Total Cost Breakdown

How much did we spend on our seven-day trip to Dubai? In total, we spent approximately 2760€ for the two of us. Which means 1380€ per person. This price will greatly vary depending on where you’re flying from, what type of accommodation you’re staying in, and the places you’re eating.

We went on low-cost flights with layovers in European cities. We went with Ryanair and with WizzAir (basic option, only personal item).

Our accommodation was a bit on the expensive side because we didn’t book in advance. You’ll find better prices if you book in advance. Of course, you can spend way more if you want to stay in luxury hotels, or way less if you stay in more affordable areas like Bur Dubai or Deira.

We used mostly public transportation, we had breakfast at the apartment with what we bought from the grocery store. We skipped lunch many days and on other days we ate something from the supermarket. For dinner, we ate mostly at fast-food and low-cost restaurants.

As for the activities, we did all the activities we wanted, including a day in the Aquaventure Waterpark, which was a bit more expensive than the other activities.

See the detailed costs in the table below:

Cost of 7 days in Dubai

Flights way and back from Portugal with layover in European cities (Ryanair + WizzAir)

308€ per person

Accommodation (7 nights in Dubai Marina)

1100€ (2pp)

Transportation

207€ per person

Travel Insurance

32.50€ per person for seven days

Other expenses

Approximately 1380€ per person

Wrapping Up

In this travel guide, we shared with you our detailed 7-day Dubai itinerary. We also suggested other itinerary options if you have fewer days in Dubai. In our opinion, the whole area around Burj Khalifa should not be missed, you can visit it if you have a 24-hour layover in Dubai. Besides that area, I really liked visiting Old Dubai. The desert experience was one of the highlights of our trip.

We shared our honest opinion about the places we visited, our top tips, and the total cost breakdown of our trip. Finally, we would like to share a summary of our best tips:

Tips For Visiting Dubai

After visiting Dubai, here are some of our best tips:

• Visit Dubai in the Winter months.
• Use public transportation—it’s very affordable.
• Install the Careem app to get a taxi. You can also get a taxi from the street—the starting fee is cheaper than in the Careem app. Getting a taxi is cheaper than Uber.
• If you’re going to a lot of different places in one day, get a nol day ticket.
• If you’re on a budget, have lunch at the supermarkets. They provide several options at very affordable prices.
• Eat at the Mall. All Malls we’ve been to in Dubai have a wide range of restaurant chains. You’ll save some money if you eat at the Mall rather than at a “real” restaurant.
• Book your activities in advance to avoid waiting in lines and to secure your spot.

Have you been to Dubai? Share with us your best tips. Do you have any doubts about our itinerary? You can write a comment down below.

We hope you found this travel guide useful.

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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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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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32 Fun and Exciting Places to Visit in Dubai | 2024 (with Photos)

Marvellous Oyebanjo - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

Marvellous is a passionate travel enthusiast with a knack for uncovering hidden gems and capturing breathtaking moments through photography. With firsthand knowledge and a genuine love for Dubai, Marvellous shares an exhilarating collection of 32 must-visit destinations in the city, promising an unforgettable adventure filled with thrills and delights.

Dubai is known for its luxury hotels, shopping malls, and stunning skyscrapers. It is also home to the world's tallest building and the second-largest indoor amusement park in the world.

However, there is so much more to this city than just the glitz and glamor. From exciting theme parks to serene beaches, there is something for everyone in Dubai.

We've compiled a list of 32 unique places to visit in Dubai that offer a mix of adventure and relaxation. So, get ready to discover a whole new side of the Middle East and Dubai.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Burj Khalifa

Top Choice Hotel

Burj Al Arab

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Armani/Privé

Best Time to Visit

Mild winters, avoid extreme summer heat and Ramadan

Average Temperature

Hot weather year-round with scorching summers.

Transportation Options

efficient, modern, diverse, extensive, convenient, reliable, affordable, technologically-advanced

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Dubai is an extraordinary city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by exploring the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, where you can wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wind towers, visit the Dubai Museum housed in a 200-year-old fort, and sip on aromatic Arabic coffee in a local café.

For a dose of adrenaline-pumping adventure, visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and take an exhilarating ride in the high-speed elevators to the observation deck on the 148th floor. From there, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city's stunning skyline and the Arabian Gulf, creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave this remarkable city.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Visa (if required)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Travel adapter
• Money or credit cards

What Not to Miss

• Dubai Creek
• Jumeirah Mosque
• Palm Jumeirah
• Dubai Marina
• Dubai Museum
• Bastakiya Quarter
• The Desert Safari
• Sheikh Zayed Road

What to Avoid

• Overpacking: Dubai's climate is hot year-round, so it's best to avoid bringing heavy or unnecessary clothing items.
• Public displays of affection: Dubai is a Muslim country with conservative cultural norms, so it's important to avoid excessive displays of affection in public.
• Drinking in public: While alcohol is permitted in licensed venues such as hotels and restaurants, consuming alcohol in public places is generally not allowed.
• Showing disrespect for local customs: It's important to be mindful of and respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Taking photos without permission: Avoid taking photos of people without their consent, especially in more traditional or conservative areas of the city.
• Offensive behavior or language: Remember to be courteous and avoid using offensive language or behavior that may be deemed disrespectful to the local culture and community.
• Neglecting to carry identification: It's advisable to always carry identification documents, such as your passport or Emirates ID, as you may be required to present them when needed.
• Engaging in illegal activities: Avoid engaging in any illegal activities, as the laws and regulations in the United Arab Emirates are strictly enforced.

Table of Contents

1. The Burj Khalifa Skyscraper

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building in the world , standing at a height of 828 meters. The Burj Khalifa is an iconic symbol of Dubai's modern architecture and engineering marvels.

The observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. You can also dine at the exclusive restaurant inside the Burj Khalifa, ****called Atmosphere . This restaurant is located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa.

Alternatively, visitors to the Burj Khalifa can enjoy the stunning views from the lounge. The Burj Khalifa offers a unique perspective of the city and is a truly unforgettable experience. If you're interested, you can check out the Burj Khalifa tickets and pricing .

2. The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system, featuring over 6,000 lights and 22,000 gallons of water that shoot up to heights of 500 feet. It is located in front of the Burj Khalifa building.

The Dubai Fountain is free to watch , even if you are not a resident of the Burj Khalifa. It is also right by the famous Dubai Mall.

The show takes place every 30 minutes from 6 pm to 11 pm, making the Dubai Fountain a perfect attraction to visit during the evening. The floating platform of the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is one of the most popular experiences for close-up views.

3. The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the world's largest and most extravagant shopping centers, with over 1,200 retail stores, as well as a variety of entertainment options such as an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a cinema, and an aquarium.

The Dubai Mall also boasts diverse dining options , from fast food to fine dining. It is a hub for cultural activities, hosting events and exhibitions throughout the year. The Dubai Mall is one of the best places to visit in Dubai.

The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination, but a complete entertainment and lifestyle experience that is worth visiting. So, whether you are in Dubai with kids, friends, or a partner, the Dubai Mall is a must.

4. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world , featuring a 10 million-liter tank with over 140 species of marine animals. You can walk through a 48-meter-long tunnel with a unique 270-degree view of the aquarium and experience marine life up close.

The aquarium also offers shark diving , cage snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours, allowing visitors to get even closer to the marine animals. With so much to offer, the Dubai Aquarium is a top attraction and a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.

Above the aquarium is the Underwater Zoo.

5. The Dubai Underwater Zoo

The Underwater Zoo , located above the Dubai Aquarium, allows visitors to get up close and personal with marine life. You can explore different zones, such as the Rainforest Zone and the Rocky Shore Zone, which showcase a variety of animals, including penguins, crocodiles, and otters.

One of the highlights of the Dubai Aquarium Underwater Zoo is the King Croc exhibit, which features one of the world's largest living crocodiles. The Underwater Zoo also offers a Glass-bottom boat tour and the Behind the Scenes tour for a glimpse into the inner workings of the aquarium.

6. The Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the world's largest flower gardens and is home to over 45 million flowers. It features a variety of intricately designed floral arrangements, including a floral castle, an Emirates A380 airplane, and a giant teddy bear made entirely of flowers.

Visitors can stroll through the garden's pathways and take in the stunning beauty of the vibrant blooms. The Dubai Miracle Garden is near Global Village and is open from October to April each year. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Dubai during this time.

7. The Dubai Butterfly Garden

The Dubai Butterfly Garden is the world's largest indoor butterfly garden, featuring over 15,000 butterflies of 26 different species. The garden offers visitors the chance to walk through a climate-controlled dome filled with lush tropical plants and a variety of colorful butterflies.

Visitors can learn about the life cycle of butterflies and watch them as they fly and feed on flowers. The Dubai Butterfly Garden also offers a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits, making it a perfect attraction for families with children.

8. Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is a vibrant and cosmopolitan district and home to the most iconic Dubai attractions. At the heart of the district is the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, which offers breathtaking views of the city.

Just next to it is the Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping and entertainment destination with a cinema complex, an ice rink, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Another highlight of Downtown Dubai is the spectacular Dubai Fountain, a stunning water and light show that takes place every evening on the Burj Khalifa Lake.

9. Burj Al Arab Hotel

The Burj Al Arab Hotel , located on an artificial island off the coast of Jumeirah Beach, is one of the world's most luxurious hotels. The sail-shaped design and stunning architecture of Burj Al Arab make it one of the best hotels in Dubai .

Visitors to Burj Al Arab ****can enjoy high-end dining experiences, luxurious spa treatments, and the hotel's private beach. Burj Al Arab also offers helicopter tours, skydiving, and yacht rental, making it a perfect tourist attraction for those seeking an unforgettable experience.

When in Dubai, it is worth visiting Burj al Arab for a taste of luxury. Even if you are not staying at Burj al Arab, make the trip from Downtown Dubai to check out this magnificent building.

10. The Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island located off the coast of Dubai, near the Burj al Arab. This is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The island's unique palm-tree shape is visible from space and can be seen from the deck of the Burj Khalifa.

When visiting Dubai, United Arab Emirates, you will want to add the Palm Jumeirah to your list of must-see attractions. You will have never seen anything like the Palm Jumeirah anywhere else.

Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah can enjoy sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding, or simply relax on one of the island's pristine beaches. The Palm Jumeirah is also home to several entertainment venues such as the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark and the Dubai Marina .

11. IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world's largest indoor amusement park, located in the City of Arabia district. IMG Worlds of Adventure features thrilling rides and attractions based on popular Marvel and Cartoon Network characters, and other experiences.

Visitors can enjoy a range of exciting experiences such as roller coasters, 4D cinema experiences, and virtual reality games. IMG Worlds of Adventure also offers a variety of dining options and souvenir shops, making it a top tourist attraction for families with children.

Alongside the Dubai Mall, this is a great spot for families with kids to visit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

12. Global Village

Dubai Global Village is a massive complex that features pavilions representing over 80 different countries, offering visitors an immersive experience of their unique culture and heritage.

If you are looking for culture in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, this is the place to be. Half an hour from the iconic landmarks of the Burj al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall, it is worth the drive to this spot.

Global Village also hosts various live shows , concerts, and performances from different parts of the world. The place is famous for its spectacular fireworks , thrilling rides, and mouth-watering cuisine.

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing, a romantic evening, or an adventure-filled day, Global Village has something for everyone.

13. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is one of the most iconic structures in Dubai, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline. Dubai Frame stands at 150 meters tall and 93 meters wide, providing visitors with a panoramic view of the city's modern skyline on one side and the historical "Old Dubai" on the other.

While it is not as tall as the Burj Khalifa, the Frame is still a brilliant spot for photos and panoramic views. The Dubai Frame is located in Zabeel Park and is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

The highlight of the Dubai Frame experience is the 93-meter-long glass bridge that connects its two towers, offering an unparalleled view of both old and new Dubai.

14. The Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions and a must when you visit Dubai. The Dubai Museum is located in the Al Fahidi Fort , which was built in 1787 and is considered one of the oldest buildings in Dubai.

Dubai Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Dubai. Visitors can explore the different galleries, which include exhibits on Bedouin life , traditional occupations, pearl diving, and the development of Dubai.

15. Dubai Gold Souk

The Dubai Gold Souk is a traditional market located in the Deira district of Dubai, United Arab Emirates and is one of the world's largest gold markets. The souk features over 300 retailers, offering a range of gold jewelry, precious stones, and watches.

You can explore the narrow streets and haggle for the best prices while admiring the unique designs of the jewelry on display. The souk also offers products such as spices, perfumes, and textiles, making it a perfect destination for anyone interested in experiencing the local culture.

16. The Al Fahidi District

Al Fahidi is a historic district in Old Dubai , famous for its traditional Arabian architecture, narrow lanes, and wind towers. Visitors can explore the Dubai Museum, which is housed in the Al Fahidi Fort , and see exhibits on the city's rich history.

Other attractions in the area include the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , which offers cultural tours and activities, and the Al Bastakiya neighborhood , which is home to art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops.

Visitors can take an abra ride (traditional water taxi) across Dubai Creek to reach Al Fahidi and enjoy the scenic views.

17. Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is one of Dubai's most iconic landmarks and a beautiful example of traditional Islamic architecture. The Jumeirah Mosque is also great for learning about the Islamic faith and culture.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the Jumeirah Mosque, which is open to both Muslims and non-Muslims and learn about its history.

The Jumeirah Mosque has white marble walls and minarets, which are a sight to behold, especially in the evening when it is beautifully illuminated.

The mosque is located just a short drive from Burj Khalifa and other Downtown Dubai attractions, so it is very accessible.

18. The Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina is a man-made waterfront development located in the heart of the city and is one of Dubai's most vibrant and cosmopolitan neighborhoods.

The Dubai Marina features a range of luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as the famous Dubai Marina Mall .

You can take a stroll along the promenade of the Dubai Marina, enjoy a yacht ride on the Arabian Gulf, or dine at one of the many high-end restaurants overlooking the stunning waterfront.

The Dubai Marina also offers a range of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. South west of Dubai Creek, this marina is a lovely place to relax in a vibrant city.

19. Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski center in the Middle East , offering an escape from the heat and the chance to experience snow sports in the heart of the desert.

2o minutes from Burj Khalifa, Ski Dubai features a 22,500 square-meter indoor ski slope, complete with real snow, ski lifts, and snowboarding runs.

Visitors can choose from skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing , and having snowball fights, as well as enjoy a hot chocolate or meal in the cozy Alpine-themed café.

Ski Dubai also offers a variety of ski lessons for all skill levels, making it a great destination for beginners and seasoned skiers who visit Dubai.

20. Legoland Dubai Theme Park

Legoland Dubai Amusement Park is part of a larger entertainment complex called Dubai Parks and Resorts. This is a great destination for any theme park lover in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The complex comprises three theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai , Bollywood Parks Dubai , and Legoland Dubai , as well as a water park called Legoland Water Park. The only thing better than a theme park on a hot summer's day is a water park.

Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a wide range of rides, shows, and dining options, making it a perfect destination for families and groups of friends. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from thrilling roller coasters and water rides to live performances and interactive shows.

21. The Dubai Opera

The Dubai Opera is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the premier performing arts centers in the Middle East. The Dubai Opera features a 2,000-seat auditorium with world-class acoustics and a breathtaking design inspired by the Arabian dhow.

It is located in Downtown Dubai, near the famous Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. The Dubai Opera hosts musicals, ballets, concerts, and theater performances. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views of the Dubai skyline from the rooftop terrace of the opera house.

22. The Dubai Creek

The Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek in the heart of Downtown Dubai, also near the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Creek is a historical area that has been used as a trading port for centuries and hosts a number of attractions, including the Dubai Museum, the Gold Souk, and the Spice Souk.

Visitors to the Dubai Creek can take a traditional boat ride, known as an abra, and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline.

The Dubai Dolphinarium , located at Dubai Creek Park, offers the opportunity to interact with dolphins and seals. The Dubai Creek is a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about Dubai's history and culture.

23. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a protected natural area covering over 225 square kilometers of pristine desert landscape in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, desert hare, and over 170 species of birds. This is one of the best local tourist attractions for nature lovers.

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the desert landscape while learning about the efforts to conserve this fragile ecosystem.

The reserve also offers activities, such as falconry displays, camel rides , and traditional Emirati meals served in a Bedouin-style camp on a Dubai desert safari.

If you are looking for culture, nature, and a unique experience in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, this is the place for you.

24. Lost Chambers Aquarium

The Lost Chambers Aquarium , located in the Atlantis, the Palm resort on the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, United Arab Emirates features over 65,000 marine animals from over 250 species, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.

It is one of the major tourist attractions in Dubai and worth checking out. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Lost Chambers Aquarium and learn about marine animals and their habitats.

The Lost Chambers Aquarium also offers various interactive activities, such as diving and snorkeling with marine creatures. This is a major tourist attraction in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

25. Dubai Garden Glow

Dubai Garden Glow , located in Zabeel Park , features a collection of themed attractions, including the Dinosaur Park, the Glow Park, the Glow Garden, the Ice Park, the Magic Park, and the Art Park.

The Glow Garden is a highlight of Dubai Garden Glow, featuring over a million energy-efficient LED lights in various designs and shapes.

With so much to see and do, Dubai Garden Glow is a fantastic attraction that should be added to every traveler's itinerary when planning to visit Dubai.

This is one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

26. Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is a historic district located on the western side of Dubai Creek. Bur Dubai is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture.

One of the most popular attractions in Bur Dubai is the Dubai Museum . There are many other places to visit in Bur Dubai, so make sure to spend a good few hours in the Bur Dabi district.

Bur Dabi also has a bustling souk, or traditional market. Other notable attractions in Bur Dubai include the Grand Mosque and the historic Dubai Creek .

Overall, Bur Dubai is a great destination for anyone interested in learning about Dubai's history while enjoying its vibrant atmosphere. With so many tourist attractions, Bur Dubai is an unmissable part of Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

27. Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park is a world-class wildlife sanctuary located in the heart of Dubai. This sprawling park is home to over 2500 animals from more than 250 different species, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and many more.

Dubai Safari Park is divided into four different sections, each representing a different part of the world and its unique flora and fauna. Visitors can take a safari-style tour of the park, getting up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating animals.

If you are in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with kids, the safari park is one of the best places to visit.

28. Wild Wadi Water Park

Wild Wadi Water Park is a thrilling and exciting water park in Dubai. With more than 30 rides and attractions, Wild Wadi offers something for visitors of all ages, from thrilling water slides to lazy river rides.

The park is home to the tallest and fastest freefall water slide outside of North America, the Jumeirah Sceirah , which plunges riders down a 33-meter drop at speeds of up to 80 km/h.

With its exciting rides and stunning setting, Wild Wadi Water Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun day out in Dubai. This is another of the best places to visit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with kids.

29. The Museum of the Future

Located on Sheikh Zayed Road , the city's main highway, the Museum of the Future is a seven-story hollow elliptical structure designed from stainless steel and inscribed with Arabic calligraphy quotes.

This unique museum features immersive installations and showcases the latest advancements in fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. The Museum of the Future is one of the best places to visit for anyone interested in the latest innovations shaping our world.

30. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is one of Dubai's most popular and picturesque beaches, located in the exclusive Jumeirah neighborhood. It stretches along the Arabian Gulf, offering crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning views of Dubai's iconic skyline.

You can enjoy a range of activities at Jumeirah Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. So, it's one of the most fun places to visit for some downtime in Dubai.

Jumeirah Beach is also surrounded by a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops , making it the perfect destination for a day out with friends or family.

31. Kite Beach

Kite Beach is a popular beach in Dubai known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and perfect kite surfing conditions. The beach is located near Jumeirah and offers stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel.

You can enjoy a range of activities at the beach, including kite surfing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and swimming . Kite Beach also has a range of amenities, including showers, changing rooms, and a selection of beachside restaurants and cafes.

32. Take a Day Trip to Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi

One of the top attractions to see in Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque , which is considered one of the world's largest mosques. Abu Dhabi is not far from Dubai.

Another popular attraction is Ferrari World Abu Dhabi , a theme park that is home to the world's fastest roller coaster. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers thrilling rides, attractions, and experiences for visitors of all ages.

While you are in the UAE, why not stop in Abu Dhabi?

FAQs Related to Places to Visit in Dubai

Let's also explore some frequently asked questions related to fun and unique places to visit in Dubai, UAE.

What should I not miss in Dubai?

There are many things to do in Dubai, but some of the major attractions like the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and the Dubai Mall, which is one of the largest shopping centers in the world should not be missed.

Other top Dubai attractions are the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, the Global Village complex, the Miracle Garden, Bollywood Parks Dubai , and the Dubai Fountain.

What are the top 2 places to visit in Dubai?

The top two Dubai tourist places are the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. The Burj Khalifa offers views of the city and the Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the world, featuring over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, and a cinema. No trip to Dubai is complete without a stop at Burj Khalifa and the shopping malls.

What is famous in Dubai?

Some of the most famous Dubai attractions are the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Khalifa, the big shopping malls, and Global Village Dubai .

Some other top Dubai tourist places are ****the iconic Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Miracle Garden, the Jumeirah Mosque, Bur Dubai, Ski Dubai, the Ain Dubai observation wheel, the Dubai Marina, and the IMG Worlds of Adventure.

You can also attend the famous Dubai Shopping Festival, and explore City Walk**,** a pedestrian-only zone in Dubai's city center, or Dubai's Aquaventure Waterpark with its private beach.

When is the best time to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months from November to March when the weather is mild and pleasant (from 20°C to 30°C). You can fly into the Dubai International Airport and use the Dubai Metro to make your journey pleasant.

Make sure to check Dubai, United Arab Emirates' timings for tourist attractions in off-peak seasons when you visit Dubai.

Summing Up: Fun and Unique Places to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is a city of endless possibilities, with a multitude of unique places to visit. From iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa to thrilling tourist attractions like the Dubai Parks ****and Resorts, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, there are plenty of Dubai tourist places to explore and enjoy.

For those looking for something truly special, the Miracle Garden and the Dubai Dolphinarium ****in Creek Park ****transport visitors to magical worlds that must be seen to be believed.

With so many Dubai and Abu Dhabi attractions to explore, there is lots of fun to be had in this incredible city. So book your trip today and explore one of the world's most exciting destinations.

The Burj Khalifa Skyscraper

The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai desert conservation reserve, jumeirah beach, related articles, featured in.

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.

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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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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!

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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.

• 19 Places to visit in Dubai
• United Arab Emirates

Places to Visit in Dubai incorporates fascinating attractions like Miracle Garden, Global Village, Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Frame, and many more. We have listed the top 20 places and attractions that every tourist must visit in Dubai!

1. The Miracle Garden :

The Miracle Garden is located in the district of Dubailand, and it is one of the most extensive flower gardens in the world. It holds the Guinness world record for An Airbus flower structure and also for a 35 tonnes Micky mouse flower structure. This is one of the best places to visit in Dubai, and you must visit this heavenly place. The best time to visit the Miracle Garden would be the morning hours when it is less crowded. The Miracle Garden is open between 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM and 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM during weekends.

“Note: The Miracle Garden is operational from November to April every year.”

How much is the cost of Entry ticket to the Miracle Garden Dubai?

The entry ticket costs 50 AED for Adults and 40 AED for kids. You can get the tickets at the counter, and also you try for any deals online and grab it if you see anything available under 50 AED.

How do I get to Dubai Miracle Garden?

You can take the Metro red line and get down at the Mall of Emirates, and from there you can take direct bus 105 to Miracle Garden.

2. The Butterfly Garden

Located adjacent to Miracle Garden, the butterfly garden is a fabulous place with more 15000 beautifully colored butterflies. You will have a pleasant feeling when the butterfly sits on you. You can visually understand how this beautiful creature evolved from a small worm. Kids will enjoy this place for sure and it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Dubai. Additionally, you have the butterfly museum and the butterfly flower park to explore inside. The butterfly garden is open between 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the year.

How much is the entrance fee for Butterfly Garden?

The entry ticket cost is 50 AED per adult. You can reach the butterfly garden from miracle garden by walk, as these two are very close to each other.

3. The Global Village

The Global Village Dubai is located in Dubailand District on Sheik Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The Global Village brings together the cultures of 90 countries across the world, in one place. It is the country’s first cultural destination for shopping. The Global Village is usually operational every year between November and March. The gateway to the Global Village opens at 16:00 each day.

Some of the best things to do in Global village includes the Abra ride, Unlimited local cuisines(Don’t miss the Turkish ice cream, Yeman Honey, Dynamite Chicken, Kubbah and cheese wheel pasta), The sky coaster and get a Caricature of yourself. The Global Village is a highly recommended place to spend your evening in Dubai, and it should be there in your Dubai itinerary. The elegance of this place will fascinate you for sure!

“Tip: You can plan Miracle Garden, Butterfly garden and the Global Village in a single day as these three are close to each other.”

How to reach Global Village?

You can get the metro red line and get down at the Mall of Emirates, and from there you can get RTA bus 106 to reach the Global Village. You can also get a direct bus from the Al Ghubaiba station to the Global Village if you stay in the vicinity of Bur Dubai.

How much is the cost of the entry fee for Global Village?

The entrance ticket costs 15 AED per adult. You can check online for deals where you can get it for little lesser price. The next season will be open from October 29, 2019, to April 4, 2020.

4. Burj Khalifa

As everyone knows, Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building with an astounding altitude of 2722 ft and has 163 floors in total. This is a must visit sight seeing in Dubai and never miss to add it to your Dubai Itinerary. There is an obeservation deck “At the top” at 124th floor and “At the Top Sky ” observaton deck is located in 148th floor and is currently the highest observation deck in the world. The 163rd floor is not accessible to the public.

How much it cost to visit Burj Khalifa?

The ticket costs vary from 180 AED to 500 AED per person, depends on which floor you are entering and what time you are visiting. You can check the prices directly at Burj Khalifa’s official website . Also, you can check for online sources such as Groupon and Cobone where you can often get some good deals.

“If you are traveling Dubai in a limited budget, and don’t want to spend much amount on seeing the view from the top, you can still come and enjoy the Burj Khalifa from outside for free of cost along with the Dubai Fountain show.”

How to go to Burj Khalifa?

You can take the Metro red line and get down at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall metro station.

Dubai Fountain Show

The Dubai Fountain show is the world’s largest fountain show located on the Burj Khalifa Lake. You can enjoy the music-based water dance which is lit by more than 6000 lights and laser projectors. The fountain show starts at 6 p.m. and continues every 30 minutes until 10 p.m. If you are visiting Burj Khalifa, you shouldn’t miss this beautiful fountain show!

5. The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is the world’s second largest shopping mall with over 1200 shops. It has many must-see attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo, Kidzania (interactive children’s theme park), Dubai Dino, Hysteria, Reel Cinemas and much more.

Dubai Aquarium has over 140 varieties of marine species and is one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums. You get to walk through the 48-meter tunnel where you see the giant sharks and stingrays swimming just above you. The underwater zoo gives you a fantastic experience with animals like penguins, crocodile feeding, nocturnal birds, and much more. We recommend underwater zoo over the aquarium as the tunnel is too short and the aquarium from outside gives you a great view of the fishes for free!

How can you reach Dubai Mall?

You can reach Dubai Mall by taking Dubai Metro red line and stop at Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa station.

How much it cost?

Entering the mall is free. However, tickets must be purchased separately for each attraction. For example, underwater aquarium tickets cost you between 65 AED and 200 AED depending on the package you select. Check online deals where you can get better prices and offers for each attraction compared to buying in the counter. This is absolutely a must-see destination in Dubai.

“Tip: Make sure you visit the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain on the same day.”

6. Dubai Garden Glow

The Dubai Garden Glow is Located in Zabeel Park, and moreover, this is the combination of four parks – Glow park, Dinosaur Park, Ice Park, and Art Park. The real beauty of the Garden Glow starts in the evening as trees and all elements in the Garden were lit. Children will enjoy the Dinosaur Park for sure, and they can see different variety of Dinosaurs. You have to pay an additional charge for visiting Ice park, where you can see beautiful statues made of ice. The Garden Glow opens from 4:00 pm until 11.00 pm.

“Tip: The best time to visit Dinosaur Park is around 4 pm, and you can plan the Glow park around 7 PM when the lights are on.”

How to get to Dubai Garden Glow?

You can get down at Al Jafiliya Metro Station (red line) and then you can take a cab to Zabeel Park Gate number 6 and 7.

How much is the cost of Entry ticket to Dubai Garden Glow?

It costs 65 AED per adult for Glow park, Dinosaur Park and Art Park. For Ice park, you need to buy a separate ticket at the counter for 40 AED.

7. Desert Safari

Desert safari is a must-visit destination in Dubai. You can make the most of your evening with fun activities like Dune bashing, camel ride, barbecue dinner, belly dancing, and many more in the Arabian desert. At the camp, you’ll be greeted with local snacks and given a seat at a table where you’ll be able to watch the dancing, fire eaters, etc. Food is a buffet affair but good. Soft drinks are complimentary too. The view of the sun setting on the horizon is spectacular.

How much does it cost for the Dubai Desert Safari?

There are a vast number of desert safari operators in Dubai. You can check the cost on the web and the cost shifts according to the service you are selecting, i.e., VIP service or regular service, hotel pickup or centralized pick, etc. On average, a centralized pickup option costs around 50 AED, and VIP option will be about 100 AED per person.

What do you wear for desert safari?

Even though there are no restrictions for dress code in the desert, we recommend you to wear loose clothes and don’t forget to take your jerkins to protect yourself from cold.

Remember, the desert will be frigid and windy in the night!

8. Mall of the Emirates

The Emirates Mall is one of the UAE’s biggest shopping malls. It’s got more than 600 restaurants and shops!

Best things to do in Mall of Emirates:

Ski Dubai – This is the world’s largest indoor Ski park. Ample indoor skiing space where you can enjoy skiboarding, skiing lessons, play with penguins, and also ziplining. You can buy tickets online at their official site . You can also look for online deal sites for a discounted price.

VOX Cinemas – Its a cinema complex with 24 screens, where you can relax your day with a movie.

Magic Planet – It’s a kids’ play area which has several award-winning rides and games, a 4D theater, RoboCoaster and much more.

You can even spend a full day in the mall as it has so many offers. If you can’t spend an entire day, I recommend visiting this mall on the day you’re visiting Miracle Garden.

Al Seef is an attempt to depict the ancient Dubai architecture with its old-world charm. This place has got a great view of the creek, and it is a lovely place to take photographs. This is a beautiful sight-seeing place in Dubai. There are many restaurants and cafes inside, and they are operational from 10 am to midnight. Don’t forget to try Belgium Waffle, Shawarma from Shwarmae, Arabic food at Al Mannah, famous Arabic sweet Kunafi at Nabulus and the delicious grill and sheesha at Kona Grills.

You can also take a short ferry ride to Deira Side at just 2 AED.

Where is Al Seef located?

Al Seef is located very close to Al Fahidi Fort in the Dubai creek. The nearest metro station is Al Fahidi and Al Ghubaiba metro station, and there is no direct metro available. So, you can get a taxi from Al Ghubaiba to reach Al Seef.

Recommendation: You can spend an hour or so in this epic place.

La Mer is one of the best beach spots in Dubai with beautiful walkway. You can dine, shop or just relax on the shore by renting a sun bed or umbrella. La Mer comes to life at night, with sparkling lights, music, restaurants, coffee shops, and stalls. This place is vibrant & buzzing.

Attractions other than the beach:

• Hawa Hawa – Dune shaped playground for kids and adults for jumping. Costs around 25 AED for 15 minutes and 40 AED for 30 minute.
• Laguna Waterpark – The entrance fees for the La Mer water theme park costs 99 AED.
• Roxy cinema – Leisure your day with a movie.

How to reach La Mer?

Direct metro option is not available, but RTA buses 9 and 88 are available.

La Mer is undoubtedly one of the must-visit places in Dubai.

11. Etihad Museum

Inaugrated in late December 2016, it is one of Dubai’s best museums. It highlights Dubai’s cultural and social evolution. “United Arab Emirates”- This museum explains how the union came about and the history of how the seven original Sheikhs formed The United Arab Emirates. There are also short films about the history and displays as well as a hall with photos of the Sheikh’s that was impressive. The museum has eight pavilions, and each portrays different events.

How much does the ticket cost to the Etihad Museum?

The Etihad Museum is open between 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. Th costs 25 AED per adult, and it is worth the money for this well maintained Museum.

12. Dubai Museum

While this is one of Dubai’s oldest existing structures, the museum’s maintenance needs to be commended. This museum showcases the lifestyle of ancient Arab people and how Dubai has evolved after the discovery of oil. Dubai Museum is not a usual boring museum, and I recommend to visit this museum without fail.

How to reach Dubai Museum and how much the entry ticket cost?

You can reach Dubai Museum Al Ghubaiba or Al Fahidi metro/bus station. It is located close to these bus stops. The entry ticket costs 3 AED per adult.

13. The Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is the most massive photographic frame on earth with a height of 492 ft, located in Zabeel Park and this is a new attraction that was recently built. The structure has an elevator inside, where you can see the old Dubai on the one hand and the new Dubai on the other side with all the Skyscrapers.

How to go to Dubai Frame?

You can take the metro red line and reach Al jafiliya, and from there you can walk to Zabeel Park Gate number 4 to reach Dubai Frame.

How much does the entry ticket to Dubai Frame cost?

It cost 65 AED per adult to enter Dubai Frame.

14. Jumeirah Mosque

Built in the late 1970s, it is one of Dubai’s famous mosques where non-Muslims can enter! Another famous Dubai mosque called the ‘ Great Mosque ‘ where only Muslims are allowed to get inside.

What is the entrance fee for Jumeirah Mosque?

You can enter Jumeirah Mosque for free of cost.

What is the dress code for Jumeirah Mosque?

Shirt or t-shirt ( except sleeveless) and pants (up to ankle height) are recommended. For women, they will provide a veil to cover the face.

How to get to Jumeirah Mosque?

Al Jafiliya is the closest metro station to get to Jumeirah Mosque, and from there you can take a taxi to reach Jumeirah Mosque.

15. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is the fifth highest luxury hotel in the world, located on an artificial island on Jumeirah beach. It is claimed to be the world’s only seven-star hotel, but not officially though. If you’re coming to Dubai with a great budget, try living here for a couple of days.

“Tip: If your budget is not big enough for you to stay, try reserving a table for an evening tea at any of the restaurants inside the hotel and get the great experience! “

You can book a table using this link with a minimum bill amount of 200 AED.

How to reach the Burj Al Arab Hotel?

You can reach Burj Al Arab using the buses 8, X25 from Bur Dubai.

16. Wild Wadi Water Park

Located adjacent to Burj Al Arab, the wild wadi water park offers more than 30 rides. It is a must do attraction in Dubai if you like water games. If you stay in any of the Jumeirah hotels, you will get free access to Wild Wadi. Also, you will get a great view of Burj Al Arab from the inside, where you can click great photos.

Note: For some rides, there is some height restriction for children below 1.1 meters.

• Better reach here early to avoid long queue.
• Carry a waterproof cover for the smartphone to take pictures.
• Better bring enough water bottles as you feel more thirsty while playing the waters and water bottles are costly inside.

How much is the cost of entry ticket to Wild Wadi?

For non-UAE residents, the cost of a ticket is 336 AED at the counter, and you will get it for 284 AED. For UAE residents, the cost of the ticket is around 150 AED.

“Tip: Plan it on Sunday, you will get a special price of 99 AED if you book it via visa card online.”

How to reach Wild Wadi WaterPark?

As mentioned, Wild Wadi is just in front of Burj Al Arab. You can reach Wild Wadi using the buses 8, X25 from Bur Dubai.

17. Atlantis the Palm

Atlantis is one of the most luxurious resorts on Dubai’s man-made island, The Palm. There are multiple options available for rooms such as Palm Room, Ocean Room, and Suites such as Underwater Suite, Royal Bridge Suite and more. The underwater suite room cost you around 650 AED, where you will get the breathtaking underwater view and its variety of aquatic animals. You will get blown away by the ambiance of this place and its worth every money. I recommend that you stay here if your budget allows.

Attractions on Atlantis:

• Dolphin Bay:

This is one of the famous attractions in the Atlantis. You have the chance to interact with the Dolphins, and even you have a package option to swim with the dolphins. The minimum ticket cost around AED 325 for Dolphin bay observer and swim with the dolphin’s package varies from 800 to 1350 AED (Dolphin Scuba Dive).

• Aquaventure Water Park:

It is One of the largest water theme parks in Dubai which has more than 30 water slides. The cost is around 350 AED per person. You can choose one of the Packages listed on their online website to combine two to three attractions for a lesser price.

• Lost Chambers of Aquarium:

This is one of the UAE’s largest aquariums with over 60,000 Aquatic animals. The entry ticket will cost you around 110 AED per adult.

Palm Island – Monorail Experience

Palm Island – Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island that looks like a palm tree when seen from above.

To get the better view of Palm Island, you can take a ride on the monorail, where you can get a sharp look-out to the Palm Jumeirah.

How do I get to Palm Jumeirah Monorail?

You can take the Dubai Metro red line and get down at Damac Properties station, and from there take a short walk and get to Tram and get down at Palm Jumeirah tram station.

And from there you take a quick walk and get to the Palm Gateway Monorail station.

How much does the ticket to Palm Jumeirah Monorail cost?

It costs 30 AED per adult for a return ticket.

18. Gold Souk, Meena Bazaar

I’m sure you’re never going to return from Dubai before visiting Dubai Gold Souk! A very large collection & design you’ll most likely never get anywhere in the world. Dubai is famous for its gold purity and reasonable rates. You buy or not, even for window shopping & shooting pictures; it will be an unforgettable experience. Naturally, the area is full of locals and tourists. Herbs, spices, textiles, gold, and souvenirs are available here. Don’t forget to see the Big Gold Ring, which is a world record, on display! Your night will glitter with the bright gold.

If you are looking to buy anything in the gold shops, then haggle…haggle and haggle but make sure that you check your receipt and re-calculate the gold price yourself.

Meena Bazaar

Meena Bazaar is a mini India. You should visit this busy hustle and bustle place with lots of different shop types usually run by Indians and Pakistanis. It feels like wandering in some typical Indian market’s narrow streets with people asking you to buy perfumes, gold, chocolates, etc. Most of the items on sale here are first copies, with few 1 to 10 dirham stores and some of the best Indian cuisine restaurants.

• Take your passport since you can re-claim duty at the airport, make sure you have your name and passport number on the receipt from the shop keeper.
• Bargain as much as you can; you can break prices up to 30-50% here and buy things.
• You can also visit the nearby Dubai Museum. You can go to the Iranian restaurant Al-Ustadi for a meal.

Meena Bazaar Timings:

Meena Bazaar is functional from 9 am to 1.30pm and 4 pm to 10.30 pm on weekdays and

4 pm to 11 pm on Fridays.

How to reach Meena Bazaar and Gold Souk?

• Nearby Metro station: Al fahidi metro station is the nearest to Meena Bazaar, and Al Ras Metro Station is closest to Gold Souk.
• Nearby bus stop: Khalid bin Walid road bus stop
• By boat: Al Gubaiba ferry station. The taxi boat from Bur Dubai costs only one dirham each. Don’t miss this water ferry ride of you come Meena Bazaar or Gold Souk.

19. Bollywood park

The Bollywood Park is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite to Palm Jebel Ali. After 16:00, is the best time to visit Bollywood Park. Even without the 3D glasses, the 360 Krish ride would be great. All in all, it will be a pleasant experience with SRK and Amitabh look alike! The main attraction starts in the evening with live dance performances. But its also disappointing that, despite buying an expensive ticket, there is still an entry fee for several exhibitions.

Each hall is designed for various Bollywood films and gives another experience. The best I could experience was the 7D experiences in Krish hall, Dabang and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. At least one whole day is necessary for you to experience all of the attractions in Bollywood theme parks.

How much does it cost to visit Bollywood Park?

The entry ticket starts from 175 AED. There are a few rides for which you have to buy the tickets inside the park.

How to reach Dubai Bollywood Park?

Take the Dubai metro red line and get off at Jebel Ali station. You can take a taxi from Jebel Ali station to reach Dubai Bollywood Park.

Additional Places to Explore Outside Dubai

• Take one day trip to Abu Dhabi, where you should visit Abu Grand Mosque, the beautiful ever mosque built in the world. And also, consider visiting ‘Last Exit,’ a truck-based theme restaurant, located on Jebel Ali.
• Take a day trip to the beautiful Musandam Island, near Oman.

Dubai has everything to offer for all kind of tourists. It is a place for both luxury lovers and budget travelers. I will make a trip to Dubai next year, and I will update this post. If you like this article, please write a comment.

2 thoughts on “19 Places to visit in Dubai”

Thank you for this article. We’ll be in Dubai in a week for 12 days, and it’s really helpful 🙂

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Is Dubai expensive? What to budget & how to save when visiting

With palatial five-star hotels and stunning skyscrapers dominating its skyline, Dubai is known for its glitz and glamor. It’s perceived to be pricier than most cities, but you can still explore the Gulf emirate on a modest budget.

Depending on where you stay and eat , and what you plan to do in Dubai, we’ve got tips to help you stretch your dollar. From flights and accommodation to food and transportation, we’ve broken down each part of your budget to show you how much your trip to Dubai could cost.

How much are flights to Dubai?

Dubai is a popular layover destination, thanks to its sweet spot on the world map. In terms of airfare, a direct flight on Emirates Economy class from New York City to Dubai costs around $1,000. If you’re traveling from New Delhi to Dubai on the same airline, your flight could set you back around $340.

To ensure your airfare remains low, consider non-direct flights or budget airlines like FlyDubai or Air Arabia. Consider traveling between June and August if you don’t mind the heat. The off-peak season coincides with Dubai’s searing summer months, so hotels and flights see steep discounts. Avoid November to April, when prices surge due to the year-end holidays and cooler months.

How much is a hotel in Dubai?

Dubai has hotel options for all budgets: ritzy 5-star resorts , cozy vacation rentals and hostels . Deira , Bur Dubai , Satwa and Al Barsha are fantastic areas for affordable lodging. A decent 4-star hotel costs about $50 a night on average, while a 5-star hotel comes up to at least $75 per night. Hostels are much cheaper at around $15 a night. If you’re ditching hotels to backpack, connect with the Couchsurfing community and enjoy free lodging.

Besides hotels, Dubai has pocket-friendly apartments in districts like Mirdif —great for those traveling in groups or with kids. For a family of four with two kids, you can get a cozy studio apartment complete with a sofa bed for just $70 a night. Aside from privacy, these residences come with a fully-equipped kitchen and washing machine. Tip: Whipping up your own meals and doing your own laundry are great ways to stretch your budget.

In Downtown Dubai , hotel rates are notoriously high. But if you dislike commuting and want to be near The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa , look into Dusit Thani Dubai or DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Business Bay (about $128 a night).

Is food in Dubai expensive?

There are countless food options in Dubai. In the mood to splurge at posh restaurants like Ossiano or Kohantei Restaurant ? Be prepared to shell out at least $273 per person.

To keep your budget in check, go for mouth-watering shawarmas for $1 at hole-in-the-wall joints instead.

If you’re looking for cheap eats around Dubai, head to food courts at the malls . Tuck into a full meal with generous servings for $7. Besides food courts, discover where and what locals eat for an authentic, local culinary experience. Check out Antar Cafeteria , well-known for their burgers and wraps at just $3, or Eat & Drink , which offers fuss-free kebab sandwiches for $2.

How much is alcohol/nightlife in Dubai?

Dubai is a conservative Muslim city, hence the strict rules and high taxes on alcohol. If you’re wondering, a pint of beer costs around $11 and a glass of wine starts from $15.

Tip: If you’re planning to enjoy some bubbly, catch Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m, or swing by Ladies Night on Tuesdays. Night clubs and bars such as Barasti Beach Bar and Asia Asia offer great deals. Of course, there’s the convenient option of buying duty-free alcohol at the airport .

Is shopping in Dubai expensive?

With city-sized malls housing everything from a ski slope to the world-class Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , Dubai takes shopping to the next level. The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world, with 1,200 stores spanning four floors. Plus, it has the highest concentration of designer boutiques. Prices are not necessarily cheaper due to the exchange rate. In fact, most luxury brands and fashion outlets are more expensive in Dubai compared to North America, Europe and Asia.

Similarly, at the Mall of The Emirates , you’ll find luxury and high-street brands. If you’re searching for discounted luxury goods, hitch a 45-minute cab ride from the city to The Outlet Village .

For a real bargain, head to Dubai Creek or Bur Dubai’s local souks . Save up to 30 per cent on items here compared to Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar . Snap up pashminas, attars and Arabian sandals, or pack home spices (specifically saffron) from Dubai Spice Souk . And if you love gold, Deira’s Gold Souk is a major draw. Practice your haggling skills for the best deals when you shop at the local markets.

How much is transportation in Dubai?

You can navigate around town efficiently with a NOL card (think Oyster Card in the UK). A basic rechargeable NOL card costs $0.50 and grants access to the metro, buses, and water buses.

The two-line metro is the most convenient and cheapest transportation in Dubai, especially for zones such as Dubai Marina , Burj Khalifa or Deira. A short trip costs $0.80, while an average ride costs $1.40. For longer distances, combine a metro ride with a taxi.

Taxis & ride-hailing services

Taxis are abundant and operate by meter, while rides on Uber or Careem have fixed fares. Although these ride-hailing services tend to be more expensive, their car fleet is better and the drivers more reliable. Also, you won’t have to worry about meter jumps due to traffic congestion.

Renting a car

There are interesting things to do in Dubai’s outskirts and emirates like Fujairah , Sharjah , and Abu Dhabi . If you’re traveling in a group, consider renting a car for $11 a day. There are many car rentals in Dubai, and gas is only $0.97 per liter.

How much do tours/attractions cost?

Dubai has an array of attractions —from theme parks and landmarks to modern museums —waiting to be explored. Some are ticketed, while others are free to enjoy like the city’s pristine beaches, La Mer and Kite Beach .

Entry to Burj Khalifa costs $22, but observing it from the ground is free. Plus, there’s a magical fountain show to boot. Nearby, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo tickets start from $46. And if you’re a theme park lover, entry fees for Motiongate Dubai , LEGOLAND Dubai , and Bollywood Parks are between $80 to $90. To save on attractions, pick up passes such as the Go City Dubai Card or The Dubai Pass to save up to 60 per cent. Several museums here also offer free entry, notably the Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum .

Alternatively, if you’re short on time, visit the major attractions at a go on a package tour. Join a tour of Old Dubai (from $37) and catch the sunset on an $0.30 abra ride across the Dubai Creek. If you prefer to experience Dubai from the waters, a thrilling 90-minute speedboat tour (from $40) will take you across Dubai Marina, Atlantis The Palm , and Burj Al Arab .

How much is a trip to Dubai?

Depending on how much you travel within the city, allocate $4 on local transportation (metro) and $19 for three meals a day. An average 3-star hotel will cost around $40 per night. After adding miscellaneous expenses like shopping, you’ll need at least $81 a day if you really watch your budget.

If you’re going for upscale hotels and planning to include more paid activities, set aside at least $250 a day. And for a luxury holiday, be ready to splash out at least $550 a day.

In summary, a one-week trip—including airfare at $600—will cost approximately $1,170 for a solo traveler on a budget. A mid-range traveler can expect to spend $2,350, and if you’re planning to really pamper yourself, you're looking at least $3,000 for a week’s retreat.

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• Everything you need to know about gold shopping in Dubai
• The ultimate guide to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
• All you need to know about visiting Dubai’s Burj Khalifa

30+ Incredible Places To Visit In Dubai For Free

In a city frequently touted as being expensive and unaffordable to the average tourist, is there any way you cgan save your dirhams on a trip to Dubai?

Absolutely! We’ve been on the hunt for the city’s best attractions and come up with this incredible list of over 30+ places you can visit and enjoy for free (or really cheap – under 20 AED / $5 USD a person).

Travelling to Dubai on a Budget? You don’t want to miss all our money-saving tips for Dubai here

Watch the Dubai Fountains show

• Visit Expo 2020

Enjoy the IMAGINE sound and light show

See the largest fountain show in the world, spot flamingos in the wetlands, turtle feeding at jumeirah al naseem, the walk & the beach, soak up the sun at kite beach, picnic at dubai creek park, fresh seafood at jumeirah fishing harbour.

• Enjoy sunset from the Palm Boardwalk

Soak in the beach vibes at La Mer

Discover dubai museum, get lost in the streets of al fahidi and al seef, take an abra ride across dubai creek, satisfy your senses at the old souks, stroll for a bargain in meena bazaar, coffee museum, al shindagha heritage village, dubai canal boardwalk, enjoy a ride on the dubai water bus, cool off in the dubai marina walk fountains, wander city walk area, a photo stop at burj al arab, fill your senses at the ripe market, explore the world at global village.

• Get into Aquaventure free

Enjoy art, fashion & fun at Alserkal Avenue

Admire al qudra & the love lakes, get on your wheels at nad al sheba park, camping in the dubai desert, day trip to hatta, free movie under the stars, view the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank, get your photograph with the burj khalifa, attended a horse race at meydan racecourse, watch a camel race.

A great starting point for many visitors to Dubai is to head to Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Mall . Every lunchtime and throughout the evening, visitors are treated to the visual spectacle of the Dubai Fountain Show.

Perfect choreographed dancing fountains move to music, ranging from modern pop hits to traditional Arabian music, under the foot of the Burj Khalifa (which also runs its own towering LED light show throughout the evening).

>> You can learn more about the Dubai Fountains, including our favourite viewing spots and timings here .

A nightly show at Dubai Festival City , this sensory experience harnesses the power of light, water and fire in one incredible display, using the world’s largest water projection screen.

Dubai Festival City is a great location for those who want to stay close to Dubai airport and the free shows held hourly between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm are a fabulous family entertainment option (and in our experience a bit less crowded than the Dubai Fountains).

>> You can learn more about IMAGINE at dubaifestivalcity.com

Just when you thought that was it, along comes another even bigger and better than the last! The Palm Fountain which opened in October 2020 set the Guinness World Record as the largest fountain show in the world. Offering nightly shows every 30 minutes between 7:00 pm and midnight, your best vantage point is from The Pointe entertainment district at the top of the trunk of Palm Jumeirah .

>> Learn more about the Palm Fountain at The Pointe here.

Head to the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary on the outskirts of the city to spot over 170 native species that call the protected wetlands area home – the stunning pink flamingos are a crowd favourite. The wetlands are a beautiful free urban oasis with airconditioned viewing platforms and a Lagoon Hide for quiet observation of its residents.

>> Learn more about Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary here

The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project , based inside Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel (adjacent to Souk Madinat Jumeirah ) is a fabulous opportunity to see some of the country’s native turtle species. During the cooler months of the year, a FREE weekly turtle feeding session is held at 11:00 am on a Wednesday. [NB we’re waiting to see if this one returns post-COVID]

The session is only short with priority given to children (and very busy on local school holidays), or you can turn up at any time and try and spot these magnificent creatures floating in the lagoon.

One of Dubai’s most iconic beachfront and leisure precincts can be found in the JBR area of the city. There are plenty of tourist traps beckoning for your cash along the way, but if you are happy to hold firmly onto your wallet, it costs you nothing to stroll along and enjoy the atmosphere especially beautiful at sunset. The street art installations are popular and in the winter months enjoy The Market.

Although there are plenty of beaches along the Arabain Gulf coast, Kite Beach is one of our favourites for enjoying the rays as the locals do. There are plenty of water sports at Kite Beach, but there’s no entry fee for simply pulling up for a towel and enjoying the sun.

>> You can find out more about Dubai’s most popular free beaches here.

One of the largest parks in Dubai, there’s always a plethora of family activities going on in this green oasis that hugs the western bank of Dubai Creek. Entry is 5 AED per person to access the extensive grounds, botanical gardens, playgrounds and barbeque and picnicking areas. For an extra charge, there is a Dolphanairum, a planetarium in Children’s City and even a cable car for some unique and stunning city views.

>> To learn more about all the family parks in Dubai, run by Dubai Municipality, check out this guide here

A little surprise packet tucked away in the more suburban area of Dubai, the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour is a modern dining area giving a traditional touch to the waterfront. The area, close to Mercato Mall has fully revitalised a few years ago. Most come for the fresh seafood and dining options, or simply enjoy the jetty. Coming at dawn is your best time to see the harbour in action.

Enjoy the sunset from the Palm Boardwalk

Covering the outer crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, enjoy a stunning sunset walk around Dubai’s most exclusive resort zone. There are food trucks and benches along the wooden boardwalk for regular stops – though only the fit may be able to cover the whole 11km!

The boardwalk starts from the Rixos Palm Jumeirah Hotel on the Crescent’s east side to the One&Only The Palm on the west side of the crescent – one of the best free things to do on Palm Jumeirah ! 

This fun and funky beachfront area truly is one of the new hot spots in Dubai. Brilliant boardwalk views back to the city skyline, fun and colourful food vans and beach huts give an utterly instagrammable backdrop.

As well as the beach itself, there are loads of free play spaces here for kids and (paid) extras including Hawa Hawa outdoor trampoline park, Roxy Cinemas and Laguna Waterpark. A great place to chill of an evening, even in the hotter months.

>> You can learn more at larmerdubai.ae

The culturally curious will be pleased to know there is an extensive line up of museums to explore in Dubai. Most visitors have likely only heard of the Dubai Museum and Al Faihidi Fort, which only cost 3 AED to enter. Don’t let your exploring finish there, however. There are more than a dozen museums to explore around Dubai, many of them situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (mostly free or just a few dirhams for entry). Dubai Museum is currently closed for renovations.

>> You can see a complete collection of Dubai’s Museums and historic properties here

This brings us nicely to our next suggestion. After completing a tour of the Dubai Museum, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood beckons you to come and explore. Many of the city’s original buildings have been wonderfully restored and the narrow alleyways now house galleries to tea houses as well as small museums and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) , a key cultural bridge to understanding more about the city, Islamic culture and the people of Dubai.

Many of the events organized by SMCCU used to be free (including cultural meals and mosque tours) but there is now a cover charge for most activities. Do enquire within what is currently on their program, and if you are going to splash the cash for a Dubai experience, this is the one that will deliver the most educational value.

Nearby, the Al Faididi Historical Neighbourhood now seamlessly blends to the modern development of Al Seef, built in the traditional style of “barajeel” wind tower houses. There are plenty of restaurants and tourist traps along the way, but also wonderful shops and instalments to browse as you make your way to Dubai Creek.

An absolute steal at 1 AED for a traditional boat! This is one of the best authentic Dubai experiences as you sail from one side of Dubai Creek to the other. There are pricier options, as well as Dubai Creek Dhow Cruises and dining options, but nothing can beat the wind in your hair on a traditional abra!

This is a taster of true Dubai, a trading port for well over a century as you make your way through the streets and laneways of Deira on the eastern bank of Dubai Creek. The Gold and Spice Souk are the most famous, but you can also seek out the perfume souk and electronics souk.

Find our complete guide to exploring Dubai’s souks here .

Often touted as Little India, this is a bargain hunter paradise if you are on the hunt for traditional textiles, jewellery and handicrafts. Situated in the city’s Bur Dubai area, this market area is a colourful collection of shops and laneways, along with cheap South Asian eats.

The area is affectionately nicknamed Meena Bazaar after its counterpart in India and the name has pretty much stuck since the 1970s.  The shopping district is located between Al Fahidi, Al Musalla and Al Ghubaiba streets.

Amongst Dubai’s additional museums this is one of our favourites, found at villa 44 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. As well as learning more about the origins of coffee production and how coffee is produced around the world, you can sample traditional Emirati coffee too!

If you’ve got some hard-earned dirhams to spare (10 AED), this is where you can sit down for some authentic coffee in the upstairs cafe (includes a kids corner) and also pick up speciality coffees from around the world.

>> Learn more about at coffeemusuem.ae

Situated on the banks of Dubai Creek, near Port Rashid is the Al Shindagha Historical District . The area consists of many buildings, including a Heritage Village and several museums. This is a great one to explore if you are interested in the birth of Dubai and the role of Dubai Creek.

Look out for the Diving Museum, Camel Museum, Perfume Museum and Sheikh Saeed al Maktoum House, telling an interesting story of the country’s past.

NB the Museum now has a cover charge of 15 AED for adults, 5 AED students/kids

The man-made canal carved into the desert sees Dubai Creek connected to the Arabian Gulf via the city’s Business Bay area. Whilst you can pay to take a ferry or cruise boat down the canal, there is a 3.2km walkway that runs alongside the canal that’s free to stroll along, particularly pretty at night. At Sheikh Zayed Road you can catch the man-made Dubai Waterfall, beautifully lit up at night.

Whilst marina cruises in Dubai can be on the pricey side, if you’d still like to enjoy the water, then pop on down to Dubai Marina and catch a leg of the Dubai Water Bus . A single journey for an adult is 3 AED and children are free.

One especially for the little kids (but we won’t judge if the grown-ups want to join!). The beautiful sidewalk fountains can be a savour from the heat and the perfect way to cool off as you make your way around the bustling, modern Dubai Marina area of the city.

In contrast to the older areas of Dubai, the City Walk area of Dubai is a modern entertainment area of the city. There are plenty of paid activities on hand including the Green Planet , Geek Nation and Mattel Play! Town but it’s completely free to stroll around the modern, design-inspired streets and enjoy free street entertainment, particularly in the cooler winter months.

>> Learn more at citywalk.ae

OK, you can pretty much put aside your next paycheck if you actually want to go inside the iconic “7-star” hotel , but there are plenty of ways you can catch a glimpse of the iconic sail-shaped landmark. For a close-up view, head to Sunset Beach – which as the name would suggest is perfect for those sunset views.

Alternatively, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah , from where you can capture beautiful canal views with a Burj al Arab backdrop (the abra boats here run by Jumeirah Hotel are substantially more expensive though than Dubai Creek!)

Enjoy the best of local produce and crafts at Dubai’s favourite pop up market event. A seasonal event it moves destination each year (though seems to have found its permanent home during the 2019-2020 winter season at Academy Park). The Academy Park event is held on every Friday during the winter, and in Umm Sequim on a Saturday.

The market is also held indoors at Times Square Centre every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

>> Learn more at ripeme.com

Take a trip around the world at this international showcase event. Held daily over the cooler winter months, Global Village Dubai is like a giant fair of food, entertainment and traditions from over 70 countries.

Entry is only 15 AED and you only pay for any additional activities or food once inside. Food tasters to free dance performances and showground rides, it is truly a global taster session and one of Dubai’s most buzzing evening destinations .

>> Learn more about Dubai Global Village and buy your tickets online

Get into Aquaventure Free

Yes, you read that right! It’s not well-advertised but by registering here , you can get into top rates Dubai water park Aquaventure at Atlantis the Palm for free on your birthday and in the immediate days before and afterwards (redeemable once per year). Other members of your party will need to pay (you’ll get a 20% discount for 2 friends), but a great saving if you have a celebrant in the family!

A modern fun and funky area of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is a treasure trove of art galleries , performing arts spaces and artisans working in one creative hub. Food, fashion and fun can be found amongst the warehouses with regular free exhibitions and cultural events happening throughout the year. Some shows and hands-on experiences cost extra.

You can learn more including a program of upcoming events at alserkal.online

The iconic “ Love Lakes ” are a man-made creation, an extension to Al Qudra Lakes in the desert area of Al Marmoon Desert Conservation Reserve , about 45 minutes outside of Dubai. Entry to the Love Lakes area is free, as is access to the Al Qudra bike track (extra to hire a bike from TrekBikes.ae to use on the track). There’s no public transport this far out of town though so you will need to have your own car.

>> Learn more about accessing Love Lakes Dubai here

A popular spot for local fitness enthusiasts, the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park has 4km, 6km and 8km bike paths to suit everyone from beginners to pros as well as a jogging track. Entry is free but if you’re only visiting you’ll need a rental bike at 50 AED.

If a desert safari in Dubai isn’t really your style, there are plenty of places in the Dubai desert where you can pull up your own patch of sand for the night totally free. Granted, you need to be travelling with the right sort of gear and have access to a 4×4, but this is one of the best free activities residents in Dubai can enjoy over the cooler winter months .

>> You can learn more about Dubai’s popular desert camping spots here

A day trip into the mountains to experience Hatta is not only a hugely rewarding contrast to the city (and often several degrees cooler than being on the coast), you can enjoy many of the sites for free.

The outdoor Hatta Heritage Village is completely free to enter, as is the Hatta Wadi Park and hiking the mountain trails.

>> You can access Hatta from Dubai on the E16 bus for just AED 10 .

Dubai’s original outdoor cinema can be found on the rooftop of the Wafi Pyramids Complex every Sunday evening from 8.30 PM. There are giant bean bags to lounge around on for free to the public and popcorn & hotdogs available to purchase – seasonal.

>> You can learn more about the outdoor movie season at wafi.com

Inside Dubai Mall , you will find the megalithic 10 million litre Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo tank.  The viewing area in the centre of Dubai Mall stands at an impressive 51m wide and 20m high and is completely free to view from the outside.

There are plenty of add on experiences inside the aquarium if you want to upgrade for the full experience.

>> See how much entry to the aquarium is here .

OK, we won’t lie, going up the world’s tallest tower Burj Khalifa is not cheap. But getting your selfie with the Burj is the next best thing right? It’s not easy to fit the whole tower in, but our favourite recommended spot is to head to Burj Park, on the other side of Burj Lake to the Dubai Mall.

Pre-fitted with pretty wings for those insta-moments, here’s your best chance to get the Burj Khalifa in the frame and admire this record-breaking building. (Note they don’t take too fondly to what they consider professional photography, save this experience for your smartphone).

You can also catch a glimpse on your way past of the stunning Dubai Opera House, and head all the way around Burj Lake for Burj Plaza, here you can find the free Downtown Slide ! A giant 19m high attraction that older kids and adults will love!

Catch the excitement of racing season from October through to March each year with the Dubai Racing Club.  General Admission is free throughout most of the season (bar the  Dubai World Cup Finale end of March). A great fun way to enjoy the more glamorous side of Dubai without cost.

>> You can learn more at dubaracingclub.com

For one of the ultimate cultural experiences in Dubai, you cannot go past attending a camel race at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track . Free to enter and you may even capture a moment where the trainers are happy for you to get up close and personal with the camels. Tracking down the actual camel race timetable has always been notoriously hard but expect most of the action to happen early morning and be all over by 9:00 am.

>> Check out upcoming race schedules (if published) here or try [email protected]

There’s no denying that Dubai CAN be an expensive city to visit if you choose to enjoy all of the attractions and luxuries on offer. There can be plenty of hidden costs in Dubai too, so do watch out for tourist taxes, particularly if you are dining in a hotel. Street eats are a fabulous way to save money and exploring beyond the main tourist areas.

With some careful planning, there’s plenty that can be enjoyed in Dubai on a budget – and as you’ve seen many incredible attractions are completely free.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to top attractions in Dubai

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links for paid activities. Dubai Travel Planner

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Top Spots Dubai

25 of the Best Places to Visit in Dubai

Updated: November 2023

A top travel destination lodged between desert and sea, Dubai offers something for all tastes, age ranges and budgets. Dubai is the tourism and business capital of the UAE and the Middle East while the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, is only about an hour away by car.

Dubai’s famous sights attract tourists from all over the world for an exciting Dubai adventure . From one of the world’s largest malls to the world’s largest aquarium, theme parks and so much more, Dubai’s attractions never end and there are options to suit every budget. With so many options it’s important to plan ahead.

Drawing upon decades of experience in this dynamic city, Top Spots Dubai has put together a list of the top 25 best things for you to see and do in Dubai. This comprehensive list, filled with tips, will guide you to the best places in Dubai for tourists.

Arrive in one of the world’s busiest airports. DXB International draws in excited tourists from all corners of the globe. Then, step into the city. Dubai balances tradition and modernity like no other place. There’s so much to see and do in Dubai from the city’s major sights and attractions including the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab to the bustling souks of old Dubai. Beyond the major attractions, Dubai’s excellent weather and surrounding natural terrain ensure that a host of action-packed adventures are possible from desert safaris to skydives and dune buggying. You can make your way around the United Arab Emirates in luxurious cars, wooden dhow boats, yachts, helicopters, or hot air balloons. Then, there’s the elite fine dining scene and nightlife. Dubai boasts some of the most impressive VIP hot spots where those in the know dress to impress and dine and dance the night away. For families looking to entertain their little ones, Dubai offers some of the most exciting options from the thrills of theme parks and waterparks to educational activities and encounters with the region’s wildlife.

We share a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Dubai now .

1. Downtown Dubai

Number one on our list, Downtown Dubai is the home of several of Dubai’s record-breaking sights and interesting places to visit in Dubai . Located within walking distance of one another, you can take in the world’s tallest building , Burj Khalifa. Then, you can walk from Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest malls to watch the Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest fountain. After, you can visit the famous Dubai Opera. Albeit not as large as other Dubai parks, Burj Park hosts many events. With so many places to visit it’s no wonder that many tourists consider Downtown Dubai the best tourist place in Dubai . Best experienced by night there are many attractions catered towards night owls in Downtown Dubai. Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is always buzzing and a great spot to have a nice lunch, dinner, or coffee. There are several high-end hotels and numerous dining options there for all budgets. There are also many free activities to do here so Downtown Dubai is one of the best places to visit in Dubai cost-free .

Tip: Souk Al Bahar is home to the newly opened Time Out Market where some of the best local food and beverage outlets are located in one venue. To make it extra special, you can sit on the balcony and watch the Dubai Fountain show.

2. At The Top, Burj Khalifa 

“At the Top” at Burj Khalifa has been one of the must-visit places in Dubai since its opening, attracting tourists from all over the world. The Burj Khalifa, standing at 828 metres, is a United Arab Emirates and global icon that made Dubai’s skyline one of the most famous in the world. Many consider it to be one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai . Its unique shape and design are certainly impressive. The scale and structure of this elegant tower, which takes its form from the Hymenocallis flower, are undoubtedly impressive. Levels 124 and 125 are accessed by the world’s fastest double-deck elevators. You can step out onto the outdoor observation deck and use high-powered telescopes to see the rest of Dubai. There are also other virtual reality and immersive experiences.

Tip: Sunset and sunrise timings are the best times to take Instagram-worthy pictures of Dubai.

3. Museum Of The Future

The Museum of The Future is located next to DIFC just off of Sheik Zayed Road, beside the Emirates Towers building. The immersive exhibition space is spread over seven floors and aims to introduce visitors to the possibilities for the future – specifically how the next 50 years might play out in the United Arab Emirates and beyond. The museum is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for 2023 .

The current exhibitions explore the future of space travel and living, climate change and ecology, health, wellness, and spirituality as well as near-future technologies from pioneering innovators. There’s also a special space dedicated to children. Through a playful and educational environment, Future Heroes encourages kids to develop future-proof skills. When you’re done inside head out to the viewing deck.

The viewing deck is situated in the middle of the inner curve of the building and offers an impressive Insta backdrop. Check out their programming to discover special talks with innovators, scientists, and key industry individuals to learn more about their visions of the future. The aim is for the museum to become a center for understanding future trends in science and technological sectors.

Tip: Select the sunset slot. The 48-minute ride will give you a chance to enjoy a golden hour like no other.

4. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is not only one of the most famous hotels in the world but also one of the best places to go in Dubai for tourists . It is a global icon of Arabian luxury. It is famously known as the first 7-star hotel in the world. Situated on its own man-made island, the Burj Al Arab is a landmark of architectural innovation and design. If you are staying at the hotel, you have the option of arriving either by a Rolls Royce or by helicopter. There are numerous things to see and do at the Burj Al Arab. The spa is one of the most luxurious in the world and offers panoramic views of palm island and the Dubai Marina skyline on one side and Downtown Dubai on the other side. There are numerous dining options at the hotel, from the underwater Ristorante L’ Olivo at Al Mahara to Sal. The one-of-a-kind man-made beach and infinity pool terrace is a must-see. At Sal, you can even get a private cabana for more privacy.

Dubai is a beautiful place with many unique experiences to offer. If you are not staying at the hotel, you need not worry. For the first time in history, the “Inside Burj Al Arab” tour welcomes guests to a unique 90-minute tour of the hotel, with a dedicated butler. Visitors can learn about the design of the hotel and discover the untold stories of a global icon. Visitors enter the gilded doors of the Royal Suite to relive history through a special immersive experience.

Tip: The sunset views from the infinity pool terrace are one of a kind

5. Palm Jumeirah

Discover one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free with Palm Jumeirah. This artificial island boasts stunning villas, hotels, and more. It is one of the artificial islands of Dubai known worldwide for its scale and size. The island is shaped like a palm tree, with a trunk, 16 fronds, and an 11 km surrounding crescent. The island hosts a lively community with villas, townhouses, and apartments. There are numerous five-star hotels on the island with plenty of shopping, entertainment, and dining options.

Since opening in 2008, Atlantis hotel has been the largest hotel on the island and one of the most famous places in Dubai. The 1,539-room hotel pays homage to an underwater kingdom. The hotel hosts several water-themed attractions from the Aquaventure water park (the world’s largest water park) to the Lost Chambers Aquarium and the Dolphin Bay habitat. The hotel hosts many fine dining options, such as Asian favourites Nobu and Hakkasan.

The newly opened Nakheel Mall is a fantastic shopping destination known for having one of the best food halls in the city, Depachika. Meanwhile, Palm West Beach is where you go to eat, play and relax. The new beachside location is Dubai’s answer to Cannes’ La Croisette. Places like Lucky Fish and Surf Club are where Dubai’s ‘in the know’ go on the weekends to dine, drink, and have fun, all while enjoying amazing sunset views. Palm West Beach is one of the must-visit places in Dubai with a stunning view of the Dubai Marina.

Tip: Palm Tower is the only skyscraper on Palm Island. It is the home of Aura, the world’s largest 360-degree pool, Sushisamba, and “The View” where the ultimate Palm Jumeirah Instagram-worthy pictures can be taken.

6. Desert Safari

No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari . There is a range of options and packages to pick from. Most safaris include sporting activities such as quad biking, dune buggies, sandboarding, and camel rides. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the rush of off-road exploration on a 4×4 or a dune buggy. The desert is one of the most fun places to visit in Dubai .

Unique resorts such as Al Maha and Bab Al Shams offer chic stays and bespoke itineraries in the United Arab Emirates desert.

Some camps are located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve which is an 87-square-mile conservation reserve. The protected nature reserve, one of the best Natural Attractions in Dubai , situated approximately one hour’s drive inland from Dubai, is home to enchanting and endangered wildlife. There are herds of Arabian gazelles and oryx, ubiquitous in the region, more than 100 different species of bird, nocturnal sand cats, and even Ethiopian hedgehogs.

Most safari trips start in the early afternoon with a pickup at a hotel in Dubai . They end with dinner at a camp in the desert and a drop-off at the hotel in Dubai in the evening. However, there is also the option of doing a morning desert safari. There are many desert safari options tailored to suit various tastes from family-friendly to luxurious. For adventure seekers, we recommend a desert safari that includes dune bashing in a 4 x 4. After a heart-racing dune bashing session in the 4 x 4, guests can experience local traditions such as falconry, camel rides and sports like sand surfing. Morning desert safaris also typically include an alfresco breakfast of delicious Arabic cuisine, served in a traditional Bedouin camp to give you a true taste of Arabian hospitality. 

Tip: There are hundreds of desert tour operators to choose from in Dubai. Top Spots Dubai has curated a tried and tested selection of various types of desert safaris based on first-hand experience. Contact us to make your booking. 

7. Beaches (Public Beaches and Beach Clubs)

Dubai boasts some of the world’s most Instagrammable public and private beaches. The various beaches are some of the best places to go to in Dubai. Here we share the best public and private options for any trip.

Public Beaches

There are numerous tourist places in Dubai , and for every kind of tourist, there is a beach. JBR Beach and La Mer beach are among the developed beaches in Dubai. They are favourites among families thanks to a wide range of activities. Water parks and inflatable courses keep kids entertained by day while cinemas, shisha lounges, and restaurants are a go-to for locals in the know-by-night. 

Sports fans tend to favour the expansive beaches stretch of public beach that spans Jumeirah. These beaches are less developed. Two of the most famous are Sunset Beach and Kite Beach. You can paddleboard, kayak, or kite surf your way across this open stretch of beach or set down your beach towel and relax. 

Tip: Kite Beach is a favourite among families thanks to its collection of beachside food trucks and open-air activities for children. Salt Burger is one of the best burger places in Dubai.

Beach Clubs

Dubai is home to some of the most well-known beach clubs in the world. The beach clubs are some of the coolest places to hang out in Duba i. Nammos at the Four Seasons transports guests to Mykonos with live music and sunset views to match. Drift Beach Club has panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline and beachside dining at its finest. Cove at Caesar’s Palace is a favourite of the party crowd with fantastic beats. Twiggy by La Cantine is a chic escape for those that want to stay in the city but feel like they are on vacation in a secluded place!  Some popular new beach clubs that have opened up: San Beach, Kyma, Peaches and Cream, Playa, Eva Beach House, Venus Ristorante & Beach Club, Soul Beach, Fluid Beach and February 30.

Tip: Look for Ladies Day offers. The ladies can benefit from some amazing deals and the men can enjoy the great vibes. Our @topspotsdubai Instagram page ranks the top beach clubs and the best deals.

8. Helicopter Tour, Palm Jumeirah 

With a helicopter tour , you can experience Dubai from a unique vantage point and take in the most beautiful places in Dubai from above. Departing from the Atlantis hotel on Palm Jumeirah, helicopter tours are the ultimate jet-set way to absorb the city from above. Chartering open seas and skyscrapers, experience Dubai’s most captivating sights. Start from the Atlantis hotel and soar above the palm island with its private beaches, luxury villas and serene views of Jumeirah beach. Then head to the Burj Al Arab and make your way over the coastline of Dubai towards Downtown Dubai.

9. Yacht Cruises, Fishing and Jet Skis, Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour

Chartering a yacht is one of the most luxurious things to do in Dubai and a great way to enjoy Dubai by sea. Yacht cruises leave daily from Dubai Marina, Dubai Harbour, Bulgari Island, and Business Bay Marina and cater to a range of requirements and budgets. Couples looking for a romantic experience can charter a private yacht, swim and catch the sunset, making it a perfect luxury thing to do in Dubai . Groups of friends looking for fun can book a yacht with options for DJs. For those keen to get closer to the water and have more action, a jet Ski tour that circles the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel may be the preferred option. Avid anglers can embark upon deep-sea fishing tours in search of barracuda, grouper, and other local fish.

Tip. At Top Spots Dubai, we offer a superior selection of yachts to suit every budget.

10. Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah 

When it comes to Dubai places to visit , the Atlantis hotel themed around the ancient lost underwater kingdom is definitely one of the most fun places to go with the family. Aquaventure, which takes the title of the world’s largest water park with more than 100 slides and water activities, is not a typical water park by any stretch of the imagination. It offers unique experiences such as sliding through shark-filled waters and cliff jumping from historic ruins.

Inside the Atlantis hotel, The Lost Chambers Aquarium encloses a whopping 11-million litre water tank. The attraction encloses a vast array of marine life from sharks to rays. The children can learn about the underwater kingdom and conservation practices by booking a behind-the-scenes tour or adults can book aquarium dives.

Tip: If the children are old enough, one or more of the parents can relax at the nearby White Beach Club.

11. Iconic Pools

Dubai is known for having some of the world’s best pools. From luxurious rooftop pools with stunning views of the city skyline to family-friendly pools with exciting water slides and activities, there’s something for everyone in Dubai. Here are some of the most iconic pools you have to try in Dubai: Aura Skypool The Aura skypool in Dubai is a stunning rooftop pool that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. Located on the 63rd floor of the Ascott Park Place Dubai, the pool features a sleek and modern design, with an infinity edge that creates the illusion of water extending out into the sky. Address Sky View Address Sky View offers a pool day with impressive views of the downtown Dubai skyline. Choose between sun loungers or the bar, where you can enjoy light bites, beverages, and shisha. The pool is managed by the neighboring restaurant, Cé La Vi, known for its contemporary Asian cuisine. We recommend making a dinner reservation there to follow your day in the sun. It’s a unique and enjoyable way to experience Dubai.

Sal at Burj Al Arab Sal, located at the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, offers exclusive access to a stunning infinity pool with panoramic views of the sea. The club’s private panoramic cabanas come equipped with fresh fruit, dips, and bubbly, providing the ultimate luxury experience. The airy white interiors create a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere, and the club’s restaurant serves European cuisine from an alfresco terrace. It’s a beautiful and exclusive spot to enjoy Dubai’s natural beauty.

Address Beach Resort The Address Beach Resort boasts the “world’s highest outdoor infinity pool,” offering stunning views of Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, Ain Dubai, and the Palm Jumeirah. The rooftop pool and its adjoining pool bar, ZETA Seventy Seven, provide a relaxing escape above the city. Book a floating breakfast or dinner experience to enjoy dishes served from trays floating in the pool. It’s a unique and unforgettable way to experience Dubai.

Tip: For Instagrammable Burj Al Arab views from your sun lounger, make a reservation at one of our favourite beach clubs in the city, Summersalt beach club at Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel. Not only can you have a dip in the sea and get a tan, but also enjoy one of the best lunch places in Dubai.

12. Historical Dubai

Dubai’s historic quarter is fondly referred to by local residents as “ Old Dubai ”. Old Dubai offers a taste of the historic community from which Dubai has evolved. While not entirely free, a local dhow boat is a must-try experience in Bur Dubai. Priced at just AED 2 per person per trip, it is a fun way to get a feel of how Dubai used to be. You can journey through and spice souk and then visit the Dubai Museum, situated in the city’s oldest building, the Al Fahidi Fort. Here you can take a peek into the history of the United Arab Emirates. Here you can discover the region’s rich heritage. In need of a coffee break? Make your way to the charming open-air Al Seef area where you can visit the coolest Starbucks in the city with views across the creek from Bur Dubai. You can also take an abra boat across Dubai Creek and visit the Gold Souk. Historical Dubai is surely one of the nice places to visit in Dubai .

Tip: Lovers of culture will appreciate a visit to the nearby XVA Hotel and Cafe in historic Bur Dubai, which showcases contemporary art pieces. 

13. Ski Dubai and Ski Dubai Penguin encounter, Mall of The Emirates

A touch of the alps in the desert, Ski Dubai has captivated international visitors since its opening in 2005. Previously named the world’s best indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai is a winter wonderland with snowy adventures for all ages. Ski Dubai is one of the fun places in Dubai that tourists should visit. Snow Park is a picturesque setting to acquaint children with the magic of winter. Here, children can make a snowman or visit an indoor ice cave.

Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy hours on the slopes with routes and lessons available for various abilities and age ranges.

The Ski Dubai Penguin Encounter is one of the best Family Activities in Dubai and an opportunity to witness the beauty of these special animals. It’s an unforgettable moment that stays with people of all ages.

Tip: Make sure you try the famous hot chocolate at Avalanche Café.

14. Gold Souk

Dubai is the city of gold! At the Gold Souk, you can Master the art of negotiation or just step back and observe the age-old trade of gold in a mesmerising location. This historic souk is packed with gold and gem traders, some of whom have been there for many decades. Prices are very competitive but the fun is in haggling, it’s part of the experience! 

Tip: Those looking to purchase diamonds can contact Top Spots Dubai. We have links to some of the most credible traders in the market.

15. Dune Buggy and Quad Bike Tour

No desert Dubai trip for young people can be complete without a dune buggy or quad tour. The ideal activity for adventure-seeking visitors, here you can get close to the desert. Safari guides will drive you across the Dubai desert’s dunes. These specially-adapted off-road vehicles can climb high dunes and reach high speeds so make sure you are ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Tip: Safety is always first. Remember to follow the instructions of your supervisor and keep a safe distance between yourself and other moving objects. Make sure to wear a helmet at all times.

16. La Perle

La Perle by Dragone offers visitors a fascinating immersion into the United Arab Emirates’ historic pearl diving heritage, in the form of a mesmerising choreographed live show. La Perle is Dubai’s first permanent show and offers guests the opportunity to take in an immersive creative performance. The show is fueled by the latest technology and combines stunning water and aerial stunts. The show chronicles the journey of a young girl who lapses into a dream-like world and journeys across the United Arab Emirates to find a pearl. Along the journey, she encounters the diversity of the region.

Tip: Al Habtoor City, on Sheikh Zayed Road, is home to numerous happening restaurants, bars, and clubs for all tastes. 

17. Nightlife

Places to visit in Dubai for nightlife are rich and varied, Dubai is a city where people like to work hard and play even harder. The city is famous for its world-class nightlife venues, many of which have been cherry-picked from other party capitals. For example, 1 Oak from New York, Iris from Beirut, and Billionaire from Sardinia. There are also some special homegrown concepts like Soho Garden which is known for bringing some of the best international DJs to Dubai. Soho Garden has recently opened a new rooftop venue on the Palm with views of the Palm and Dubai Marina. 

Tip: Dubai is a fast-paced city and new hot-spot venues open every week. Please contact Top Spots Dubai ahead of your planned outing to get access to the most happening nightlife destinations in town.

18. Hot Air Balloon

Gliding over Dubai’s immense desert, hot air balloon rides combine the thrill of adventure with a sense of peace. You can explore the Dubai desert from more than 3,000 feet above the ground, whilst taking in the desert dunes above and the United Arab Emirates’ majestic wildlife. The views of the surrounding terrain are magical. Hot air balloon trips usually last 40-70 minutes. You have the opportunity to go in a group or for those who want a more intimate experience, there is the option to book a private trip.

Tip: Hot air balloon rides usually take place at sunrise so make sure you plan the rest of the day to get the most out of the desert. You can plan everything from safaris to quad or buggy rides.

19. Horse Riding in the Desert

Horse Riding in the Desert is a unique way to discover the desert and experience a different side of the United Arab Emirates. Equestrianism has a special place in the heart of most Emiratis, and there are numerous world-class horse stables situated around Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Under the supervision of an instructor, sunrise and sunset horse riding sessions are magical ways to get in your workout whilst also experiencing some of Dubai’s desert wildlife, from camels to oryx. There are numerous options available for different age groups and competence levels.

Tip: If you are lucky enough to be in Dubai during a full moon, make sure you book a magical evening full moon horse ride session.

20. Paramotor Flight, Skydive Dubai Desert Campus

A paramotor flight in the desert is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Paramotors are an adventurous way to get to know the desert while soaring through the skies. A paramotor is a motorised paraglider, a propeller, powered by an engine, is strapped to the back of the pilot, who guides you into the sky. 

Tip: Paramotor flights usually take off at sunrise or sunset, creating the perfect scenery for your ultimate Instagram selfie.

21. Topgolf Dubai, Emirates Golf Club

Topgolf is a unique game of golf from above. Topgolf Dubai offers striking skyline views with a fun-filled sporty environment. Topgolf is fun for beginner and experienced golfers. Topgolf Dubai has games available for both children and adults to suit every level.

Topgolf Dubai’s onsite bars and restaurants create a happening golfing ambience. Topgolf is a good place to visit in Dubai for those who want to be sporty but also have a fun social experience too. For those that wish to make the experience even more unforgettable, Topgolf Dubai has numerous private rooms that offer a more intimate experience. They are ideal for birthdays or corporate events.

Tip: Topgolf Dubai is open past midnight several times a week so it is ideal for those night owls who want to do something sporty and have fun into the early hours.

ToDA (Theatre of Digital Art) at Madinat Jumeirah is a multi-sensory, multi-media immersive art exhibition. At ToDA, you can discover historic masterpieces and contemporary art offerings as you’ve never seen them before. ToDA invites guests to enter into the heart of their favourite artist’s works with a 360-degree projection of art images. At ToDA, digital art is presented in multiple formats, from multimedia exhibitions to immersive installations as well as virtual reality. At ToDA, guests are given a multisensory experience, including visual effects and surround sound. Moreover, there is even a separate interactive room for children. 

ToDA also regularly hosts special events such as painting sessions, live concerts, and jazz nights. Some of the nights have become hits among local residents. 

Tip: Make sure to leave time to explore the rest of the Madinat Jumeirah. The Arabian style complex with Venetian waterways encompass a souk with various dining and retail options. Try one of the fine alfresco dining options with Burj Al Arab views. Our favourites include Taverna Greek kitchen, Anar, and the Meat Co.

23. Sonara Camp Sunset and Dinner Experience

The ideal desert alfresco dining experience, Sonara Camp has become a favourite among those that like to experience the spirit of the desert while enjoying the finest Arabian hospitality. The eco-friendly Sonara Camp is situated in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The camp is surrounded by the desert’s wildlife, including oryxes, gazelles, and camels. The Sunset and Dinner experience at Sonara includes a dinner consisting of seasonal ingredients as well as a camel ride, a fire show, and a falcon show. There is also a chance to experience desert sports including archery and sandboarding.

Tip: The camp is child friendly. Movies under the stars ensure the little ones enjoy their time just as much as the adults. 

24. Camping and Glamping

Camping and Glamping in the Desert is a must-do experience during a visit to the UAE. There are various ways that you can experience this, from an authentic camping experience to a more luxurious glamping one. During both experiences, you’ll experience the beauty of the desert landscape as well as refreshments and activities from a dune drive to a BBQ and stargazing by the campfire.

25. Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island (Temporarily Closed)

Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye) is located on Bluewaters Island. It is accessible by a pedestrian bridge from Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and by car from Dubai Marina. 

Ain Dubai is the latest addition to Dubai’s record-setting attractions. At 250 metres high, Ain Dubai takes the title of the world’s tallest and largest observation wheel. Make your way to the top in comfortable and high-tech cabins, where you will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the sea and skyline.

You can combine your Ain Dubai visit with a walking tour of Bluewaters Island. The island has something for everyone. TR88, Madame Tussauds, and Brass Monkey are some of the most famous attractions on the island. There are also some fantastic dining options nearby such as Alici and Puerto 99, where you can enjoy your meal and the skyline of Dubai. Bluewater island is one of the best places to visit in Dubai at the night.

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Places To Visit In Dubai Below 100 AED

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Home to mind-bending architecture and record-breaking high skyscrapers, Dubai has grown aggressively in the 21st century. It is one of the most luxurious, cosmopolitan, and popular tourist destinations in the world. Dubai is a city that never stops flooding you with new experiences. It has a countless number of places to visit but the majority of them are expensive. However, there are some places in Dubai that you can visit for free and some that are very wallet-friendly. We have rounded up the top ten places to visit in Dubai that would cost you as little as 100 AED. So don’t let monetary issues stop you from adventuring and exploring a tourist hotspot like Dubai

Also read: Practical money-saving tips that actually work in Dubai, UAE

Best Places To Visit Below 100 AED

Table of Contents

1. Desert Safari

Desert safari is a half-day fun-filled adventure activity one should experience. Pick a package that includes different activities like dune bashing, camel ride, quad bike ride, sandboarding, henna painting, belly dance show, and barbeque dinner to get the most out of it. Bashing the dunes during the twilight hours in a 4*4 SUV in the middle of the desert, and experiencing the ups and downs of vast stretches of sand make it a joyous and eventful ride for everyone. 

Interesting Fact : Before you go dune bashing, the air pressure in the tires is reduced. Do you know why? The temperature of the sand is usually high and the friction between the tire and sand generates more heat. Because of the high temperature, the air in the tire expands which might puncture the tire which is why the air is reduced.

• Cost: Starts from AED 50 for the basic package
• Time: Around 6 hours

2. Dubai Miracle Garden

Head to the World’s Largest Natural Flower Garden which showcases about 150 million blooming natural flowers and plants. They are arranged in colorful arches, impressive patterns, and signature structures. This flower garden is renovated every season to welcome visitors. This place is truly remarkable. We highly recommend that you participate in the weekly live performance, parade, and musical shows. These events are bound to make a lot of Insta-worthy moments.

Some of the significant formations include the Floral Clock, Emirates A380, Disney Avenue, 3D Floral Designs, Lake Park, Floral Villas & Castle, and Heart Tunnel. This place also offers you the option to create memorable moments at the photo booth, purchase memorabilia at the souvenir shops, or just window shop bazaars.

Note: Opens only from November to May every year and remains closed for maintenance the rest of the year.

• Entry fee : AED 55 for adults, AED 40 for children from 3 to 12 years, people of determination, and children below 3 are allowed free of charge
• Timings : 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays, 9 AM to 11 PM on Fridays, and 9 AM to 10 PM on Saturdays.

Also read: How to save money in Dubai as a tourist?

3. Dubai Butterfly Garden

Dubai Butterfly Garden, located near the Miracle Garden, is the World’s Largest Butterfly garden . This place is home to 15,000 butterflies from over 45 species. It is an indoor garden with ten climate-controlled domes. Each dome is filled with thousands of butterflies flying around in vibrant colors, creating a picturesque show. Refrain from touching the butterflies, as you are not permitted to.  However, the staff can help you make the butterfly rest on you. They are very hospitable and will help you make the perfect pictures to capture the moments. There is also a mini koi fish pond in Dome 2.

This garden also helps to understand the life cycle of the butterfly. The entrance has the butterfly museum which displays stunning butterfly murals & art. If you are accompanied by children, be sure to check out the Kids Cinema.

Note: Opens only from November to May every year and remains closed for maintenance for the rest of the year.

• Entry fee: AED 55 for adults and children above 3 years. People of determination and children below 3 are allowed free of charge
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM on all days

Also Read: Fascinating things you should know about Dubai

4. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is an iconic structure that holds the record for the World’s Largest Frame . One of the most unique features of this frame rests in the way its position, it is in such a way that one can see the modern Dubai skyline from one side and the old Dubai from the other. It is a fifty-story architectural landmark that has an observation deck spanning the top of the frame. The deck is outfitted with a glass-bottomed floor looking down almost 150 meters onto the building’s lower span. 

The lower span contains a museum showing the city’s history and a video exhibit predicting the city’s future. From the ground, Dubai Frame is best viewed from Zabeel Park which has an entry fee of AED 5 per person

• Entry fee: AED 50 for adults, AED 20 for children from 3 – 12. People of determination and children below 3 are allowed free of charge
• Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM on all days 

5. Global Village

Dubai’s Global Village can offer you a world tour in one night. It boasts to be the world’s largest tourism, leisure, shopping, and entertainment project. People from all over the world meet here to share their cultures. Over twenty pavilions represent each country’s art and craft, authentic food, traditional dance & entertainment, and regional products. Every location is curated, rich in color, and ideal to showcase on Instagram and your travel blogs. 

The Carnaval Funfair has more than 160 rides, attractions, and arcade games. Feast your eyes and tummy with 200+ restaurants, cafes, and a plethora of skilled vendors who specialize in street foods. Ensure that you try some of the local delicacies from the Indian Chaat Bazaar, Floating Market, Happiness Street, and Fiesta Street. It also offers a line-up of live entertainment and events like stunt shows, kids’ shows, fireworks & fountain shows, and street & cultural shows.

With an energetic galore of things to do and see, the Global Village is a treat for all age groups. You will find almost everything from various corners of the world. We do recommend that you spend your money cautiously. Otherwise, you will end up spending more than you anticipated.

Tip : Download the Global Village application for easy navigation through the park. 

Note : Opens only from October to April .

• Entry fee: AED 15 per person. However, people of determination, seniors above 65, and children below 3 are permitted free of charge.
• Timings: 4 PM to 12 AM on Saturday to Wednesday. 4 PM to 1 AM on Thursday and Friday and Mondays are reserved for families and ladies.

6. Flying Cup Dubai

Flying Cup is an innovative concept of food and thrill with 360-degree aerial views. A 20-minute ride rising 40m above the ground. Dining in the sky with your feet dangling in the air is one of the most unique & memorable experiences you will have. For adventures that are acrophobic, we assure you there is nothing to be worried about. This is a refreshing experience where you sit back, relax, and enjoy the seascape. It is suitable for all age groups. You can also find distant views of Burj al Arab and Atlantis The Palm.

• Ticket Fare: Adult ticket plus refreshment costs AED 80 for Adults, and children (between 4 to 12 years). The ticket with refreshments costs AED 60. These tickets are valid any time during opening hours on the booked date.
• Timings: 3 PM to 10 PM on all days

7. Dubai Garden Glow

The Dubai Garden Glow is the World’s First Unique Glow Garden . This largest glow-in-the-dark garden is the most unique theme park that has over 10 million LED lights. You can wander around the different attractions and be amazed by the world of imagination. The park changes themes every season to keep visitors entertained.

Glow Park houses many eco-friendly models constructed based on the theme with handmade lights. It is bright, magical, and colorful. The Dinosaur Park has more than 120 animated dinosaurs that teleport you back to the Jurassic era. These artificial animals move and roar, and are wonderful in captivating children’s minds. The Art Park is eco-friendly and was built using different types of recyclable materials. It stands as the epitome of uniqueness and creativity. The Magic Park has 25 exhibits and 3D artworks that simply transcend imagination. We highly recommend you take numerous fun pictures that create an optical illusion. Unfortunately, the Ice Park is under maintenance and is not open for visitors.

Note: Open only from October to April

• Entry fee: AED 65 per entrant for Glow Park, Dinosaur Park, and Art Park. An additional AED 45 to enter Magic Park. However, children below the age of three are allowed free of charge
• Timings: 5 PM to 10.30 PM from Saturday to Thursday, 5 PM to 11 PM on Fridays and National holidays

8. Dubai Dolphinarium

Dubai Dolphinarium is an indoor attraction that attracts the audience by offering different shows with adorable dolphins, playful seals, and talented birds. You get to treasure the experience of a lifetime. Watching the dolphins and seals perform completely illogical acrobatics, dance, and even songs is joyously confounding. You can also swim, touch, and play with the dolphins for an additional cost. This place also features the most exotic bird talent shows. The birds perform tricks that are intended to delightfully captivate the audience.

• Dolphin and Seal Show Entry fee: AED 105 for regular seats for adults and AED 50 for children between 2 to 11 years.
• Bird Show Entry fee: AED 50 for adults and AED 30 for children between 2 to 11 years.
• Dolphin and Seal Show Timings: 11 AM, 2 PM, and 6 PM from Monday to Saturday and closed on all Sundays.
• Bird Show Timings: 12:15 PM, 3:15 PM, and 7:15 PM from Monday to Saturday and closed on all Sundays.

Tip : Book online to get a discounted price for the Dolphin and Seal Show. AED 70 for adults and AED 40 for children between 2 to 11 years. However, these discounted seats are applicable only on Friday and Saturday for the 11 AM show.

9. Watersports At La Mer Dubai

La Mer indicates the French towns by the sea. This beachfront showcases several Instagram-worthy arts and graffiti hotspots. These places almost appear to be designed to refine your Instagram feed. 

The exciting way to enjoy Dubai from the sea is to indulge in an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The watersports through the blue waves at La Mer Beach flood you with adrenaline, dopamine, and other good hormones that make you take a break from the rut of daily life. Furthermore, the complex also has a multitude of shops, restaurants, and cafes. These offer activities for everyone in the family like the play town, waterpark, skateboard park, trampoline park, and a cinema.  

Watersports tickets can be booked online and the price differs based on the activities you choose. Few that cost below AED 100 is a kayak, stand-up paddle, and water step bike. 

• Timings: Although beaches are open at all times, the timings for other activities differ. 

10. Chillout Ice Lounge

Chill at the Middle East’s First Sub Zero Lounge housing spellbound ice sculptures and ice seatings with illuminated interiors. They provide essentials like a jacket, a hat, shoes, and gloves with a complimentary welcome drink. Since the city is hot and humid most of the year, Freezing Dubai is a great escape from the brunt of the desert climate. The temperature here is maintained at -6 degrees Celsius.

• Entry Fee: AED 40 for children and AED 80 for adults.
• Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM from Saturday to Wednesday and 10 AM to midnight on Thursday and Friday.

Dubai is a place that has shown a tremendous amount of growth in terms of economy. Tourism has been a significant contributor to this progress. Consequently, it feels that every season brings in newer attractions. When you’re traveling, you would lean towards having the best time and having memorable moments. Money does not enter the equation of travel enthusiasts. But the aforementioned places are designed to provide every traveler with some of the greatest life experiences at costs that are truly wallet-friendly . 

Related Posts

• 5 Things to do under 5 AED in Dubai
• Best places to view Dubai skyline and skyscrapers
• 20 money-saving tips that actually work in Dubai

Vacationing doesn’t always need to put a dent in your savings. You can experience the same mind-altering and relaxing vacation on a budget. What are your favorite places in Dubai? If you’ve visited the place, please do share your experience in the comment section. As always, for more content on anything about travel inside and outside India, peruse the other posts and stick with us for more invigorating content!

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Is Dubai Expensive to Visit? The Cost of Travelling in 2024

If you’re considering Dubai as your next holiday destination, some important questions to ask yourself are: Is Dubai expensive to visit? Or is it possible to visit Dubai on a small budget? You will find the answers to all of your questions in this post.

Dubai is an increasingly popular city in the United Arab Emirates and to be honest, this isn’t the cheapest destination in Asia , nor is the U.A.E. the cheapest country that you can visit.

After all, Dubai is famous for its luxury tourism, and it’s home to the Burj Al Arab – the only 7-star hotel in the world. This city has often been dubbed the Playground of Millionaires and the City of Gold .

However, this doesn’t mean that only millionaires can afford a visit to this city. The cost of travelling in Dubai widely depends on the decisions that you make and your style of travelling . Dubai is a city where you can easily spend thousands of dollars a day, but it’s also possible to travel here on a much smaller budget.

I visited Dubai on a budget on the way back to Belgium from Nepal , and although I did spend more than I usually do when I travel, I was able to limit my expenses!

This post will give you a better idea of how expensive Dubai is to visit , how much things cost in this city and how you can save money during your trip to Dubai .

How Expensive is Dubai for Tourists: The Cost of Travelling in Dubai

Let’s look at the vacation cost in Dubai. How expensive exactly is Dubai for tourists? And is it possible to visit Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget?

The short answer to the question of how expensive Dubai is for tourists is that you will need anything between USD 280 (shoestring backpacker budget) and USD 1400 (mid-range budget) per week if you’re planning on travelling to Dubai.

This budget does not include activities, however. But if you’re travelling with two people or more, you will be able to cut down some costs by sharing a room or taxi.

As mentioned in the introduction, the cost of travel in Dubai depends on your travel style. To make it a little more clear, I divided this post into three sections:

• Travelling in Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget (USD 40 to USD 50 per day)
• Travelling in Dubai on a mid-range budget (USD 70 to USD 200 per day)
• Travelling in Dubai in luxury (the sky is the limit)

Travelling in Dubai on a backpacker’s budget

Although Dubai is not your typical backpacker’s destination, it’s an easy stopover on the way to Asia and it’s possible to visit this city on a smaller budget .

This being said, Dubai is not a very backpacker-friendly city and you will have to spend more money here compared to many other countries. So this may not be the best place to stay for a long time if you’re on a super tight budget.

🏣 Hostel prices

The best way to cut costs in Dubai is by saving on accommodation and staying in hostels.

You can find hostels with prices between USD 8 and USD 25 per night for a bed in a dorm . These can be found in nearly any area in the city, but you may pay more depending on the location.

• Dubai Eye ( ⭐   8.9)
• Hostel World Capsule ( ⭐   8.3)
• Robin Hostel Dubai ( ⭐  8.3)

🍛 The cost of cheap restaurants in Dubai

When it comes to food, there are plenty of places where you can eat street food for less than USD 5 .

A cheap restaurant will cost you around USD 12 per person. So there’s more than luxury restaurants and bling-bling alone in Dubai!

🎡 Cheap and free activities in Dubai

There are also many cheap and even free things to do in Dubai . You will find some examples below:

• Burj Khalifa and its fountains : As long as you don’t go to the top levels of the Burj Khalifa, you can see the world’s largest building along with its fountains and the daily fountain show for free. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Asia !
• Dubai Mall : The Dubai Mall is located inside the Burj Khalifa, and it’s free to visit too (as long as you don’t buy anything, of course).
• Gold souks : The same applies to the gold souks, as long as you don’t buy anything, these are free to visit.
• Dubai Frame : You can see the Dubai Frame for free but you will have to pay an entrance fee of 50 AED if you want to enter this landmark.
• Burj Al Arab : You can also see the world’s only 7-star hotel for free. It just costs (a lot of) money if you want to stay or eat here.
• Jumeirah Mosque : This is one of the most famous mosques in Dubai and there’s no entry fee to visit it. It does cost money if you want to take a guided tour.
• Dubai Marina : This is one of the most popular areas in Dubai and taking a stroll here is completely free.

🚗 Getting around Dubai on a budget

Finally, when it comes to getting around the city, the cheapest way to do so is by taking the metro (which is great). You can get a day ticket for 20 AED (USD 5,45).

Keep in mind, though, that you might have to take a taxi or Uber from time to time and these are not that cheap.

👉 Can Dubai be cheap? The cost of visiting Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget

Taking into account all the information above, visiting Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget will cost you a minimum of around USD 40 to USD 50 per day (or USD 280 to USD 350 a week).

This can be done by staying in dorms, eating in cheap restaurants without consuming alcohol and getting around using the metro.

Entry tickets are not included in this budget, but I hardly spent anything on entry tickets when I visited Dubai. There are plenty of free things to do as well.

Tip: The best way to visit Dubai if you’re on a limited budget is by visiting this city during a short stopover to another (cheaper) destination, which is what I did. It’s perfectly possible to see much of what this city has to offer in just 2 or 3 days.

Visiting Dubai on a mid-range budget

If you have a larger, mid-range budget, you will find plenty of nice hotels, cosy restaurants and fun activities to do in Dubai.

🏣 Average hotel prices in Dubai

You will find numerous hotels with prices ranging between USD 50 and USD 120 per night nearly anywhere in the city. You will get a nice hotel for this price.

This being said, it speaks for itself that the higher your budget, the better your hotel will be.

• Al Seef Heritage Hotel ( ⭐  8.3)
• Heritage Home Guest House ( ⭐  8.1)
• Holiday Inn Express Safa Park ( ⭐  7.9)

🍛 Eating out on a mid-range budget in Dubai

Expect to pay around USD 30 per person for a meal in a nice mid-range restaurant in Dubai.

There are, however, many cheaper restaurants (or street food) as well as more expensive ones. So make sure to determine your budget and look around.

🎡 How much do entry tickets and activities cost in Dubai

When it comes to the price of activities , you will find both cheap as well as more expensive things to do in Dubai . You can find some popular examples below:

• Burj Khalifa : Prices range between 20 AED (USD 5,45) and 769 AED (USD 209,37), depending on the experience you choose. The cheapest tickets will bring you to the Burj Khalifa’s 125th and 124th floors. While the most expensive ones will take you to the 154th, 153rd and 152nd levels. Here, you will find the world’s highest lounge.
• Dubai Aquarium : Prices start at a whopping 199 AED (USD 54,18) per person to visit the Dubai Aquarium.
• Dubai Frame : The entry ticket costs 50 AED (USD 13,61), which is quite reasonable compared to the other entry prices.
• Desert safari : The costs of a desert safari range between 250 AED (USD 68) and 1000 AED (USD 272). This depends on the company you book it with, what’s included and how luxurious you want it to be.
• Aura Skypool : A visit to this beautiful infinity pool with a view over the skyline of Dubai will cost a minimum of 200 AED (USD 54,45) per person.

🚗 Getting around Dubai on a mid-range budget

Although the metro is great, if you have a bigger budget, you can also opt to rent a car in Dubai . This will give you more flexibility and it will help you save some time as well.

You can expect to pay a minimum of USD 30 for one day .

If you decide to rent a car, I recommend using  Discover Cars  to find the best rates. This company compares car rental companies so that you can get the best price.

 👉 The cost of visiting Dubai on a mid-range budget

You can expect to pay anything between USD 70 and USD 200 per day* (or USD 490 and USD 1400 per week) to visit Dubai on a mid-range budget.

This only includes accommodation, food and transportation, though. The price of activities is not included .

* This estimate was made for a solo traveller . If you’re travelling as a couple, with a friend or with a group you will be able to share accommodation costs, which will make your trip somewhat cheaper.

Tip : Make sure to book your tickets in advance if you want to visit the Burj Khalifa. There is a ticket counter onsite, but tickets tend to sell out very quickly.

The cost of a luxury trip to Dubai

If you’re a billionaire and are up for a really luxurious trip, then Dubai is a city where you will find exactly what you are looking for!

After all, this city is known for its luxury and bling-bling. You could easily spend a couple of thousands or even ten thousands of dollars a day here.

🏣 Expensive hotels in Dubai

Some of the most expensive hotels in Dubai are Jumeirah Al Qasr (from USD 320/night to USD 9000/night), Burj Al-Arab (from USD 1100/night to USD 5100/a night), Atlantis The Palm (from USD 575/night to USD 1000/night) and Rixos The Palm (USD 600 to USD 1300).

There are other luxury hotels that are a little more affordable too, though. Some examples are the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel , Lemon Tree Hotel and Leva Hotel & Suites .

Luxury hotels are one of the things Dubai is famous for. So if you can afford to stay in these, you will have an abundance of choices!

You can opt for underwater suites, rooms with a view of the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Marina, luxurious lofts and apartments, the only 7-star hotel in the world (the Burj Al-Arab ) and more.

🍛 Luxurious restaurants in Dubai

This city is also full of luxury restaurants like the underwater restaurant Ossiano , Al Mahara and the restaurants located in the famous Burj Al-Arab .

The average costs per person in luxurious restaurants range between USD 135 and USD 190 .

All in all, there is no shortage of luxurious and decadent restaurants in Dubai, and if you want to try dishes from Michelin-starred chefs, this is the city to go!

🎡 Luxury activities in Dubai

When it comes to luxury activities, it comes as no surprise that Dubai has an abundance of these as well!

From private air charters to super-yacht cruises , luxury desert safaris , hot air balloon flights , luxury trips combining Dubai and t he Maldives and much more, you will find plenty of luxurious things to do in Dubai.

You just need to be super rich to be able to afford them.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Dubai?

Apart from the cost of accommodation, transport, food and activities, another important thing to consider is the cost of the flight to get to Dubai in the first place.

This depends on where you’re flying from when you’re visiting Dubai, how flexible you are and when you book your tickets. Flights tend to be more expensive during the high season. If you’re flexible, you could opt to fly on the cheapest available date of the week or month.

Depending on where you’re from and the season you’re travelling, a round-trip to Dubai should cost you:

• New York to Dubai: USD 700 to USD 1000
• London to Dubai:  USD 300 to USD 600
• Sydney to Dubai: USD 750 to USD 1200
• New Delhi to Dubai: USD 200 to USD 350

It’s good to know that due to the conflict in Ukraine, global oil prices have risen in the last year. This is causing flights to be more expensive than normal. I adapted the prices mentioned above.

>> Read: 4-Day Dubai Itinerary: The Best Things to See and Do

Tip : An easy way to find the cheapest flights is by using Skyscanner . This website enables you to compare flight fares across the internet. I would recommend booking through the official website of the airline to avoid problems, though.

Tips to Save Money in Dubai

Dubai clearly isn’t the cheapest holiday destination out there. However, a trip to this city doesn’t have to be crazy expensive either.

There are numerous ways to cut the costs of your stay in Dubai. You will find 7 easy ways to save money in Dubai below.

1. Stay at budget accommodation

Dubai is famous for its abundance of luxury hotels and resorts but it speaks for itself that staying here will cost you a lot of money.

One of the easiest ways to travel on a smaller budget is by staying in budget hotels, hostels or dorms.

2. Watch your dining budget

Just like with the accommodation, you will find plenty of expensive restaurants in Dubai BUT there are plenty of affordable restaurants in this city too!

Researching the cheap restaurants to eat at in Dubai and opting for street food will save you a lot of money.

3. Take the metro

Dubai isn’t a very walkable city, as the distances you will have to cover are huge.

There may be plenty of taxis and Ubers in the streets of this city but the cheapest way to get around Dubai is by taking the metro.

Dubai has some of the nicest and cleanest metros I’ve ever taken, so it will be a very comfortable ride (and the metro has AC, which is great when it’s hot)!

4. Visit Dubai during the low season

It will be SUPER hot (40°C to 50°C or 104°F to 122°F), but if you visit Dubai in June, July or August, you will be able to book hotels for a cheaper price.

It’s good to know that there’s AC practically everywhere in Dubai.

5. Don’t drink alcohol

Alcohol tends to be quite expensive in Dubai. So an efficient way of saving some money is by sticking to non-alcoholic drinks during your stay in this city.

6. Look for free places to visit

Another great way of saving costs on a visit to Dubai is by looking for free activities.

Going to the public beach, visiting the park and strolling along the Dubai Marina , for example, are some nice things to do that won’t cost you any money.

7. Don’t go shopping

This one might be easier said than done if you enjoy shopping. After all, Dubai is home to the world’s largest shopping mall.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, it’s better to avoid coming here unless you’re up for some window shopping instead because Dubai isn’t the cheapest country to buy things.

Is It Expensive to Live in Dubai?

One of the things that makes Dubai such a popular destination for expats is that there is no income tax in this city. This being said, Dubai may be a tax haven, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap to live here.

Dubai has been ranked 31st on the list of the most expensive cities to live and work in for expats . However, it’s less expensive compared to cities like New York City, London and Singapore.

On average, a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre will cost you around USD 900, and you can expect to pay around USD 900 in monthly costs as well. This means you will need an average of USD 1800 to live in Dubai.

It all depends on your lifestyle though, and you can come by with less or more money as well.

Is Dubai Expensive to Travel to? Final Thoughts

As you can see, Dubai is one of the more expensive destinations out there. However, there are ways to cut costs and save some money.

Travelling on a backpacker’s budget in Dubai won’t be the same as it’s in Southeast Asia, for example. However, it’s still possible to travel here without spending loads of money.

This being said, compared to other major cities like London, New York and Paris , Dubai actually isn’t that expensive. You will pay around the same amount of money or sometimes even more in some other large cities.

I hope that this post helped you to get a better idea of the cost of travelling in Dubai. Let me know your thoughts or any questions you may have in the comments.

Dubai Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Dubai on Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via Booking . 🚗 Rent a car with Discover Cars to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to check if you need a visa to visit Dubai.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Hi Laure, I’ve enjoyed reading your blog entry. I believe the negative aspects of Dubai that you have highlighted have meanwhile intensified. In my view, Dubai now qualifies to be the world capital of overindulgence hyper consumption and decadence.

Thanks for reading 🙂 Aargh, I think about Dubai the same way, Over indulgence, hyper-consumption and decadence describe it very well!

Is it worth visiting? I am planning to travel there on a budget package. My goal is to make new friends and enjoy my tour. I have never been to the middle east. You can replay me at [email protected]

Hi Nesan, it depends on your personal interests and the kind of places you like to visit. 🙂 I personally don’t like Dubai very much, there’s a post on here with the reasons why ( https://www.laurewanders.com/why-i-didnt-like-dubai/ ).

Most people would say Dubai is known for wealth, skyscrapers, luxury shopping, glitzy nightlife, and white-clad Arabs driving expensive cars on desert roads. Dubai is also known for being a jet-set holiday destination.

Dubai is now the seventh most expensive city in the world for luxury living. Dubai is now the seventh most expensive city in the world for luxury living, having jumped seven places in a ranking based on report by Swiss private bank Julius Baer. But your tips are so powerfull and can help tourist for sure.

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Dubai is building the world's largest airport — see how much it will cost

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Dubai has surprised the world with its ambitious projects before. However, will the latest plan become another irrational approach to investment, or will it bring success like Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world?

The Emir of Dubai announced that the new airport is to be the port of the world, offering connections to many places around the world.

The new airport is to be not only gigantic, but also modern and comfortable for passengers. The construction of five parallel runways and 400 passenger gates is planned. There are also plans to implement cutting-edge systems that have not yet been used in the aviation industry. All this will cost $35 billion.

Currently, the largest airport in the world is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which served just over 100 million people last year. In comparison, the future capacity of Dubai's port seems unimaginable.

ALSO READ: Ranking Nigerian states by their international airports, from best to rest

Dubai already has one of the largest airports in the world, serving almost 87 million passengers last year. However, after the new airport is built, all air traffic will be redirected there.

This article was originally published on Onet Travel .

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