best places to visit in dubai cheap

16 best cheap things to do in Dubai

Mar 29, 2021 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Zabeel Park

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

The 9 best parks in Dubai

2. Careem bike share

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

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

13 best free things to do in Dubai

3. Dubai Fountain Floating Boardwalk

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

4. Spice Souq

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

The ultimate shopper's guide to Dubai

5. Abra ride

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

6. Happy hour and ladies' nights

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

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

7. Dubai Metro

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

8. Jumeirah Mosque

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

9. Dubai Creek House and Perfume Museum

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

10. Dubai Museum

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

11. Crossroads of Civilizations Museum

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

12. Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum

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

13. Women's Museum

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

14. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

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

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

15. Dubai Marina Water Bus

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

16. Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheef

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

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

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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

hungryoungwoman

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

Last Updated on January 25, 2022 by hungryoungwoman

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

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

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

This includes

Where to Stay in Dubai on a Budget:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saffron Boutique Hotel

Star Metro Deira Hotel Apartments

Class Hotel Apartments

Armada BlueBay Hotel

5 Cheap Things to do in Dubai

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

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

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

• Take a food tour in Old Dubai

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

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

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

Cost: Most items range from AED 5 – 10

• Shop at the old Souqs

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

Cost: Depends on your haggling skills 😉

• Ride an abra

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

One way costs just AED 1 ($0.27)

• Light and water show at Festival City

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

• Explore Dubai on the metro

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

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

11 Cheap Places to Visit in Dubai 

• Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

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

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

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

Cost: AED 25 per person. More info here

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

• Take in the Burj al Arab from Kite Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Stroll inside the mall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

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

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

• Catch the sunset at The Pointe

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

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

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

• Learn about the traditions of Dubai

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

Cost: AED 3 entrance ticket for the Dubai Museum

• Take a bus to Abu Dhabi

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

Cost: AED 25 per trip

• Explore Dubai’s own Little India

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

Cost: Depends on what you buy!

• Street Art in La Mer

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

• Visit the Global Village, Dubai

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

Cost: AED 15 entrance ticket

• Dubai Creek Harbour

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

Dubai First-Timers

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

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

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

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

Dubai Budget Tour Packages

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

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

Until then, happy traveling! xx

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

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

Great post 🙂

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

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

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

Glad to help 🙂

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

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

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

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

How To Visit Dubai On A Budget

Timing is everything.

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

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

Affordable Accommodation Options

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

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

Local Transportation

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

Dining on a Budget

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

Plan Ahead and Book Tickets Online

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

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

Free and Low-Cost Things To Do In Dubai

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

The Dubai Fountain

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

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

Go for a Desert Safari

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

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

Visit The Beach

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

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

Global Village

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

Dubai Creek

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

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

Miracle Garden

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

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

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

Dubai Frame

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

JBR & Bluewaters Island

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

Visit Dubai’s Public Parks

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

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

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

Shindagha Museum

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

Shopping on a Budget

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

Free Entertainment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: 10 Reasons to visit Dubai

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

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

In this backpacking guide to Dubai you find:

Table of Contents

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

our recommended travel insurance for Dubai

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

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

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

Remember that, in Dubai, health care is private

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

Get The Entertainer

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

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

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

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

Budget Tours

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

Useful Page events

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

They announce all cheap and free events.

Top free things to do in Dubai

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

Camel racing

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

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

Deira Gold Souq 

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

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

Read: How to go backpacking in Oman on a budget

Hindu temple (Shiva and Krishna Mandir)

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

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

Street wrestling

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

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

Read: Saudi Arabia travel guide

Crossing the Creek on a boat 

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

Horse racing in Meydan

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

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

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

For more information, check out the official website .

Walking around Souq Madinat

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

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

Wandering around Al Bastakiya

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

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

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

Deira fish market

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

Dubai Marina and its skyscrapers

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

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

Jumeirah Mosque

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

The walk and beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence

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

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

The bottom of Burj Khalifa

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

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

Backpacking in Dubai: Best accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Couchsurfing

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

Dubai on a budget: How to save money on food

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

What do you need to avoid?

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

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

First, remember to get The Entertainer

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

Eat at mall food courts

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

The best quality-price restaurants

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

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

Cook at home

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

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

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

Backpacking in Dubai: How to save money on alcohol

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

Download Guzzle App

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

Get the best out of the happy hour

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

Ladies night

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

Go for a Brunch

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

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

Buy alcohol at the airport

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

Trip to Barracuda

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

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

Budget Dubai: How to save money on transportation

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

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

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

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

Renting a car

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

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

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

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

Read: 101 simple ways to save money for travel

Conclusion – How much does a trip to Dubai cost?

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

265 AED = $70 a day

Accommodation – Budget dorm: 100AED

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

Beers – 2 happy hour:  40AED

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

Activities – Only free stuff

More useful information for backpacking in Dubai

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

More UAE Articles:

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

22 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers mate! I hope you enjoy Dubai!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Regards,

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

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

Thank you very much!

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

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

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10 Things to Do in Dubai on a Small Budget

What are the cheap things to do in dubai.

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

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

The Dubai Fountain

See a choreographed fountain system.

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

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

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

Phone: +971 4 567 2030

Zabeel Park

Check out a vibrant park.

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

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

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

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

Phone: +971 50 725 2994

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Dubai creek, find fun around a natural creek.

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

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

Location: Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Jumeirah Public Beach

Enjoy a strip of public sand.

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

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

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

Dubai Museum

Explore local history.

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

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

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

Phone: +971 800 33222

Global Village

Visit an international shopping destination.

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

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

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

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

Phone: +971 4 362 4114

Enjoy sights and smells

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

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

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

Open: Daily from 9 am to 11 pm

Phone: +971 50 222 3627

Dubai Marina

Visit an artificial canal city.

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

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

Marina Beach

Find fun at a beach.

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

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

Location: Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Enjoy outdoor fun

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

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

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

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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.

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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The 25 Best Things to Do in Dubai

By Melinda Healy

Contrary to what you might have heard, Dubai is not all malls and flashy hotels. This sprawling desert city is always adding notable cultural institutions , galleries, and design-focused shopping , all focused on luring in a new generation of visitors . If you prefer an adrenaline rush, though, there's always the thrill of sliding between the high floors of a glass skyscraper, or jumping into the world’s largest dive pool. Almost anything is possible in this city, and we have a list to prove it: Here are our picks for some of the best things to do in Dubai, both longstanding and new.

Read our full Dubai travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Aura Skypool Arrow

This is the planet's highest 360-degree infinity pool, perched 200 meters atop The Palm Tower. Aura Skypool offers not only uninterrupted views of the emirate, but also a unique pool day experience. From 50 floors up, the sweeping views of The Palm, the Burj Al Arab, and the gulf beyond are an incredible way to see Dubai from above and alter your perspective. Tickets cost from about $46 per person for one of three sessions, and are best pre-purchased online .

Jumeirah Mosque Arrow

As the only mosque in Dubai that's open to non-Muslim visitors, the Jumeirah Mosque is popular with a range of travelers—it's also the most photographed. Easily one of the most beautiful in the emirate, it's crafted entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style and particularly breathtaking at dusk. Visitors are allowed in six days a week (Fridays are for prayer), and tours are led by knowledgable guides who make the experience.

Deep Dive Dubai Arrow

This is the world's deepest pool with a depth of 60 meters. It boasts a sunken city for diving enthusiasts to explore and holds 14 million liters of water. Tailored entirely to water lovers, deep diving is for those with certifications only, while snorkeling on the surface and scuba-diving up to 12 meters can be undertaken by anyone over the age of 10. Given Deep Dive Dubai also acts as the region’s largest underwater film studio, packed with 56 cameras and the ability to create different moods, it is definitely a must-try experience. Tickets are required and can be pre-purchased or bought online.

Hatta Dome Park Arrow

Ideally positioned a walkable distance from the Hatta Wadi Hub, this is a desert glamping experience that immerses guests in nature, offering them dome-tented accommodation, incredible mountain views, and an abundance of outdoor activities at their doorsteps. Hatta is buzzing with nature lovers and active travelers seeking refuge from the city, and geared up to explore the mountain range. These luxe tents offer comfort and adventure in equal doses. Each has its own terrace, and there are fire pits, barbecues, and food vans just a short distance away. Stylishly furnished in desert-inspired tones, the dome suites have a minimalistic chic design and serve up not only starry evenings, but also panoramic views of the picturesque Hatta mountain range that surrounds them. Despite the reasonably remote location, each room has Wi-Fi and can comfortably sleep two adults and three children (under the age of 14).

Jessica Puckett

Lee Marshall

Meaghan Kenny

Al Marmoom Camel Race Track Arrow

A popular heritage destination, Al Marmoom draws camel racing enthusiasts of all stripes, local and otherwise. A day at the camel races is an experience that is nicely representative of Middle Eastern culture, one that dates back to the 7th century. The grandstands are often filled with camel owners, trainers, and handlers, and most seats offer good views of the action. Remember that races start early—between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.—and that commentary and announcements are made in Arabic.

Ain Dubai Arrow

Officially the world's largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai is 75 meters taller than the London Eye. Towering over Bluewaters Island, the wheel affords sweeping views from 250 meters in the air. Not only is it visible from so many of Dubai's vantage points, this attraction appeals to just about everyone—schools, businesses, families, tourists, and locals alike. Rides on the structure are ticketed, with passes sold at the venue or online .

Dubai Spice Souk Arrow

Dubai's sprawling spice market is arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks. It's bustling, with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors sell the same ingredients—Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes. Saffron, while still pricey, is more affordable here than elsewhere in Dubai. Part of a complex that features three Jumeirah hotels and an adjoining waterway, the souk has stalls selling everything from the spices, to handmade lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything in between. There are also two-dozen restaurants, indoor and out, not to mention some of the most spectacular views of the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel. It’s free to enter, but parking and abra-style water taxis cost extra.

The Dubai Fountain Arrow

The world's tallest fountain puts the ones in Vegas to shame. Multiple fountain shows are scheduled every day, shooting 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Plus, a new floating viewing platform means you can get much closer to the action than before. Even better, it's free. If you visit the Dubai Mall , you'll likely see the fountains while you're there, so pause for a moment and enjoy the show.

Flying with Falcons by Balloon Adventures Dubai Arrow

In this private adventure experience, the only other person in your balloon is the pilot, who is an expert balloonist and falcon handler. Guests are picked up from their hotels and driven out into the desert. The aerial views of the desert are some of the most spectacular you'll see. Not only is the rolling landscape incredible but it is possible to see Oryx and camels strolling the desert below. This tour is ideal for a special occasion with a loved one or for those looking to experience the culture in a totally different way. Bookings are required.

Global Village Arrow

Dubai's massive Global Village is essentially a theme park for all ages, though it's popular with families as the rides and attractions are kid-friendly. Open Late-October to mid-April, it features concerts, rides, dining, and attractions from around the world. It's on the outskirts of Dubai, so don't think you can pack it into a city-centric day, but if you have time and are interested in some global shopping and entertainment, it's worth a visit.

Sky Views Dubai Arrow

High above Downtown Dubai, 219 meters up, Sky Views serves up a series of adrenaline-inducing one-of-a-kind experiences. Like so many of the experiences offered in Dubai, this incredible attraction is not for the faint of heart. Tread the 25-meter glass-bottom podium that connects the Address Sky View's twin 50-story dual towers; ride the outdoor glass slide; or tackle the Edge Walk, which is exactly as it sounds. Tickets are required but you can buy them online or at the venue.

Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House Arrow

Positioned on the Dubai Creek within the recently renovated Al Shindagha neighborhood (once the traditional center of the emirate), the Perfume House offers the opportunity to travel back in time and discover the ages-old methods of Arabic perfume-making. You'll learn about the region’s perfume-trading route and explore the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents (including oud, saffron, and specific roses).

Kite Beach Arrow

Like a Miami beach with its wide stretch of sand, aquamarine water, beach chaises, and enough activities to make you feel like sunbathing isn't quite enough, Kite Beach is for beach lovers. Join a game of volleyball, give kite-surfing a try, or take a run around the soft running track—when it's not 106 degrees out.

Aquaventure Waterpark Arrow

Now considered the world’s largest waterpark thanks to its recent extension, the venue has expanded by a third. Trident Tower, its newest arm, features the largest kids-only waterparks in the Middle East—Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove. Aquaventure contains more than 30 slides and attractions, including the emirates' longest lazy river, some thrilling rides (including the Leap of Faith and Poseidon's Retreat), and a private beach. There are also record-breaking waterslides to get the adrenaline pumping; Splashers Park and the Lazy River for families; and opportunities that encourage up-close-and-personal interactions with stingrays, dolphins, and sea lions.

Legoland Dubai Arrow

Legos come to life at Legoland Dubai (sister to others across the world, including in Florida), where 60 interactive rides and 15,000 Lego models entrance the young and young-at-heart. Aimed at families with children between the ages of 2 and 12, the theme park was created from 60 million Legos and encompasses six lands, indoor and out. And now there is a Legoland Hotel that allows families to really immerse themselves in Lego for a weekend or overnight stay. In the heat of summer, the outdoor attractions can be a little too much to bear, but the indoor ones are just as good—and they're air-conditioned.

Skydive Dubai Arrow

If free-falling over Dubai at 120 miles per hour sounds like your idea of a good time, Skydive Dubai has you covered. Beginners are welcome to jump in tandem with the company's experienced guides, but licensed divers can take the plunge solo. A tandem flight from Skydive Dubai's location on The Palm costs nearly $600—but it's worth it if you're a thrill-seeker who's not afraid of heights.

The Dubai Mall Arrow

As the largest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year. It's easy to get lost—there are more than 1,200 shops, after all—but a great place to beat the Dubai heat and ogle at the luxury stores. The place draws in more tourists from around the world than both New York City and Los Angeles so it's safe to say, everyone comes here.

XLine Dubai Marina Arrow

Fly belly-down across highways, skyscrapers, and swimming pools through the city of Dubai with XLine Dubai, one of the longest, steepest, and fastest urban zip lines in the world. From a height of 560 feet with speeds up to 50 miles per hour, riders soar from the Jumeirah Beach Residence to Dubai Marina, passing once-in-a-lifetime views along the way. There's even an option to ride tandem with friends.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Arrow

This quaint neighborhood offers a glimpse into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were formed in 1971. Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, gypsum, and teak line the twisted alleys and pathways—history and architecture buffs will love getting lost here. The neighborhood is a quiet retreat from the traffic and skyscrapers of the city, and the labyrinth of lanes make this place feel like you're in a secluded village.

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek Arrow

Riding an abra, or traditional wooden boat, is one of the most low-key ways to get a feel for life in Dubai. The boats gather on either side of Dubai Creek—in Deira or Bur Dubai—and can carry about 20 people. Many locals use the boats to get across the creek quickly and to avoid traffic, but you'll also see lots of tourists, especially at dusk. Given that it's quick and cheap, an abra ride is a must if you plan on spending any time at all in Old Dubai or visiting the QE2 .

Al Seef Arrow

From its location within the emirate's cultural epicenter, Al Seef marries the city’s heritage with contemporary offerings. The 1.1-mile precinct that hugs the Dubai Creek is split into two areas: one dedicated to the past and another to the future. Meander through the charming laneways, stop and have a coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, or simply sit and watch the activity on the creek from one of the tranquil public spaces.

Ski Dubai Arrow

In the middle of a mall in the desert, the world's third-largest indoor ski slope is a sight to behold. A daily lift ticket will run you about $138 (excluding equipment rentals), while a Snow Daycation pass, which primarily provides access to the non-skiing parts of the mountain like tubing, costs $75 per person, and you should plan to get there early. The place is filled with families with kids, most of whom are taking part in various rides, penguin visits and the Snow Cinema instead of skiing. If you're here to shred, there are two runs and a dedicated freestyle area (but Vail this is not).

At the Top, Burj Khalifa Arrow

The world's tallest building is, unsurprisingly, visible from almost everywhere in Dubai. Taking in the site is thrilling enough from the street, but you can also visit the top of the 160-story behemoth—brace yourself for the thrill of the high-speed elevators, followed by complete awe the moment you step onto the observation deck. Buy tickets online in advance for a specific time slot. Most first-time visitors to Dubai go to the top.

Etihad Museum Arrow

This ultra-modern museum offers a comprehensive look at the formation of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. It draws a diverse crowd of UAE nationals and history-buff tourists. The museum lies on the site where the country's unification was signed in 1971. The Etihad Museum isn't overwhelming in size or content. Even non-museum lovers will find the exhibitions interesting and crucial to a well-rounded UAE visit.

Dinner in the Sky Arrow

Dinner in the Sky Dubai is no ordinary restaurant—even pulling up a seat at the table requires that you clip a seatbelt. The experience takes place nearly 165 feet in the air, at a table that rotates ever so slowly over the course of an hour. If you can stomach the altitude, you're in for impressive views of the Gulf—and maybe one of the most unusual dining experiences on the planet. Artful Dining by Le Meridien Mina Seyahi and The Westin Dubai are responsible for the menu, which ranges from burrata salads to Middle Eastern mezzes. It's ideal for a romantic evening or surprise celebration with a first date, long-time partner, or best friend.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch the Dubai Fountain Dance By The Burj Khalifa

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: The Dubai Fountain

See The World’s Biggest Fountain

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

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

Location on Google Maps: The Palm Fountain

Have an Epic Beach Day at Kite Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Kite Beach

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

Have a picnic or barbeque at dubai creek park.

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Creek Park

Visiting Dubai? Get Your UAE Visa Online

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

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

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

Of course not.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1

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

Walk Along the Dubai Canal Boardwalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Water Canal parking

Photograph Street Art & Enjoy Beach Time at JBR

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

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

Take an Abra Ride across the Creek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Bur Dubai Creek

Get Lost in the Old Souks of Bur Dubai and Deira

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wander around Meena Bazar

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Meena Bazaar

Visit The Oldest Building in Dubai at The Dubai Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Museum

Wander in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

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

Location on Google Maps:   Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Get Lost in the Lanes of Al Seef

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Al Seef

Wander around City Walk

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

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

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

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

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

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

See The World at Global Village

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

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

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

Entrance to Global Village costs only 15 dirhams.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bus No. 102 from Rashidiya Metro Station

Bus No. 103 from the Union Metro station

Bus No. 104 from Al Ghubaiba Station

Bus No. 106 from Mall of the Emirates Station

Location on Google Maps: Global Village

Free Theater, Stand-up Comedy & Live Entertainment

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Courtyard Playhouse

Browse Organic Produce & Crafts at Ripe Market

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Ripe Market

Appreciate Art at Free Events in Dubai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn about the History of the UAE at the Etihad Museum

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

Location on Google Maps: Etihad Museum

Watch the IMAGINE light and water show at Dubai Festival City

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Festival City Mall

Visit a Mosque with the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Grand Jumeirah Mosque

Enjoy the Serenity at Al Qudra Lakes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Adventures in Hatta

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get a Perfect Photo of the Skyscrapers in Dubai Marina

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Al Emreef Street , Dubai Marina

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rent a Bike & Go Cycling at Mushrif Park

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

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

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

See a World of Flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Miracle Garden

Eat on the Cheap in Dubai

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

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

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

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

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

Google Maps Locations linked above.

Visit Madinat Jumeirah and the Christmas Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Madinat Jumeirah

Free Nightlife for Ladies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location on Google Maps: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

Stroll Around Bluewaters Island 

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

Location on Google Maps: Bluewaters Island

Visit the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

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

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

Take a Day Trip To Wadi Shees

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

Where To Stay in Dubai on a Budget

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

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

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

Golden Sands Hotel Apartments

Number One Tower Suites

Hilton Garden Inn Al Mina Dubai

Emirates Grand Hotel Dubai

Golden Tulip Al Barsha

Chelsea Gardens Hotel Apartments

Four Points by Sheraton Dubai

CityMax Hotel Dubai

Ramada Jumeirah Hotel

Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Ibis World Trade Center Dubai

Ibis Styles Jumeirah 

Rove Healthcare City

Rove Downtown Dubai

Rove Trade Center

Rove City Center

City Seasons Hotel Dubai

Grand Excelsior Bur Dubai

Gloria Hotel Dubai

President Hotel Dubai

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

What To Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the outdoors:

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

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

Get Your UAE Visa Online

Best Time to Visit Dubai

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

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

Tours in Dubai

Languages spoken.

Arabic and English

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

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

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

Need to Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Reading

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

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

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

Guide to Ramadan in Dubai

What to Wear in Dubai: The Ultimate Guide

How to go from Dubai Airport to City Center

Best Day Trips from Dubai

Best Things to Do in Khor Fakkan

Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Cheap & Free

Best Cafes in Dubai for Great Coffee and Good Vibes

What to Buy in Dubai: Best Souvenirs from Dubai

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

How to spend 48 hours in Sharjah

Chedi Al Bait: Tasteful Luxury in a Heritage Setting

Should You Rent a Car on your Dubai Vacation?

13 Countries to Visit From Dubai On Your Holiday

Stay at the Only Wildlife Safari Resort in the UAE

20 Signs I’ve Been in Dubai Too Long

Dubai Through the Eyes of an Old-Timer

Almost Wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Travel Blog

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

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

hygiene for all

Friday 11th of November 2022

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

Fiona Manonn

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

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

Sunil Chawla

Saturday 12th of October 2019

Lovely Blog Highly Informative Thanks for sharing

Mukarram Nisar

Sunday 1st of September 2019

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

Monday 26th of August 2019

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

17+ TOP Dubai Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

Looking for the  best things to do in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates,  and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular Dubai attractions to visit is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting the city for the first time and have limited time, not even to mention the budget.

From gleaming skyscrapers and modern landmarks to the desert and historic souks, Dubai has something for everyone. But it’s also a rapidly growing city with countless new tourist attractions springing up like mushrooms and choosing which places to visit and which ones to skip might look like a daunting task…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Dubai, in this guide we share the  VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Dubai that are worth your time the most . In addition, we also include a few fun experiences for those looking to experience Dubai beyond the ‘musts’.

We also created a  map of all the top places that should help you plan your Dubai sightseeing itinerary. You can find it at the bottom of this article. In addition, for every place featured in this guide, we include some practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit. Take a look!

Good to know:   We list the must-see places and experiences first, followed by some additional tips for things to do in Dubai further down the list.

If you are short on time, concentrate on the top sights indicated as ‘must-see’ first. In addition, see if you can also fit in some of the ‘highly recommended’ experiences listed further down.

But if you have more time and are looking for even more ideas for places to visit and interesting tourist attractions beyond the most popular sights, be sure to check the complete list.

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, on our blog, you can also find sample itineraries for first-time visitors: a Dubai stopover itinerary (from 6 hours to 1-2 days) and a detailed Dubai itinerary for up to one week .

Here are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

If there is one place you have to see in Dubai, it’s Burj Khalifa , the tallest building in the world. This iconic skyscraper is the most visited landmark in Dubai.

While you will see Burj Khalifa from all over the city, it’s most impressive when seen from the bottom. So don’t miss that!

In addition, no trip to Dubai would be complete without ascending to the 124th and 125th floors for breathtaking views of the city skyline, coastline, and desert. For an extra price, you can also visit the SKY Level on the 148th floor.

Good to know: Standard tickets include timed-entry access to 124-125th floors. However, even with a dedicated time slot, be prepared to queue for a long time. The SKY Level 124,125, and 148th floors ticket is more expensive, but includes skip-the-line access for the security check and elevator. It also includes access to the lounge with snacks and drinks.

PRO TIP: Whatever option you choose, be sure to book your tickets online in advance or you may not be able to visit at all. If you want to catch the sunset at the top, be sure to book a time slot at least 1.5 hours before the sunset time (just beware that those time slots are also more expensive).

2. Dubai Mall

You might be wondering why in the world we list a shopping mall as one of the must-see places in Dubai… Well, the Dubai Mall is not just a shopping paradise, but a destination in itself. Plus, it’s located right at the Burj Khalifa so you’ll come here anyway.

The largest shopping mall in the world, Dubai Mall has over 1,200 shops, including high-end designer stores and flagship fashion brands. In addition, you can choose from more than 200 restaurants and food outlets. But it’s worth coming here even if you are not interested in shopping and dining.

You can’t miss the gigantic Dubai Aquarium – the centerpiece of the Mall, or you can get a ticket and visit inside. There are also huge waterfalls, a 155 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton, an Olympic-size ice skating rink, a mini-city for kids KidZania , and countless other attractions. You could literally spend several days in here and still not see it all…

TIP: If you want to visit the aquarium, opt for a combo ticket that includes Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium. Otherwise, the aquarium price is really steep for what it is.

3. Dubai Fountain Show

The captivating Dubai Fountain Show can be seen on the Burj Lake right outside the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa. It’s a mesmerizing water, music, and light show that takes place multiple times a day and is FREE to watch.

The world’s tallest performing fountain, it dances for a few minutes to a selection of different melodies ranging from popular hits to traditional Arabic and classical music.

Good to know: The Dubai Fountain shows run every half an hour from 6 PM to 11 PM. There is also a performance at 1.30 PM, plus at 1 PM on weekdays and 2 PM on weekends.

PRO TIP: If you are looking for something nice to do in Dubai, book a boat ride on Burj Lake during a fountain show . It takes just 30 minutes and is not expensive (definitely for Dubai standards). Everyone in our family really enjoyed it.

4. Old Dubai & Traditional Souks

Dubai has more to offer than its modern landmarks and one of the best places to experience the authentic side of Dubai is its Old Town .

Be sure to visit the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi (formerly known as Bastakiya), cross Dubai Creek on a traditional  Abra boat , and don’t miss the best traditional markets in Dubai – the Gold Souk and Spice Souk .

To be completely honest, the Al Fahidi neighborhood is not that authentic, but has the feel of an overly nicely restored open-air museum. You can wander through a few picturesque narrow alleyways lined with wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafes. There are also several tiny museums and some traditional shops selling souvenirs to tourists.

Nevertheless, it’s the best place to catch a glimpse of old Dubai and get a better understanding of the fascinating journey of the fascinating expansion of the UAE in just a few decades. The transformation of a few tiny fishing villages in the desert to the global metropolises of the 21st century is nothing short of remarkable.

PRO TIP:  Visit the old town  with a local guide ! That way, you can be sure to see all the musts but also learn more about the history of Dubai. The tours are very affordable and some also include local food and drinks. We visited the Dubai old town and traditional markets on different occasions, most recently with this highly-rated tour and I can highly recommend it as one of the top experiences in Dubai.

5. Dubai Marina

Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and filled with luxury yachts, Dubai Marina is one of the must-see places where you can experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai.

The best way to explore the area is by taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade known as Marina Walk. It’s almost 3 kilometers long and is lined with upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and luxury boutiques. If you don’t want to walk the entire length, focus on the area close to Marina Mall or join a guided  e-scooter tour .

For a unique perspective, hop on a luxury yacht cruise – it’s a great and very relaxing way to see some of the most impressive skylines. If you are looking for a more traditional experience, you can also opt for a dhow dinner cruise to admire the dazzling skyline illuminated against the night sky.

There is so much more to do at the Dubai Marina than just enjoy the scenery! You can go  jet skiing , parasailing , zip line across the Marina , or even dine in the sky .

6. Dubai Desert

Dubai has grown into a huge ultra-modern metropolis, but its roots are still in the desert. So no trip would be complete without seeing the Dubai desert. Even if just for the contrast and to get a better understanding of how remarkable the journey of the UAE has been.

Let me be very honest with you – the desert around Dubai is not that impressive, especially if we compare it to places like e.g. Sossusvlei in Namibia or Death Valley in the USA. However, there are many exhilarating desert safari experiences, such as dune bashing in a 4×4 , quad rides , camel riding , hot-air balloon flights , etc. and these are well worth your time.

In addition, most Dubai safari tours include a visit to a desert camp, built in a traditional Bedouin style. Here, you can indulge in Arabian BBQ dinner and taste all kinds of local food, see the national bird of the UAE – the falcon, or get a henna tattoo. In the evenings, you can also see all kinds of traditional performances such as Tanoura dance, belly dancing, or fire shows.

Good to know: There are  many desert tour options and most of them last 4 to 7 hours. The desert camp experience is similar on all evening tours, but be sure to read the tour description to choose the main activity (jeep, quad, camel, etc.) that best aligns with your interests. For example, most desert tours include a very short camel ride (for a picture), but only a few offer a longer camel ride experience.

Our experience:  We have been on two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and really enjoyed them both. One of them included dune bashing in a jeep and the other one – camel riding . They both included dinner and other desert camp experiences.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

7. Dubai Museum Of The Future

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The Museum of the Future is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai. The remarkable building is a must-see, but the museum itself is quite interesting and well worth a few hours of your time.

The museum is very interactive and showcases Dubai’s vision of the future and what it will look like some 50 years from now. They cover all kinds of topics like space travel, artificial intelligence, and robotics, but also climate change, healthcare, spirituality, etc.

PRO TIP:   Reserve tickets for the museum at least a few weeks before your trip. When we traveled, they were sold out for almost 3 weeks, not even to mention being able to pick a time slot that fits your itinerary. Also, if you can, book the first time slot in the morning so that you can enjoy the interactive exhibits before it gets too crowded.

8. Sky Views Observatory & Sky Edge Walk

Sky Views Observatory  offers a great view of Dubai’s Downtown. It’s also one of the best places to admire the iconic Burj Khalifa from a higher angle at a rather close distance.

In addition, you can also walk over a glass-bottom walkway, slide down a transparent tube at the side of the building, or – for an additional fee – do the Sky Edge Walk on an open-air platform on the 52nd floor.

Good to know:  Regular tickets are very affordable and much cheaper than the Burj Khalifa tickets. But if you are not afraid of heights and have some extra time, we highly recommend a ticket that also includes the Edge Walk – it’s one of the most unique things to do in Dubai!

9. Global Village

Global Village Dubai  is one of the most popular attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international visitors. Just as the name suggests, it’s a place where you can experience a wide variety of cultures from all over the world.

With over 90 countries represented, it’s a unique opportunity to get acquainted with different countries, sample traditional foods, or purchase some interesting souvenirs. There are also cultural shows and live performances.

It’s a bit like a big country fair, but very unique because of its global character.

Good to know:  A visit to Global Village is very affordable and  entry tickets  cost just around $6. However, you’ll have to pay extra for most of the rides and attractions inside.

PRO TIP:  Avoid weekends and try to arrive around the opening time (usually around 4 pm, but during Ramadan around 6 pm). Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest.

10. Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah  is a man-made palm-tree-shaped island in the Arabian Gulf and connected to the city via tunnels and bridges and tunnels. The Palm is home to upscale residences, luxury hotels, and beachfront resorts, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm .

There are several places of interest to see at the Palm including the best water park in Dubai, Atlantis Aquaventure and Dolphin Bay, Lost Chambers Aquarium, and several luxurious sky pool experiences.

If you just want to catch a glimpse of this remarkable feat of engineering, visit The View at The Palm Observatory . From here, you can enjoy 360° views of the city and the Arabian Gulf, including an elevated view of this unique palm island.

PRO TIP: For the best aerial views and to fully appreciate The Palm, opt for a  sightseeing helicopter tour .

11. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab  is one of the most recognizable symbols of Dubai. The sail-shaped luxury hotel was opened in December 1999 and was the first one in a series of Dubai’s most remarkable landmarks that were built in the 21st century.

One of the world’s most luxurious and most expensive hotels, Burj Al Arab is not only impressive from the outside. Inside, you can admire its lavish interiors and find some extravagant experiences such as its world-famous gold cappuccino.

Good to know: A stay at this hotel will quickly cost you over $1,500 per night. But a tour of the interior is much more affordable. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to the luxury tour to include a visit to the 25th floor (where the Royal Suites are located) and a sip of the gold cappuccino.

12. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

NICE TO SEE

Located just near the Burj Al Arab,  Souk Madinat Jumeirah  is a bustling indoor market that combines traditional Arabian architecture and Middle Eastern charm with modern-day comforts such as air conditioning and meticulously clean facilities.

You will find an array of little shops here selling all kinds of traditional merchandise and souvenirs. There are also bakeries, cafes, and a variety of restaurants.

With small rivers, little bridges, and traditional Arabian architecture, the area feels like a charming little town. You can walk around or take a boat on the picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: You can easily combine a visit to the Souk with that of Burj Al Arab. Boat rides can just be booked and paid at the spot.

13. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame  is another remarkable landmark that you have to see in Dubai. This colossal picture frame is visible from afar so you can’t really miss it. But it’s also possible to visit it inside.

The 150-meter-high observation deck has a glass-bottomed walkway and also offers panoramic 360° views of both old and new Dubai.

The views are quite nice, but not nearly comparable to those from Burj Khalifa, Sky Views, or the View at The Palm. On the other hand, the structure is absolutely unique and we personally found it worth a visit.

Good to know:  Depending on the season and time of day, it can be very busy here. Be sure to  book tickets online  and if you can, try to visit either early in the morning or in the evening.

14. Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden  is a must-see in Dubai for everyone who loves flowers, colors, and all kinds of quirky displays. From cartoon characters like the Smurfs to gigantic swans and from colorful castles to a life-size A380 Airbus plane – everything here is covered in flowers.

The world’s largest natural flower garden, Dubai Miracle Garden features over 150 million flowers. However, don’t expect a big variety of flowers here. There are not many plants that do well in such a hot and dry climate, so the majority of floral displays are created using petunias.

Good to know:  Buy skip-the-line tickets online and plan an hour or two for a visit. It’s quietest in the morning. However, many people combine a visit here to that of the nearby Global Village, and the latter only opens late in the afternoon, so keep that in mind if you want to visit both attractions on the same day.

15. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

NICE TO SEE (MUST DO if visiting with kids)

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is the biggest water park in the world and by far the best one in Dubai. Featuring over 100 water rides and attractions from splash pools to adrenaline-rushing water slides, Aquaventure is great for all ages.

In addition, you can also meet sea lions or swim with dolphins, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. You can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located at the same place.

This is a must-do if you are visiting Dubai with kids (especially teenagers!), but it’s definitely not just for families.

PRO TIP:  Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online, and you can save a bit more if you book at least a week in advance. We recommend  a combo ticket  that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Here you can find more ticket options , including dolphin experiences.

LEARN MORE:  Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

16. AYA Universe

AYA Universe  is one of our family’s favorite places to visit in Dubai. It’s not a must-do, but it’s also a very unique experience that will leave you speechless.

A visit to AYA is like stepping into a series of different fairytale-like worlds, with colorful light displays and captivating high-tech experiences. Some of the rooms reminded us of the beautiful dreamy universe created in Avatar films .

We visited AYA Universe with our teens who are hard to impress, and they loved it. We spent much more time than expected here, wandering through different rooms and simply sitting down and enjoying the moment. It’s such a nice and positive experience. We loved it!

Good to know:  Book your  tickets online and count about 45-60 minutes for a visit. If you want to enjoy it without too many people around, we recommend booking the earliest time slot.

17. Dubai Beaches

Dubai has many beaches and since the temperatures are suitable for swimming the whole year round, you may want to plan to spend some time at the beach. By far the best way to do this is by choosing a hotel that has its own private beach or is located near one of the public beaches.

One of the nicest public beaches in Dubai is Marina Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence. There is a very nice waterfront area here with tons of cafes and restaurants and lots of hotels. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular options here.

We once stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach nearby which has its own private beach, but we walked to this area all the time because it was so nice. We had most of our lunches and dinners at Marina Beach unless we were away sightseeing.

Jumeirah Public Beach is another beautiful Dubai beach that is well worth visiting. In addition to white sands and swimming, here you can also enjoy a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab which makes a great backdrop for your vacation pictures. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a very nice place to stay in this area and all guests enjoy free access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Waterpark.

La Mer Beach further north and closer to the city center is also worth checking out. This area is still developing but already has a nice hip feel. We recently stayed at the Rove La Mer Beach Hotel and really enjoyed it. The location is also great for sightseeing since it’s so close to the downtown area.

More Ideas for Things to Do in Dubai

There is SO MUCH to see and do in Dubai that it’s impossible to cover all those experiences in one article (or visit in one trip). Nevertheless, I want to highlight some additional places and attractions that I think are certainly worth it.

So here are some additional recommendations for fun things to do in Dubai:

• La Perle by Dragone is the #1 show in Dubai. This is a mind-blowing acrobatic show in, on, and above water and in the air. If you enjoy Cirque de Soleil shows, you’ll love this one!
• The Green Planet   is an indoor rainforest with a wide variety of tropical plants, birds, and animals such as sloths, squirrel monkeys, etc. It’s great for families but is enjoyable for all age groups.
• Dubai Butterfly Garden is a great place to see all kinds of colorful butterflies from all over the world. It’s located just next to the earlier-mentioned Miracle Garden so you can easily visit both.
• iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center. If you ever wanted to try skydiving but didn’t dare, this is your chance to give it a try in a safe and controlled environment. Our kids loved this!
• Skydiving . If you rather try the real thing, there are quite a few possibilities to go skydiving in Dubai. The views are amazing!
• Skiing and snow experiences . If you want to experience winter in the desert, you can go skiing in Dubai. But that’s not it! They have other snow experiences as well such as a Giant Ball, Bobsled, Tubing Run, and Bump Car to mention a few.
• Water sports , jet skiing , parasailing , etc.
• Theme parks and water parks. There is no shortage of all kinds of theme parks in Dubai. Some of the best include IMG Worlds of Adventure and LEGOLAND Dubai (this one also has a water park). If you are looking for more water parks, check out Wild Wadi as well – it’s a lot smaller than Aquaventure if you want to avoid the big crowds.
• Day trips to the other Emirates. The most popular are day trips to Abu-Dhabi , but you can also visit Al Ain ‘Garden City’ or go on a snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Day Tour from Dubai

Map of Top Dubai Attractions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main Dubai attractions are located, we created a  map  indicating all the main points of interest and top sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time in Dubai. However, please keep in mind that distances between places are big and traffic is very busy. Even with the skip-the-line tickets, you’ll often need several hours for the main attractions and can only visit a few of them per day. So plan your time well!

In addition, remember that Dubai can get scorching hot, and not just during the summer months. So dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.

TIP:  For more information and helpful tips, please also see our guide with top travel tips and things we wish we had known before visiting Dubai via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning a first trip!

READ ALSO: Dubai Travel Tips

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Dubai. I hope it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan an unforgettable trip.

If you are still wondering whether Dubai is worth a trip… Yes, it is! Even though it feels quite artificial and polished, it’s also a very unique destination that will impress even the biggest skeptics. It’s well worth seeing (and experiencing), at least once!

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• What to Wear in Dubai
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Public Transport in Dubai
• What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• 1-2 Days in Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days
• Fun read: 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 this image!

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A Dubai pass, also known as a Dubai city pass or an attractions pass, is a great way of seeing Dubai’s sights for less.

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Save up to 40% on more than 30 Dubai experiences. Choose three, five or seven top Dubai attractions.

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Save up to 60% on 30+ attractions, with three or five-day passes to fit your schedule.

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Save up to 40% on Dubai's best theme parks, with multiple options to suit you.

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Save up to 50% on two to four top experiences, to use over 36 hours during your Dubai stopover.

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20 places to visit in the UAE for free or less than Dh20

Lifestyle community.

Enjoy a great time with friends and family in the UAE for free or for tickets under Dh20 per person

What kind of tourist are you? We have a list of fun places to visit for all kinds of tourists, whether you are a lover of nature and animals or someone who likes a cultural stroll in the UAE; all of that without breaking your wallet.

For the outdoorsy ones:

Zabeel park.

Zabeel Park is perhaps one of Dubai’s greatest recreational offers in terms of greenery close to the city centre. Head there to cool off and have some fun this weekend be it the barbeques, the playgrounds, the amphitheatre’s atmosphere or to see the Dubai Garden Glow nearby.

Location: Near Jafiliya Metro Station; Cost: Dh5 per head; Timings: Sunday to Wednesday, 8am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday and official holidays: 8am to 11pm; Contact 04 398 6888

If you want to the beat the heat without having to drive all the way to the beach, why not go for an Abra ride instead? It's definitely an enjoyable experience.

Location: Bur Dubai (Creekside); Cost: Dh 1 per ride; Timings: Daily, 5am to 12am (midnight)

Jebel Hafeet

Stare in awe at the UAE’s natural beauty as you drive, cycle (or perhaps, if you have the strength, walk up) to the top of UAE’s second highest peak.

Overlooking the Oman border and the beauty of Al Ain, explore the many forts, museums and tombs in the surrounding tourist paradise while you’re at it.

Location: Al Ain; Cost: Free; Timings: Head up there anytime you want

Hatta Pools

Want to find yourself in the middle of a windows-wallpaper-worthy backdrop? Look no further than good-old Hatta. The drive’s worth it as you wade feet-first into the pristine green-blue waters that form the center-piece of the gritty rocks around them.

Do make sure to carry your Emirates ID and other verification documents with you since the pools are technically in Oman. Explore the rich, well-preserved culture of Hatta on the way too, by visiting the Heritage Village if it’s open.

Location: Hatta; Cost: Free; Timings: There are no particular restrictions

Sharjah National Park

Enjoy greenery for as far the eye can see as you stroll through over 100 acres of Sharjah’s largest Park and take in the beauty of all the flora and fauna around you.

Location: Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah; Cost: Dh 2 per head; Timings: Daily 8am to 10pm (on weekdays 1 to 4pm, the park remains closed though); Contact: 06 545 8996

Al Mamzar Park

Relax under the trees in the serene park or enjoy the calming blue of the beach.

Location: Al Khaleej Road, Al Mamzar, Dubai; Cost: Dh5 per head; Timings: Sundays to Wednesdays: 9am to 9pm, Thursday to Saturday or public holidays: 9am to 10pm; Ladies Days – Monday and Wednesday; Contact: 04 296 620a

Saruq Al Hadid Museum

Learn about the Arabian Peninsula’s Iron Age at the newly-opened museum in Dubai’s Historical District - a confluence of the past and the present.

Location: Shindaga District, Dubai; Cost: Dh 20 per head; Timings: Sundays to Wednesdays: 8am to 8pm, Thursday to Saturday: 8am to 2pm; Contact: 04 353 9090

For hailing culture fans:

Shaikh saeed al maktoum's house.

This is the place to be if you want to gain an in-depth insight into the history of Dubai as you explore the residence of a former ruler of Dubai (the grandfather of the present ruler). While retaining the old charm of a residence, the house has also been converted into a museum with an impressive collection of exhibits.

Location: Al Shindaga, Bur Dubai; Cost: Dh 3 per head; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 8pm to 8.30pm; Friday: 3pm to 9.30pm; Contact: 04 393 7139

Al Ain Classic Car Museum

Automobile enthusiasts have to head to Al Ain's Classic Car Museum. Check out cars you don't see anymore and meet like-minded individuals from the Classic Car Club that manages the venue.

Location: Al Faida Complex, Al Ain City; Cost: Dh 5 per head; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 9am to 5pm; Friday: 4pm to 8pm; Contact: +971 50 623 1323

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Walk the streets and experience old Dubai just across the Metro Station which proves Dubai’s prowess as a modern city. Al Fahidi retains its 20th Century architecture and quaint little ways; in the process, transporting you back to a way of life centred around the creek and community.

Location: Bur Dubai, Dubai; Cost: Free Timings, Al Fahidi’s always open to visit but make sure you pick a time which enables you to visit the nearby shops and museum; Contact: 04 515 5000​

Sharjah Arts Museum

Art admirers, this is your place to be over the weekend. Sharjah’s Art Museum features not just a permanent gallery of paintings by famous artists from the Middle East but hosts a variety of workshops on a regular basis as well.

Location: Al Shuwaihiyeen, near Al Corniche post office, Sharjah; Cost: Free; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 8am to 8pm, Friday 4pm to 8pm; Contact: 06 568 8222

Qaryat Al Torath Heritage Village

This heritage village offers you a chance to see traditional practices and handicraft-making at work. 32 stalls at the station also gives you the opportunity to take these home as souvenirs. Make sure you head there and contribute to keeping Bedouin tradition alive.

Location: Al Ain; Cost: Dh 5 per head; Timings: Daily, 9am to 1pm and 5pm to 10pm

Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of few mosques of its scale that welcomes non-worshippers, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands testament to the vision of the man it is named after, a vision of both splendor and majesty. One of Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, the mosque is a must-visit for anyone who’s every stepped foot in the UAE.

Location: Between Maqta, Mussafah and Shaikh Zayed bridges; Cost: Free; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 9am to 10pm, Friday 4:30 pm to 10pm; Contact: +971 2 419 1919

When you walk into the streets of the Gold Souk - Dubai, all that glitters probably is gold or maybe a precious stone. If you’re afraid you haven’t tested out your haggling skills yet (the good-humored kind, don’t become the despicable customer), this is the perfect place to do so.

Location: Deira, Dubai; Cost: It’s free until you start buying; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 10 am to 10pm, Friday 4pm to 10pm

Jumeirah Mosque

A centre for cultural learning, it is the only mosque in Dubai that welcomes non-Muslims six days a week. The architecture is beautiful and evocative of the Fatimid style. In order to take a guided tour, make sure you arrive a little earlier into the daytime. The tour also includes traditional food.

Location: Jumeirah Beach Road; Cost: Dh20 (includes a tour and some refreshments); Timings: Daily 9 am to 5pm except Friday, tours start at 10am; Contact: 04 353 6666

For the Animal Admirer:

Dubai safari.

Dubai Safari has closed for the summer but is perfect for a family day out to go say hi to over 300 species of animals and birds.

Location: Al Warqa

Sharjah Desert Park

The Sharjah Desert Park is a 4-in-1 package as visiting the site does not just mean you visit a botanical park but a natural history museum, a wildlife centre and a children’s farm as well. Get familiar with Arabian flora and fauna at this beautiful venture by the Environmental and Protected Areas Authority of Sharjah.

Location: Al Batayeah, Al Dhaid Road, Interchange 9, Sharjah; Cost: Dh 15 per head; Timings: Sunday to Thursday 9am to 6pm; Friday 2pm to 6 pm; Saturday 11am to 6pm; Contact: 06 531 1501

For a City Stroll:

Dubai water canal boardwalk.

Take your time along the beautifully illuminated walkways and pedestrian bridges that overlook the Dubai water canal and enjoy the sight of the mechanical waterfall. It’s a perfect place to take photos and just enjoy any cool evening. The Wi-Fi is really good too.

Location: Near Business Bay Metro Station; Cost: Free; Timings: Between 8pm and 10pm are the most recommended, but otherwise, it’s always open.

Masdar City

The city of the future’s…already present? Masdar is custom-built to advance sustainable development and its centre-piece is the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. Open to all visitors throughout the day, your journey there will begin in a pod-like unmanned vehicle; the PRT. Enjoy as you explore a city by science, of science and for science - the city of the future.

Location: Near Abu Dhabi International Airport; Cost: Free; Timings: Sunday to Thursday 8am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 10pm; Contact: 02 653 3333

Shaikh Zayed Bridge

A marvel of both engineering and architecture, the Sheikh Zayed Bridge makes for a better visit by foot than by car. Enjoy the sight of subtle coloured lights illuminating the bridge with a design intended to evoke the image of undulating waves and sand-dunes. The signatures of the UAE.

Location: Abu Dhabi; Cost: Dh 0; Timings: None

- Nikitha is journalism student and works as an intern at Guides

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Is It Possible To Eat Cheap In Dubai? Try These Affordable Eats!

• Despite its expensive reputation, it is still possible to travel to Dubai on a budget, especially when it comes to food. There are affordable options available.
• There are a variety of cheap eats in Dubai, including Lebanese street food, traditional Ethiopian cuisine, and authentic Indian and Indo-Chinese dishes.
• Visitors can enjoy affordable international cuisine, such as Thai street food and Mexican dishes, while exploring Dubai without breaking the bank.

Despite being a popular travel destination, Dubai is known as a luxurious city, and there is a lot people can do with $100 in the city . There's a lot to see and many activities to enjoy in this UAE city. Despite the many incredible attractions in Dubai , many former travelers often say that expenses can add up quickly! Despite its expensive reputation, traveling to this international city on a budget is still very much possible.

Like many travel destinations, food and accommodations are the primary sources of travel expenses. However, when it comes to eating out in Dubai, there are still a ton of pretty cheap eats to enjoy in the city, fit for a budget traveler's wallet! Of course, cheap food in Dubai may be harder to find: but we promise it's there.

UPDATE: 2023/09/02 21:15 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

There Are More Cheap Places To Eat in Dubai!

Dubai is one of the most popular destinations, but it is also famous for its high prices. But is it possible to visit Dubai without breaking the bank? At least when it comes to food, the answer is yes. Travelers and locals can try delicious traditional dishes and international cuisine for an affordable price. This list has been updated to bring more places to eat on a budget.

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Allo Beirut

Considered one of the best Lebanese restaurants, Allo Beirute Street Food has seven restaurants in the city, the most popular on Hessa Street. Clients say the place serves the best shawarmas in Dubai and burgers, hot wraps, and grilled meat platters for an affordable price.

Allo Beirute also has a breakfast menu that is served all day long. Clients can enjoy traditional dishes like Kishk, Balila, and Fattet Hummus.

• Locations: Hessa Street, Near Saudi German Hospital City Walk Dubai, Al Safa Street, Al Warqa City Mall, Tripole Street.

Al Mallah combines the best of Lebanese street food and tradition, as it started serving dishes nearly 45 years ago. The traditional restaurant started as a juice joint in a corner and now has five restaurants in Dubai that feature over 150 items on their menu, including shawarmas, grills, and Falafel.

They have a breakfast menu with Ful Medammes, two Falafel, and Labneh served with pickles, tahini, and bread that costs AED27 (roughly $7.37).

Address: Al Dhiyafa Rd - Al Hudaiba - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Al Ustad Special Kebab

• Address: Al Musalla Rd., Meena Bazaar, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Al Ustad Special Kabab restaurant's reputation is a bit of a problem. On the one hand, it's a hidden gem of an establishment. On the other hand, however, people who know about it (near the Al Fahidi Metro Station) rave about its kebabs. Meat lovers will love the generous portion of meaty kebabs that Al Ustad Special Kabab offers, from succulent chicken to beef tenderloin kebabs!

• Address: Old 32B Street, Fishing Harbour 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Bu Qtair is a popular tourist spot that is unassuming and humble, home to some of the most delicious seafood in all of Dubai. CNN even crowned Bu Qtair as the best fish restaurant in the city ! Diners love the restaurant's signature (and secret) seasoning used in their seafood plates, especially their fish dishes.

Zagol Restaurant

• Address: Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Traveling as a vegan foodie can be challenging at times. Luckily, vegans who visit Dubai will have no trouble finding good grub, especially at Zagol Restaurant! This cozy establishment serves up traditional Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine, perfect for sharing amongst group travelers. Their meals are usually served with injera bread, a tangy fermented flatbread staple in Ethiopian cuisine.

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The Choco Monarch

• Address: Sharjah Palace Hotel Al Taawun St, Near Sharjah Expo, Sharjah United Arab Emirates

Since 2017 , Dubai's Choco Monarch has served high-quality chocolate desserts to Dubai locals and tourists. From waffles to crepes, these desserts are perfect for sharing! The Choco Monarch aims to become Dubai's best chocolate dessert café, providing customers with an array of chocolate delights for an affordable price.

• Address: Al Abraj Street Next to Dubai Islamic Bank, Bayswater Tower, Business Bay, Waterfront, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Looking for comfort food for fair prices? The Mama'Esh restaurant in Dubai is perfect for budget-friendly travelers, serving authentic Palestinian cuisine. Not only do visitors receive excellent service, but they'll also get complimentary tea refills, bread (for dine-in only), and free Wi-Fi access! There are also six chains sprawled across the city.

Special Ostadi

• Address: Bur Dubai, Metro Station-Al Fahidi Al Musallah Rd.Near Al Mansoor Video, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

According to several reviews , Special Ostadi is a restaurant that former travelers highly recommend. Not only are guests guaranteed excellent customer service, but their food is also affordable, tasty, and flavorful! Visitors rave about the restaurant's mutton kebabs and their eclectic menu, which serves up authentic Persian cuisine. This restaurant is perfect for budget-friendly travelers exploring Old Dubai and is only a short walk from Dubai Creek.

Wokyo Noodle Bar

• Address: Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Cluster J, J2 Building, Dubai 00971 United Arab Emirates

Looking for a no-fuss eatery with tons of opportunities to customize dishes? Wokyo Noodle Bar offers an array of noodle dishes to the hungry traveler at an affordable price. With several locations across Dubai, customers can have their pick of sampling Wokyo's signature Sapporo ramen or their flavorful laksa soup. Visitors can also create their meals, choosing a carb base of noodles (or rice), specialty sauces, and proteins. Wokyo also offers delicious sides like spring rolls, chicken gyozas, and Korean-style fried chicken!

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Amritsr Restaurant

• Address: Al Attar Center, Dubai 318-836 United Arab Emirates

Dubbed one of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai , the Amritsr Restaurant serves up authentic Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine at the Al Attar Center. With over 20 years of culinary experience, travelers will love sampling an array of vegetarian (and non-vegetarian) dishes. From Birbal kofta to Amritsari fish masala, diners can enjoy a hearty meal at a no-fuss eatery. According to reviewers on TripAdvisor , the Amritsr Restaurant is perfect for visitors because of its delicious food, attentive staff, and high quality!

• Address: Waterfront, Cluster B (Lake View Tower), Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Since 2016, Café Isan has offered a colorful Thai street food favorites menu. The restaurant was all started by a self-taught YouTube chef who used her childhood and hometown of Isan's Beung Kan to build the restaurant. Today, Café Isan has been recognized as one of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai, offering an array of tasty street food and snacks. Budget travelers can enjoy the restaurant's signature Pik Gai chicken wings, green curry rice balls, dim sum (known as Khanom jeep), or items on their Thai BBQ menu!

This unique eatery in Dubai offers some of the most delicious Arabic flavors. From piping hot falafel and tasty fatayer to yummy manakish and other Arabic classics, people will find all that their stomachs wish for at this restaurant located on Sheikh Zayed Road. Zaroob has a funky outdoor garden area, and people can enjoy the contemporary art galleries in the nearby Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).

• Location: Ground Floor, Jumeirah Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Center 1, Dubai.

Calicut Paragon

This Indian restaurant can be found in several locations around Dubai and attracts a large crowd every evening. Calicut Paragon is known for its budget-friendly prices, rave reviews, and flavorsome curries. Recommended side orders include cheese-stuffed mushrooms and fried pakodas. Moreover, seafood is a must-try at this restaurant in Dubai. These include the tangy mango fish curry, fiery crab masala, and whole pomfret.

• Location: G Floor, Mattar Al Tayer Building, 20 B Street, Al Karama, Dubai.

The Grillshack

The Grillshack offers mostly a meaty menu of steaks, ribs, and burgers in a casual but industrial-style setting in The Dubai Mall - the most visited mall in the world . This is a great example of an American restaurant with other influences from around the world. The kitchen is set in an open style. Their specialties and combos include the Grillshack Platter (BBQ braised beef ribs, grilled chicken tenders, prawns skewer, chicken wings, calamari, and more). Another is the Australian T-bone 500g, that's two cuts in one.

Related: Dubai: How To Plan Your Stay, And What To Expect When You Get There

Taqado Mexican Kitchen (Mall of the Emirates)

The Taqado Mexican Kitchen is set in the Mall of the Emirates and offers a great affordable alternative for those in the mood for some delicious Mexican food. Their main menu includes burritos, burrito boxes, crispy tacos, soft tacos, quesadilla, Mexicali salad, and much luncha salad. They also have multiple locations across the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Mexican food is one of the most highly acclaimed foods in the world, and there are plenty of Mexican dishes everyone should try . See, cheap food in Dubai can be cost-effective!

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The Perfect Dubai Tour and Travel Package for You: Here's Everything You Need to Know

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Dubai has so much to offer that planning the perfect itinerary can feel overwhelming. You need not worry any more! This article will give you insights into the different types of tours and travel packages with which you can unlock the wonders of Dubai.

Are you dreaming of a vacation that combines luxury, adventure and cultural immersion? Look no further than Dubai. This modern oasis in the heart of the Arabian Desert offers a unique blend of old-world charm and futuristic marvels. However, choosing the perfect Dubai tour and travel package can be overwhelming with so many options available. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your trip is everything you’ve ever imagined and more. Whether you’re interested in luxury experiences, family-friendly activities, or adventure-filled excursions, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into everything you need to know to create your dream vacation package.

Understanding Dubai Tour and Travel Packages

Dubai boasts a wide range of tour and travel packages, suitable for various interests and budgets. Here’s everything you need to know:

Dubai tour and travel packages are pre-designed itineraries that combine popular attractions, accommodations, transportation and sometimes meals into a single package. These packages allow travellers to explore the best of Dubai without the hassle of planning each aspect individually.

Types of Dubai Tour and Travel Packages

a) Luxury Packages : If you dream of indulging in opulence and lavish experiences, luxury tour packages in Dubai offer exquisite accommodations, private transfers, VIP access to attractions and personalized services. You can learn more about these packages from the websites of the respective luxury hotels and resorts.

b) Family-Friendly Packages : For families travelling with children, there are numerous family-friendly tour packages available. These packages include activities and attractions suitable for all age groups.

c) Adventure Packages : If you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking thrilling experiences, you can choose from numerous adventure tour packages in Dubai which offer options like desert safaris, dune bashing, skydiving, and water sports.

d) Cultural Packages : Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Dubai with cultural tour packages that include visits to historical sites, traditional souks, and cultural performances.

Benefits of Booking a Tour Package

• Time-saving : With a tour package, you save time by avoiding the hassle of researching and planning every detail of your trip.
• Cost-effective : Tour packages often offer discounted rates as they bundle multiple services together.
• Local Expertise : Tour operators have local knowledge and can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
• Convenience : Everything from accommodation to transportation is taken care of, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation.

Top Dubai Tour and Travel Packages to Consider

Now that you know the different types of Dubai tour packages available, let’s explore some popular options:

Dubai Vacation Packages: Dubai vacation packages are perfect for those looking for an all-inclusive experience. These packages typically include flights, accommodations, airport transfers and a selection of activities tailored to your preferences. It’s a great option for first-time visitors who want a hassle-free vacation.

Dubai City Tour Packages : If you’re short on time but still want to experience the highlights of Dubai, a city tour package is ideal. These packages offer guided tours of iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Museum. You’ll get a taste of what the city has to offer in just a few days.

Desert Safari Packages: A trip to Dubai is incomplete without experiencing the mesmerizing desert landscape. Desert safari packages provide an exhilarating adventure with activities like dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding and traditional Bedouin-style dinners under the stars.

Luxury Cruise Packages: For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a luxury cruise package in Dubai. Explore the city’s coastline aboard a luxurious yacht or dhow cruise while enjoying gourmet dining, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the skyline.

How to Choose the Right Dubai Trip Package?

With numerous options available, choosing the right Dubai tour and travel package can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

Define Your Priorities : Before selecting a tour package, determine your priorities. Are you looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion? Knowing what you want will help narrow down your options.

Read Reviews and Testimonials: Research the tour operator and read reviews from previous travellers. This will give you an idea of the quality of their services and other customers’ experiences.

Compare Prices and Inclusions: Compare prices and inclusions of different tour packages to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Pay attention to what is included in the package, such as accommodations, meals, transportation, and attractions.

Check the Flexibility of Itineraries : Consider whether the tour package allows for customisation or flexibility in itineraries. Check if the tour package offers customisation or flexible itineraries. This flexibility lets you tailor activities to your preferences, ensuring a more personalised experience.

Booking Your Dubai Trip Package

Once you’ve selected the perfect Dubai tour package , it’s time to book your trip. Here’s how:

Book Through a Reputed Travel Agency : To ensure a smooth booking process and a reliable experience, book your Dubai tour package through a reputed travel agency. Look for agencies with positive reviews or those that have established partnerships with trusted service providers. Niyo has partnered with Headout to provide you with seamless access to a wide range of travel experiences and attractions in Dubai. These partnerships ensure that you’ll have access to exclusive deals and convenient booking options for popular tours and activities.

Consider Travel Insurance: While travel insurance is not always included in tour packages, it’s essential to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Consider purchasing travel insurance for a peaceful vacation.

Pack Accordingly: Dubai has a predominantly hot climate, so pack light and comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Key Takeaways

• Dubai offers a wide range of tour packages tailored to different interests and budgets.
• Consider your priorities, read reviews, compare prices and check itineraries before choosing a package.
• Book through a reputable travel agency, check visa requirements, consider travel insurance and pack accordingly.

To manage your finances effectively during your Dubai trip, consider using the Niyo card. With zero forex markup and broad acceptance in over 180 countries, it eliminates extra currency exchange fees and provides a hassle-free way to access money during your travels. And don’t forget to download the Niyo app to unlock exclusive benefits for international travellers.

With this guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to find the perfect Dubai tour and travel package for an unforgettable adventure in this remarkable city. Start planning your dream trip today!

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