It is a fact that Dubai is one of the most luxurious cities in the world. Home to a seven star hotel (Burj Al Arab), the tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa) and several such things, luxury awaits you at every nook and corner of the city. All this also makes Dubai quite an expensive city. Most of the major attractions and tourist places charge an entry fee. Apart from this, you also have to pay for experiences like desert safari tour, dhow cruise, etc. In short, you need to have a good budget to enjoy a holiday in Dubai.
Still, there are some experiences in this Emirate city that you can enjoy for free. A Dubai travel guide can cover your queries about activities and budget, but this should give you a great starting point for your affordable trip. Let us take a look at the top 20 things to do in Dubai without paying any money.
Dune Buggy Dubai
Dubai’s Dunes Await Your Dune Buggy Ride
Free Things to do in Dubai
1. Explore the Bastakiya Quarter Dubai
Amidst all the modernity, opulence and luxury, a small piece of the old Dubai has been preserved at the Bastakiya Quarter, the oldest neighbourhood of Dubai. Known to be home to Persian merchants in the past, the Bastakiya Quarter houses sandstone coloured buildings that have a unique old charm. It is located on the Deira side of Dubai Creek and is quite close to the Dubai Museum. It is a pleasure to walk along the narrow lanes of the area and view the simple but beautiful houses with wind towers (which acted as air-conditioners). Although some of the buildings are private properties, many of them have been turned into museums, hotels, restaurants and cafes which you are free to enter if you want to explore the interiors.
2. Dubai Coffee Museum
One of the places you can visit for free in Bastakiya Quarter is the Coffee Museum. As the name suggests, this museum is completely dedicated to coffee. Apart from learning about the history of coffee and the process of making the brew, you would also be able to see artifacts related to coffee, including a coffee pot that is 300 years old. You would also be able to see different types of roasting demonstrations, old coffee advertisements, etc. during the tour. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and are happy to answer all your coffee-related queries. As you would be engulfed by the aroma of coffee during the tour, you would not be able to resist a cup of coffee at the cafe at the end of the tour. It is super delicious and definitely worth the money.
3. Walk through the Souks of Dubai
Of course, shopping in the souks would cost you money but enjoying the place is absolutely free. The Deira side of Dubai has three souks, namely the gold souk, the perfume souk and the spice souk. The gold souk is a place where you would find around 300 stores full of gold and diamond jewellery. The prices are low and you can also bargain to get a good price. At the perfume souk, you would be able to buy the traditional Arabic attar as well as the new brands of perfumes. On the other hand, the spice souk would give you the chance to buy all kinds of spices available on earth. At the other end of Dubai Creek, on Bur Dubai side, is the textile souk where you can buy all kinds of clothes, garments, etc. Even if you do not want to shop, walk through these souks to experience their unique ambience, which is quite different from that of the modern malls.
4. Visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Amidst the concrete jungle, it would be surprising to find a piece of nature. Yes, such a place exists in Dubai. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Dubai Creek and is home to several species of birds. The best part is that you can watch all these lovely birds free of cost. The place attracts many migratory birds and during winter months, you would be awarded with the sight of pink flamingos. Apart from this, you would also be able to see reef herons, grey herons, sandpipers, great egrets, black-singed stilts, etc. at this wildlife sanctuary. It is a great place to visit if you love nature and like to indulge in bird watching.
5. View the Dubai Aquarium at the Dubai Mall
The largest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall, is home to an indoor aquarium and underwater zoo. If you want to explore place, you have to buy the entry tickets to the aquarium. However, it is possible to enjoy a partial view of the aquarium from the outside. The entrance of the aquarium is a vast acrylic tunnel filled with 245 tonnes of water. The best part is that half of this aquarium tank is visible from outside. So you can stand outside and watch the numerous marine animals including sharks, sting rays, etc. swimming in front of you. The sight of the cool blue waters and the variety of marine animals would want you to stay at the same place for a long time.
6. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
Another free experience awaits you outside the Dubai Mall, which is the Dubai Fountain Show. Known to the largest performing fountain in the whole world, the show happens every half an hour, starting from 6 in the evening and ending at 11 at night. During the five minutes of the show, you would be transported to a different world where colours, lights and music get together to present a beautiful imagery. You would be able to see the colourful fountains dancing in sync with the tune of some soulful music. It is an amazing sight and you can watch the performance of the fountain as many times as you want, without paying any money. This is surely one of the best things to do in Dubai in the evening time.
7. Enjoy an Abra Ride on Dubai Creek
The Dubai Creek has a historical significance, as it is along the banks of the Creek that the Emiratis first settled. In those times, an abra (a traditional boat) was used for transportation from one end to the other end of the Creek. This ride still exists and you must go for it if you want to have an old-world experience. Although the abra ride is not free, you only have to pay AED1 to take one. Riding along the Dubai Creek, you would be able to see the historical side of the Deira area and the modern buildings and other attractions of the Bur Dubai side. The abra ride is one of the best ways of enjoying the beautiful views of the city in a relaxed way.
8. Relax at Jumeirah Beach
Dubai is a coastal city, endowed with some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. Some of these beaches are private properties of hotels and can be accessed only by the hotel guests. However, there are some open beaches too, and the Jumeirah Beach is surely the most popular. The white sand and turquoise waters of the beach gives it a calm and relaxing ambience. You can lounge on the beach for hours or go for a swim or perhaps participate in one of the beach water activities. The beach is also lined with several cafes and best family-friendly restaurants in Dubai where you can have a drink or grab a bite. Moreover, the Jumeirah Beach offers the best view of Hotel Al Arab, the sail shaped seven star hotel. Whatever might be your interests, the Jumeirah Beach is one of the best places to relax and have a good time in the city.
9. Watch a Free Movie at the Open Theatre
There is no dearth of movie theatres and multiplexes in Dubai. However, if you want to have a unique experience without spending anything, you must head to Wafi Pyramids Rooftop Gardens on Sundays. Every Sunday, at 8:30 PM, you would be able to watch a movie while lying under the stars. Unlike the regular theatres, this unique theatre has beanbag chairs for seats. You also have access to different types of food that you can munch while watching the movie. Although the food is not free, you would be able to watch the movie without paying anything.
10. Have a Birthday Blast at Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure Waterpark (a part of Hotel Atlantis the Palm) is one of the finest waterparks in Dubai. So, a free entry to this park may seem impossible. However, it is possible if you plan your birthday on or during your birthday. To avail this offer, you have to visit their website and register your birthday. Once you do this, you would get a voucher which will give you free entry to the Aquaventure Waterpark on your birthday or on one of the six days following it. As the price of tickets to this waterpark is extremely high, it is surely one of the best birthday gifts you can give yourself if you love extreme water sports and slides.
11. Explore the Dubai Marina Walk
For a blend of modernity and leisure, head to the Dubai Marina Walk. This 7-kilometre-long pedestrian promenade is lined with cafes, shops, and captivating views of the marina’s stunning skyscrapers. The walk is enchanting in the evening when the city lights come alive, creating a vibrant and Instagram-worthy atmosphere.
12. Capture a Perfect Selfie Against the Majestic Burj Khalifa
In the heart of Dubai’s skyline stands the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, offering an unparalleled backdrop for an unforgettable selfie. The best times for capturing this selfie spectacle are during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the sky paints a canvas of warm hues, casting a mesmerizing glow on the cityscape. Whether at the base, on the Dubai Mall terrace, or from the serene Burj Park, let the Burj Khalifa be your towering companion in this selfie moment, a testament to your visit to the city of dreams. Remember to play with angles, use natural light to your advantage, and share the magic of Dubai’s skyline with the world through your lens.
13. Discover the Street Art in Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue, located in the industrial Al Quoz district, is Dubai’s contemporary art hub. Roam the streets adorned with colourful murals and graffiti, showcasing the city’s vibrant art scene. The galleries and art spaces within Alserkal Avenue often host free exhibitions and events, providing a unique and ever-changing experience for art enthusiasts.
14. Attend Free Fitness Classes at Dubai Fitness Challenge
For the health-conscious traveller, timing your visit during the Dubai Fitness Challenge can be a game-changer. The city-wide fitness initiative offers many free classes, workouts, and wellness activities at various locations, encouraging the residents and visitors to embrace an active lifestyle.
15. Experience the Serenity of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Escape the city buzz and explore the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, a vast expanse of protected desert ecosystems. While organized tours may come with a cost, you can venture into the reserve independently and revel in the tranquillity of the desert, capturing stunning views of the endless dunes and indigenous wildlife.
16. Camel Museum: Exploring the Cultural Heritage of the Desert
Tucked away in Al Shindagha Heritage Village, the Camel Museum offers a fascinating journey into the cultural significance of the “ship of the desert” in the Arabian way of life. What is even more appealing is that entry to this unique museum is free. Delve into the history of camel breeding, witness traditional equipment used by camel herders, and gain insight into the crucial role camels played in the development of the region.
17. Imagine at Dubai Festival City Mall: A Spectacle of Lights and Music
At Dubai Festival City Mall, the Imagine show transforms the waterfront into a mesmerizing display of lights, music, and water. This nightly spectacle is a feast for the senses and is entirely free for visitors to enjoy. Marvel at the choreographed fountains, captivating projections, and a symphony of colours, creating a magical atmosphere against the backdrop of the city skyline.
18. Explore the Mohammad Bin Rashid Library
Mohammad Bin Rashid Library is a literary haven in the heart of Dubai. It is an architectural marvel and intellectual hub. Entry to this state-of-the-art library is free, allowing visitors to explore its vast collection of books, engage in cultural events, and enjoy the modern design that reflects Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to education and literature.
19. Take a Spiritual Journey through Islamic Architecture at Bur Dubai Grand Mosque
Discover the rich cultural and religious heritage of Dubai on a free tour of the Bur Dubai Grand Mosque. The mosque welcomes guests of all religions and provides guided tours so that they may discover Islamic customs and marvel at its elaborate architecture and tranquil grounds. Immerse yourself in the serene ambience and learn more about the importance of mosques in the local community.
20. Hiking at Hatta Mountain
Escape the urban scene and venture to the Hatta Mountain Conservation Area, where hiking trails wind through the rugged landscape. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains, freshwater pools, and historic sites. The trails are free to explore, offering a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.
With these 20 free things to do, you can now save a lot and analyse Dubai trip costs better, based on estimations of accomodations, transport and food. All you need to do is get your visa, book your tickets, pack your bags and head to the city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. How can I access the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, and is there a specific time for the best fountain shows?
The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is accessible from the Burj Park and the Waterfront Promenade. While entry is free, the best time to experience the fountain shows is in the evening, when the spectacular lights and music performances take place.
2. What is the best time to spot migratory birds at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary, and are there any birdwatching guides available for visitors?
The best time to spot migratory birds at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary is during the winter months. While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, and informative guides on the sanctuary’s website can aid in identifying various bird species.
3. Are there specific times or seasons when the Dubai Fitness Challenge offers free fitness classes, and how can visitors participate?
The Dubai Fitness Challenge typically takes place annually, and during this period, various free fitness classes, workouts, and wellness activities are organized throughout the city. Check the official website for event schedules and participation details.
4. Is entry to the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve entirely free, and are there any guidelines for independent exploration of the reserve?
While organized tours may have a cost, entry to the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve itself is free of cost. Visitors can explore independently and follow guidelines for respecting the environment and wildlife in this protected area.
5. Are the exhibitions and events at Alserkal Avenue always free, or are there specific occasions when they offer complimentary access to galleries and art spaces?
While the street art in Alserkal Avenue is free to enjoy, individual galleries and art spaces may have varying policies. Some offer free exhibitions and events, especially during specific art festivals or cultural celebrations. Check the schedule of each art space for more details.