places to visit dubai for free

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

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

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

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

EXPLORE THE CITY’S RICH CULTURE

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

1. THE STREETS OF AL SEEF 

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

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

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

2. TREAT YOURSELF TO THE STREET ART AT AL KARAMA

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

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

• Timings: Open 24/7

3. TOUR THE GRAND BUR DUBAI MOSQUE

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

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

4. LET YOUR INNER ARTIST OUT AT ALSERKAL AVENUE

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

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

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

5. VISIT THE CAMEL RACING FESTIVAL

Dubai’s famed Camel Racing Festival is the best way to see these majestic creatures outdo each other. Best of all, it’s free.

Celebrating a sport deeply rooted in the region, much like the city itself, the festival is one of the best free activities for those who like to explore the country’s culture. What’s the best way to experience camel racing in Dubai ? Plan your trip during the Al Marmoom Heritage Village Festival.

The annual competition attracts thousands of visitors every year. It’s one of the best things to do in Al Marmoom . You can also explore the nature reserve and indulge in other activities too.

• Location: Al Ain Road, Al Marmoom
• Contact: +971-4-832-6526

6. EXPLORE A BEACH LIBRARY

If you want to catch up on your reading without skipping the beach, visit any of the city’s free beach libraries. You can find these libraries on several public beaches in Dubai, including Al Mamzar Corniche and Umm Suqeim 1 .

7. VISIT THE OLD SOUKS

A shopping spree isn’t cost-free under usual circumstances, but there is no rule against some window shopping.

Malls and stores aside, the traditional souks in Dubai provide enough free entertainment, especially for new visitors.

The Dubai Spice Souk, Old Souk Dubai and Deira Gold Souk are examples. You don’t have to buy anything. The trinkets, spices and colourful garments on display offer plenty of Insta-worthy opportunities. It’s one of the best things to do in Dubai for free.

• Location : Multiple Locations
• Timing: Until 9:00 pm

BEST FREE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN DUBAI

From free camping spots to verdant parks, wildlife and more, Dubai is also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the best Dubai places to visit for free for those who love the great outdoors.

8. PLAN A PICNIC AT PUBLIC PARKS IN DUBAI

The parks in Dubai are a natural first pick for your “best places to visit in Dubai for free” list. From picnic spots to barbecue facilities and play areas for kids, the city’s public parks are ideal for Dubai families looking for cost-free leisure pursuits.

Free entry facilities include Al Barsha Pond Park and Burj Park. Although most of the parks offer free access to differently-abled visitors and children under a certain age.

9. SEE THE FLAMINGOS AT RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Next on our list of places to visit in Dubai for free is the  Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary . Home to many bird species like flamingos, the sanctuary is an ideal way to witness flocks in their natural habitat without spending a dime.

Periodic feeding sessions allow visitors to see the birds up close. Also, you won’t have to worry about getting scorched by the sun, because the viewing areas are shaded and airconditioned, making it one of the best free indoor spots in Dubai. 

• Location: Building 20, Baniyas Road, Deira Area
• Timings: Winter (October – March), 07:30 am – 05:30 pm | Summer (April – September), 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
• Contact: +971-800-900

10. HAVE A BEACH DAY

Visiting the beach is the best plan for anyone looking for free things to do in Dubai. Head to free-entry beaches in Dubai and take advantage of the facilities, including running tracks, volleyball courts and skate parks.

Some popular public beaches in Dubai include the JBR beach , Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach.

11. HAVE A BBQ AT AL QUDRA LAKE 

One of the most popular BBQ places in the city, Al Qudra Lake offers its visitors some of the best free things to do in the city. 

This is also one of the most popular free things to do in Dubai during the Eid holidays and long breaks! It is one of the best BBQ spots in Dubai .

12. Go Camping at Al Qudra

Al Qudra Lake is also one of the best UAE camping spots . There are no charges for entering the park, and you won’t have to spend anything to pitch a tent either.

But make sure you bring everything for a campfire if you plan on staying overnight, as it can get chilly.

13. GO CYCLING

Al Qudra is also a major attraction for both professional and amateur cyclists. One, you get to cycle while enjoying the pristine views of the lake. Secondly, it’s free, as long as you bring your own bike. Bike rentals are available at the Trek Dubai store near the track. It is also one of the best cycling trails in Dubai .

You can also go cycling at Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park . Other places, like the Dubai Autodrome, also offer free access to their tracks on certain days of the week.

HISTORICAL PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI FOR FREE

Dubai was once a modest fishing village before it rose to fame as a luxury tourist destination and skyscraper haven. You can see the city’s architecture when its economy relied on pearl diving and fishing — by wandering the streets and visiting some of the museums. Here’s a list of all the places to visit in Dubai with family for free!

14. EXPLORE THE BASTAKIYA

Want to explore Dubai’s history? Visitors can experience the heritage and culture of the UAE in the historical neighbourhood of Bastikiya free of charge! Also known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood , Al Bastakiya offers a glimpse of the city’s old architecture similar to traditional desert homes in the UAE.

• Location: Al Fahidi Historical District 
• Timings: Open 24 hours

15. GO TO THE HATTA HERITAGE VILLAGE

Another place where you can learn more about the city’s history for free is the Hatta Heritage Village . If you ever wanted to know what the city looked like before the oil and tourism industry made it the modern Utopia we know, this is the best place for you.

The village features forts, citadels and towers. You can also visit the “Bait Al Wali”, the home of the local ruler of the time.

• Location: Hatta (Around 134 kilometres along the Hajar Mountains area)

16. VISIT THE FREE MUSEUMS IN DUBAI

Looking for  free things to do in Dubai with kids ? Take them to any free-entry museums in Dubai, such as the Coin Museum and Coffee Museum. These museums offer kids a chance to learn about the nation’s history and view artefacts from the past.

OTHER FREE PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI

Apart from museums and natural wonders, here are some other fun activities and places to visit in Dubai for free.

17. BIND YOUR LOVE TO THE LOVE LOCK BRIDGE AT THE YARD

Looking for a pocket-friendly date night? Head to the Love Lock Bridge at the Yard with a lock and key. You can place a lock customised with the initials of you and your loved one to the bridge, and toss the key off the bridge. No need to travel to the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris for this experience!

The Love Lock Bridge at the Yard is easily one of the fun things to do in Dubai for free with your loved one. The Yard is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai for free. However, if the Love Lock Bridge is not something you’re looking for, there are plenty of other activities at The Yard . 

• Location: Al Khawaneej Last Exit D89
• Al Seef Timing: Open 24 hours

18. VISIT LA MER

Another great free place to visit in Dubai is La Mer. Complete with quirky installations and colourful street art, La Mer is one of the  top selfie spots in Dubai . There is also La Mer Beach, which offers visitors a range of fun watersports activities for the whole family! And if the urge to splurge hits, you can always shop at the stores in La Mer .

Our review of La Mer will help you know all the details about the location and its attractions.

• Retail: Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• Restaurants and cafes: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• Contact: +971-800-637-227

19. CATCH A GLIMPSE OF AIN DUBAI AT BLUEWATERS ISLAND

Bluewaters Island is another one of the popular places to visit in Dubai for free. The area is home to Ain Dubai – the largest observation wheel in the UAE.

The best way to get to the island is by car, as no direct metro or bus route goes there. If public transportation is your only option, the closest metro station to Bluewaters Island is DMCC, but you must hail a cab to get there.

20. TAKE A WATERFRONT STROLL ON THE MARINA WALK

The Dubai Marina Walk is a popular tourist spot in the city. Enjoy a relaxing stroll with the family or even a jog across the Marina Walk. The waterfront and the docked yachts make for some spectacular views. 

21. WATCH THE DANCING FOUNTAINS IN DUBAI

This is probably the most popular among free things to do in Dubai. Just head to Dubai Mall and enjoy the spectacular show of the world’s largest choreographed fountain system the Dubai Fountain , that dance to the popular tunes of Whitney Houston and Celine Dion and many more. It is among the best family places to visit in Dubai for free.

• Location: Dubai Mall
• Timings: Every half hour in the evenings, from 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm.

22. WATCH THE WATERFALL AT THE DUBAI WATER CANAL

The Dubai Water Canal is one of the top places to visit in the emirate and a natural pick for places to see in Dubai for free. The 6.4km artificial canal also features a 3km running track and a 12km cycling path, making it the perfect spot for fitness enthusiasts looking for free places to exercise in the emirate.

Nevertheless, if working out is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of open spaces and benches along the waterfront of the Canal where you can kick back and relax. There is also a mechanical waterfall, that changes colours and acts as a curtain when boats pass through it. 

You can get to the Dubai Canal by car or metro. If you travel by car, you can park at the ‘Dubai Water Canal Walkway Parking’ and walk to the canal. For those using public transportation, the closest metro station to the Dubai Canal Waterfall is the Business Bay; from there, the Dubai Waterfall is a 5-minute walk away.

23. SHARE SOME LOVE AT LOVE LAKE

Considered one of the best romantic spots in Dubai , Love Lake at Al Qudra offers a fun way to explore the desert. The entire area of Love Lake has been crafted in a way that the lakes and fauna of the area, spell out the word ‘Love’ with two hearts. One of the fairly new things to do in Dubai for free, this place comes equipped with shaded areas with fire pits and facilities such as washrooms. 

• Location: Al Qudra Lake, Dubai

24. ENJOY THE SUNSET AT THE VIEWING DECK AT DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR

If you’re wondering where to go in Dubai at night for free, look no further than Dubai Creek Harbour . It is located between Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. The area is popular for its picturesque views. The Viewing Deck has added to the attraction of this place, which is an extension of the Grand Creek Harbour development.

So if you want to enjoy the glitzy Dubai skyline or want to bask in the glow of a setting sun, you should add the Viewing Deck to your must-visit list. The platform is free to access by all and can be easily regarded as one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

FAQS ABOUT THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI FOR FREE

Where can i go shopping in dubai.

You can go shopping in Dubai at traditional souks such as Deira Gold Souk and Old Souk. Other options to explore include the famous Dubai Mall, Boxpark and The Beach at JBR.

ARE THERE ANY THEME PARKS IN DUBAI?

Yes! Some of the best theme parks in Dubai include Aquaventure Waterpark, Motiongate Dubai and Legoland.

CAN I VISIT DUBAI MALL FOR FREE?

Yes you can! In fact, there are certain free things to do in Dubai Mall, such as exploring the Fashion Avenue. See the human waterfall and enjoy the fountain show.

WHICH ACTIVITIES ARE UNDER AED 100 IN DUBAI?

There are plenty of things to do in Dubai under AED 100 . You can visit the Miracle Garden, Dubai Garden Glow, Safari Park, Flying Cup and Dubai Frame.

That’s everything about the places to visit in Dubai for free and cost-free things to do. If you are not on a budget, here are other things to do in Dubai . Want to walk on the wild side? Sign up for some exciting adventures in Dubai during your next trip. For die-hard thrill-seekers, there are some extreme things to do in Dubai .

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very informative

Thank you so much for your feedback!

Thank you for this, I will sure have a splendid time with family visiting dubai next year

Hello! We’re glad to be of service.

Our blog has a lot of information helpful for anyone visiting the UAE for the first time. This includes attraction reviews, tips on travelling around the city using public transport and even a guide to the Dubai Airport. A quick search on our blog can get you all this information and more. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, do reach out to us. We will try out best to get the information to you.

Thnks its really vry helpful

Hello Kiran, thank you so much for your feedback!

Thank you, the information was very helpful.

Hello Jemima, thank you for the kind words of appreciation. We’re glad to know our article was helpful to you.

Thank you. Very informative

love all of these they helped with my school presentation thanks. UwU

That’s amazing, Brittany! If you need any more information on the latest attractions and activities in Dubai, you can also check out the Pulse section of our blog.

Thanks, This article was very helpful … Well done bayut team.

Hello! Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re grateful for readers like you.

It’s awesome I like it

Thank you so much! We’re happy that you’re happy!

Hey ED! Thank you for this wonderful post! I feel being physically there — in every places you’ve mentioned here — even I’m not ( just seating here in our kitchen) Lol. It actually gives me a good feeling.

Also, it’s very informative. Will read other linked post under this article. I really appreciate your research and choice of place. Thank you so much!

Thank you so much for your kind words! We hope you enjoy reading the other posts too.

Hi I want to know if the flamingos at Ras al Khor wildlife center hass any more animals ???

Hello! According to the Dubai Municipality website, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to countless species of birds, reptiles, fish and invertebrates. However, birds are the most prominent with over 180 different specie calling the sanctuary home.

I must say you have written it very well that while reading this it made me feel that i am experiencing it personally. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you for your kind words Dipika!

Definitely I will visit all these places

That’s amazing! Let us know which one is your favourite!

So glad to know you enjoyed this post!

I am from the UAE and I visited half of these places. I really recommended it. As you know UAE has all the places that a person wish for. Yes, also all these places Bayut are talking about they are free and also beautiful.

That’s amazing! Which of these spots did you love the most? We’d love to know. 😀

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Top free things to do in Dubai: the City of Gold for next to nothing

Mar 23, 2021 • 6 min read

Dubai has a reputation for five-star luxury, but the city also has plenty to see and do for free © Funny Solution Studio / Shutterstock

Dubai might be known as the City of Gold, but that doesn't mean it has to cost the earth to explore the city. Dubai has a number of fascinating free things to do, including edgy art galleries, museums in the historic Al Fahidi district and relaxing on the city's beautiful beaches.

Here are the best things to do in Dubai for free.

Admire contemporary art at Alserkal Avenue

Contemporary art from the Middle East and beyond has found a home at Alserkal Avenue in Dubai thanks to the vision of Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal. The local developer and arts patron has turned a sprawling warehouse complex in dusty Al Quoz into a buzzing gallery and cultural campus. Many of the galleries at Alserkal Avenue are free to visit, and you'll also find restaurants, cafes, fashion and homeware stores, a vintage car showroom and even a fitness studio .

Have fun in the sun at Kite Beach

Dubai has more than 25 miles (40km) of golden sand coastline, but much of it has been land-grabbed by five-star hotels that charge an expensive daily rate for access.  Kite Beach  in Umm Suqeim is a free sandy beach that has lifeguards and is popular with families. It boasts a boardwalk with a handful of cool cafes, along with changing facilities, sunbed and beach umbrella rental, watersports and the XDubai Skatepark.

Top 7 beaches in Dubai

Be awed by the fine art at Majlis Gallery

Majlis Gallery , Dubai's oldest fine art gallery, was founded in 1989 by British expat Alison Collins and presents mainly paintings and sculpture by international artists inspired by the region, as well as high-quality pottery, glass and other crafts. It's located in an old wind-tower house on the edge of Al Fahidi Historic District . The central courtyard surrounds a magnificent henna tree.

Keep up-to-date with all the hippest artists at XVA Gallery

Tucked into the Al Fahidi Historic District, the free-entry  XVA Gallery has a knack for ferreting out top-notch up-and-comers from around the Middle East and India. Works often express the artists' cultural identities and challenge viewers' preconceptions. XVA also participates in prestigious art fairs such as Art Basel and Art London and holds regular art courses.

Learn about the importance of coffee at the Coffee Museum

The cute, privately run Coffee Museum in a historic Emirati home offers an aromatic bean-based journey around the world and back in time. Learn about the importance of coffee in different cultures, examine a rotating roster of old grinders, pots, roasters and related implements, and sample freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee prepared by costumed staff. Upstairs is a reading room, a children's corner and a stylish cafe.

The best time to go to Dubai

Celebrate animation at Cartoon Art Gallery

The bi-level Cartoon Art Gallery  is the first in the Middle East dedicated to cartoon and animation art from across the entire spectrum of media, from paint to video and print. Exhibitions might feature artwork and posters illustrating the world of Tintin or present animated cartoons by such famous names as Japanese artist Hayao Miyazaki. It's steps away from Alserkal Avenue.

Discover ancient money at the Coin Museum

The Coin Museum  is a highly specialized museum that will appeal to anyone with an interest in rare and historic coins. Located near the Diwan Mosque in the Al Fahidi Historic District, this small eight-room museum presents nearly 500 rare coins from throughout the Middle East, including Egypt, Turkey and Morocco. The oldest were minted during the Arab-Sasanian era in the 7th century.

Sit back and relax while watching movies under the stars

Every Sunday night during the cooler months, clued-in cinephiles invade the rooftop of the Pyramids Building, next to the Wafi Mall, for Movies Under the Stars . Drop into a giant beanbag and enjoy a free classic flick; it's a great deal for film buffs.

9. Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili

In 1923, this beautifully restored home tucked into the narrow lanes on the edge of the Spice Souq became the home of Saudi-born Mubarak Bin Al Oqaili (1875–1954), one of the most important classical Arabic poets. At the free  Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili , a bilingual exhibit charts milestones in his life and work and also displays original manuscripts and personal belongings such as his desk, a gun and a pen. With its richly carved teak doors, beamed ceilings, serene ambience and festive majlis (reception room), the private residence alone is worth a visit and makes for a nice respite from the bustling markets.

Be amazed by the Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa . Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 460ft (140m), all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers.

Go bird watching at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Incongruously framed by highways, the surprising Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary on Dubai Creek is an important stopover for migratory waterbirds on the east Africa–west Asian flyway. Gracious pink flamingos steal the show in winter, but avid birdwatchers can spot more than 170 species in this pastiche of salt flats, mudflats, mangroves and lagoons.

The sanctuary is free to visit, and three accessible hides (platforms) house fantastically sharp binoculars. There are common sightings of broadbilled sandpipers and Pacific golden plovers. In winter, great spotted eagles and other raptors may be patrolling the skies.

The 9 best parks in Dubai

Marvel at the engineering at Dubai Canal and Sheikh Zayed Bridge Waterfall

Inaugurated in 2016, the Dubai Canal is a feat of engineering that connects the mouth of Dubai Creek with the Gulf in a horseshoe shape. A promenade conducive to jogging and walking  parallels both banks, and a highlight of a walk here is the illuminated and motion-operated waterfall that cascades down both sides of Sheikh Zayed Bridge from 7pm to 10pm, stopping only for passing vessels.

While office and hotel high-rises are being built at a frantic pace in Business Bay (including the hip  Dubai Design District ), the waterfront on the final stretch will be lined with residences, boutique hotels, cafes, marinas and other public spaces. A floating restaurant and yacht club are also planned, as well as other state-of-the-art waterborne buildings.

Contemplate the history of policing at Dubai Police Museum

You can't miss the Dubai Police Museum , mostly thanks to the plethora of super-car police vehicles parked outside. Part of Dubai Police Academy, this small and somewhat curious free museum is full of historical info on Dubai’s police force and has interesting pictures, cannons and vintage pieces of equipment.

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This article was originally published on March 23, 2021

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30+ Incredible Places To Visit In Dubai For Free

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

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

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

Watch the Dubai Fountains show

• Visit Expo 2020

Enjoy the IMAGINE sound and light show

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

• Enjoy sunset from the Palm Boardwalk

Soak in the beach vibes at La Mer

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

• Get into Aquaventure free

Enjoy art, fashion & fun at Alserkal Avenue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>> Learn more about Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the sunset from the Palm Boardwalk

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

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

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

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

>> You can learn more at larmerdubai.ae

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>> Learn more about at coffeemusuem.ae

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>> Learn more at citywalk.ae

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

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

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

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

>> Learn more at ripeme.com

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

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

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

Get into Aquaventure Free

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

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

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

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

>> Learn more about accessing Love Lakes Dubai here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>> You can learn more at dubaracingclub.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take me back to top attractions in Dubai

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

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Dubai’s Freebie Bonanza: 15 Places To Visit In Dubai For Free

Splurge on fun, not funds, adventures that won’t cost you a Dirham!

Dubai – the epitome of bling, where the expression “high roller” isn’t just a lifestyle, it’s the air you breathe. It’s where the word “budget” is whispered in hushed tones and the town where Ferraris outnumber the pigeons. 

For the savvy visitor, Dubai would possibly appear like a tantalizing mirage, a jackpot simply ready to be cracked open. But fear not, adventurous souls, for we are about to spill Dubai’s juiciest mystery – its stash of free goodies. Yep, you heard it! Wave goodbye to the idea that Dubai is best for the elite, join us as we unearth the places to visit in Dubai for free and help dreams come true for the budget-savvy explorer.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Dubai For Free

From pristine beaches to culture-packed adventures, Dubai dishes out activities that won’t put a dent to your piggy bank!

1. Catch The Spectacular Dubai Fountains Show 

The Dubai Fountain is a showstopper because it’s the largest choreographed fountain machine in the world, boasting enchanting water jets that reach up to 500 ft, dancing to energetic tunes and vibrant lighting. This one is one of the top tourist places in Dubai.

Timings : Catch the motion every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM each day (1:00 PM on Fridays).

Location : Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai.

How To Reach: 

Metro : Ride the Red line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. A 15-minute stroll through Dubai Mall leads you to The Dubai Fountain.

Bus : From the World Trade Centre region, hop on bus line 29 at World Trade Centre Hotel. It’s simply one stop to Dubai Mall.

2. Discover Dubai’s Vibrant Street Art Scene!

One of the top Dubai attractions, City Walk is your passport to a whirlwind of creativity! With Instagram-worthy street art decorating each corner. Snap a selfie with the long-lasting ‘I Love DXB’ graffiti and discover vibrant work of art by street art legends like Lady Aiko and Ron English.

Timings : Open 24 hours

Location : City Walk, Dubai.

How to Reach : From primary Dubai, take Sheikh Zayed Road/E11 towards Jebel Ali. Exit at 50A close to DIFC onto Al Safa Street/D71, then turn onto Happiness Street to attain City Walk.

3. Unearth Treasure Of The Past, In Dubai’s Enchanting Coin Museum!

Step into the Coin Museum and buckle up for a wild experience thru time! With telescope monitors, contact displays, and presentation shelves, you’ll be completely immersed in the world of ancient coins. Explore certain details like the metal that was used, length, form, and minting date of every coin with just a slight touch. 

Timings : Open from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, besides Fridays and Saturdays.

Location : Dubai Heritage Village, Bur Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates.

How To Reach: The nearest metro station to the Coin Museum in Dubai is Al Fahidi Metro Station.

4. Let Loose At Alserkal Avenue, A Hipster’s Paradise

A bustling road lined with galleries, cafes, and indie boutiques, It’s a haven where you may say goodbye to the mainstream and indulge in your internal hipster. This is one of the top places to visit in Dubai for free.

One of the highlights of Alserkal Avenue is its ever-evolving roster of artwork exhibitions and installations. From avant-garde sculptures to thought-provoking illustrations. Alserkal Avenue, is a temple for emerging artists and captivating performances.

Timings : The street is open during the week, however timings for the galleries and cafes might also vary. It’s fine to check beforehand for precise opening hours.

Location : Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

How To Reach: Take the metro to Gulf Bank station, then take a bus to Al Quoz Bin Yaleith Mosque. From there, it’s only a quick ride to reach Alserkal Avenue!

5. Flamingo Fandango, At Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Are you looking out for an up close and personal encounter of the flamingo fiesta? Then, head to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spy on those majestic birds from cozy hiding huts with binoculars, boasting of rich mangroves, lagoons and salt flats. Witness the yearly migration of birds against a beautiful backdrop of natural abundance! – all without spending a dirham! 

Timings : 7:30am – 5:30pm

Location : Oud Metha Oud Metha Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

How To Reach: Although there is no metro station nearby, you could definitely get close! Take the Green Line to Al Jadaf or Creek stations, then catch a short taxi ride to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.

6. Saunter On The Wild Side Of The Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

In the city that never settles for average, escape the rush hour with a free walk at Dubai’s coolest spots – the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk! With enthralling seaside views along the crescent, it is the ultimate therapy that revitalizes you from an awful day. Located on Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, gives a picturesque place for a leisurely walk near the sea, allowing you to enjoy a chilled out day without any hassle. It sure is a spectacle not to be missed when you visit Dubai.

Location : Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.

Timings : Open all day

How To Reach: The Palm Atlantis Monorail Station is the closest public shipping stop to the Boardwalk. 

7. Dive Into The Duck-Tastic Delights Of Al Qudra Lake

Escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai’s center with a 30-minute jaunt to Al Qudra Lakes – your free of cost ticket to nature’s bounty! Whether it’s picnicking, cycling alongside the scenic track, or bird watching all day, there’s something for all of us to revel in. Plus, where else can you spot desert foxes, oryx, and even flamingos, all in one place?  Al Qudra Lakes allows you to be a part of a serene sanctuary where you could unwind and hook up with nature – all without spending a dirham!

Location : Al Qudra Lakes, Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai.

Timings : Open from dawn to sundown 

How To Reach: From Downtown Dubai, take the E66 highway, then exit onto E77. Next, take exit 27 onto D63 towards Al Qudra, and follow it to the lakes. 

Book Now: Full day Al Marmoom, Al Qudra Lakes, Animal Spotting with Dinner

8. Get Lost In The Glittering Labyrinths Of Dubai’s Old-Style Gold And Spice Souks

Immerse yourself within the colorful atmosphere of the bustling vintage souk. From shimmering gold treasures to aromatic spices, stunning pashmina shawls and wonderful frankincense, the market offers a feast for the senses. While you can not buy these delights without spending some money, wandering through the market is an unforgettable experience that won’t cost you anything.

Location : Northern side of Deira Creek near Al Ras Metro Station.

Timings : Open each day from 9am – 1pm and 4pm – 10pm.

How To Reach: Take the Green Line metro to Al Ras Metro Station. From there, hop on a small boat for AED 1.

9. Experience Cinematic Delights Under the Stars At Wafi’s Pyramids 

Join the blockbuster brigade at Pyramids at Wafi, films shine bright and wallets stay tucked away here! This unique rooftop cinema boasts a relaxed vibe that draws locals and tourists alike.

Every Sunday, the Pyramids at Wafi transmute into a starlit cinema paradise, complete with popcorn, hotdogs, and Hollywood classics. It’s the greatest Movie night experience and places to visit in dubai for free.

Location : Pyramids Building, Wafi Mall, Dubai, UAE.

Timings : Sundays, the timings can vary based on the show timings.

How to Reach: Take the RTA Green Line metro to Healthcare City Metro Station, and Wafi Mall is just a short walk away.

10. Unlock Your Inner Art Aficionado At Jameel Art Center

Dive into Dubai’s cultural scene at the Jameel Arts Centre, in which innovation meets imagination! This contemporary space, designed by a UK- based award-winning company, offers a treasure trove of events, workshops, and installations – all totally free!

Explore 10 galleries spread across 3 spacious floors, adorned with courtyards, terraces, and desert gardens. It is surely one of the most elegant places to see in Dubai. Don’t miss the 33 species of botanical wonderland that sprawls across this space from deserts around the world.

Location : Jaddaf Waterfront, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Timings : Saturdays to Thursdays (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Fridays from 12:00 midday to 10:00 pm.

How To Reach: The closest stations to Jameel Arts Centre are Al Jaddaf Metro Bus Stop A (a fifteen-minute stroll) and Al Jadaf (a 22-minute walk).

11. Dive Into Dubai’s Free Aquarium Views

Lauded as one of the most exciting places to visit in Dubai, The main tank of Dubai Aquarium is where you can skip the splurge and feast your eyes on the mesmerizing aqua life. It’s the right way to thoroughly enjoy one of Dubai Mall’s top attractions without spending loads. You can check the world’s largest acrylic panel, housing an array of aquatic wonders, right from outside the aquarium entrance. It’s a fin-tastic experience you definitely wouldn’t want to miss!

Timings : Open 24/7 

Location : Outside Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall

How To Reach: Hop at the Red Line of the Dubai Metro and towards Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. Take a brief stroll to Dubai Mall.

12. Unleash Your Inner Bookworm At The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Step into the arena’s largest library designed like an open book, nestled alongside the scenic Dubai Creek! With over one million titles that one can explore through the nine floors, this literary paradise is one of the most educational and free things to do in Dubai.

The library needs your undivided interest with its first-class construction shaped like a conventional Islamic lectern, boasting study rooms, a cafe, a well designed exhibition space and even a theater! Plus, do not miss the kid’s area because it is quite heart warming– it’s the best spot to ignite a love for learning in your babies.

Timings : Reserve your slot via the library’s app or online

Location : Along Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf

How To Reach: Drive alongside Al Khail Road (D68) close to the Dubai Creek crossing, then take the exit to Creek Metro Station and Mohammed bin Rashid Library. The huge library sign would be within your view.

13. Bean There And Brewed That Aroma-Filled Delights Of Dubai’s Coffee Haven

Brew-tiful adventures await in the coffee museum . Lovers of coffee understand the importance of the historic relevance of their brew and this place is just right for such indulgences. Rare artifacts, including a 300-year-old espresso pot and a sensory experience as you study exceptional coffee varieties are all found under one roof. It’s the right selection of activities in Dubai for espresso fanatics in search of a bean-tastic journey!

Timings : Open each day from 9am to 5pm

Location : Villa forty four, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

How To Reach: You can reach the Coffee Museum in Dubai by hiring a taxi or hopping on a  metro. The nearest metro stations, Faheidi and Bastakiya, are only a 4 to 5-minute stroll away, about 250-three hundred meters from the museum.

14. Laugh In The Face Of Gravity As You Conquer Dubai’s Infinity Tower

Nestled amidst the glitz and glamor of Dubai’s skyline, the Infinity Tower stands tall, providing a breathtaking vista in an effort to leave you awe-struck. This architectural marvel is not just a beautiful sight to look at, it also offers you a thrilling experience,The best part? It is also one of the places to visit in Dubai for free.

Capture Insta-worthy photos against the stunning backdrop of Dubai’s skyline because the Cayan Tower is also the most photographed construction within the international community! 

Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sundown

Location : 1202, Al Barsha Heights, Tecom, Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

How To Reach: The nearest stations to Cayan Tower are:

Mina Al Siyahi, Le Meridien Hotel – 02: Just a 6-minute walk, approximately 366 meters away.

Marina Towers Tram Station: An 8-minute stroll and around 551 meters away.

15. Rumble At Dubai’s Free Pehlwani Wrestling Extravaganza

In Dubai, Pehlwani wrestling embodies the culture and modernity, presenting visitors a completely unique glimpse into both the dynamic spirit and the ancient art form of the city.  Many people from different countries come here just to watch the men wrestle it out and you can watch too at no cost!

Timings : Every Friday, starting from 5:00 pm Onwards

Location : Catch the Action at Deira’s Sandlot behind the Fish Market

How To Reach: You can board the Red Line of the Dubai Metro and disembark at City Centre Deira Metro Station.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, a carefully curated list of places to visit in Dubai for free. Dubai might have a recognition for being too luxurious, but you know what? There’s an extra depth to the glitz and glamor and a lot of free activities that you can witness. Think spectacular fountain shows, Jaw-dropping views coupled with insta-worthy street art – all of this and more that comes at a free cost!

So, the next time you are in Dubai, do not let your wallet hold you back! Push the conventional ideas out of your way and dare to travel because making unforgettable memories never costs anything!

Check out the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show or go on a journey exploring the colorful street art scene!

Take a moonlit walk alongside the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk or snuggle up for a free movie night underneath the glistening stars at Wafi’s Pyramids.

Head to Al Qudra Lake for nature-filled evenings and a picnic with your loved ones or dive into the lively souks of Old Dubai for a real cultural experience.

While entry isn’t free of cost, you may still enjoy the gorgeous main tank view from outdoors without spending anything.

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10 Free Things to Do in Dubai

Dubai is one of the world's newest and most talked about travel playgrounds. The city's transformation from desert to major destination began just a few decades ago, yet Dubai now boasts the world's tallest building, the largest shopping mall, and some of the planet's most luxurious shopping opportunities. Entertainment here ranges from indoor snow skiing to camel racing. Many of these activities come with extravagant price tags. 

What follows is a list of ten free things to do in Dubai. Sprinkle your Dubai itinerary with these enjoyable freebies and make your visit more affordable.

Ascend Jebel Hafeet

Jebel Hafeet is a mountain that affords spectacular views of the region, and it can be ascended by foot or by vehicle at no cost.

Those seeking spectacular views in Dubai frequently take an elevator to the top of the area's highrises.  Burj Khalifa , the world's tallest building, rises 2,717 feet above the city. The cost of visiting its highest observation deck ranges from $35-$82 USD per adult, and long lines also could cost precious time.

If that seems a bit too expensive, Jebel Hafeet allows for a much more extensive view, as it is about 16 miles long and several miles across.  Hafeet Mountain Road  is the winding route that takes you to about 3,900 feet above sea level. If you're willing to brave this potentially dangerous road at night, you can see some terrific views of the city lights.

Visit The Rooftop Gardens at Wafi Pyramids

Wafi Pyramids Rooftop Gardens  quickly makes the itineraries of budget travelers because it hosts the "Movies under the Stars" events that are popular and free each Sunday at 8:30 p.m. The outdoor theater features beanbag chairs and access to food and beverages.

There are other entertainment venues here that will require money. But it costs nothing to soak in the atmosphere.

This is also a place for splurge dining. Scores of good restaurants offering Italian, Asian, and Continental cuisine line the passageways.

Window Shop at the Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall , in the shadow of Burj Khalifa, is the world's second-largest mall. That fact in itself makes this a worthy tourist destination, and it costs nothing to survey the vast shopping areas.  

Inside the mall, your visit will require some planning. This is a shopping center of 5.9 million square feet, with 1,200 stores that attract millions of annual visitors. The numbers are astounding, but the list of "bests" and "biggest" are under constant dispute from other malls around the world.

Look past all those claims and enjoy observing some unique attractions, such as a 10,000 sq. ft "sweet shop," a 245-ton aquarium, and a giant indoor amusement park. To take full advantage of these attractions requires money, but observations are free.

Watch Dubai's Dancing Fountains

Next door to the mall, Dubai's famous  dancing fountains  are billed as "the world's largest performing fountain." This free attraction resembles the Las Vegas Bellagio show with 6,000 lights and 50 color projectors.

The shows run about five minutes in length and are staged from 6-11 p.m. and sometimes during midday periods. Go to the Waterfront Promenade just outside the mall.

Explore the Gold Souk

Gold Souk  literally means gold market, and you'll see a variety of products rarely matched elsewhere. The location is 54 Al Khor St.

If you're thinking about buying, do your research before arrival. Not every advertised "deal" will work to your benefit. The government does regulate the products, so worry less about authenticity and more about price. Bargaining is common, but knowing the true market value of a piece before buying is essential.

It costs nothing to stroll and observe. You'll see gold jewelry and diamonds from this area and other parts of the Middle East and Asia.

Visit Ras Al Khor Wildlife Santuary

Ras Al Khor  is a wildlife sanctuary that sits at the mouth of the Dubai Creek, and its home to many species of birds. However, it is best known as the place to see scores of flamingos during the cooler months. There is no entry fee.

Dubai sometimes comes off as rather plastic and artificial, so this site becomes one of relatively few natural attractions. If you're a bird watcher, it might fill an entire day. For others, it is worth a quick look -- and don't forget your camera.

Hit the Beach at Jumeirah

Jumeirah Beach is home to some of Dubai's most exclusive hotels. Guests pay extravagant fees to enjoy top-tier services and the soft sands of the nearby beach. But there's a public portion of the beach that does not require a five-star hotel stay for admission. It's free to use.

Enter the public portion of the beach at Jumeirah Beach Park, where you can picnic, barbeque, or just relax.

Keep in mind that average summer high temperatures are well in excess of 100°F. Walking on the sand can be a painful experience under those conditions, so bring along some flip-flops or other appropriate footwear.

Explore Al Fahidi (Bastakiya) Historical District

Al Fahidi (also commonly called Bastakiya) is a historical district in the heart of Dubai that brings a glimpse of what this area looked like prior to all the high-rise construction of the past few decades.

The neighborhood originally was about twice its current size, but half was demolished to make way for development.

Following encouragement from a visiting Prince Charles , the local government moved to preserve the remaining structures. They have been restored to show what life was like here in the 1600s. Narrow alleys and roadways have been recreated, and several small museums are also available to visit without admission charges.

Nearby is the Etihad Museum , which does make a modest admission charge of less than $10 for adults. Although not free, it is well worth a visit. The museum traces the development of the United Arab Emirates with interactive exhibits. 

Take a Walking Tour

Dubai by Foot  offers free tours during the summer season at no charge, under the philosophy that everyone should have access to a basic understanding of Old Dubai, regardless of ability to pay.

As with other tours of this type in the U.S., those with ability to tip generously for a good tour should do so. It supports the people who provide this service for everyone.

The tours are available at various times in six languages. The Old Dubai tour covers several attractions already covered here, such as the Gold Souk and the Bastakiya District. 

The company also offers other tours at low cost. Check for schedules and prices in effect during your visit.

Browse the Food and Craft Market at Zabeel Park

This market (Time Square Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, Saturdays from 9 a.m. -3 p.m.) allows visitors to meander among scores of artisan stalls, where some of the area's most talented craftsmen are represented.

Many visitors arrive here not knowing exactly what they'll find, and they wind up purchasing items that were unfamiliar but enticing.

Crafts are outside in open-air markets, while some organic grocery shopping can be done through the inside portion. 

Even if you're not in the market for anything on sale, enjoy a free education about the products of Dubai.

Check out the Jumeirah Mosque too.

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17 Free Things to Do in Dubai: The Best Activities and Attractions for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Dubai is a city that is known for its luxury and extravagance. However, there are also plenty of free things to do in Dubai if you know where to look! It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason!

This city is home to some of the best attractions and activities that can be enjoyed on a budget. From free museums to gorgeous parks, there is something for everyone in this amazing city. Whether you are on a budget or just want to explore everything the city has to offer, these free activities are sure to please! In this blog post, we will list 17 free things to do in Dubai. 

Free Things To Do in Dubai: Take a walk through the Jumeirah Beach Park

This free park is one of the most popular in Dubai, and for good reason! It offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf as well as plenty of activities to keep you busy.

There is a children’s play area, beach volleyball courts, a jogging track, and more!

Visit the Gold Souk

The Gold Souk is a must-see for any visitor to Dubai. This open-air market is packed with stalls selling all sorts of gold jewelry, from delicate chains to chunky bangles.

You can also find gold coins, statuettes, and other souvenirs. bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. The Gold Souk is open every day from 10 am to 10 pm, but it can get very crowded on weekends. If you want to avoid crowds, try visiting during the week. Just be careful not to get lost in all the stalls!

Follow along on Instagram @wewanderlustco to see the behind-the-scenes of our travel through old and new Dubai.

Explore Al Fahidi Historical District

Dubai is a city of contrasts, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the historical district of Al Fahidi.

Here, traditional Emirati architecture sits side-by-side with modern high-rises, and quaint cafes rub shoulders with bustling art galleries. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of Dubai’s rich history and culture.

The area is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings, including the Al Fahidi Fort, which was built in 1787. Today, the fort houses the Dubai Museum, where you can learn about the city’s past through fascinating exhibits.

There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy Dubai’s contemporary art scene. The Godwin Austen Johnson Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, and the Tea Cafe is the perfect spot to relax with a cup of tea and watch the world go by.

Whether you’re interested in history or art, Al Fahidi is definitely worth a visit.

Marvel at the architecture of the Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, and it definitely lives up to the hype. Standing at over 2,700 feet tall, the skyscraper is an impressive sight, and it’s even more stunning up close.

Even if you don’t want to go up to the observation deck, the exterior alone is worth checking out. The glass and metal facade reflect the desert sun, and the intricate patterns are breathtaking. If you do decide to go up to the top, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Dubai.

Whether you’re looking for a place to take some photos or just want to admire the city from above, the Burj Khalifa is definitely worth a visit.

See the dancing fountains at Dubai Fountain

Head over to the Daily Fountain Show at sunset. This popular attraction features music and lasers as well as some of the most impressive fountain displays you will ever see.

The show takes place every day at dusk, so you can catch it no matter what your schedule is like.

We booked a surprise 3-course dinner for Shafeen’s parents at the Burj Club with stunning views of the light show . Trust us, it’s definitely worth checking out!

Visit one of Dubai’s free museums

One of the great things about Dubai is that there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the local culture and history, and many of them are completely free.

The Museum of Islamic Art is a great place to start, as it houses one of the largest collections of Islamic art in the world.

For something a little more quirky, The Ruler’s Court Museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s judicial system, complete with an authentic courtroom and jail cell.

And for those interested in the royals, there’s the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which offers tours of the royal palaces as well as Emirati-style cooking classes.

So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something to do on a budget, be sure to check out Dubai’s many free museums.

Explore Jumeirah Mosque

If you’re looking for free things to do in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque is a great option. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, it is open to visitors of all faiths.

Just be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. The mosque is particularly beautiful at night when it is illuminated by floodlights. So whether you’re a devout Muslim or just a curious traveler, be sure to add the Jumeirah Mosque to your itinerary.

Watch the sunset at Jumeirah Beach

There’s no denying that Dubai is a city of contrasts. From the towering skyscrapers of the business district to the luxurious beachfront resorts of Jumeirah, it’s a place where both work and play can be taken to extremes.

But despite its reputation for being flashy and ostentatious, Dubai is also a city with a lot of heart. And one of the best places to experience its charm is at Jumeirah Beach.

With its soft white sand and gorgeous views of the city skyline, Jumeirah Beach is one of the best places in Dubai to watch the sunset.

It’s also a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the cityscape. And best of all, it’s free! There’s also a great selection of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while you soak up the sun.

Explore Al Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya is a great place to learn about Dubai’s history. This area was once home to the city’s merchants and is now a haven for artists and photographers.

The area is full of beautiful old buildings and narrow alleyways, and it’s easy to spend an afternoon getting lost in its medieval atmosphere.

But Al Bastakiya is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s also a living community, with many of the original residents still living in the restored apartments.

In recent years, the area has become a hot spot for nightlife, with many new bars and restaurants opening up. So whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a good time, Al Bastakiya is worth a visit.

Stroll through Burj Park

Located in the heart of one of the most bustling cities in the world, Burj Park offers a welcome oasis of green space.

The park is home to several different species of trees and plants, providing a shady respite from the desert sun.

You can also enjoy stunning views of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. The park is free to enter, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Burj Park is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

Window shop at Deira City Center

Deira City Center is one of the largest shopping malls in Dubai, and it’s not just because of its size. With over 350 stores, there’s something for everyone at the Deira City Center.

The mall also features a food court with over 15 restaurants, as well as a movie theater. And if that’s not enough, the Deira City Center is also home to the world’s largest aquarium! It spans 4 levels and covers an area of over 1 million square feet! That’s big enough to fit the Eiffel Tower inside with room to spare!

So whether you’re looking for retail therapy or just want to explore one of Dubai’s popular landmarks, be sure to check out the Deira City Center.

Watch the Sunset at the Burj Al Arab

One of the most iconic buildings in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a luxury hotel that sits on its own man-made island. While you’ll have to pay if you want to stay here, you can still enjoy the stunning views from the outside. Head over around sunset to watch the colors change and take some photos. If you want an even better view, book a spot at one of the many restaurants inside for dinner.

Take a Hike Up Jabel Hafeet

Jabel Hafeet is the perfect choice for anyone who’s looking for a bit of adventure. This mountain sits on the border of Oman and offers stunning views of the desert below.

There are several hiking trails to choose from, so you can pick one that’s right for your fitness level. And don’t forget to bring your camera – you’ll want to take plenty of photos!

Tip: The heat can be intense, so make sure you stay hydrated and take breaks often.

If you’re up for the challenge, Jabel Hafeet is an unforgettable experience.

Lunch at Zabeel Park

If you’re looking for a place to spend an afternoon, this free park is a great option. You can enjoy a picnic lunch, take a walk around the lake, or visit one of the many museums and exhibitions on site.

There’s also a playground for kids, so this is a great option if you’re traveling with your family.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even rent a canoe and explore the lake! Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have a great time at this park.

Explore the Souks

The souks in Dubai are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience local culture. These markets are full of colorful stalls selling everything from spices to clothes to souvenirs. Be sure to bargain hard – it’s all part of the fun!

We bought chocolate-covered dates, peach rose tea and camphor that cleared up all our sinuses. You can check out that video here .

Take in the Views From The Palm

If you’re in the mood for some truly spectacular views, there’s no better place to go than The Palm. This man-made island is home to some of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

You can ride the monorail or take a taxi to get there, and then spend some time walking around and taking in the sights. The Palm is also a great place to people-watch, as you’re sure to see all sorts of interesting characters.

Whether you’re looking for a spot to take some pictures or just want to relax and soak up the atmosphere, The Palm is definitely worth a visit.

Watch the Fountain Show at The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the largest malls in the world, and it’s home to an impressive fountain show. Every evening, the fountains come to life with lights and music, and it’s something you won’t want to miss. The best part? You can explore the mall and indulge in the fountain show simultaneously!

If you’re a budget-conscious traveler like us, you’ll now be happy to know that there are plenty of free things to do in Dubai. We hope you found our 11 Free Things To Do in Dubai helpful! If you are looking for more ideas, be sure to check out our other blog posts on Dubai.

Remember, Wherever You Go, Don’t Forget to Wander!

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26 Best Free Things to Do in Dubai

Free things to do in dubai.

Dubai, the gem of the Middle East, is a city that never fails to amaze with its futuristic skyline, luxurious amenities, and vibrant culture. While Dubai is renowned for its opulent experiences, there’s plenty to explore without breaking the bank. From stunning waterfronts to cultural enclaves, here are 26 free things to do in Dubai to make the most of your visit to this dazzling city.

Places to go in Dubai for free

Dubai fountain.

Witness the mesmerizing dance of water and light at the Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa. This spectacular show is a must-see, and it won’t cost you a dime.

Explore the world’s largest shopping mall, where entertainment, leisure, and retail therapy collide, is one of the free things to do in Dubai . From window shopping to admiring the Dubai Aquarium, there’s something for everyone here. Watching this aquarium from outside, is one of the things to do in dubai mall for free

The Meadows Village

Immerse yourself in the charm of Jumeirah’s Meadows Village, where you can stroll through quaint streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries is one the places to go in Dubai for free.

Step back in time at Riverland, among things to do in Dubai for free, themed dining and entertainment destination located at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Explore its four distinct zones inspired by different eras of history. Three theme parks and water parks are associated with River land. For More information Click H ere

End your day with a visit to Lamer, a vibrant beachfront destination offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences is one of the things to do in Dubai for free.

Al Fahidi Al Seef Street

Lose yourself in the historic district of Al Fahidi Al Seef Street, where you can wander through traditional wind-towered buildings, art galleries, and heritage museums.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Experience the charm of an Arabian marketplace at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Take a leisurely stroll through its narrow alleys, browse local handicrafts, and enjoy stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab.

Dubai Design District

Delve into Dubai’s creative scene at the Dubai Design District, a hub for design, art, and innovation. Explore its dynamic streets adorned with urban art and pop-up galleries.

Love Lake and Al Qudra Lakes

Escape the city buzz and reconnect with nature at Love Lake and Al Qudra Lakes is one of the free things to do in Dubai. These serene havens offer picturesque views, walking trails, and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Dubai Creek Harbour

Witness the convergence of old and new Dubai at Dubai Creek Harbour is one of the free things to do in Dubai. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and admire the stunning skyline views.

Dubai Hills Mall

Discover the latest addition to Dubai’s shopping scene at Dubai Hills Mall. From fashion boutiques to gourmet eateries, this mall offers a diverse array of experiences.

Dubai Marina Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Dubai Marina Walk, lined with cafes, restaurants, and luxury yachts. Marvel at the stunning skyscrapers that dot the skyline.

The Beach JBR

Soak up the sun at The Beach JBR, Dubai’s popular waterfront destination. Relax on the sandy shores, indulge in water sports, or explore the vibrant retail and dining options.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Get closer to nature at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse array of bird species, including flamingos

Last Exit & Al Khawaneej Walk

Experience Dubai’s vibrant food truck culture at Last Exit, a quirky roadside dining destination. Don’t miss Al Khawaneej Walk for a leisurely stroll amid picturesque surroundings.. Explore the bird hides and capture stunning photos of Dubai’s natural beauty.

Unwind in the tranquil oasis of Courtyard, a hidden gem nestled within the bustling city. With lush greenery and serene ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat.

City Wall Dubai

Step back in time and explore the historic City Wall Dubai, which dates back to the 19th century. Marvel at its architectural marvels and imagine the city’s rich heritage.

Experience Dubai’s vibrant food truck culture at Last Exit, a quirky roadside dining destination. Don’t miss Al Khawaneej Walk for a leisurely stroll amid picturesque surroundings.

Dubai Water Canal

Embark on a scenic journey along the Dubai Water Canal, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks.

Dubai Festival City

Immerse yourself in the festivities at Dubai Festival City, a vibrant entertainment and retail destination. Enjoy live performances, fireworks, and cultural events throughout the year.

Mercato Mall

Discover a slice of Italy in Dubai at Mercato Mall, an Italian-themed shopping destination. Explore its charming streets, boutique shops, and alfresco dining options.

Feel the adrenaline rush at Kite Beach, where you can indulge in a variety of water sports or simply relax on the pristine shores with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.

DIFC & Gate Avenue

Explore Dubai’s financial hub at DIFC and stroll through Gate Avenue, a vibrant urban retail destination. Discover hidden gems, trendy cafes, and art installations along the way.

Wings Of Mexico – Walk in Downtown Dubai

Admire the striking sculpture “Wings Of Mexico” located in Downtown Dubai. Snap a photo with this iconic artwork that symbolizes peace and harmony.

Al Jadaf Walk

Discover the cultural heritage of Al Jadaf Walk, a historic neighborhood known for its traditional boat-building yards and waterfront promenade.

Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

Take a leisurely stroll along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s iconic skyline.

Experience the charm of old Dubai at Al Seef, a waterfront promenade lined with traditional architecture, souks, and eateries.

Additionally, don’t miss out on the breathtaking sights of Al Ruwayya Farm Desert, the architectural marvels of Tolerance Bridge and Twisted Bridge , and the bustling atmosphere of Dubai Waterfront Market and Pointe Fountain Palm Jumeirah are some of the places to visit in Dubai for free.

With this comprehensive list of free attractions in Dubai, you can explore the best of Dubai without spending a dirham. Whether you’re a culture vulture, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, Dubai has something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this dynamic cityscape.

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• 15 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Things to Do in Dubai for Free

Here are some of the best things to do & places to visit in dubai for free:, quick navigation, watch the dubai fountain.

World's largest choreographed fountains lie in Dubai which counts for one of the most attractive places to visit in Dubai for free. Conveniently set on the large man made Burj Khalifa Lake spreading in an expanse of 30 acres, this fountain system is illuminated using 6600 lights each night. With the inputs of fifty color projectors, the fountain system is 275 meters in height which further shoots up water to an elevation of 500 feet. The entire water show is accompanied by a soothing contemporary to the classical world and Arabic music. Location :   Fashion Parking, Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai Timings :   7:00 pm to 11:00 pm everyday Suggested Read:  55 Best Things to Do in Dubai Click Here To Book Also:  Dubai Fountain Lake Ride Tickets

Free View of Dubai Aquarium

Witnessing the Dubai Aquarium, also the largest in the world is one of the free things to do in Dubai. Believe it or not but to appreciate this massive aquarium featuring multiple aquatic animals including sharks, giant crocodile, groupers, etc. can be done for free. Although there is a provision to purchase tickets to get entry to the tunnel of the aquarium one can also experience it from outside without purchasing a ticket. The aquarium features over 33000 aquatic creatures and for tourists belonging to any age group it is a must place to visit when in Dubai. Location : It is situated within Dubai Mall Timings : 10:00 am to 12:00 am everyday You may also like:  40 Best Things to do in Dubai with Kids How To Book:  Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Tickets

Day Out at Jumeirah Beach

To spend a peaceful and fun day, visit to Jumeirah Beach is one of the free things to do in Dubai with family and friends. There are a number of lavish resorts, lavish hotels, and massive developments including the huge Burj Al Arab hotel on its frontage. You can spend some time here while on your visit to Dubai.  It boasts a running track, changing rooms, and shower facilities for those who wish to take a dip in the waters. A much-visited tourist destination Jumeirah Beach flaunts a stunning backdrop. Location : Jumeirah Beach is located on the Persian Gulf coast, Jumeirah district, Dubai Timings : 24 hours Also Check:  20 Best Beaches in Dubai You Can Also Book:  Water Sports At Jumeirah Beach

Feel the Breeze at Kite Beach

The spectacular Kite Beach, a hub for kitesurfers and beachgoers is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free. The beach is nestled not too far from Jumeirah’s main street and is one of the best places to be if you're a watersports enthusiast, as the beach boasts various opportunities to get indulged in exciting water sports including kitesurfing and paddleboarding. The beach gets airy as the afternoon falls and you can head to the beach to feel the fresh flowing breeze. The 14 kilometers track of this beach is quite a perfect spot for taking peaceful beachside walks. Location : 35 A Street - Dubai Timings : 24 hours, for better experience visit after the afternoons Planning a Trip to Dubai? Checkout our  Dubai Holiday Packages   Now!

Explore Photograph Street Art

One of the trendy spots to explore while in Dubai is City Walk where you can get amazed by the street art. This is the place which is adorned by the graffiti art that states 'I Love DXB' which is extremely popular and you must have seen it on Instagram. While in Dubai, you'd surely want to capture a picture of this by yourself. Apart from this, there are various other colorful statements, pieces and murals to be explored which have been crafted by renowned names from the world of street art including Lady Aiko and Ron English. Additionally, you can also enjoy eating at some of the trendy streetside eateries here while snapping shots of the displayed street art. Location : Street art, Dubai Timings : 24 hours Also Check:  Dubai Family Tour Packages                        Dubai Group Tour Packages

Enjoy Free Movie at Pyramids at Wafi

Pyramids at Wafi is the perfect place to head to in Dubai in order to enjoy a movie for absolutely no cost. It is an exotic rooftop location to begin which further features a relaxed vibe attracting a number of locals and tourists on a regular basis. Old Dubai's this outdoor cinema place boasts a perfect movie screening setting right under the stars. Each Sunday the place is seen packed with visitors enjoying the shows in the cool breeze with popcorn and hotdogs. This experience of being under the stars and enjoying a Hollywood classic with the locals is one of the ideal most free things to do in Dubai especially if you're a movie buff! Location : Pyramids Building, Wafi Mall, Dubai, UAE Timings : Sundays as per show timings

Planning a Honeymoon Trip to Dubai? Check out our   Dubai Packages For Couple  Now!

Visit Coin Museum

The Coin Museum Dubai nestled close to the Ruler’s Divan back in the year 2004 was transformed into a coin Museum featuring 2 stories. The visitors are allowed to visit the museum for free and witness various coins belonging to several ancient eras. The museum boasts telescope screens and presentation cabinets for coins. There are touch screens which further features a drop-down list displaying detailed information like the metal used, shape, size, shape, minting date, etc. about the coins on display. In case you're someone interested in historical remains, it is definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Dubai for free. Location : Dubai Heritage Village, Bur Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates Timings : 8:30 am to 3:30 pm except Fridays and Saturdays Must Read:   15 Best Museums in Dubai                     Things to Do in Dubai Marina

Explore Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue's location has lately transformed into a cultural district and arts place with facilities, back to back lineups of platforms and galleries including Alserkal Avenue . It boats a number of local residences of a number of global and local artists. Several galleries are characterized by a number of appreciable performances and individual shows which further represents the work of growing artists. By visiting this place you get to witness and explore exhibitions, community events, auctions of young collectors, and panel discussions. This is, therefore, one of the most innovative places to visit in Dubai for free. Location : It is located in the industrial zone of Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE Timings : 10:00 am to 7:00 pm except on Fridays Also Checkout:   Dubai Packages From Delhi

Day Out at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, spread in an expanse of 6.2 square kilometers of area, represents the wilderness which boasts lush greenery amidst a sprawling modernized infrastructure. It is home to rich mangroves, salt flats, lagoons, and intertidal mudflats making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Dubai for free. This nature's beauty attracts a number of migratory birds each year which you can witness while your visit to the sanctuary. The rich biodiversity of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a heavenly place for wildlife and photography enthusiasts. Nestled at the perimeter of the sanctuary are three bird hides which are freely accessible by the public. Location : Dubai, UAE Timings : 9:00 am to 4:00 pm from Saturdays to Thursday Checkout & Book:   Dubai Tour Packages From Mumbai

Explore Al Seef

Nestled not too far from Dubai Creek , Al Seef is an attraction that is an asset for the heritage district of Dubai. This amazing destination perfectly mingles modern designs and ancient traditions as Dubai itself showcases a connect between its bright future and a proud past. Launched back in the year 2017, Al Seef celebrates Dubai Creek's launch. The best way to explore it is by taking a walking tour  and witnessing the vibrant walkways, the marina, various dining choices and event plazas. Location : It is located close to the Dubai Creek Timings : 10:00 am to 12:00 am Check this out:    Dubai Trip From Bangalore

Visit Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Water Canal unveiled back in the year 2013 is an artificial canal which allows visitors to take a canalside walk and explore the various offerings of this marvel. The canalside consists of four hotels, luxurious housing, shopping center, cycling paths, walkways, etc. The width of the canal ranges from 80 to 120 meters and is a three kilometers long project. Expanding in an area of 80,000 square meters and boasting a trade center at the entrance as well as private boat marinas the Dubai Water Canal is worth a visit and spend an entire day of fun and frolic. Location : It stretches from Business Bay through Jumeirah and Safa Park into the Persian Gulf Timings : 24 hours Also Checkout:   Dubai Packages From Ahmedabad

Enjoy Picnic in Al Qudra lakes

Enjoying a picnic with family and friends at the beautiful Al Qudra Lakes is another exciting, fun and free things to do in Dubai. A quick 30-minutes-drive takes you to this amazing picnic spot while you enjoy getting away from the stunning skyline of Dubai. A desert oasis settled amidst a desert is what your day's fun place would look like. Here you would enjoy picnicking with family and enjoying activities like cycling on the tracks and enjoying the marvelous sunset. You can also witness Dubai's wildlife here in its natural habitat that tends to visit the lake. Location : Al Qudra Lakes is located at a 30 minutes-drive from Dubai at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve Timings : sunrise to sunset Check This Out :  Dubai Tour Packages From Chennai

Check Out the Gold Souk

Shopping for gold isn't free, but one of the free things to do in Dubai is to visit and adore the Dubai Gold Souk . It is an extremely popular traditional marketplace in Dubai consisting of over 380 jewelry retailers and traders. The major items that you would find here include Gold, Diamonds, Platinum, and sometimes silver. It is a very popular tourist and shopping destination and the street is seen busy with the public almost all the time. Wandering on the narrow lanes of the market which is lined back to back with jewelry stores is one exciting experience to have once in a lifetime. Location : It is located in Deira's commercial business area, Al Dhagaya locality, Dubai, UAE Timings : 9:00 am to 9:30 pm (all days except Friday), Friday – 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm Know More:  15 Best Markets in Dubai                       Best Museums in Dubai

Go to Jameel Art Center

One of the innovative places to visit in Dubai for free is the Jameel Arts Centre which is Dubai's contemporary institution opened back in the year 2018. This impressive development is a cultural destination which has been designed and executed by a UK-based award-winning firm. It features events, workshops, and installation of contemporary art. Expanded in a massive area of approximately 10,000 square feet this art center boasts three spacious floors which further house 10 galleries with terraces, courtyards, and desert gardens to be found amidst them. These gardens are home to 33 species of flora from various deserts of the world. Location : Jaddaf Waterfront, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings : 10:00 am to 8:00 pm (Saturdays to Thursdays except for Tuesdays), and 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm (Fridays) You Can Also Book:  Dubai Garden Glow Tickets

Visit Hatta Rock Pools

Hatta Rock Pools , a popular Dubai enclave nestled in the beautiful Hajar Mountains is a marvel to explore on your trip to Dubai at absolutely no cost. Its dry and moderately cool ambiance, Hatta rock pools, and the stunning views of the massive mountains end up attracting a number of tourists each year. You can enjoy a swim session here and unwind. It is much more alluring if you visit the place after it has welcomed a rain shower. You can wander through the narrow paths here and explore the place by self for as many minutes as you desire. Location : Hajar Mountains, Hatta, United Arab Emirates Timings : Anytime during the day Also Check:   35 Extreme Adventures in Dubai                       Dubai Miracle Garden

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Dubai Top Attractions

The innovative and unique Museum of the Future in Dubai is an exciting new addition to the Dubai skyline. Listed as one of the most innovative structures in the world, this futuristic museum is poised to become one of the most exciting tourist attractions in the city. It gives visitors valuable insight into the future of human technology and innovation with practical exhibits, amazing installations and unique inventions that are yet to be introduced to the world population. At the Museum of the Future, you can get a glimpse into the human potential – and what the world could look like a few decades down the line. Along with the exhibits, the very structure of the museum is reflective of its innovation – where a portion of the building was made by robots. The exterior is defined by massive steel panels with Arabic inscriptions, which makes the museum as distinctive as other iconic structures in Dubai including the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Frame. You can explore 7 floors of fantastic installations and exhibits that let you imagine a world several years in the future. It is also a wonderful place for children to familiarize themselves with technology and its unending potential. Museum of the Future encourages visitors to ask imaginative questions such as “What would a world where robots take care of the elderly, look like” and “Can AI help humans get superhuman powers like running faster than usual?” All these aspects of the Museum of the Future will allow you to transport yourself to the future and experience a world that is as yet, inaccessible to most of mankind. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that is impossible to find anywhere else in the world, one which will make your trip to Dubai a truly life-changing experience.Here is the Design and Architecture of the Museum of the Future Dubai:The Museum has been constructed by Killa Designs using the latest technology in design and construction. AI and robotics technology have been used to precision-cut almost 1000 moulds that make up the unique exterior of the museum. The shape of the museum represents the sky and the earth, inspired by Feng-Shui philosophies.One of the most distinctive features of the design is the Arabic calligraphy that is carved into the steel paneling, which are all quotes from the Prime Minister of Dubai talking about the future of the country. There are 7 levels which are connected by an elevated walkway that leads to the Metro Station, and also a bridge that links the museum directly with the Emirates Towers.Experience The Visual World By Booking: Museum of the Future Tickets

The Burj Khalifa, a renowned skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is the tallest structure and building in the whole wide world. It boasts a height of 2722 feet with the roof soaring up to an elevation of 2717 feet. It was developed for Dubai to gain recognition on an international level.It was originally given the name of Burj Dubai but was later renamed in the honor of Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, United Arab Emirates’ President and the ruler of Abu Dhabi.The building is designated as the world's tallest one and has led to break numerous height records. The Burj Khalifa is a mixed-use development designed to be a large scale centrepiece. It boasts a total of 9 hotels including the renowned The Address Downtown Dubai, 30,000 homes, a minimum of 19 residential skyscrapers, 7.4 acres of parkland, 12 hectares of artificial Burj Khalifa Lake, and the Dubai Mall.Back in the year, 2010 in the month of January an outdoor observation deck by the name of 'At The Top' opened on the 124th floor of the building. Featuring a height of 1483 feet, it was the world's height outdoor observation deck. Although, in the year 2011 it was surpassed by Cloud Top 488 of the Canton Tower featuring a height of 1601 feet. Once again, Burj Khalifa gave the highest observation deck to the world when it opened the 1821 feet high 148th-floor SKY level in the year 2014 on October 15th. The record was overtaken in June 2016 when the Shanghai Tower came up with an observation deck boasting a height of 1840.55 feet.The observation deck on the 124th-floor features an augmented reality device, the electronic device by Gsmprjct° of Montréal. The device allows tourists to view the beautifully landscaped surroundings in real-time. It also allows them to relish the previously taken and saved images such that the ones taken under several weather conditions at different times of the day.The management works well to reduce the rush of daily sightseers by allowing them to buy tickets for a specific time and date in advance at a 75% discounted price as compared to when purchased on spot. When the visibility is high and the tide is low, one can view the Iran shores from the skyscraper top.Planning a Dubai Trip, Checkout: Best Holiday Tour Packages to DubaiHere are a few facts about the Burj Khalifa:1. Burj Khalifa is the ultimate venue for the Dubai New Year's Eve celebration, a unique global spectacle. 2. Burj Khalifa utilized 39000 tons of steel reinforcement, 330 000 cubic meters of concrete, 103 000 square meters of high-quality glass, and 15500 square meters of embossed stainless glass.3. The skyscraper became the tallest man-made structure in the world just one thousand three hundred and twenty-five days after excavation work started in the year 2004.4. The skyscraper was named after Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi.5. There are fifty-seven lifts in Burj Khalifa, including fifty-five single decks and two double decks. 6. Burj Khalifa has two observation decks - one on the 125 and 124th floors and another one on the 148th floor. 7. Watching the sunset from Burj Khalifa's lower deck is a breathtaking experience. From a height of over four hundred and fifty-two meters, you can watch the sunset in the Arabian desert. 8. Burj Khalifa offers you an option to dine at the highest and the most famous restaurant in the world - At.mosphere. Burj Khalifa also has many other restaurants like Armani Amal, Armani Mediterraneo, Armani Ristorante, Armani Deli, Armani Hashi, and Armani Lounge.Explore the world of butterflies by booking Butterfly Garden Tickets in DubaiBurj Khalifa FireworksCelebrate New Year Eve in style by watching the amazing display of the fireworks from Burj Khalifa. This iconic building lights up to its full glory during the New Year and becomes the center of attraction for everyone. The duration of the Burj Khalifa display is around twenty minutes making it one of the largest and the longest firework displays.Burj Khalifa is fully illuminated in different colors through the fireworks display, and you can capture this amazing phenomenon on your camera. The fireworks are lit after the stroke of midnight, but you should arrive as early as possible to get a good spot to watch this phenomenal spectacle.Awaken the adrenaline rush by indulging in Sky Diving in Dubai

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, one of the awe-inspiring man-made wonders comprises of 3 sections that present a captivating sight to the visitors interested in exploring the unrestrained aquatic life in DubaiDubai Aquarium is a gargantuan 10-million litre tank located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall. One of the largest suspended aquariums admeasuring 51 meters long, 20 meters deep, and 11 meters high houses 140 species of thousands of exciting marine animals amidst artificial coral.33,000 vibrant marine creatures including 400 sharks and rays, large sea bass, and shoals of oceanic fish that habitat the aquarium enthuse the kids and adults alike. The tank is known for its largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks in the world. The public can view the aquarium through the world’s largest acrylic panel for free from the Mall.Located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, the 48-meter walk-through tunnel takes the visitors on a fascinating journey of marine life. It offers a 270-degree view of the aquarium from 11 meters below the surface of the tank and presents visitors an option to capture aquatic life through their camera lens.Underwater Zoo, situated above the tank on level two is segregated into 3 ecological zones – Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean. The 40 individual display tanks bring visitors face to face with an astounding range of aquatic creatures that inhabit both rivers and oceans.Be bedazzled by a menagerie of exotic and weird critters such as Piranhas, African dwarf crocodiles, Lionfish, Sea horses, Archerfish, Nautilus, Water rats, Cichlids, etc. A cynosure of Underwater Zoo is 5.1m long Australian saltwater lake crocodile names King Croc. The monstrous reptile that 40 yrs old and weighs 750kg, sends shivers down the spine of the visitors.Snakes, lizards, Giant Spider Crabs, and other nocturnal desert denizens of UAE such as an Arabian toad, and veiled chameleons also inhabit the Underwater Zoo.The ‘lunar-cyclic’ lighting system that changes the ambiance of the tank based on the time of the day mesmerizes the visitors.Explore the Beautiful Underwater World by Booking Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Tickets

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• 31 Free Things To Do In Dubai In 2024

What to do in Dubai for free? Confused, aren’t you? Dubai houses sky-touching scrapers and traditions wrapped in a blanket of deserts and exotic man-made islands. With a reputation for over-the-top luxury, the cosmopolitan Mideast Sheikdom is hard to relate to ‘free things’. Isn’t it? But there are plenty of free things to do in Dubai , believe it or not. And the list includes those things you would not even be able to think of! Dubai offers various spots, from museums to art galleries, for a no-money-spent experience. So, aren’t you excited? Well, read along!

Things To Do In Dubai For Free

If you are still in shock and wondering about things you can enjoy without spending a penny, here’s a quick list of free things to do in Dubai that will let you want luxury.

• Step Into The Mall Of The Emirates
• Surprise Your Partner At Al Qudra Lake
• Swimming And Picnicking At Umm Suqeim Beach
• Visit Atlantis
• Hiking Around Hatta
• Take A Desert Drive
• Visit City Centre Al Shindagha
• Do Yoga And Meditation
• Watch A Movie Under The Stars
• Explore Dubai Mall
• Sightsee Dubai Fountain Display
• Enter Jumeirah Beach Corniche
• Wander Through Deira Souks
• See Pehlwani Wrestling
• Dance To The Peppy Numbers
• Visit St. Mary’s Catholic Church
• Seek Blessings At Emirates Baptist Church International
• Pray At Pentecostal Church
• Meet The Holy Father At The United Christian Church
• Pray At Grand Mosque
• Burj Khalifa Selfie Opportunities
• Visit Nahar Tower
• Climb Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
• Visit Infinity Tower
• Seek Blessings At Jumeirah Mosque
• Step At Kite Beach
• Visit Coffee Museum
• Stroll At Alserkal Avenue
• Watch Flamingos
• Ride An Abra Boat

1. Step Into The Mall Of The Emirates

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Enter a premier shopping and entertainment hotspot free of cost. Worldwide retail stores, delightful cuisine worldwide, ski resort Ski Dubai, and state-of-the-art movie complexes are under one roof. From window shopping to clicking beautiful pictures, you can have the best time here with loved ones. Not to forget the jaw-dropping architectural splendour of the Mall of the Emirates. So, check for yourself why the Mall of the Emirates is considered one of the  best shopping places in Dubai .

Location:  Sheikh Zayed Roa, Dubai, UAE

Timings:  10:00 am -12:00 am

Highlights:  Ski Dubai, The Magic Planet, Cinema complex, Extensive Dining Options

Also Read: History Of Dubai

2. Surprise Your Partner At Al Qudra Lake

Add romance to the vacation by visiting Al Qudra Lake with your partner. Also known as Al Marmoom Lake, Al Qudra Lake is a captivating desert oasis. The abundant birdlife, tranquil waters, and scenic surroundings make this place one of the best free places to visit in Dubai.  Step into the lake if you wish to engage in  adventure sports in Dubai . Here, you can do cycling, hiking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching to name a few.

Location:  Madinat Latifa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings:  24/7

Highlights:  Picnicking, Desert cycling, Wildlife spotting

3. Swimming And Picnicking At Umm Suqeim Beach

Also known as Sunset Beach, Umm Suqeim Beach is a picturesque spot with iconic views of the Burj Al Arab. Its pristine white sands, clear blue waters, and surreal atmosphere are perfect for limitless adventures like swimming and sunbathing. If you like seeing the sun basking down with its jaw-dropping reflection on the beach water, visit this place without any second thought. Here, you may not need to worry about heavy crowds as this beach is not as busy as others.  You may not have the experience of staying at  private beaches in Dubai, but you can have a jist of it. Additionally, if you are a fitness enthusiast, explore the jogging trails and stay fit even during the vacation.

Location:  Umm Suqeim district, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Highlights:  Jogging track, Calm waters, Green spaces, Family-friendly

Related Post:  Dubai Iconic Buildings

4. Visit Atlantis

Image Credit: Pxhere

Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai, is a luxurious resort in Dubai, UAE. The hotel is unlike any other. Featuring classic Arabian architecture and numerous attractions, such as the Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium,  Atlantis in Dubai is a favourite spot for tourists and locals. You may wonder, “What to do in Atlantis Dubai for free?” The premier resort offers commendable activities free of cost, including relaxing at the private beach, strolling around the Marina with loved ones, and observing the aquatic life.

Location: Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Highlights:  Aquaventure Waterpark, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dolphin Bay, Sea Lion Point

5. Hiking Around Hatta

Image Credit: Alexandermcnabb for Wikimedia Commons

Unleash your adventurous spirit as you trek  in the scenic town of Hatta in Dubai. The laid-back atmosphere and pleasant weather make it ideal for adrenaline-fueled experiences. There are many  places to visit in Hatta , but the best trekking spots include Hatta Rock Pools and Hatta Heritage Village trails. While trekking, you can gain  insights into the local heritage, dip in the refreshing pools, and more for a wholesome experience.

Duration: 3-4 hours

Highlights:  Hatta Mountain Trail, Hatta Wadi Hub Trails, Hatta Rock Pools

Related Post:  Wedding Venues In Dubai

6. Take A Desert Drive

As adventurers, you can have the best time taking desert drives with your loved ones. Escape the city’s bustling streets and seek off-road adventures through undulating dunes. The powerful 4*4 vehicles climb and descend steep dunes, inviting you to have a thrilling experience. The backdrop of the desert at sunset adds a unique touch to the desert drive experience. Additionally, you may encounter Dubai wildlife , adding a new dimension of adventure and excitement to the journey. Hence, if you are looking for fun things to do in Dubai for free- go for surreal desert drives.

Best Spots:  Al Marmoom Dessert, Al Lisaili Desert, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Hatta Desert

Highlights:  Dune bashing, Camel sightings, Stargazing, Photography opportunities

7. Visit Al Shindagha

Image Credit: Iwona Rege for Wikimedia Commons

Glimpse into the city’s past by stepping into one of the historic districts- Al Shindagha. Here, the exhibits of potters, weavers, and practitioners of other traditional crafts and demonstrations of pearl diving showcase Dubai’s culture and heritage. From exploring the famous Heritage And Diving Village to witnessing the artefacts in the Al Shindagha Museum, you can engage in many Dubai activities. You can have the best time having insights into the city’s past with family or friends.

Location: Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE

Highlights:  Al Shindagha Museum, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Dubai Creek

Related Post:  Things Not To Do In Dubai

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8.  Do Yoga And Meditation

Image Credit: alexdepo for depositphotos

As fitness enthusiasts, you have a peaceful and hearty experience while practising yoga at the beautiful Dubai Beaches . The picturesque location, well-maintained area, and gentle breeze set a perfect vibe for doing yoga early in the morning. Let the fresh air pour inside you and calm all your senses. You can even meditate and get pictures clicked against the scenic backdrop in distinct yoga poses. So, be fit even during the vacation, adding a unique and wholesome experience.

Best Spots:  JBR Beach, Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach, Sunset Beach

Highlights:  Sunrise and sunset sessions, Peaceful aura, Scenic vistas

9. Watch A Movie Under The Stars

Wouldn’t you instead head out on a Sunday evening to watch a movie while on a trip to Dubai right now? Since it is free and you get to watch it under the blanket of stars, it has become one of the must-free activities in Dubai that every visitor should experience. So, if you visit Dubai In September or any time of the year, watching a movie on a rooftop is an experience you may remember for a lifetime. With family or a partner, you can have the best time here.

Location:   Pyramids Building, Wafi Mall, Oud Metha – Sheikh Rashid Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings: Sundays; 8:30 pm onwards

Highlights: Iconic setting, Comfortable seating, Cool evenings

Related Post: Things To Buy In Dubai

10. Explore Dubai Mall

Step into one of the famous malls ,  Dubai Mall, and witness the fusion of architecture, ambience, and warmth. It features over 1,200 retail stores, ranging from high-end luxury brands to popular global chains. You can savour  delightful cuisine from gourmet restaurants and local eateries. Dubai Mall is a central hub for entertainment, shopping, and leisure. Among many things to do in Dubai Mall for free, witnessing the Dubai Fountain show, viewing the Dubai Aquarium, and observing the Dubai Ice Rink are top-tier. Additionally, you can visit the mall’s dinosaur exhibit, which features a real fossil of a 155-million-year-old dinosaur.

Location:  Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings:  10:00 am- 12:00 am

Highlights:  Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Ice Rink

11. Sightsee Dubai Fountain Display

Witness water, lights, and music together come into action at none other than Dubai Fountain for free. Spanning about 275 metres, the fountain features 6,600 lights and more than 20 projectors to create a mystical and synchronized fountain show. The show usually occurs in the evenings, with numerous performances that attract crowds worldwide. The shooting up of water jets up to 150 metres high with the perfect choreography to a diverse range of music, from classical to modern, is a sight to behold. Overall, witnessing the fountain display is among the popular things to do in Dubai for free. As Dubai Fountain, among the famous places to visit in Dubai , becomes crowded in the evening, it is advisable to reach the place earlier for the best spot.

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

Timings:  6:00 pm- 11:00 pm

Highlights:  Water shows, Evening performances, Stunning views of the Burj Khalifa

12. Enter Jumeirah Beach

Dubai is home to private and public beaches, ensuring every traveller has a marvellous time. Among many beaches in Palm Jumeirah , the Jumeirah Beach is public and offers picturesque views of the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai coastline. Plenty of adventurous activities are provided here, from swimming and beach sports to sunbathing. The beach features an 800-meter beachfront, a jogging track, showers, children’s play areas, and shaded picnic areas- making it an ideal destination for family and friends. Additionally, you can click aesthetic pictures of sunrise and sunset, all adding to your memories. So, if you want free things to do in Dubai in summer, you know where to head: Jumeirah Beach.

Location:  Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings:  7:30 am – 10 pm

Highlights:  Stunning views, Family-friendly atmosphere, Water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding)

13. Wandering Through Deira Souks

Image Source: Shutterstock

Exploring Dubai without wandering through the world-famous  Deira Souks is incomplete and a total miss. The markets add allure to the Deira district and captivate tourists and locals for its rich culture and historical significance. From handicrafts and textiles to perfumes, a particular market is dedicated to souks. So, if you are looking for famous places to visit in Dubai for free, head to Deira Souks. Sightsee distinct items, ranging from gold bangles to authentic spices and have a wonderful time during your vacation.

Location:  Deira, near the junction of Baniyas Road and Old Baladiya Road

Timings:  10:00 am-10:00 pm

Highlights:  Gold Souk, Textile Souk, Perfume Soak, Spice Souk, Historic atmosphere

Related Post: Markets In Dubai

14. Car Gazing

Image Credit: slava296 for depositphotos

If you are a car enthusiast and  live near  Jumeirah Beach in Dubai , visit The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence. Escape from spending money on visiting car museums and see a range of cars adding life to the well-maintained roads. Car gazing is among the free things to do and engage in in Dubai . Spot your dream car and have fun with your friends and family.

Location: Along The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

Highlight:  Watching stunning and luxurious cars

15. See Pehlwani Wrestling

If you like watching or participating in wrestling, witnessing real-life Pehlwani wrestling is among the free things to do in Dubai. People from distinct regions, such as India and Bangladesh, gather every Friday to watch brave men wrestle for glory. It takes place every Friday in Deira and attracts locals and tourists for its historical significance and courage display. So, if you visit Dubai In November or any time of the year, witness the wrestling match and cheer for the one you think will win the fight.

Location: Deira (sandlot behind the fish market)

Timings: Fridays; 5:00 pm onwards

Highlights:  Cultural significance, Historic venues

Related Post:  Dubai Cuisine

16. Dance To The Peppy Numbers At Societe Dubai

Image Credit: Herror Conhache for Pexels

If you wish to witness nightlife in Dubai and enter a nightclub for free, head to Societe Dubai. If you may not know, many nightclubs in Dubai levy entry fees to let you in. However, Societe Dubai, a fantastic club, brings you the ultimate experience to unwind, chill, and vibe for free on Fridays. Move your body and hit ecstasy while listening to your favourite hits from the 80s and 90s, and have the best time. It’s your choice to spend money inside, but at least you can go to the club and enjoy the music free of cost.

Location: Societe Dubai, Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai Marina

Timings:  11:00 pm- 3:00 am

Highlights:  Ecstatic vibe, Beautiful lighting, Comfortable seating

17. Visit St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Founded in 1967, St. Mary’s Catholic Church is one of the oldest churches in Dubai. It has served and continues to embrace diverse generations of Catholics. Seek blessings and say prayers to God for a bright present and future. Additionally, I marvel at the intricate architecture of the church and admire the surreal atmosphere. Whether you visit Dubai In April or September, St. Mary’s Catholic Church is the perfect place to visit for free for a spiritual experience.

Location: 247 Oud Metha Rd, Umm Hurair 2, Umm Hurair Second, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings: 5.30 am to 9.00 pm

Highlights:  Architectural design, Peaceful environment, Cultural diversity

Related Post:  Places To Visit In Dubai At Night

18. Seek Blessings At Emirates Baptist Church International

Emirates Baptist Church International (EBCI) in Dubai caters to a multicultural community, inviting all to worship and have a divine experience. EBCI offers contemporary worship services, such as sermons and lively music. You can participate in distinct programs, like Bible studies and make your visit to the sacred site wholesome.  Emirates Baptist Church International is among the religious places to visit in Dubai with family . So, step into the place to witness the peaceful ambience for yourself.

Location: The DoubleTree M Square Hotel – Al Mankhool – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Timings:  12:00 am – 12:00 am

Highlights:  Multicultural community, Modern worship services, Family-friendly environment

19. Pray At Pentecostal Church

Image Credit: azor shams for Wikimedia Commons

Pentecostal Church is one of the biggest churches in Dubai and one of the most beautiful places in this region. People from diverse faiths congregate here. Earlier, known as the King’s Revival Church International, sermons were read from time to time and boasted of many miraculous happenings. Visit the church yourself to feel those positive vibrations touch your soul and rejuvenate.

Location: Al Barsha, Dubai

Highlights:  Dynamic worship services, Emphasis on prayer for healing and expectation of miracles

Related Post:  Theme Parks In Dubai

20. Meet The Holy Father At United Christian Church

Image Credit: Nepenthes for Wikimedia Commons

Dubai In October

The denomination known as the United Christian Church is a small evangelical body of Christians with roots in the Radical Pietistic movement of Martin Boehm and Philip William Otterbein. This group may often be confused with local congregations and churches of other denominations using the United Christian Church. Those who began the United Christian Church separated from the Church of the United Brethren in Christ between 1862 and 1870 over doctrinal differences of opinion. It is truly one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free . 

Location: Dubai Evangelical Church Center – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Timings: Friday- 7-9 pm, Sunday: 9:00 am-12:15 pm

Highlights:  Diverse congregation, Inclusive worship services, Family-friendly environment

21. Pray At Grand Mosque

Image Credit: Guilhem Vellut for Wikimedia Commons

Exhibiting  authentic Islamic architecture, the Grand Mosque in Dubai is the epitome of Dubai’s cultural and religious heritage. Quranic inscriptions on the entrance facade, the tallest Minaret in the city, small and large domes, and authentic Islamic interiors provide visitors with a first-hand experience of Islamic traditions and culture. The essence of peacefulness and spirituality fills the ambience of this charming place of worship.

Location: Opposite Dubai Museum, Near Rulers Court Office – Ali Bin Abi Taleb St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Timings: 24/7

Highlights:  Open-door policy, Islamic architecture, Community events

Related Post:  Dubai In March

22. See Burj Khalifa

As the tallest building in the world,  Burj Khalifa showcases brilliant modern architecture and engineering as well as marvellous imagination and implementation. Standing 160 storeys tall, this monument allows visitors to witness 360-degree aerial views of Dubai. To add to this surreal experience, the base of this mighty building is nothing less than a vibrant hub of dining and entertainment. This is one of the most famous places in Dubai, and you can visit it for free . 

Location:  1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings:  8:30 am-1 am

Entry Fee:  INR 3500 Onwards

Highlights:  Observation decks, Lighting displays, Sky Lounge, Fine dining

23. Visit Nahar Tower

Image Credit: Celia Brock for Wikimedia Commons

Built-in 1870, Burj Nahar covers three watchtowers constructed to protect the old city from invaders. Constructed with mud and coral stone, this monument is historically significant. Located on the outskirts of Deira, it was fully restored and is now surrounded by scenic gardens, making it a popular attraction for tourists worldwide. If you plan to visit Dubai for seven days , consider sightseeing at Nahar Tower during your exploration.

Location: Omar Bin Al-Khattab Road, Deira

Highlights:  Panoramic views, Blend of Islamic and modern architecture

Related Post:  Haunted Places In Dubai 

24. Climb Burj Al Arab

Connected with a bridge to the shore, Hotel Burj Al Arab Jumeirah earned its place under the Dubai monuments list by its sail-like architectural silhouette. This state-of-the-art construction is the third-tallest hotel in the world. The hotel’s high level of lavish interiors, establishment on an artificially created island, and unique architecture have shot up the hotel to the first rank on the list of most expensive hotels in the world. Among the top  7-star hotels in the world , the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is definitely among the best places to visit in Dubai.

Location:  Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings:  12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Highlights:  Iconic architecture, Helipad, Skyview Bar, Private beaches, Luxury suites

25. Visit Infinity Tower

Also known as Cayan Tower, Infinity Tower is a contemporary architectural marvel that took the phrase ‘putting a twist’ too seriously. One of the most photographed buildings in Dubai, the dynamic and twisting shape of this luxurious residential building that turns 90 degrees over its course of height has challenged the conventional styles of architecture in the city. This Dubai monument’s unique and futuristic design takes the breath away of almost all spectators, making it one of our best picks on the list of places to hang out in Dubai for free. Infinity Tower is the finest among  Dubai monuments  for its intricate and modern designs.

Location:    1202, Al Barsha Heights, Teacom, Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Timings:  8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Highlights:  Twisting architectural design, Innovative engineering

Related Post:  Dubai In December

26. Seek Blessings At Jumeirah Mosque

Image Credit: Vicharam for Wikipedia

Jumeirah Mosque has been tagged as one of the most beautiful mosques in the city. Built entirely with snowy white stones, this place of worship is the perfect place to have your questions about the Islamic religion answered. They are following the policy of ‘Open Doors. Open Minds’, the mosque’s doors are open to humans of all faiths. Local representatives of the mosque conduct guided tours of this beauty and offer to help visitors learn about their religion and traditions. Winter  in Dubai is considered the best time to visit the Jumeirah Mosque because of its pleasant atmosphere. So, add this sacred site to the itinerary.

Location: Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Timings: 10:00 am- 8:00 pm, Closed on Friday

Highlights:  Islamic architecture, Open-door policy, Photogenic location

27. Step At Kite Beach

Image Credit: Thomas Tolkien for Wikimedia Commons

Kite Beach is not just a tourist favourite; locals love this place just as much. It is situated at the Al Manara Road junction, and the beach’s name is suitable for activities you can indulge in. The wide range of water sports and kitesurfing make up for the fantastic activities that most tourists indulge in the entire year. The pristine white texture of the soft sand is something that will satisfy your heart and soul. The Burj-Al-Arab can be seen clearly from there. If you plan a  honeymoon in Dubai , spending time at the beaches brings out the romance and deep conversations.

Location:  Jumeirah, Dubai

Timings:  10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Highlights:  Beachfront promenade, Water sports, Outdoor gym, Food trucks and cafes

Related Post: Dubai In February

28. Visit Coffee Museum

If you are a coffee lover, then you must visit this coffee cum shop in Dubai. The entrance is free, and you will be taken to a world of coffee. In the museum, you will learn about the history of coffee and witness its different kinds. It is one of the best free things to do in Dubai. It is also home to artefacts associated with coffee, including books and more, and is one of the free attractions in Dubai. So,visit Coffee Museum, one of the best museums in Dubai and dive deep into the art of making coffee.

Location:    Bastakiya, Villa 44 – Al Hisn St, Al Fahidi, Dubai, UAE

Timings:  9:00 am- 5:00 pm, Closed on Friday

Highlights:  Tasting sessions, Workshops, Antique coffee artefacts

29. Stroll At Alserkal Avenue

Enjoy an offbeat experience free of cost. Alserkal Avenue has several exciting spots like galleries, pop-up shops, and more. One of the most famous places is the Al Quoz Gallery, which exhibits unique paintings and other artefacts that will treat the culture vulture in you. You can also enjoy coffee at one of the coffee shops. Visiting Alserkal Avenue, among the hidden gems in  Dubai  is one of the top free things to do for the best time.

Location:  Street 8, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Timings:  7:00 am-10:00 pm

Highlights:  Art galleries, Cultural events, Cafes

Related Post:  Unusual Places To Visit In Dubai

30. Watch Flamingos

Witnessing the pink flamingos in Dubai is one of the best free things to do, and the best part is that you can do it for free. Flamingos can be found in abundance near Ras Al Khor road in Dubai. If you want to see them closely, visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary , which has no entry fee. It has hiding huts wherein you can take binoculars and watch the beautiful birds. This is one of the best things to do in Dubai for free with kids!

Best Spots:  Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai Creek

Highlights:  Vibrant colours, Scenic backdrops, Photography opportunities

31. Ride An Abra Boat

Experience Dubai’s rich heritage and culture by riding the traditional abra boat at Dubai Creek. If you are unsure of what abra boats are, these are small wooden boats with rich historical significance. While passing through Dubai Creek and Dubai Canal, you can enjoy the contrast between the classic and contemporary landscapes. The serene ride while witnessing bustling souks, majestic skyscrapers, and historical buildings offers an exhilarating experience. So, glimpse into Dubai’s rich maritime heritage by being on this fantastic ride. Do not forget viewing Dubai sunset with your loved ones. It is a total bliss.

Location: Dubai Creek, UAE

Highlights:  Scenic vistas of Dubai Creek and surroundings, Short and enjoyable rides

You May Also Like To Read:  Dubai In June

So now  you know that Dubai is not all about grandeur. There are many free things to do in Dubai. Plan your trip to Dubai and experience these things, which will ensure that your trip doesn’t put much of a burden on your pockets.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here Cover Image Credit: TTstudio for depositphotos

Frequently Asked Questions About Free Things To Do In Dubai

What are free things to do in Dubai with kids?

Dubai in UAE offers extraordinary activities and attracts kids of all ages. Some of these include witnessing Dubai Fountain show, exploring Dubai Mall and souks, and sightseeing Burj Khalifa.

What are places to hangout in Dubai for free?

Satisfy your adventurous soul by engaging in limitless adventures, such as swimming with sharks, scuba diving, kayaking, skydiving, and jet skiing. Some of the best places to hang out with friends for free include the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Marina.

What to do in Dubai with family for free?

If planning a trip to Dubai with family, one can sightsee Burj Khalifa, view sunset at Dubai Creek, ride an abra boar, and visit museums to name a few.

What can one do in Dubai in 3 days?

While one is in Dubai for around 3 days, make sure one enjoys a Hop-On-Hop-Off bus and a sightseeing tour. Apart from that, enjoy the Ski Dubai or the cityscape standing at the Burj Khalifa. Also, one can experience an adventurous Kayak tour of Palm Jumeirah.

What are the best things to do in Dubai at night for free?

At night one can sightsee the Burj Khalifa, see the Dubai fountain, do swimming at Umm Suqeim Beach, and watch a movie under the stars in Wafi city.

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Kushal is a communication strategist, with 5+ years of experience in creating communication for diverse industries. His passion for helping the readers comes from his prior experience of running a travel agency with his dad. And he does that by addressing the actual travelers’ pain points in his blogs. And his work at TravelTriangle has also earned him multiple invites to speak about travel blogging at conferences & seminars. When he is not creating marketing strategies or content, he can be found reading about Harry Potter, DC, Marvel, or other anime. Find him on other social media channels here:

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The fountain at Dubai Mall dwarfs visitors shopping below.

• FREE THINGS TO DO

Free Things to Do in Dubai

Find free things to do in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with this guide from National Geographic.

With a reputation for over-the-top luxury (to wit: the towering, gold leaf-burnished Burj Al Arab hotel), the flashy emirate may seem out of reach to anyone who isn’t Beyoncé or Jay-Z, but vestiges of the old city and a handful of only-in-Dubai spectacles keep frugal travelers entertained.

Attractions

Some 20 percent of the world’s gold reportedly passes through Dubai’s Gold Souk in Deira. Even if you’re not in the market for bling, this labyrinth of jewelry vendors is worth a meander just to gawk at all that glitters. If a piece does strike your fancy, be sure to haggle: Prices are based on the market rate for an item’s weight, plus a charge for workmanship (where the bargaining comes in). You have more leverage if you plan to pay in cash. The souk is open daily until 10 p.m., except for the hottest part of the day, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

For less than a buck, the Dubai Museum offers visitors insight into the city’s transformation from sleepy port to oil-rich metropolis through dioramas of life before the discovery of oil and artifacts from excavations in the emirate. Short on time? Beeline to the exhibit on the city’s pearl-diving heritage.

Find out everything you ever wanted to know about camels and more at Beit Al-Rekkab, or House of the Camels , where admission is always free. The small museum explores the role of dromedaries in the Emirates, including their apparently myriad uses in traditional medicine (e.g., camel scat is purported to have curative powers for nosebleeds).

The landmark Jumeirah Mosque welcomes non-Muslims for a small entrance fee (about $2.50). Free guided tours of the elaborate interior are offered by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a question-and-answer session. No booking is required, but you must arrive at the main entrance by 9:45 a.m. Women are encouraged to cover their heads with a scarf (available to borrow at the mosque) and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts.

Named for Bastak, a town in southern Iran from which many of its Persian settlers hailed in the late 19th century, the Bastakia Quarter (also known as the Al Fahidi Historic District) in Bur Dubai is the historic heart of the city. Today, its narrow lanes, many of them closed to vehicle traffic, are lined with restored homes—note their wind towers, an early form of air-conditioning—cafés, and galleries. Stop in at the Majlis gallery to peruse Asian oil paintings and watercolors of desert landscapes or at XVA for contemporary art, and take a breather in the garden of the Arabian Tea House.

The best way to take in all the iconic sites on the cheap is to hop on bus line 8 starting at the station near the Gold Souk. The route tunnels under Dubai Creek, parallels the beach along Jumeirah Road, and winds up near the Mall of the Emirates —known for its indoor ski hill—if you're in the mood for window-shopping or those downhill lessons you’ve been saving for.

With 1,200 retail stores, an Olympic-size ice rink, and a massive aquarium where one can cage snorkel and shark dive, the Dubai Mall offers plenty of opportunities to blow your budget. It does have one feature, however, that won’t cost you a dirham: The world’s largest dancing fountain in the middle of the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake shoots water jets as high as 500 feet. The spectacle is accompanied by a music repertoire that includes Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, and, in the evenings, a light show so bright, say mall publicists, that it’s visible from space. Performances Monday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday at 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. (Fridays at 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.) and every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

While not free, the minimal entrance fee for Creekside Park (about $1.35 per person) may seem well worth it for the opportunity to let your kids go wild in the green space. If that’s not going to cut it, splurge on a family ticket to Children's City , a sort of interactive kid-centric museum and play zone within the park (cost is about $10 for two adults and two children ages 2 to 15; tots under 2 get in free; separately, kids ages 2 to 15 are less than $3, adults $4). There’s a hundred-seat planetarium and a new special toddler area featuring some 30 exhibits and games, like a slide and a mini-carousel.

Food & Drink

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Prepare for sensory overload when you visit the Spice Souk , a maze of narrow passageways lined with hawkers of saffron, turmeric, cloves, and all manner of other exotic spices and dried fruits. Brace yourself for some pushy merchants. Open daily until 10 p.m., except for between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Dubai has its share of outrageously priced restaurants (the tasting menu at Al Mahara in the Burj Al Arab hotel will set you back about $320, without wine), but there are still plenty of options on the opposite end of the spectrum. For inexpensive and authentic Arabic and Asian food, head to Al Diyafah Street, where a satisfying lamb or chicken shawarma at Al Mallah costs about a buck.

The best way to see the city skyline is from the water. Hop aboard an abra , a traditional wooden boat modernized with a diesel engine, to ferry across Dubai Creek. The ride from Deira to Bur Dubai, for instance, takes about five minutes and costs less than 30 cents. The boats on this route operate daily from 6 a.m. till midnight.

Some of the swankier hotels on the Jumeirah strip have called dibs on the patches of sand in front of their properties, reserving their beachfronts for guests and those willing to fork over a fairly hefty day rate. Still, there are several public beaches accessible for free or a small entrance fee. The nicest stretch, Al Mamzar Beach Park , features playgrounds, barbeques, two swimming pools, changing rooms, and showers for about $1.30 per person or roughly $10 per car. Get there early if you want to nab an umbrella. Mondays and Wednesdays are women-only days. Or head to Umm Suqeim (also known as Kite or Woollongong Beach) to watch the kite surfers in the shadow of Burj Al Arab; entrance is free, but there are limited facilities.

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The Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Looking for the best free attractions in Dubai? We’ve got you covered!

Dubai, often hailed as the City of Gold , is a melting pot of cultures, skyscrapers, and luxuries. It’s known worldwide for iconic landmarks, like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah, which come with their own hefty price tags.

However, what many travelers don’t realize is that this modern metropolis is also home to many free attractions and activities.

Yes, you heard that right! You can experience the magic of Dubai without breaking the bank.

As avid (and often frugal) travelers, we love discovering hidden gems that don’t necessarily come with a hefty entrance fee. So, buckle up as we take you on a journey through the best places to visit in Dubai for free.

The Dubai Fountain Show

Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain Show is well worth a visit.

The water jets here dance gracefully in tune with the music, creating a mesmerizing choreography of light, water, and sound.

The best part? It’s completely free!

Shows run every evening, and each one is unique, so you might want to catch more than one. We think it’s one of the places to visit in Dubai for free at night.

Dubai Creek

Dubai may be known for its modernity, but the Dubai Creek is a window into its past. This saltwater creek was the original heart of the city and a hub for pearl diving and fishing. Today, you can stroll along its banks, watch the traditional dhows (wooden boats) glide by, or simply soak in the old-world charm of the place.

Don’t forget to explore the nearby Al Fahidi Historic District to get a glimpse of traditional Emirati architecture.

Jumeirah Beach

Who says you need to pay to enjoy the beach in Dubai?

Jumeirah Beach is open to the public and offers pristine white sands and clear blue waters. Whether you want to take a dip, build sandcastles, or simply relax and watch the sunset, Jumeirah Beach is the perfect spot.

And if you’re lucky, you might even get a view of skydivers descending onto the nearby Palm Jumeirah!

Alserkal Avenue

This is a treat for art lovers!

Located in the Al Quoz industrial area, Alserkal Avenue is Dubai’s artsy corner. It’s filled with galleries, art installations, and creative spaces. Wander through the lanes, and you’ll come across contemporary art pieces, thought-provoking exhibitions, and even occasional workshops. The vibrant atmosphere here is sure to ignite your creativity.

See what they have lined up for your next visit .

Dubai Marina Walk

Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city, and the Marina Walk is a seven km long pedestrian walkway that runs along it. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, with views of the towering skyscrapers on one side and million dollar yachts bobbing on the water on the other. The atmosphere here is electric, especially in the evening with street performers, markets, and food stalls coming alive.

It’s a wonderful walk in the day, or at night, when you’ll marvel at the lights from the skyscrapers.

Camel Racing at Al Marmoom Racetrack

Experience the traditional sport of the UAE – camel racing!

The Al Marmoom Racetrack hosts regular races during the cooler months (usually from 6 to 9 pm), and attending these races is free. It’s a unique experience, watching these lumbering creatures race across the track with small robotic jockeys on their backs and owners following behind on 4×4’s egging their camels on.

Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

Located near Jumeirah’s main street, Kite Beach is not just for kite surfers, although watching them ride the waves against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab is a treat in itself.

This stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing, beach volleyball, or enjoying a leisurely walk on the jogging tracks. The beach also has a Skate Park, outdoor trampolines, and adventure gyms.

While some activities are chargeable, you can always find a cozy spot on the sand to lay back and enjoy the rhythmic sound of the waves for free. Make sure to check out some of the amazing villas along the way to the beach as well.

A bit on the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta is a mountainous enclave that offers beautiful landscapes and a peek into the rural life of the UAE.

While some activities here might be paid, just driving through the winding mountain roads, taking in the views, and visiting the Hatta Dam is absolutely free.

Jumeirah Mosque

Often referred to as the most beautiful mosque in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque stands as a stellar example of Islamic architecture. Built entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid tradition, its intricate artistry and twin minarets make it a photographer’s delight, especially in the evening when it’s bathed in soft lights.

What’s unique about this mosque is that it’s one of the few in Dubai open to non-Muslims, making it a significant cultural experience for visitors. While there is a fee for the guided tour, which includes a detailed insight into Emirati culture and religion, simply admiring the mosque from the outside and its surroundings is free.

Whether you opt for the tour or just a visit, the Jumeirah Mosque offers a serene and enlightening experience.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at the mouth of the Dubai Creek, this wetland reserve is a haven for birdwatchers.

It’s home to a large number of flamingos, which can be seen during the winter months. Besides flamingos, the sanctuary is also home to over 450 species of wildlife. There are three bird hides located in the sanctuary, from where you can view these creatures without disturbing them.

Definitely a serene escape from the city hustle!

The Ripe Market

One of Dubai’s best open-air markets, the Ripe Market is a favorite among both tourists and locals.

Set up in various locations depending on the season (Zabeel Park in the cooler months and indoors at Times Square Center during summer), this market showcases local artisans, organic groceries, handcrafted jewelry, and gourmet food trucks.

It’s a fantastic place to experience the city’s community vibe, pick up unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids or friends. While purchasing items might cost you, wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere, and enjoying free entertainment and workshops won’t cost a thing.

The Best Free Places to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is not just a destination for the elite. It caters to all kinds of travelers, including budget explorers. The next time you find yourself in this dazzling city, remember that some of the best experiences don’t come with a price tag.

So, lace up your walking shoes, put on your explorer’s hat, and set out to discover the free wonders of Dubai. As we like to say, travel is not about how much you spend, but how much you discover.

Safe travels!

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: How expensive is Dubai

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

These are the best free things to do in Dubai:

1. Dubai Fountains

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

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

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

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

2. Dubai Mall: Aquarium and Waterfall

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

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

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

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

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

3. Dubai Marina

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

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

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

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

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

4. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

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

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

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

5. Dubai Beaches

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

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

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

6. Traditional Markets

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Dubai

7. Love Lake Dubai & Al Qudra Area

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Zabeel Park & Dubai Frame

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

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

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

9. Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

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

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

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

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

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

10. Dubai Creek Water Taxi Abra

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

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

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

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

11. Jumeirah Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best tours in Dubai

More information for your visit to Dubai:

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

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Monday 21st of November 2022

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

Wednesday 23rd of November 2022

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

Thursday 6th of January 2022

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

Saturday 8th of January 2022

Thanks for sharing your local favorites, Emmanuel.

Rudolph Furtado

Wednesday 22nd of September 2021

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

Friday 24th of September 2021

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

Thursday 4th of March 2021

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

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

Kulwinder k Hehar

Tuesday 6th of August 2019

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

Friday 9th of August 2019

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

The Best Free (And Nearly Free) Things To Do In Dubai

Dubai is a glittering oasis in the desert, and an expensive one at that. Ever tried to take a photograph from the Burj Kalifa? Or to go skiing at Ski Dubai? Let’s just say, it’s expensive. But your trip to Dubai doesn’t have to be. Check out all these awesome free things to do in Dubai the next time you find yourself passing through the United Arab Emirates:

  Places are listed in order from south to north. However, if you wish to tackle this list in one day, start north to south and do them in the reverse order . You’ll hit the right places at the perfect times of day that way 😉 (A downloadable Google map is included at the end.)

Relax on the Beach

Jumeirah Beach is beautiful, well-maintained and quite popular. Spending a couple hours here soaking up the sun and relaxing in the water should definitely be on your Dubai to-do list.

  Visit either in the morning or late afternoon, as you don’t not want to be outside and skimpily dressed when the sun is at its hottest.

Enjoy the Air Conditioning at Dubai Mall

Dubai summer temperatures can easily hit 40°C (104°F) and have even been known to top 50°C (122°F) in the past. What better way to escape the heat than by using the early afternoon, the hottest part of the day, to take time to browse the Dubai Mall? And enjoy the AC, of course 😉 The mall is home to hundreds of high-end fashion and electronic brands that everyone will recognize, as well a few stores that are more Middle Eastern-themed.

Visit the Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

Okay, I’ll be honest: at 3 dirham ($0.80 USD) this place isn’t exactly free — but it is so close to free that it deserves inclusion. The Dubai Museum is an interesting and engaging look at how Dubai has evolved over the ages. It is located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, which dates back to 1787. Everything from art to technology to sports to local life is covered here in stunning detail with painstakingly crafted reconstructions of life during ages long passed. A great way to kill half hour or an hour, depending on how many of the exhibits you stop by.

Stroll Through Historic Bastakiya

After the Dubai Museum, stroll a few minutes east and you’ll find yourself in Bastakiya, Dubai’s most historic neighborhood. Buildings here date back around 100 years and it’s the only part of the city that isn’t a glitzy modern metropolis. But that is exactly why this area has its own charm. The buildings here are mostly residential but you can find a couple small shops to have a basic tea, coffee or snack in for only a few dirham.

Stop By The Textile Souk

Located near the Dubai Museum and Bastakiya is the Dubai Textile Souk. As the name suggests, this area is full of textile shops and vendors. Although a stop here is not the most exciting of things to do, the textile souk is located right next to the abra station — the next “must-do” thing on this list.  

Take a Ride at Abra Station

Dubai is divided into two parts, Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south. And while there are other ways to cross the river, such as the metro or bridges, none are as fun as taking a ride across in a traditional abra , or water taxi. Rides only take about five minutes and are great photo opportunities. For 1 dirham (around $0.25…again, not 100% free but basically) you can take a seat and enjoy the quick ride to the other side. Definitely a fun, distinctly-Dubai activity.

If coming from the Dubai Museum or Bastakiya, simply head northwest towards the river to find the Bur Dubai Abra Station at the west end of the textile souk. The boat will drop you on the other side of the river, directly across from the Spice Souk — the next free things to do in Dubai!  

Wander The Spice And Gold Souks

Dubai has been trading in spices and gold for as long as it has been on the map, and that trend still continues today. A trip here is a great insight into local culture and a trip back in time of sorts.

It’s also a great place for people-watching and getting photographs of life in Dubai. Both souks are located just north of the river, in Al Ras. The spice souk can be found on the opposite side of the main road running alongside Dubai Creek and the gold souk is stretches down Al Sabkha Rd, northeast of the spice souk.

  Come prior to lunchtime to catch the most activity.

See What’s Fishy at the Deira Fish Market

Truthfully, if you’ve seen one fish market, you’ve kind of seen them all. Other than varied species depending on the availability of that region, there is no real difference between fish markets. The same smell. The same frenzied bartering. Fresh loads of whatever constantly being transporting in and out. Yes, fish markets are the epitome of “same same but different” and as such, a stroll through here is interesting.

  If you do decide to buy anything, keep in mind that fish are not allowed on the Dubai metro.

See More     Dubai Activities & Adventures Free Things To Do Around The World

BONUS: Visit the World’s Tallest Building

Look, but don’t touch. A trip up the Burj Khalifa will set you back as much as 500 AED ($136 USD) per person depending upon the time of day! However you can take all the photos you want from street level for free. And they still turn out pretty nice.

  // chriswaits enygmatic joi

What other free things have you found to do in Dubai?

About Derek Freal

"Some people eat, others try therapy. I travel."   Cultural enthusiast. Adrenaline junkie. Eater of strange foods. Chasing unique and offbeat adventures around the world since 2008. Derek loves going to new destinations where he does not speak a word of the local language and must communicate with hand gestures, or places where he is forced to squat awkwardly to poo -- supposedly its healthier and more efficient. For more information (about Derek, not squat pooing) including popular posts and videos, check out his bio .

22 thoughts on “The Best Free (And Nearly Free) Things To Do In Dubai”

Honestly I’ve always considered Dubai as being one of those almost untouchable destinations because I’ve heard about that glamour and expense of it all. But as always, there’s always free things to do in every city. Nice stuff man!

Thanks bro! It actually took me three separate (but short) trips to compile all of those things. However I tried to boil them down and line ’em up in a way that anyone who wants to can tackle them in a single day. Now all you need is friends in the city to avoid the high cost of hotels 😉

This list is pretty good. Will keep this in mind next time I go!

Yeah, always helps to know a couple free ways to pass the time when in an expensive city 😉

You are like really for real!

Dude I am so happy to have come across your blog!!! TOTALLY LOVE IT!!! Love your take on the herb too! Makes me seriously regret not starting my own travel blog when I moved abroad 5 years ago… Feel totally motivated now to retroactively write about my experiences and will link and reference you when I get around to it. Agree to just about everything you’ve posted, think travel should be done slowly to really get the experience of a place and it’s culture. Super jealous that you lived in Tokyo! What were you doing there? I only went there for 2 days and was totally blown away! Even though I had already lived in Asia for 3 years prior and traveled around quite a bit… I also love driving and or trying out as many different forms of transportation as possible. Saw you are in India now for 6 months. Super jealous! Wish I could joint you for that mission this time, but will have to go there and or meet up another time. Was also thinking of taking it slow and doing 6 months north to south some time when I can afford the time off, aiming to end it and spend most time in Goa.Sorry about your Indonesian heart aches, I know how you feel. Also immediately blocked my psycho stalker ex after I read what happened to you!

I only have about 3 rules in life in total, and the one concerning travel is:

Thow shalt get high (as soon as possible) whenever in a new place. I pride myself on the ability to get stoned usually within hours of arriving in a new country…

Which brings me to my point and question, braj, if you could please help me:

I’ve been wanting to do trimming for 2 years. Do you think I would still have enough time to get in for the season if I were to arrive in Arcata by Tuesday? If you have like a generic tip guide to email or could give any kind of advice I would majorly appreciate it! Otherwise I hope to run into you some time and that we could share an enormous bowl or 10 some time sooner rather than later.

PEACE out my fellow traveler!

Oh yeah my email at the moment, [email protected] .

Thanks bro! Iree!

What up brother, thanks for the energetic comments. What was I doing in Tokyo? Well I was drinking and partying, that’s about it. Was working off five years of stress from my corporate career hahaha 😉 And yes, I definitely agree with your rule there. Sometimes it only takes minutes, other times it takes days. But usually it finds me, rather than me having to look for it. Cool people around the world just all happen to smoke. Hell only in one country out of all the ones I’ve visited did I never find any, and that was the United Arab Emirates (been there three times too!)

Anyway the season is just kicking into high gear there, so yeah, go for it. Hurry! Just be open and genuine and make some new friends with the locals. Then casually bring up the topic of looking for work.

Best of luck out there bro, and let me know when you make it back to this corner of the world 😀

Interesting list of places in Dubai! Dubai is such an expensive city to travel. These things to do are great to enjoy for the budget travelers. So many sight seeing places are there in Dubai.

A really enjoyable and thorough post, thanks for sharing! I’ve just shared my Top 10 Things to do in Dubai , I’ve featured a few similar bits to see and do too 🙂 Can’t wait to go back.

Never go there…. its the cheapest way to enjoy it. Or, risk being put in a prison cell because you had poppy seeds left over in your knitwear from the bread loaf that you purchased from a supermarket in your home country

Firsthand experience? It sounds like you have a story that you want to tell…

Dubai is an incredible city, you will have an amazing time for sure! That’s great glad we could help. All the hotels we have picked are world class and any would be perfect! If you have time, make sure to head out to the desert on safari!

Next time! 😉

Very good read with lots of insider info someone might not be able to find in a typical guidebook. I was interested in reading this because I just started a house sit in Bali for a couple that lives in Dubai and we were chatting a bit about the country, and I was interested in learning a bit more about it. Like you said, many on a budget might write it off automatically, and these tips are super helpful for keeping costs down.

Amazing Post! It is a beautiful country. I have appreciate with getting lot of good and Top things to do in UAE

Loved the pictures on this blog. These are obviously the free things to do on a bored weekend in Dubai. I usually visit the shopping mall in Deira for window shopping, There are events in the malls to amuse us occasionally. When the climate is pleasant, I visit the creek or Safa Park with friends or family.

Good suggestion! City Centre is also a great way to escape the heat 😉 Never been to Safa Park though, will check that out next time I am in Dubai….thanks for the tip!

Dubai Has amazing places !! i didn’t have the chance to visit all the places there i’m planning for another visit the kids loved the this city http://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dubai-tourism this website helped me alot in my first visit it may help others

I almost had a heart attack when I saw how much it cost to go up the Burj Khalifa!! I guess I’ll have to save that for when I’m not budget traveling, haha! Thanks for this other valuable information, I’m headed to Dubai tomorrow!

Lol yeah it’s not cheap 😂 enjoy your time in Dubai!

Dubai is such a nice place to stay and famous for its wonderful sightseeing’s attractions. The best trip is Dubai sightseeing’s tour and desert safari in Dubai. We had great time couple of years ago.

Hi Derek, I love your article, and thanks for sharing these wonderful things in Dubai. I got an idea that which places I have to visit when visiting Dubai. Not only it’s an economic hub but also best for tourism as well. Your effort must be appreciated.

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Free Places to visit in Dubai

Smith Jason -October 4, 2021

Dubai is famous for its magnificent high-rise buildings, malls, hotels, as well as other attractions. However, if you are on a budget, you might be asking that What are the best places in Dubai that you can visit for free. Well, you are in luck! Along with all the luxurious attractions and entertainment, Dubai allows you a bunch of things to do for free. Here we are going to discuss all the free places to visit in Dubai with family, from historical neighborhoods to natural retreats, and much more.

Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Dubai has a lot of such places that can give you a luxurious but free experience. Let’s explore some of the free places and things to do in Dubai :

EXPLORE DUBAI’S CULTURE- FOR FREE

Explore the streets of Al SEEF

Location: Al Seef District at the Dubai Creek Al Seef Timing: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Saturday-Wednesday); 10:00 am – 12:00 am (Thursday-Friday) Contact:  +971-800-637227

Some street art at AL KARAMA

Take a walk through the colorful streets of Karama , considered as one of the most effective places with street art in the city, and spot larger-than-life murals on 18b Street. There are twenty-four beautiful items of art displayed across the street — a part of an ambitious project to administer the older buildings of Karama an urban facelift. Art lovers will definitely relish this free activity in the city. Thus, head to the hustling center of old Dubai and appreciate the road art that covers everything from 3D art to graffiti as well as abstract paintings.

Tour the BUR DUBAI Grand Mosque

If you and your party would rather not create the trip to the Sheik Zayed Grand masjid in, head to the Bur city Grand masjid instead. It’s an unbelievably stunning facility, the Grand masjid is located in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Visitors are allowed to go on free tours from Sun to Thus from 09:00 am to 11:30 am. The guides work for the Islamic info Center thus, they recognize all there’s to concern is about the mosque.

Free Road Trips from ALSERKAL AVENUE

Location:  Al Quoz Contact: +971-4-3333464

Explore Burj al Arab

The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel is a true icon of Dubai , thanks to its sail-like silhou and stunning architectural design. Connected to the shore by a bridge, this state-of-the-art hotel is the third tallest in the world and boasts some of the most luxurious interiors you’ll find anywhere.

Set on an artificial island, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, thanks to its unique architecture and unparalleled level of luxury. It’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Dubai, even if you’re not staying at the hotel itself as its’s one of the free things to do in Dubai . With its distinctive design and prime location, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah has become an enduring symbol of the city’s opulence and extravagance.

Location : Jumeirah St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Contact :  +971 4 301 7777

Must visit the CAMEL RACING FESTIVAL

Visit a BEACH LIBRARY

SOUKS IN DUBAI- A Must Visit

Location : Multiple Locations Timing: Until 9:00 pm

BEST FREE OUTDOOR PLACES IN DUBAI

Have a picnic at any FREE PARK in Dubai

Burj Park is one of the best and free parks in Dubai. for your information, All the parks are a natural first pick for the best places to visit in Dubai for free bucket list. The reason is, this parka re ideal for picnic spots to barbecue facilities especially for families looking for cost-free leisure pursuits in Dubai. Furthermore, facilities that offer free entrance include Burj Park and Al Barsha Pond Park, although the rest do also offer free access to differently-abled visitors as well as children under a certain age.

FLAMINGOS at the RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE CENTRE

Location: Ras Al Khor Flamingo Hide Viewing Area Flamingo Hide Viewing Area Timings: 07:30 AM – 05:30 PM (Saturday-Thursday) and 02:00 PM – 05:30 PM (Friday) Contact:  +971-4-606-6831

Have a BEACH DAY

You must add a visit to Kite Beach in your list to enjoy the top free things to do in Dubai. Visiting the beach is the best plan, just head to any of the beaches with free entry and take advantage of the facilities like volleyball courts running tracks, and skate parks. However, some of the popular public beaches include Kite Beach, JBR Beach, and Jumeirah Beach.

Location: Multiple locations Timing:  Depends on the beach

Have a BBQ at AL QUDRA LAKE

Location: Al Qudra Al Qudra Lake timings : Open 27/7

Free Historical Attractions In Dubai

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Visit Dubai (@visit.dubai)

Explore the BASTAKIYA

Are you searching for the best things to do in Dubai for free? You have the best chance to explore Dubai’s history at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood . Experience the culture and heritage of the UAE at the historical neighborhood of Bastikiya, free of cost. Al Bastakiya offers a look of the old architecture of Dubai. It’s similar to traditional desert homes in the UAE.

Location: Al Fahidi Historical District Bastakiya Timings:  Open 24 hours

Visit the HATTA HERITAGE VILLAGE

Another location where you learn more about Dubai’s history for free is the Hatta Heritage Village. If you ever desired to know what the city looked like before the tourism industry, this is the best place for you. Hatta Heritage village features citadels, forts, as well as towers. You also have an opportunity to visit the “Bait Al Wali” that was the home of the local ruler of the time.

Location: Hatta (Around 134 kilometres along the Hajar Mountains area) Timings: 07:30 am to 08:30 pm (Saturday to Thursday), 02:30 pm to 08:30 pm (Friday)

Get at BURJ NAHAR

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Dating back to 1870, the Burj Nahar is a historic monument consisting of three watchtowers that were originally built to defend the old city against invaders. Made of mud and coral-stone, this structure has significant historical importance attached to it.

Located on the outskirts of Deira, the Burj Nahar has been fully restored and is now surrounded by picturesque gardens, making it a popular attraction for visitors from all over the world. It’s a great place to visit in Dubai if you’re interested in learning more about Dubai’s rich history and heritage. The Burj Nahar is a testament to the city’s past, and it’s a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the cultural and historical landmarks of Dubai.

Location : Burj Nahar view Building – 221 Omar Bin Al Khattab St – Naif – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Contact : +971 4 271 4006

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Location : Hatta (Around 134 kilometers along the Hajar Mountains area) Timings : 07:30 am to 08:30 pm (Saturday to Thursday), 02:30 pm to 08:30 pm (Friday)

Suggested Article : Hatta Hills Park

What About FREE MUSEUMS IN DUBAI?

A visit to the Coin Museum in Dubai is a memorable place to visit for free. Take yourself to any of the free-entry museums like the Coin Museum and Coffee Museum in the Bastakiaya area. These museums offer kids a great chance to learn about the history of the nation.

Location : Al Fahidi Historical District Coin Museum Timings : 08:30 am – 03:30 pm (Sun-Thu), Closed on Friday and Saturday Coffee Museum Timings : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm (Sun-Thu), Closed on Friday

Traditional Architecture Museum

It’s 100-year-old museum was the former residence of Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum . Now, the museum is the home to multiple traditional ornaments and tools used in building houses as well as the rest of the UAE decades ago. If you are ever interested to study the history of Emirati architecture free of cost, this is the place to be.

Location : Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai Contact : 08:00AM to 02:00PM (Sunday to Thursday)

Visit the Camel Museum

Do you want to learn more about camels, especially for free? If yes, then you must visit the Camel Museum . This elegant beast plays an essential role in the country’s heritage. The museum is considered an ideal place to learn how native Bedouins relied on the animals and also a free place to visit in Dubai .

Location : Al Shindagha Historical Area, Bur Dubai Timings : 08:00AM to 02:00PM (Sunday to Thursday)

OTHER FREE THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI

It is fascinating to know that Dubai has a lot more to offer for the people who rather not spend a lot during their trip. Apart from natural wonders or museums, here are some other activities as well as places to visit in Dubai for free :

Witness Dubai aquarium

If you’re on a budget but still want to experience the wonders of the Dubai Aquarium , there’s a fantastic free option available to you. Instead of paying the 70 Dirhams entry fee, head to the outside of the Dubai Mall entrance and enjoy the main tank’s view from there.

Not only will you be able to save some money, but you’ll also get to see the world’s largest single acrylic panel in the massive aquarium, which is an incredible sight to behold. It’s no surprise that the Dubai Mall’s aquarium is among the top places to visit in Dubai without spending any money. So don’t miss out on this amazing experience and head to the Dubai Mall to witness the magic of the aquarium for yourself!

Location : Outside Dubai Aquarium Timings : 24 hours open

IMAGINE at Festival Bay

One of the most spectacular free attractions in Dubai, featuring a triple bill of breathtaking stories narrated through the medium of water, light, and fire. The water-based show is truly mesmerizing, with perfectly synchronized fountains, vibrant colors, and state-of-the-art technology that will leave you spellbound. You can enjoy the show every day with different themes and soundtracks that include everything from contemporary hits to classical music.

This stunning display has earned two Guinness World Records for the largest water screen projection and the largest permanent projection mapping in the world. Festival Bay, where IMAGINE takes place, is situated in the Dubai Festival City Mall, and it’s easily accessible by car or public transport. So, don’t miss out on this incredible experience, which is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Dubai .

Location : Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai Timing : Mon-Thu 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sun 6pm-11pm (every hour).

Take a selfie with the Burj Khalifa backdrop

As the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is a shining example of modern architecture and engineering, as well as a testament to the power of imagination and innovation. With 160 stories reaching towards the sky, this monument offers visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city of Dubai.

But the Burj Khalifa is more than just a feat of engineering – it’s also a hub of dining and entertainment. Visiting the Burj Khalifa is one of the most iconic and popular things to do in Dubai , and the best part is that you can experience it for free. While tickets to the observation deck can be quite pricey, simply admiring the building from the outside and taking in the stunning views is completely free.

Location : 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings : Open 24 hours

Visit coffee museum

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For those who are passionate about coffee, a visit to this coffee cum shop in Dubai is a must. The entrance to the museum is free and upon entering, you will be transported to a world of coffee. The museum offers an opportunity to learn about the history of coffee and witness the different types of it. The museum also houses various coffee-related artifacts, including books, making it one of the most interesting free attractions in Dubai. Don’t miss out on this unique and educational experience, as it is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Dubai .

Location : Villa 44, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings : 9am – 5pm

LOVE LOCK BRIDGE- Bind You Love

The Lovelock Bridge at The Yard Dubai is an interesting thing to do in Dubai for free . If you are looking for a pocket-friendly date night, head to the Love Lock Bridge at the Yard just along with a lock and key. Place a lock customized with the initials of your loved one to the bridge. Toss the key off the bridge. It is fascinating to know that, there is no need to travel to the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris for this wonderful experience.

The Yard itself is the most popular place to visit in Dubai for free .  However, if the Love Lock Bridge is not something you are looking for, there are also some other activities at the yard to try.

Location : Al Khawaneej Last Exit D89 Timing : Open 24 hours

Worth visit Jumeirah Beach Corniche

The Jumeirah Beach Corniche is a relatively new addition to few of the free things to do in Dubai . It boasts 800 meters of beautiful beachfront, complete with a jogging track, showers, children’s play areas, and shaded picnic spots. The corniche stretches for 14 kilometers, running from the Dubai Marine Beach Resort all the way to the Burj Al Arab Hotel.

Location : Next to the Dubai Marine Beach Resort Timings : 7.30 am to 10.00 pm

Visit LA MER

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La Mer Dubai , an Insta-friendly beachfront destination is one of the fun free things to do in Dubai . the location is completed with quirky installations and colorful street art, La Mer is one of best selfie sports. There is also the La Mer Beach that offers visitors a wide range of fun watersports activities!

Location: Jumeirah 1 district, Dubai Timings : Retail – 10:00AM – 10:00PM (Sunday-Wednesday) and 10:00AM– 11:00PM (Thursday-Saturday) Contact : +971-800-637227

Ain Dubai at BLUE WATERS ISLAND

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Bluewater Island is a popular place to visit in Dubai as it’s a recent addition to the list of Meraas destinations. For your information, the location is also home to The Caesars Palace that hosts the best celebrity chef-restaurants in Dubai as well as Ain Dubai , the largest observation wheel in the UAE . However, the best way to get to the island is by car because there is no direct metro or bus route to go there. If public transportation is the option, DMCC is the closest metro station to Bluewaters Island. There is still a need to hail a cab to get to the island.

Location : Bluewater Island Dubai, off the coast of JBR Bluewater Island Timing : Open 24 hours

WATERFRONT STROLL on the MARINA WALK

The Dubai Marina Walk is another popular place to visit in Dubai for free . Tenants who live there can enjoy a relaxing stroll with the family. They can even a jog across the Marina Walk located close to the flats. Along with this, the waterfront and the docked yachts make the views more spectacular.

Location : Dubai Marina Timings : Open 24 hours

Walk Down The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is one of the renowned luxury destinations along with lavish hotels and attractions. However, the Pointe at The Palm offers you a welcome retreat, if you like to explore the spectacular waterfront destination. Apart from the dining or retail options, the 1.5-kilometer promenade is a stunning place for a photo-op with mesmerizing views of the sea and the Atlantis, The Palm.

Location : Palm Jumeirah Timings : Always open Contact : +971-4-390-9999

Enjoy car gazing

If you’re a car enthusiast but don’t want to spend money on visiting car museums, The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence is the perfect spot for you. Here, you can catch a glimpse of some of the most impressive and expensive cars in the city, as locals showcase their prized possessions along the waterfront promenade.

In addition to car-gazing, The Walk offers a wide variety of free things to do in Dubai. Stroll along the beautiful beachfront, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, or simply relax in one of the many shaded areas along the promenade.

Location : Along The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence Timings : Evenings; especially on Saturday nights

Watch LOCAL WRESTLING for free

Another unique and free activity to enjoy in Dubai is watching local wrestling matches. Every Friday, hundreds of laborers from Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi backgrounds gather to watch their countrymen compete in intense wrestling matches.

These matches are held in various locations around the city, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultures and traditions of the communities that make up Dubai’s vibrant melting pot. The wrestlers themselves are incredibly skilled and dedicated, and their performances are sure to impress even the most seasoned wrestling fans.

Location : Deira (sandlot behind the fish market) Timings : Fridays; 5:00 pm onwards

Visit RIVERLAND DUBAI

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Here you go back in time to the streets of France as they were during the 1600s. Visit the 1950s America in Riverland Dubai, located at Dubai resorts and Parks. It is fascinating to know that; the Riverland Dubai allow you to experience four unique villages from times gone by. The French Village is significantly based on a medieval French town, the Boardwalk in 1950s America, an Asian-themed India Gate, and a 19th-century style piazza at The Peninsula. No doubt, the entrance is free but you have to pay for parking.

Location : Dubai Parks and Resorts Timings : 04:00PM to 12:00AM (Monday to Sunday)

DANCING FOUNTAINS In Dubai- A Must Watch for free

The Dancing Fountain is one of the world’s largest choreographed fountain systems. Along with this, it’s the top place to visit in Dubai for free at Dubai Mall. Enjoy the spectacular show of the world’s largest choreographed fountain system that dance to the famous tunes of Whitney Houston and Celine Dion and many more.

Location : The Dubai Mall Timings : Every half hour in the evenings, 6:00PM– 11:00PM.

Ride an ABRA BOAT

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For those seeking free activities in Dubai , a ride on an abra boat along Dubai Creek is a must-try experience. These small wooden boats are a budget-friendly way to take a tour of the area. You can board the boat from either Dubai Old Souq or Dubai Gold Souq stations and enjoy a scenic ride while taking in the picturesque views of the creek and its surroundings.

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY MALL- The imagine show

If you have amused the dancing fountains at The Dubai Mall, the IMAGINE show is a similar experience to consider. The IMAGINE attraction at the Dubai Festival City Mall starts when the sun goes down-converting the mall the best places to visit in Dubai for free. In Dubai Festival City Mall, the popular attractions, the water and the laser spectacle are a draw for the visitors. It has one of the largest water screen projections coupled with lights, pyrotechnics, lasers, as well as dramatic effects.

Location : The Dubai Mall Timings : Every one hour in the evening, 6:30PM– 11:00PM

Dubai Water Canal- Watch the WATERFALL

It is fascinating to know that; the Dubai Water Canal is a natural pick for free things to do in Dubai . The 6.4km man-made canal features a 3km running track, a 12km cycling path that makes it an amazing spot for fitness lovers looking for free places to exercise. Nevertheless, if working out is not an option, plenty of open spaces and benches are there to kick back and relax.  A mechanical waterfall is also there, that changes colors when boats pass through it.

You can get to the Dubai Canal by car or by metro. However, if you are traveling by car, park at the ‘Dubai Water Canal Walkway Parking’. On the other hand, for people using public transportation, the Business Bay Sea Side Metro stop is the closest metro station to the Dubai Canal Waterfall. The Dubai Waterfall is only a 5-minute walk away.

Location : Sheikh Zayed Road Timing : Open 24 hours

Share Love at LOVE LAKE

Known as to be one of the ideal romantic spots in Dubai, Lake at Al Qudra allows a fun way to explore the desert. The Lake area is crafted in such a way that it spells out the word ‘Love’ with two hearts. It includes the fairly new things to do in Dubai for free . Along with this, the place also comes equipped with shaded areas with fire pits as well as facilities like washrooms.

Location : Al Qudra Lake, Dubai

Aquaventure Waterpark

If you are looking for free things to do especially on your birthday in Dubai , a visit to the famed Aquaventure in Atlantis must be in your bucket list. Although the Palm isn’t cost-free, it is so for one day a year, that’s your birthday. You can register your birthday on the Aquaventure Birthday website in order to get the “Free Aquaventure Waterpark Birthday Offer” voucher. There is a great need to know, this free access is subject to availability as well as only applies to single admission without any add-ons. Moreover, the offer is valid on the day of your birthday and it can also be used once in six days.

Aquaventure Water Park Dubai

That’s everything about the major places to visit for free in Dubai . Which one of the free activities are you going to try?

Dubai is not just about luxury and grandeur. There are plenty of free activities and attractions to enjoy during your visit to this vibrant city. From the beautiful beaches and breathtaking architecture to the exciting cultural experiences, Dubai has something to offer for every type of traveler.

By exploring the free things to do in Dubai , you can make the most of your vacation without breaking the bank. So why not plan your trip today and experience all that this incredible city has to offer?

What are some free attractions to visit in Dubai?

Some popular free attractions in Dubai include the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Miracle Garden, the Dubai Mall Aquarium, and the Jumeirah Beach Corniche, among others.

Are there any free beaches in Dubai?

Yes, there are a number of free public beaches in Dubai, including Jumeirah Open Beach, Al Mamzar Beach Park, and Umm Suqeim Beach.

Are there any free events or festivals in Dubai?

Yes, there are many free events and festivals in Dubai throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Dubai Food Festival, and the Dubai International Jazz Festival.

What are some free cultural experiences in Dubai?

Visitors can enjoy free cultural experiences in Dubai, such as exploring the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, visiting the Dubai Museum, and watching traditional performances at the Global Village.

Is it possible to enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Dubai?

Yes, there are plenty of free and affordable things to do in Dubai, from exploring the city’s stunning architecture and natural beauty to sampling local street food and shopping at the many souks.

What is the best time to visit Dubai for a budget-friendly trip?

The best time to visit Dubai for a budget-friendly trip is during the off-season, which is typically from May to September, when hotel rates and airfares tend to be lower. However, visitors should be prepared for high temperatures and humidity during this time.

Related Blogs:

• 17 underrated places to Visit in Dubai – Mala Tourism
• Artistically Attractive Places to Visit in Dubai – Mala Tourism
• Budget friendly traveling, Why Visiting Dubai is a Must – Mala.ae
• Artistically Attractive Places to Visit in Dubai
• 10 Incredible Things to Do On Your First Visit to Dubai – Mala Tours

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Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

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Near Dubai Mall

Near Burj Al Arab

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Near Global Village Dubai

Things to do in Dubai for Free

Here is the list of 20 places to visit in dubai for free, 1. dubai fountain.

One of the top free things to do in Dubai is the Dubai Fountain. It is the world's largest choreographed water fountain in the beautiful Burj Complex. This dancing fountain surges as high as 150 meters in complete synchronisation to classical, Arabic and other popular world musical numbers. The show begins in the evening every day, and you can watch the fountain show from the Dubai Mall complex, or sit in one of the restaurants with a fountain view.

2. Relax at One of Dubai's Free Beaches

Dubai offers a selection of free public beaches along its stunning coastline, providing travelers with access to the city's pristine shoreline without any entrance fees. From the popular Jumeirah Beach to the scenic Umm Suqeim Beach, these open-to-all waterfront destinations offer opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks.

3. Dubai Souks

Located primarily in the historic districts of Deira and Bur Dubai, souks are renowned for their diverse goods, from glittering gold and precious gemstones in the Gold Souk to exotic spices, aromatic herbs, and fragrant incense in the Spice Souk. The Textile Souk dazzles with colorful fabrics, intricate embroideries, and traditional garments, while the Perfume Souk entices with various captivating scents and handcrafted perfumes. These souks are free to explore are a great cultural experience.

4. Dubai Marina

Nestled in the region popularly known as 'New Dubai', Dubai Marina is a conceptualized man-made canal city. It offers luxurious lifestyles through its exquisite waterfront development along the Persian Gulf shoreline. There are classy hotels and upscale shopping and other leisure options here. It also contains the Dubai Marina Mall Complex, a shopping and entertainment destination.

Dubai Travel Packages

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Triple Dhamaka Dubai Package (City Tour, Cruise, Desert Safari)

Dubai kids adventure tour package: aya universe tickets included, delightful dubai tour package with tickets to museum of future, diwali in dubai special package, magical dubai abu dhabi with yas island, exclusive dubai tour package for 4 nights, 5. explore malls of dubai.

Exploring the malls in Dubai is a fantastic free activity. The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, boasts an impressive indoor waterfall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and the sprawling Dubai Fountain show, all accessible for free. Mall of the Emirates is home to the unique Ski Dubai. Ibn Battuta Mall, themed around the travels of the famous explorer, provides a cultural journey through its stunningly decorated courts representing different regions of the world.

6. See The Dubai Aquarium From Outside

Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is housed in the largest mall, which is the Dubai Mall. It has a vast array of marine life and what’s more exciting than getting to view it just from the outside without paying for any combo ticket whatsoever. The aquarium timings are 10 AM - 12 AM. While making plans to visit the aquarium, one can also add a trip to downtown Dubai to their list. It is nearby and here stands the tallest building in the world Burj Khalifa.

7. The Wings of Mexico Statue

One of the most instagram famous spots in Dubai is the The Wings of Mexico Statue located against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. A stunning photo-op, it is free to click a picture here. The Wings of Mexico Statue is located in The Burj Plaza.

8. The Walk at JBR

The Walk at JBR near Dubai Marina is a beautiful avenue lined with swaying palms on either side, offering many shops and restaurants. It is nearly a mile long and has plazas and arcaded doorways. The Walk is host to multiple events and festival venues and is a must-visit after sunset.

9. Imagine Show at Dubai Festival City Mall

Imagine is a laser, fountain and surround sound show held every evening at the Dubai Festival City Mall, which is free for all. It is one of the largest water projection screen and combines entertainment and dramatic effects. It is a Guinness World Record holding production for the largest permanent projection mapping in the world.

10. Stroll Around Al Fahidi Neighborhood

The historical neighborhood of Dubai, Al Fahidi is home to the 18th century Al Fahidi fort, coffee museum, House of Shiekh Saeed Al Maktoum, and Pearl Diving Exhibits of Dubai Museum. Regarded as a must-visit place in Dubai, this heritage site has preserved Old Dubai's culture in forts, mud houses, pictures, and experiences.

11. Love Lake

‘Love Lake’ is one of the most popular lakes in Dubai. It is a human-made lake in the form of two hearts interlinked together. It was made next to the cluster of lagoons in Al Qudra, around 50 kilometres away from Burj Khalifa. It gained tourist attention after an Instagram post by the crown prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed. A popular spot for camping, birdwatching and fish spotting, it is free to visit.

12. Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library represents a fusion of cultures, civilizations, and education, serving as a unique cultural icon that reflects Dubai's rich heritage. Situated along the historic Dubai Creek and crafted as a traditional Islamic lectern, the library has nine levels spanning over 54000 sqm. One of the free places to visit in Dubai, it has dedicated sections for Maps and atlases, media and arts, special collections, business and periodicals, and a young adult.

13. Dubai Coffee Museum

Dubai’s Coffee Museum is a coffee lover’s paradise in the Al Fahidi Heritage Hub neighborhood in Bur Dubai. The eccentric museum brings coffee lovers and the coffee culture together under one roof for the love of the cup of brewed Joe (Coffee). The robust home of the Coffee Museum showcases the coffee bean journey from around the world and how it was discovered back in time. It is free to visit for all.

14. Riverland Dubai

15. Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is an arts and culture district in Al Quoz, Dubai. The Alserkal District accommodates several houses for local and global artists, art galleries, museums, performing platforms, design studios and exhibition halls. You can visit these for free, including modern art at Custot Gallery and North African works at Elmarsa Gallery.

16. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

With over 500 flamingos and several species of birds and fishes, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve. Perfect for tourists, environmentalists, photographers and botanists, it is a protected area and has a large number of migratory birds, fishes, crustaceans and mammals. It is free to visit and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

17. Have Drink On the House at the Many 'Ladies Nights' in Dubai

Ladies can now forget their wallets when they leave their place looking for a good time. Dubai’s night scene brings them exclusive offers to enjoy free food and beverages at any bar, restaurant or club. Earlier, Tuesday was the traditional day for the ladies night-out; however, now, different venues host it on different nights as well as during the day. The fun doesn’t end here; one can indulge themselves in a bit of grooming with offers on mini spa treatments, swimming pools and beaches all to themselves and their girl pals.

18. Explore The Mountains at Fossil Rock

Jebel Maleihah in Sharjah is a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Dubai. Popularly known as Fossil Rock due to the marine fossil deposits found in its slopes, one can enjoy dune bashing in the slippery sands of the desert, or one can take up their spades and go fossil hunting. Other activities that one can enjoy here are ATV riding, hiking, and camping, or one can just enjoy the picturesque rocky outcrops of the desert. Don’t forget to carry the picnic baskets.

19. Watch a Free Movie at Pyramids Rooftop Complex

What adds a cherry to the top of one’s Dubai vacation - watching a movie under the stars on a rooftop and that too for free. The Pyramids Rooftop Complex in the Wafi Mall in Old Dubai has got one covered. It’s a weekly event and takes place every Sunday. So sprawl out and relax on the beanbags that they lay out for every Sunday movie night. One can also carry their own pillows and blankets to cosy up their outdoor cinema experience.

20. Watch Local Wrestling

South Asian wrestling, known as Pehlwani or Kushti, is a favorite sport among Indian ex-pats in Dubai. For the pehlwans or wrestlers, it is a way of life. Those who want to experience the excitement of a wrestling ring free of cost can head over to the Deira Fish market, where the competition takes place on a sandy patch just before sunset every Friday. The crowd sits in circular rows as the pehlwans strip down to the bare minimum in their colorful loincloths, and the goal is to tackle and pin one’s opponent to the ground on their back.

Here are some of the free things to do in Dubai, if you thought only money talks in Dubai hope these places changed your mind.

This post was published by Muhammed Salih

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14 absolutely free things to do in Dubai

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Free Things To Do In Dubai

Dubai is not just about splurging; there's loads you can do for free! Yup, you read that right! Add these gems to your Dubai agenda without spending a single dirham. Ready for some wallet-friendly fun? Check out our top picks for freebies in Dubai 2024!

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. This wetland reserve is home to many migratory birds like the grey heron, flamingoes, cormorant, osprey, and black-winged stilts, among others. There are 3 bird hides in the sanctuary, free for the public from 9.00am to 4.00pm except on Fridays. A visit to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife sanctuary also features salt flats, intertidal mudflats, mangroves, and lagoons - adding to the beauty of the birds flocking in their natural habitat.

Coffee Museum

This is museum-cum-shop-come-shrine to all things coffee is located in the cultural neighbourhood of Al Fahidi and tells the history of coffee, alongside an impressive collection of coffee-related artifacts, including a 300-year-old coffee pot! Grab a cuppa and browse through numerous books about coffee, old examples of coffee advertising, and enjoy a few roasting demonstrations which lends the museum its lovely aroma. Entry is free but we're fairly certain you won't leave without a cup of coffee or even some coffee beans to take back home.

Other top-rated experiences in Dubai

Alserkal avenue.

Art lovers in Dubai, you absolutely cannot miss the AlSerkal Avenue in the very heart of the city. Once an industrial area, now an electic display of Dubai's diverse cultural scene - the AlSerkal Avenue comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafés and more. In this budding art hub, the Al Quoz Gallery is free to enter and flaunts a beautiful display of contemporary artwork, as well as seasonal events and open-air community days. There are many pop-up shops, concept spaces and quaint cafes in the vicinity, giving you plenty to explore for hours together.

Dubai Fountain Show

The dazzling Dubai Fountain is the tallest performing fountain in the world! Designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, the Dubai Fountain surges as high as 150 meters and is a one of the best free things to do in Dubai. As the dancing waters sway in tune with the music in the accompaniment of colorful lights, you would be left awestruck. The Dubai Fountain is located in the Burj Lake, overlooking the towering Burj Khalifa. To amp up your experience, you can take an abra ride into the Burj Lake or buy tickets for the Burj Boardwalk that gives you front-row seats to the fountain show. Each show lasts for about 5 minutes and starts at an interval of 30 minutes throughout the day, from 1:00 pm to 11:30 pm.

Recommended Dubai Fountain Show Tickets

Ripe Food and Craft Market

The Ripe Food & Craft Market is an outdoor market with an abundance of dining options, fresh produce by the crate-load and live entertainment every Friday and Saturday at a range of venues in Dubai. This market has something for everyone - local produce, unique toys, take-home gifts, workshops, live music, fitness classes, educational activities, horse riding and even a petting zoo for the kids. The Ripe Markets also have pop-up events that occur throughout the year at various different locations. It's a great free thing to do in Dubai, as you don't have to spend a penny (provided you can curb your temptation while window shopping). Simply amble about, relax and enjoy the free performances while you're here.

Wander The Souqs

While Dubai has a mall around every other corner, the city also has a number of souqs, meandering through tiny alleys in the older parts of the city. From spice souqs to gold souqs and even a whole souq dedicated to perfumes, these traditional markets top the list of free things to do in Dubai. Wandering through the lanes of these souqs transport you to the past and gives one a fascinating slice of history well preserved and chockfull of culture and traditions. They are bustling, vibrant, raw and if you are lucky (and bargain well), you might just get your hands on a rare find for an unbeatable price.

Love Lake & Al Qudra

Image Courtesy: The National

Located in the middle of an arid desert, Al Qudra has a lake and lush green area, ideal for barbequing, camping, cycling, bird watching a whole host of things that bring you close to nature, and away from the hustle of Dubai. You can find a spot you like anywhere, pitch a tent and spend a night under the starlit sky. There are fire pits and washrooms, an added luxury in the wild. The Love Lakes at Al Qudra is also a nearby spot, considered one of the top romantic spots in the city. The two giant lakes take the shape of intertwining hearts and trees planted around spells out the word 'love'. The fauna here is diverse - from ducks, flamingoes, eagles, swans, and falcons, among many other birds. The flora is awe-inspiring too, with a vibrant collection of flowers, plants, and trees including red begonia, hundreds of thousands of shrub varieties plus over 16000 trees comprising side, olives and plenty of desert staple ghaf.

Desert fun in Dubai

Hit the beaches.

Dubai has some of the best, free beaches in the world - calm sparkling waters, clean white shores and the Arabian sun shining bright for most of the year. The beaches in Dubai are very well-equipped with running tracks, volleyball courts, skate parks and even beach libraries! Some of the most famous beaches in Dubai include JBR beach, Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach, Umm Suqeim Park Beach and Al Mamzar Beach.

Best Watersports in Dubai

Al fahidi historical neighbourhood.

For a glimpse of how Dubai looked before the rise of skyscrapers, head to the Al Fahidi District for a feel of the city's glorious past. Also commonly called Bastakiya, this historic district preserves ancient buildings that once belonged to pearl merchants and has restored certain parts to show how life in Dubai was back in 1600. There are many museums in the vicinity - notable ones being the Coffee Museum and Etihad Museum (entry here costs a modest AED 10). The textile souk in here is a must visit and grabbing a bite and some tea from the Arabian Tea House Cafe is highly recommended.

Adjacent to Al Fahidi District, stands Al Seef, another recently restored and developed heritage area seeped in Emirati culture and history. Here you'll see traditions combined with modern designs, showcasing the city's blend between its proud past and bright future. One half is adorned in traditional architecture with mud-colored buildings complete with arches and romantic wind towers. Fishing nets placed along the waterfront promenade are a nod to Dubai’s fishing heritage. Walk a little further and the architecture evolves into sleek and modern shipping container like buildings. Al Seef has many open-air floating markets and creekside pontoons hosting regional crafts and textiles, Emirati art spaces and pop-ups dedicated to local cuisine. During winters, you'll find several outdoor events, festivals and live entertainment hosted in the district. Don't miss out on the Museum of Illusions while you're here, especially if you're visiting with kids.

With its edgy vibe, millennial outlook and an array of trendy restaurants, La Mer Dubai brings on a platter the best of sun, sea, entertainment and adventure.. You can hit up the La Mer beach for free or simply take a long stroll around the area while admiring its colourful walls and graffiti around every corner. La Mer is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable spots in UAE with plenty of fun photo ops. This beachside neighbourhood has a surf park, trampoline park, cinema, gymnasium and 130 establishments in the form of café’s, shops and restaurants. The Laguna Waterpark is a huge hit, especially during summers. It also happens to have the cheapest entry fee among all waterparks in Dubai .

Laguna Waterpark Dubai

Headout Price: AED135

Camel Racing at Al Marmoom

Deep in the desert sands of Dubai, the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track is a modern day version of the old tradition of camel racing. The sport is a favourite pastime among locals and if a must visit for a first timer in Dubai. Watch 60 camels flood from the gates, legs flying in all directions, making their way as fast as they can down the track. Make sure to carry binoculars for a good view from the grandstands. This race track is based at the Dubai Camel Racing Club which also happens to be next to the camel hospital and camel laboratory. Get there early and you’ll have the opportunity to pet the camels and take photos with them before they compete. Entry and parking are both free to the Al Marmoom track.

More Adventures in Dubai

Horse racing at meydan racecourse.

There are very few places where horse racing can be experienced for free, and Dubai is one of them! For more than 5 months of the year, horseracing events take place at the Meydan Racecourse and culminate in the richest race day in the world, i.e. the Dubai World Cup. While the World Cup tickets are not free, you can visit Meydan racecourse on other days and watch horse racing for absolutely free. The free admission area gives access to a limited section within the Meydan Grandstand, boasting excellent views.

Dubai Aquarium

The 10-million litre Dubai Aquarium tank is the largest suspended aquarium in the world and the main tank measures 51 metres in length, 20 metres in width and 11 metres in height. It is home to more than 30,000 marine life and more than 400 sharks. You wouldn't think the world's largest aquarium can be viewed for free, but it's true! You can catch a wholesome glimpse of the Dubai Aquarium for free from the Ground Floor of the Dubai Mall. While it doesn't make for the experience of walking through the aquarium tunnel, catching a glimpse from outside is a treat in itself.

Buried Village of Al Madam

On a golden strip of desert, 37 miles from Dubai stands the desolate ghost village of Al Madam, lost in sand and engulfed by the dunes. 2 rows of colorful houses with rusty iron gates and an old mosque at the end, there is something poetic yet eerie in the sand speckled breeze here. Step into the small houses and you're welcomed by colorful blue and green rooms decorated with ceramic tiles and wallpapers - not to forget the piles of sand that stretch halfway up the walls and a scorpion or two nestled comfortably. The settlement is believed to have been built in the 1970s or ’80s and inhabited by the local Al Kutbi tribe. It was abandoned not long afterward. Today this lost hamlet is referred to as the “old village,” “ghost village,” or “buried village” of Al Madam. Not a soul remains to tell its story, but Al Madam is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for thrill-seeking emiratis.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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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

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Dubai Garden Glow announces opening date for Season 10

Earlier, global village announced that its 29th season would open to the public on october 16.

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Published: Tue 10 Sep 2024, 11:23 AM

Last updated: Tue 10 Sep 2024, 11:07 PM

As summer draws to a close, UAE residents can look forward to visiting outdoor destinations.

September 23 will mark the beginning of the autumn equinox , after which day and night will become equal. Temperatures are expected to drop, indicating a transition to colder days.

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In anticipation of the cooler weather, several attractions have announced opening dates for the 2024 season. Dubai Garden Glow will open on September 11, 2024 for its 10th season, according to its official website.

Tickets are available for Dubai Glow and Dinosaur Park, priced at Dh78.75. For children under 3 years, entry is free.

Earlier, Global Village announced that its 29th season would open to the public on October 16 . Dubai Safari also announced that it will open for this year's season on October 1.

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12 must-visit islands in the UAE

Island days are the best kind of days. With nearly 500 islands in the UAE – the emirate of Abu Dhabi has 200 and there are a further 260 in Dubai's manmade The World archipelago – you could spend a day on each and have yourself a very good year indeed. Except, like us, you’ll probably need to swap sunsets for spreadsheets eventually. To help you out, we’ve pulled together this list of the 12 best.

Palm Jumeirah

1. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

It’s been called the eighth wonder of the world, so it’s fitting that Palm Jumeirah makes our list of the UAE’s best islands. Each of its 30-plus luxury resorts is a destination in itself, but remain in their cocooning embrace and you risk ending up with a major case of fomo. This luxury playground is home to a dazzling array of high-end restaurants (Stay by Yannick Alléno and Trèsind Studio should both be on your list) and hard-to-get-into nightclubs. Or you can push your limits on the Odyssey of Terror, the world’s tallest waterslide – one of 50 at Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, part of Atlantis, The Palm. But perhaps the best way to take in the Palm’s architectural beauty is from the air. The Dubai Balloon is a tethered helium gondola with aerial views of the archipelago and of the emirate’s distinctive skyline beyond.

Views from Anantara World Islands resort

2. The World Islands, Dubai

Recreating the Earth’s landmasses on the waves was always going to be an audacious proposition, but The World Islands were constructed all the same – and some are open to visitors. Anantara World Islands Resort offers a unique experience in a country awash with superlatives; a short hop away is the adults-only Voco Monaco Dubai, part of The Heart of Europe collection of projects, inspired by the French Riviera. The first to open was Island Dubai on Lebanon island, with restaurants, water sports and beach activities. You can only get to the islands by air or by boat from the Palm, and transport is typically organised by the respective hotels.

The dog-friendly beach at Dubai Islands

3. Dubai Islands, Deira

Estimated to date back to the 1700s, Deira is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai. It’s also home to one of the emirate’s newest developments – the manmade Dubai Islands. Although still a work in progress, the area already hosts a mall and three hotels; the newest, Park Regis by Prince, has an AI concierge for tech fanboys. The area is also home to Dubai's only beach where dogs are allowed in the water. Overall, the development is one of the best places to enjoy a quiet beach day (whether or not you have four-legged friends in tow), minutes away from Dubai’s historic creek and bustling souks.

The mangroves on Sir Bani Yas Island

4. Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

An extraordinary experience awaits on Sir Bani Yas, the UAE’s largest natural island . One of eight desert islands in the Al Dhafra region, it was established as a wildlife reserve in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE, and is now home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, gazelles and Arabian Oryx. But animal safaris aren't the only outdoor experiences offered by the Anantara properties situated here. Settlers arrived on the sedimentary salt dome several thousand years ago, and 36 archaeological sites provide a distinct insight into the history of humankind. Or skip class and mountain bike through the sandy wadis of this proverbial garden of Eden.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

5. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Thrills of a different sort await on Yas Island , where you can take your pick of heart rate-boosting experiences: the planet’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World; Formula 1 thrills in a high-performance car at Yas Marina Circuit; indoor skydiving at Clymb; or child-like fun at the fully air-conditioned, 1.65-million-square-foot Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. More sedate but equally rousing for fans of the gentleman’s game: the par-72 championship Yas Links Abu Dhabi golf course.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

6. Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

There’s culture and then there’s Saadiyat Island , Abu Dhabi’s answer to Berlin’s famous Museum Island. Already open to visitors are Louvre Abu Dhabi, which houses the region’s finest art collection, Berklee Abu Dhabi music school and Manarat Al Saadiyat, a centre for galleries and artistic exchange. Four more cultural experiences are on the way, all designed by world-class architects: Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, billed as an immersive journey at the intersection of art and technology. This being an island, there are beaches, of course, and the ever-popular Saadiyat Beach Club . The island is also home to an endangered animal rescue programme focusing on hawksbill sea turtles.

The Galleria, Al Maryah Island

7. Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's Al Maryah Island is where you head for world-class shopping without the crowds. The island’s Galleria Mall contains a panoply of aspirational brands, from Jimmy Choo, Hermès and Dior, to Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier. Afterwards, take time to unwind at one of the many waterfront restaurants: Zuma, Nusr-Et, Almayass and the Michelin-stared 99 Sushi Bar are among the best.

Abu Dhabi's Dalma Island

8. Dalma Island, Abu Dhabi

Longtime UAE residents will tell you there’s not much to do on Dalma Island, 42 kilometres off Abu Dhabi’s westernmost coast. That depends on what you want to do, of course. Settlements here date back to neolithic times, and Dalma has been a significant pearling centre for centuries. There are at least 20 archaeological sites on the balloon-shaped island, and its principal museum sits in a century-old coral-and-stone building that was once the home of pearl merchant Mohammed Bin Jassim Al Meraikhi. There are also at least three ancient mosques, a desert water network that's hundreds of years old and several geological attractions. You’ll need to take the ferry or book a charter flight, and ring ahead to any attractions.

Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

9. Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

Four manmade coral-shaped islets make up Al Marjan Island complex in the northernmost emirate of Ras Al Khaimah . Their luxury hotels are set on a 7.8km stretch between the Arabian Gulf and the Yanis and Jais Mountains, but these UAE islands are also extra special for fans of outdoor activities and adventure sports, with Pullman, Double Tree and Hampton by Hilton hotels all offering activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, waterskiing and wakeboarding, flyboard and fly fishing, as well as deep-sea fishing adventures and scuba diving trips. Within an hour’s drive are the world's longest zipline, the Jais Flight, and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, with abseiling, archery and professional survival courses.

Sunset view of Al Noor island

10. Al Noor Island, Sharjah

Fittingly for Sharjah , the UAE's most arts-orientated emirate, Al Noor Island is a cultural retreat within the city. The manageable, child-friendly attraction sited within the Khalid Lagoon offers a relaxing day out. There’s a butterfly vivarium with 500-odd species, a literature pavilion, artistic installations everywhere and a programme of regular art events.

Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

11. Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

Cross over to the UAE’s underrated east coast for a change of scenery. Shark Island sits off Khorfakkan , an enclave of Sharjah. Sira Khorfakkan, as it’s known locally, is a small promontory encircled by coral reefs. Home to sea anemones and turtles, it’s perfect for snorkellers, but there’s plenty for scuba divers too: moray eels, rays, Arabian angelfish and the blacktip reef sharks that give the rocky isle its name.

Socotra cormorants can be spotted on unspoilt Sinniyah Island

12. Sinniyah Island, Umm Al Quwain

Off the coast of the least-visited emirate is unspoilt Sinniyah Island, a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Its lush mangroves and shallow mudflats teem with birdlife, including migratory species such as flamingos and herons, as well as the endangered local Socotra cormorant. Ask a travel operator to book you a tour to this tranquil island getaway.

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Pope francis visits one of most remote places on planet, brings toys, meds — and message of peace.

Pope Francis traveled to one of the most remote regions on the planet Sunday to call for an end to religion-based tribal violence that has claimed thousands of lives in the past 20 years.

Toting toys, medicine and musical instruments, the 87-year-old pontiff was greeted by tens of thousands of faithful in the costal town of Vanimo in Papua New Guinea after a flight from the capital city of Port Moresby.

Among those on hand to greet the pope were bare-chested Walsa tribesmen in traditional garb including body paint and headdresses who performed a ceremonial dance in his honor.

Francis donned a traditional headdress made with Bird of Paradise feathers which was presented to him as a gift as he spoke to the assembled masses.

“You who live on this large island in the Pacific Ocean may sometimes have thought of yourselves as a far away and distant land, situated at the edge of the world,” the pope said.

“Today, the Lord wants to draw near to you, to break down distances, to let you know that you are at the center of his heart and that each one of you is important to him,” he said, according to NBC .

More than 10 million people call the South Pacific region home. About a quarter of them, or 2.5 million, are Catholic, according to data from the Vatican.

The country’s indigenous religions include beliefs in witchcraft and animism, which are often practiced right alongside Catholic. These deeply held customs have at times led to bloodshed akin to witch trials in which mobs accuse locals — typically women — of practicing black magic before horrifically executing them.

Australian researchers estimate about 3,000 such deaths have occurred over the past two decades, France24 reports.

In his remarks to the crowd, the pope urged Papuans to “overcome divisions” both tribal and personal and “to drive out fear, superstition and magic from people’s hearts.”

Such evils “imprison and take away the happiness of so many of our brothers and sisters even in this country,” Francis said.

“Make Papua New Guinea famous not only for its variety of plant and animal life, its enchanting beaches and clear sea, but famous above all for the good people you meet here.”

The pontiff visited Papua New Guinea after a stop in Indonesia. On Monday, he will visit East Timor before concluding his Southeast Asia tour with a trip to Singapore.

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25 places in Kerala to become ‘Green Tourism Destinations’

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : Sep 9, 2024, 15:21 IST

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Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focuses on sustainable waste manage … Read more

Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focuses on sustainable waste management and conservation practices at popular sites to preserve their natural beauty. Read less

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Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focus...