places in dubai to visit 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 places for BBQ 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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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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THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Dubai

Best free things to do in dubai.

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

1. The Dubai Fountain

2. The Dubai Mall

3. Mall of the Emirates

4. Dubai Marina

5. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

6. KITE BEACH

7. Ibn Battuta Mall

8. Dubai Marina Yacht Club

9. Jumeirah Public Beach

10. City Walk

11. Palm Jumeirah

12. Marina Beach

13. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple

15. Al Seef

16. Dubai Festival City Mall

17. Dubai Gold Souk

18. Emirates Towers

19. Palm Islands

20. Gold And Diamond Park

21. Sheikh Zayed Road

22. Al Qudra Cycle Path

23. Dubai Marina Mall

24. Bastakia Quarter

25. City Centre Mirdif

26. Jumeirah Lake Towers

27. The Walk at JBR

28. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

29. Dubai Water Canal

30. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

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• 26 Free Things To Do In Dubai And Experience Over The Top Luxury Without Spending A Penny In 2024

23 Mar 2023

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

26 Free Things To Do In Dubai

If you are still under the shock and wondering about the things which can be enjoyed without spending a penny, then here’s a quick list of 26 free things to do in Dubai which will definitely let you enjoy the luxury just like anything.

• Free Experience Of Dubai’s Culture And Heritage
• Free Entry At Camel Museum
• Free Yoga Classes
• Free Movie Under The Stars
• Free View Of Dubai Aquarium
• Free View Of The Dubai Fountains Display
• Free Entry To The Jumeirah Beach Corniche
• Free Wandering Through The Old-Style Gold And Spice Souks
• Free Car Gazing
• Free Pehlwani Wrestling
• Free Dance To The Peppy Numbers
• Free Visit To St. Mary’s Catholic Church
• Seek Blessings At Emirates Baptist Church International For Free
• Pray At Pentecostal Church For Free
• Meet The Holy Father At United Christian Church For Free
• Pray At Grand Mosque For Free
• Take A Selfie Against Burj Khalifa For Free
• Visit Burj Nahar For Free
• Climb Burj Al Arab Jumeirah For Free
• Visit Infinity Tower For Free
• Pray At Jumeirah Mosque For Free
• Play Watersports At Kite Beach For Free
• Visit Coffee Museum For Free
• Stroll At Alserkal Avenue For Free
• Watch Flamingos For Free
• Ride An Abra Boat For Free

1. Free Experience Of Dubai’s Culture And Heritage

One of the first on our list of free places to visit in Dubai is Al Shindagha. Exhibits of potters, weavers, and practitioners of other traditional crafts, and demonstrations of pearl diving make the experience of Dubai’s culture and heritage at Al Shindagha one of the best free things to do in Dubai.

Location: Al Shindagha Area, near the mouth of Dubai Creek Timings: Saturday – Thursday 08:30 am – 10:00 pm; Fridays 3:30 pm – 10:00 pm.

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2. Free Entry At Camel Museum

Also in the Al Shindagha Area, the Camel Museum is another free place to visit in Dubai . Different sections in the museum are dedicated to the history of camels in UAE, the relationship between camels and Arabian people, the camel racing, and the camel anatomy. It also houses an auditorium for presentations. This is one of the best free things in Dubai . 

Location: Al Shindagha Heritage Village Timings: Sunday – Thursday; 8:00 am – 2:00 pm

3. Free Yoga Classes

There are a lot of options for cheap things to do in Dubai for the fitness freaks. But the best among those is the free yoga class from Friends Of Yoga . Spread over 5 locations across the city, these 1-hour classes will keep up your fitness routine while on the Dubai trip.

Location: Deira Creek, BurDubai Creek, Zabeel Park, JLT Park, and Internet City Timings: 5:30 am – 6:30 am, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm; Daily

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4. Free Movie Under The Stars

You wouldn’t like to head out on a Sunday evening to watch a movie while on a trip to Dubai; now, would you? But since it is free and you get to watch it under the blanket of stars, it becomes one of the must free activities in Dubai every visitor should experience.

Location: Pyramids Rooftop Complex in Wafi complex Timings: Sundays; 8:30 pm onwards

Check out what movie is currently playing before you head for this rooftop theatre.

5. Free View Of Dubai Aquarium

Why spend 70 Dirhams to go inside the aquarium when you can view the main tank for free from outside the entrance in Dubai Mall ! The home to the world’s single largest acrylic panel in the massive aquarium puts it next on our list of places to visit in Dubai for free .

Location: Outside Dubai Aquarium Timings: 24 hours open

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6. Free View Of The Dubai Fountains Display

One of the most popular things to do in Dubai for free is to watch the beautiful display of the fountains outside Dubai Mall, dancing in sync with a musical soundtrack.

Location: Outside Dubai Mall Timings: 3 – 4 minutes; every 30 minutes

Tip: Being very popular, the fountain is surrounded by a large crowd. Try and be there early to catch a good spot for the best view.

7. Free Entry To The Jumeirah Beach Corniche

The Jumeirah Beach Corniche is a recent entrant in the list of free tourist places in Dubai. It offers 800 meters of beach front, jogging track, showers, children’s play areas, and shaded picnic areas. The 14 km long corniche runs from Dubai Marine Beach Resort down to Burj Al Arab Hotel.

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

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8. Free Wandering Through The Old-Style Gold And Spice Souks

The bustling old souk in the Deira district is one of the popular places to visit in Dubai for free . The old market is famous for the glittering wares of the gold merchants, spices of all kinds, exotic frankincense, and the pashmina shawls. No, you can’t buy any of these things for free. But that doesn’t mean that wandering through the market costs you either.

Location: Northern side of the Deira Creek near the Ras Metro Station 1

9. Free Car Gazing

If you do not want to spend money on visiting car museums, yet want to view the best hot rides in the town, The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence is the place to be. With the locals showing off their over-priced cars, the restaurant-lined waterfront promenade tops among the places to visit in Dubai for free car-gazing.

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

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10. Free Pehlwani Wrestling

Also among the best things to do in Dubai for free is watching the local wrestling. Every Friday, hundreds of laborers of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi origins gather around to watch the brave men wrestle for glory.

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

11. Free Dance To The Peppy Numbers

A shabby-chic environment, leather sofas, and oversized lampshades – these are the traits attributed to the Societe Dubai. Visit the newly-opened nightclub on a Friday night and enjoy the best hits from ‘80s and ‘90s. And yes, the entry is free!

Location: Societe Dubai, Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai Marina

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12. Free Visit To St. Mary’s Catholic Church

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St. Mary’s Catholic Church came into existence in 1967. It is one of the oldest churches in Dubai. It is located in the heart of Dubai has served and continues to embrace the diverse generations of Catholics. Registration for the new Catechetical Year for admissions, renewals and also collection of books is held in August at the Catechism Office every Friday.

Location: 247 Oud Metha Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 5.00am to 9.30pm 

13. Seek Blessings At Emirates Baptist Church International For Free

The congregation at EBCI is very diverse with people from many nationalities, comprising of families, and children of all age groups, youth and singles. While they may have chosen to attend or join a Baptist church, they come from diverse denominational backgrounds from their home countries. Given that the entire membership and attendees are expatriates, they live in the country either because they are employed here.

Location: 7 69 A St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates, Grand Excelsior Hotel

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14. Pray At Pentecostal Church For Free

Pentecoastal Church is one of the biggest churches in Dubai . It is also one of the most beautiful places in this region. You will see people from diverse faiths congregate here. Earlier known as the King’s Revival Church International has sermons being read from time to time and boasts of many miraculous happenings. Visit the church yourself for those positive vibrations and getting in touch with your soul and to rejuvenate.

Location: Al Barsha

15. Meet The Holy Father At United Christian Church For Free

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 that also use the name United Christian Church. Those who began the United Christian Church separated from the Church of the United Brethren in Christ between the years of 1862 to 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

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16. Pray At Grand Mosque For Free

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

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

17. Take A Selfie Against Burj Khalifa For Free

Being the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa not only showcases brilliant modern architecture and engineering but also marvellous imagination and implementation. Standing 160 storeys tall, this monument allows the visitor to witness the mesmerizing 360 aerial views of the city 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 to visit in Dubai for free. 

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

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18. Visit Burj Nahar For Free

Built in 1870, Burj Nahar blankets three watchtowers that were constructed to protect the old city from invaders. Constructed with mud and coral-stone, this monument has historical importance attached to it. Located on the outskirts of Deira, this monument was fully restored and now is surrounded by scenic gardens, making it a popular attraction for tourists worldwide.

19. Climb Burj Al Arab Jumeirah For Free

Connected with a bridge to the shore, hotel Burj Al Arab Jumeirah earned its place under the list of Dubai monuments by virtue of its sail-like architectural silhouette. This state-of-the-art construction is the third tallest hotel in the world. Highest level of lavish and luxurious 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.

Location: Jumeirah St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

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20. Visit Infinity Tower For Free

Also known as Cayan Tower, Infinity Tower is a contemporary architectural marvel that took the phrase ‘putting a twist’ a little too seriously. One of the most photographed buildings of 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. The unique and futuristic design of this Dubai monument takes the breath away of almost all spectators making it one of our best picks on the list of places to hangout in Dubai for free. 

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

21. Pray At Jumeirah Mosque For Free

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. Following the policy of ‘Open Doors. Open Minds’, doors of the mosque are open to humans of all faiths. Local representatives of the mosque conduct guided tours of this beauty and offer to make the visitors learn about their religion and traditions.

Location: Dubai – United Arab Emirates

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22. Play Watersports At Kite Beach For Free

The Kite Beach is not just a tourist favorite but locals love this place just as much. It is situated in the Al Manara Road junction and the name of the beach is apt for the kind of activities you can indulge in around the place. The wide range of water sports along with the kitesurfing make up for the amazing activities that majority of the tourists indulge in the entire year around. The pristine white texture of the soft sand is definitely something that will satisfy your heart and soul. The Burj-Al-Arab can be seen clearly from there.

Location: Kite Beach – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10.00am to 10.00pm (Sunday to Wednesday) and 10.00am to 12.00am (Thursday to Saturday) Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

23. Visit Coffee Museum For Free

If you are a coffee lover, then you must visit this coffee cum shop in Dubai. The entrance is free and upon entering you will be taken to a world of coffee. In the museum, you will get to know about the history of coffee and will get to witness the different kinds of it. 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 . 

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

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24. Stroll At Alserkal Avenue For Free

Among all the free things to do in Dubai is included this famous spot. Alserkal Avenue is free to visit and is home to several interesting spots like galleries, pop-up shops, and more. One of the most famous places amongst those is 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 is one of the top free things to do in Dubai .

Location: 17th St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10am – 7pm

25. Watch Flamingos For Free

Witnessing the pink flamingos in Dubai is one of the best free things to do in Dubai and the best part is that you can do it for free. Flamingos can be found near Ras Al Khor road in Dubai in abundance. Apart from that, if you want to see them closely then 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!

Location: Oud Metha Oud Metha Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings: 7:30am – 5:30pm

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26. Ride An Abra Boat For Free

If you are looking for cheap things to do in Dubai , then you should try riding an abra boat at Dubai creek. Abra boats are small wooden boats that are known for offering budget tours. Dubai old souq and Dubai Gold souq are the two stations from where you can take a boat and go riding while enjoying the picturesque views of the surroundings of creek.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Free Things To Do In Dubai

Are things in Dubai cheap?

The price in Dubai is on the higher side for accommodation and tours. Having said that, there are many economical options also available that you can choose according to your affordability. Generally, Dubai’s expenses are at per with other major cities across the world.

Will it be a good idea to travel to Dubai during Covid times?

Travellers can plan their Dubai holidays after meeting all the requirements that are stated by the Government of foreign countries. The mandatory requirement is that a person must be fully vaccinated. Some of the safety measures include: 1. Wearing masks all the time 2. Maintaining distance from people in public places.

What are the places to visit in summer in Dubai for free?

Visiting Dubai in Summer can be amazing as tourists can explore some of the free things to do in Dubai, such as Aqua Venture Water Park where they can indulge in rides and have fun, Coffee Museum Dubai, Go Camping and not forget to hit the beaches as well.

What things are to be kept in mind before traveling given the coronavirus situation?

Do keep in check the following things before planning a trip: Carry hand sanitizers, masks, tissues, and disinfectant wipes, book your trip well in advance, avoid contact with the surface, and maintain social distancing.

What to do in Dubai on a low budget?

There are many things to do in Dubai on a low budget which includes window shopping or one can go and learn more about the city at SMCCU. Apart from that there is the Dubai Desert Safari, Abra Ride at Dubai creek, Jumeirah Beach where people can enjoy some free things to do in Dubai.

Where can one go in Dubai for free at night?

While you’re in Dubai at night make sure to try out these things like visit the Dubai Aquarium, Ski Dubai at Emirates mall, climb the Burj Khalifa or see the Dubai fountains.

What can one do in Dubai in 3 days?

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

How much does a Dubai trip cost?

The round trip cost for a Dubai trip is around INR 14,500 per person for 3 nights. And alongside the food cost must be around INR 3,123 and including the miscellaneous expenses the trip will cost around INR 24,500 per person.

How do tourists dress in Dubai?

Women are advised to wear clothes which are modest and less revealing. Women can wear dresses, knee-length skirts or full-length trousers along with t-shirt sleeves which covers the upper arms of the body.

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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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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.

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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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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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30 amazing things to do in Dubai for FREE!

Dubai is renowned for its magnificent high-rise buildings, hotels, shopping malls, and attractions. However, if your budget is tight, you may ask, “What are the best places in Dubai to visit for free?” Well, you’re in luck!

In addition to all the luxury experiences and attractions in Dubai, there are many free activities. Let’s take a look at all of Dubai’s free attractions, from historic districts to natural resorts and more.

Explore the culture of Dubai for free

The Emirate of Dubai is a popular tourist destination due to its rich culture. It’s an interesting mix of old and new. In tall skyscrapers, you can also see a bygone era. If you know where to look, you can explore Dubai culture for free.

1- Admire the street art at AL Karama.

Walk the busy streets of Kalama, one of the best street art spots in Dubai. On 18b Street, you can see the place more than a real fresco. Across the road are 24 stunning works of art, part of an ambitious project to transform old buildings in Kalama. This free entertainment in Dubai is sure to appeal to art lovers. So, head to Dubai’s bustling old city center and marvel at everything from 3D art to graffiti and abstract painting to street art.

2- Explore the streets of Al Seef

Al Seef Dubai is the perfect blend of old and new Dubai and one of Dubai’s top free tourist attractions. It is located in the Dubai Creek area, which has been transformed and refurbished by Meraas. In this stylish location, you can enjoy the view of the waters of the stream. In addition, Al Seef is known for hosting various festivals that feature the best free events in Dubai, so if you plan to visit, keep an eye out for these events. Want to know more about this city? Check out our travel guide to Al Seef Dubai.

You can easily reach Al Seef by car or public transport. For those who travel by car, the hotel provides parking. For those who prefer public transport, the closest metro station to Al-Sif is Burjuman; From here you can walk to the area in 10 minutes.

• Location: Al Seef, Dubai Creek
• Al Seef Time: 10:00 – 22:00 (Saturday to Wednesday); 10: 00-12: 00 (Thursday to Friday)
• Contacts: + 971-800-637227

3- Visit the Great Mosque of Bur Dubai

If you and your group don’t want to go to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, head to Bur Dubai Grand Mosque. The Great Mosque is an incredibly beautiful structure located in one of the oldest districts of the city.

Visitors can take a free guided tour Sunday through Thursday from 09:00 to 11:30. The guide works at the Islamic Information Center, so they know the mosque well.

4- Visit the Camel Race Festival

The famous Dubai Camel Race Festival is the best way to see these majestic desert boats surpass one another. Most importantly, it’s free.

A celebration of a sport deeply rooted in this region, like the city itself, this festival is one of the best free events for those who love to explore the culture of this country.

What’s the best way to experience camel racing in Dubai? Plan your trip during the festival of the ancient village of Al Marmum. The annual competition attracts thousands of visitors every year. This is one of the best things to do in Al Marmum. You can also explore the reserve and do other things.

5- Explore the souks in Dubai

Shopping is paid under normal circumstances, but some free shop window shopping is not prohibited. In addition to shopping malls and shops, traditional Dubai bazaars offer plenty of free entertainment, especially for new tourists.

Dubai Spice Souk, Dubai Old Souk and Deira Gold Souk are some examples. You don’t need to buy anything. The trinkets, spices and colorful costumes on display provide Insta with plenty of opportunities to see. This is one of the best free activities in Dubai.

• Location: multiple locations
• Time: until 21:00

6- Visit flamingos at the RAS AL KHOR Wildlife Center.

On our list of free places to visit in Dubai, the next is the Ras Al Khor nature reserve. The reserve is home to a large number of birds such as flamingos and is the perfect way to see flocks of birds in their natural habitat without spending a dime. Regular feeding allows visitors to observe birds up close. Plus, you don’t have to worry about sunburn because the observation deck has shade and air conditioning, making it one of Dubai’s best free indoor attractions.

• Location: Ras Al Khor Flamingo Observation Area
• Flamingo Hide observation deck. Time: 07:30 – 17:30 (Saturday to Thursday); 14:00 – 17:30 (Friday)
• Contacts: + 971-4-606-6831

7- Camping in Al Kudr

Lake Al Kudra is also one of the best campgrounds in the UAE. Entrance to the park is free and no money is required to set up a tent.

If you plan to stay overnight, be sure to bring your campfire supplies with you as it can get cold. All in all, you can add Al Qudra Campgrounds to your list of Best Free Family Activities in Dubai.

8- Free bike path

Al Qudra is also a major attraction for professional and amateur cyclists. There are good reasons for this. On the one hand, you can enjoy the pristine scenery of Al Kudra Lake while cycling. Secondly, it’s free if you bring your bike. Bicycle rentals are available at the Trek Dubai store next to the track.

You can choose a route of 18 km or more than 50 km to the resort of Bab Al Shams. As one of the best bike paths in Dubai, Al Qudra Bike Trail is an activity that you can add to the ever growing list of Dubai Free Activities. It is also one of the many activities at Lake Al Kudra, so there are many more opportunities for you to explore.

In addition to Al Qudra Lake, there are other cycling areas such as the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park, where you can ride bicycles for free. Elsewhere, such as the Dubai Motor Speedway, free access to their circuits is offered on certain days of the week.

9- Jumeirah Beach

For those looking for free entertainment in Dubai, a visit to the beach is the best option. Just go to any free beach access in Dubai and take advantage of the facilities including a jogging track, volleyball court and skate park. Some popular public beaches in Dubai include JBR Beach, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach.

10- Picnic at any free park in Dubai

Dubai parks naturally rank first on your list of “Best Free Dubai Attractions”. The city’s parks, from picnic spots to BBQ areas and children’s playgrounds, are ideal for families looking to enjoy free time in Dubai. Services that offer free admission include Al Barsha Pond Park and Burj Park, but other facilities provide free admission for tourists with different abilities and children under a certain age.

11- Visit the beach library

If you’d like to continue reading without missing the beach, visit any free beach library in town. You can find these libraries on several public beaches in Dubai, including Al Mamzar Cornish and Umm Suqeim 1.

12- Visit Hatta Heritage Village

Another place where you can learn the history of the city for free is Hada Heritage Village. If you want to know what the city looked like before oil and tourism turned it into a modern utopia as we know it, this is the place for you. The village has fortresses, castles and towers. You can also visit Bayt al-Wali, the seat of the local ruler at the time.

• Location: Khada (about 134 km through the Hajar mountains)
• Time: 07:30 to 20:30 (Saturday to Thursday) | 14:30 to 20:30 (Friday)

13- Visit Dubai’s free museums

Do you want to work with children in Dubai for free? Take them with you to any Dubai museum with free admission! Examples include the Coin Museum and the Coffee Museum in the Bastakay area, which provide children with the opportunity to learn about the country’s history and observe handicrafts of the past.

• Location: Al-Fadi Historic District.
• Coin Museum Time: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (Sunday to Thursday) | Closed Friday and Saturday.
• Coffee Museum Time: 09:00 – 17:00 (Sunday to Thursday) | Day off Friday

14- Museum of Traditional Architecture

With nearly 100 years of history, this museum was once the former residence of His Highness Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum. It now houses a number of traditional decorations and tools that were used in the construction of houses in Dubai and other parts of the UAE several decades ago. Therefore, if you want to explore the history of UAE architecture for free, this is your best bet.

• Location: Bur Al Fadi Street, Dubai
• Contacts: 08:00 to 14:00 (Sunday to Thursday)

15- Visit the camel museum

Want to learn more about camels for free? Visit the camel museum The graceful beast plays an important role in the country’s heritage. The museum is a good place to learn how the local Bedouins depend on animals for their survival.

16- Visit Dubai Creek Park

Travel back in time to the streets of France in the 1600s, or visit Dubai Creek and the United States of the 1950s. Riverland Dubai is located in the parks and resorts area of ​​Dubai, allowing visitors to experience four unique villages of the past and present. The French Village is based on a medieval French town, on the 1950s American Waterfront, at the Asian-style India Gateway and in the 19th century square of the Peninsula. Riverland Dubai is free to enter, but you have to pay for parking.

• Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts
• Riverland Dubai Time: 16:00 to 12:00 (Monday to Sunday)

17- Go down the corner, Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is a renowned luxury destination with luxury hotels and attractions, but the Palm Jumeirah Pointe is a popular getaway for those who love to explore exciting sea destinations for free. In addition to numerous restaurants and shops, the 1.5-kilometer promenade is the best place to take pictures with magnificent ocean views and the magnificent Atlantis palm tree in the distance.

• Location: Palm Jumeirah
• Pointe Palm Jumeirah Hours of operation: 24/7.
• Contacts: + 971-4-390-9999

18- Imagine you are at the Dubai Festival City Mall (DFC).

If you like the dancing fountains at the Dubai Mall, then the IMAGINE show is another such event you might want to consider. The IMAGINE attraction at Dubai Festival City Mall becomes active at sunset, making it one of the best places to visit Dubai for free at night.

One of the most popular attractions of the Dubai Festival City Mall, the wonders of water and laser attract tourists. It also features one of the largest water screen projections in the world, as well as fireworks, lasers, lights, and dramatic effects.

• Location: Dubai Mall.
• DFC Fountain Hours of Operation: 6:30 am to 11:00 pm, one hour per day.

19- See the waterfall in the Dubai Water Canal

The Dubai Canal is one of Dubai’s top free attractions and a natural choice for free activities in Dubai. The 6.4 km long artificial canal also has a 3 km track and a 12 km cycle path. It is the ideal destination for fitness enthusiasts who can find free workout spots in the emirate. However, if exercise isn’t your thing, there are plenty of outdoor areas and benches along the canal to relax. There is also a mechanical waterfall that changes color and acts as a curtain when the ship passes through it.

You can get to the Dubai Canal by car or metro. If you are traveling by car, you can park it in the Dubai Water Canal Walk car park and walk to the canal. For those using public transportation, the closest metro station to Dubai Canal Falls is the Business Bay Waterfront Metro Station; from here, Dubai Falls is a 5-minute walk.

• Dubai Canal Falls, Location: Sheikh Zayed Street.
• Opening hours of the Dubai Canal: 24/7.

20- Visit Aquaventure Waterpark on your birthday.

Looking for free things to do on your birthday in Dubai? A visit to the famous Water World Adventure Park in Atlantis on Palm Island is usually paid. But there is one day a year, your birthday! Register your birthday on the Aquaventure Birthday website to receive a Free Aquaventure Birthday Discount Gift Certificate.

Free access is subject to availability and is valid for one-time visit only, without any additional fees. In addition, it is valid on your birthday or you can use it once in the next six days. Considering the entry price of a regular ticket to the Water World Adventure Park, this is definitely one of the most valuable free activities in Dubai!

21- Share the love in the lake of love

Considered one of the most romantic destinations in Dubai, the Lake of Love at Al Qudra offers a fun way to explore the desert. The entire territory of the Lake of Love has been carefully designed, and the lakes and fauna in the area mean the word “love” with two hearts. This place is one of the fairly new free entertainment in Dubai. Equipped with a shaded area with a fire pit and toilets.

• Location: Al Qudra Lake, Dubai

22- Visit other trendy places in Dubai.

On our list of the best free activities in Dubai, you should visit all of Dubai’s hot new attractions. Thanks to developers like Meraas, there are now a lot of fashionable places all over the city, and the best part is that these places are free to visit. Free places to visit in Dubai include:

• JBR Walking

22- See the dancing fountains in Dubai

This is probably the most popular of all the free activities in Dubai. Just head to the Dubai Mall and enjoy a spectacular show of the Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographic fountain system, dancing to the popular tunes of Whitney Houston and Celine Dion. Plus, the Dubai Mall has plenty to do in addition to shopping.

• The Dubai Mall Fountain Hours of Operation: Every half hour from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.

23- Visit the La Mer

Another great place to visit in Dubai freely is La Mer. With quirky installations and colorful street art, La Mer is definitely one of the best selfie spots in Dubai. There is also La Mer Beach, which offers visitors a series of fun water sports for the whole family! If you feel like spending some money, you can shop at La Mer stores anytime you want.

• La Mer Hours of Operation: Retail: 10:00 to 22:00 (Sunday to Wednesday) and 10:00 to 23:00 (Thursday to Saturday).

24- See AIN DUBAI on Blue Water Island

Blue Water Island is another popular destination that is free to visit in Dubai. It was recently added to the Meraas destinations list. The area is also home to Caesars Palace, which houses one of the best restaurants with renowned chefs in Dubai, and Al Ain Dubai, the largest Ferris wheel in the UAE. Although Al Ain Dubai has yet to open, you can still see the beautiful buildings towering over the island. If you’re curious about this highly anticipated Dubai Ferris wheel, check out the facts about Ain Dubai.

The best way to get to the island is by car, as there is no direct metro or bus route. If public transport is your only option, the closest tube station to Bluewaters Island is DMCC, but you will need to call a taxi to get to the island.

• Location: Blue Water Island in Dubai, off the coast of JBR.
• Blue Water Island Time: 24/7.

25- Explore Bastakya

Interested in learning about the history of Dubai? Visitors can experience the heritage and culture of the UAE in the historic Bastikia district for free! Al Bastakiya is also known as the Al Fahidi Historic District, which gives you the chance to see the city’s ancient buildings that look like traditional desert houses in the UAE.

• Bastakiya Opening hours: 24 hours

26- Free ride from ALSERKAL PROSPECT

If the streets of Al-Karama are few, go to the famous AlSerkal Avenue. The Al Quoz Gallery area organizes free trips around the UAE, including Dubai. This is your chance to participate in the promotion for free! While driving, guests can visit the country’s latest art exhibitions, performances, film screenings, art institutions and cultural events.

• Location: Al Quoz
• Contacts: + 971-4-3333464

27- BBQ at Qudra Lake

Lake Al Kudra is one of the most popular BBQ spots in Dubai, offering tourists the best free entertainment in the city.

It is also one of the most popular free activities in Dubai during Eid Al Fitr and the Long Vacation! If you’re not into BBQ and camping, then there is a lot to see in Al Qudr.

• Location: Alcudra
• Lake Al-Kudra Time: open around the clock.

28- Take a boat trip along the waterfront.

Dubai Marina Walk is also one of the most popular places in Dubai to visit for free. Renters living in rented apartments in Dubai Marina can easily walk with their families and even jog along the waterfront promenade next to the apartment. The promenade and moored yachts can enjoy breathtaking views.

• Location: Dubai Marina
• Time: open around the clock

30- Connect your love to the bridge with a love castle in the yard

Looking for a date in your pocket? Just take the padlock and key from the Love Castle Bridge in the courtyard. You can place a custom lock on the bridge with the initials of you and your loved one, and then flip the key off the bridge. You don’t have to drive to the Pont des Arts in Paris to experience it!

The love castle bridge in the courtyard can easily become one of the fun activities in Dubai for free with your loved ones. The Courtyard itself is one of the most popular free visits in Dubai, but if you don’t want the Love Castle Bridge, the Courtyard also offers many other activities for you to try. Location:

• last exit Al Khawaneej D89.
• Al Seef Opening hours: 24 hours

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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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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

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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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12 Free Things to Do in Dubai

Published by rachel bicha on november 1, 2021 november 1, 2021.

Since Dubai is known as a center of modern style, opulence and luxury in general, you might think it’ll be difficult to travel there on a budget—but you can think again! Good news for the budget travelers out there: Dubai actually has tons of free things to do and see. Whether you want to see Dubai’s glistening modern skyscrapers, explore the history and culture of the emirate, or just get out in nature, here are 12 of the best free things to do in Dubai. 

1. Visit the Coffee Museum in Dubai 

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Coffee lovers, raise your hand! The Dubai Coffee Museum is a unique place to dive into all things coffee—from the history of coffee to international techniques and flavors, coffee books and documentaries to explore and even centuries-old coffee pots and other coffee-making tools. Plus, the baristas here know their brews—so feel free to ask any questions you have about beans or brewing, they’ll have a wealth of knowledge to share with you if you’re interested. 

2. Ride an abra 

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Not quite free, but at just $0.30 USD, it may as well be! Riding an abra is a must-do in Dubai, so we’re glad it’s affordable for just about everyone. This is Dubai’s traditional ferry system to cross the Dubai Creek, so get a taste of history (and a convenient form of transportation). Cross the creek at either the Deira Old Souk abra station or the Al Sabkha station, to the Dubai Old Souk station or the Bur Dubai station. 

3. Wander through the Al Fahidi historic district

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Ready to explore more of Dubai’s history and culture? Treat yourself to a stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. From traditional buildings to tea houses, museums to art shows, markets and more, there’s a lot to see and do in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood—and you won’t have to spend a dime to see most of it! 

4. Or flash-forward to the modern era at Alserkal Avenue 

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Lean more hipster than historical? No worries. Dubai’s under-the-radar Alserkal Avenue is where the locals hang—with art galleries, pop-up shops, cafes and coffee shops, event centers and more, there’s always something going on, and much of it is free to explore. See what life looks like in Dubai now and enjoy a day at Alserkal Avenue. 

5. Take a day to explore The Dubai Mall 

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This is indeed totally free…if you can resist over 1,200 shops that are housed inside this enormous mall! The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the WORLD, housing an impressive collection of shops and restaurants, plus an aquarium, movie theater, ice rink, a virtual reality park and more. Not enough shopping for you there? You can also check out the Mall of the Emirates, which also has tons of shopping and entertainment—even if you’re just window shopping.

6. Visit an authentic souk 

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Of course, if a mall isn’t quite your speed, you can also get an authentic Dubai shopping experience at a local souk. The Gold Souk and the Spice Souk are our favorites. Even if you don’t buy anything, a window-shopping stroll through these traditional markets are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds (and smells!) of Dubai.  

7. Take a free tour of the Bur Dubai Grand Mosque

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Want to learn more about Dubai’s culture? Start with a tour of the Grand Mosque, one of Dubai’s most iconic places of worship. The tour is totally free and involves a tour of the mosque, demonstration of prayer, introduction of Islamic beliefs, refreshments and more. The Jumeirah Mosque is another must if you’re interested in Islam or Dubai’s culture. Visit their website for more information and remember to wear modest clothing.

8. Go hiking at Hatta 

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Hatta is one of Dubai’s most popular attractions, and when you’re ready for a break from the city, it’s the perfect place to go! Go hiking in the foothills or the mountains, soak in the views, enjoy a bike ride or more. It’s free to explore, of course, but if you have some cash to spare, there’s kayaking, horseback riding, paragliding and more on offer for adventure-lovers. 

9. Get a tan 

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This is easy to do in Dubai, from beaches to deserts—seriously, just take your pick. If you’re ready for a beach day, add Kite Beach Dubai and The Beach opposite JBR to your list (those are our favorites). If you’re headed out to the desert, you’ve got tons of options to choose from—splurge on an overnight desert safari, or go camping (free!) at Al Qudra. With both lakes and sand dunes to explore, you’ll feel in the middle of nowhere even though it’s just a quick 30-minute trip from the city.

10. Bask in Dubai’s stunning architecture

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Of course, you don’t have to leave the city to explore Dubai on a budget. One of the best free things to do in Dubai? Simply have a tour through the city to see some of the absolutely stunning skyscrapers and architecture. The Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the WORLD—is a must-see, as are the Burj Al Arab and the Cayan Tower. 

11. Soak in the sunset at the Dubai Marina

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Want some insta-worthy views? Look no further than the Dubai Marina. With a 5.3 mile boardwalk loop lined with shops, hotels and restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do if you want to spend the afternoon or just go for a quick run. Pro-tip: visit for the sunset to catch the best views. 

12. Watch the flamingos at the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary

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Wildlife lover? This wildlife sanctuary—not far from the city!—is home to thousands of birds, fish and other animals, but it’s the flamingos that steal the show. Come to get some shots for the ‘gram, stay to learn more about the incredible animals and unique environments they call home. 

Ready to explore Dubai on a budget? Get $35† off your flight to Dubai when you book with StudentUniverse . Search now and save!

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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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Dubai Travel Blog

11 Free Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Free and Dubai rarely goes hand in hand especially when it comes to places to visit for some quality leisure and entertainment. In fact it’s actually one of the last things you can associate it in this mega city. But truth be told, there are places in the city where you can travel and have a grand time without spending much.

If you’re  a backpacker or a traveler on a budget, we list down these attractions in Dubai. If you have some additional spots you want to recommend, do share them in the Comments below!

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• Exploring Dubai on a Budget
• 7 Places to Visit in The Dubai Mall Without Spending

1. Dubai Fountain at Burj Khalifa Lake

2. dubai’s public beaches – kite beach, the beach at jbr, umm suqeim beach, 3. exploring old dubai in al fahidi district, 4. watch a camel race at al marmoon racetrack, 5. dubai creek, 6. souks in old dubai – spice, gold, perfume, textile, and old markets, 7. dubai aquarium in the dubai mall, 8. mall hopping – ibn battuta, dubai mall, mall of the emirates, 9. explore dubai marina’s skyscrapers, 10. buildings in sheikh zayed road, 11. watch the beautiful middle east sunset, things to do in dubai for free – tourist spots.

Aside from the fare transport, here are common destinations in Dubai where you can actually spend time for free.

The Dubai a fountain is set on the Burj Lake, a 30-acre lake situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa. This is the world’s largest dancing fountain that showcases a beautiful visual and , musical performance. Fountain shows take place at 1 pm and 1:30pm and every 30 , inured from 6pm to 11:30pm.  Check out our feature here – Dubai Dancing Water Fountain Show

Also, you will have a view of the tallest building in the world so you can also bring your friends and family in this area to see it up close.

Tourists at the Burj Lake

Dubai boasts of wide beach coasts along the Dubai Marina , Umm Suqeim,  and Jumeirah Open Beach.  You can drop by these white-sand beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Check out our short feature of The Beach at JBR Here – The Beach at JBR | Dubai Travel Blog

view of Burj Al Arab from Kite Beach

sunbathing at The Beach at JBR

Al Fahidi is the historical district where a lot of tourists can go and explore Old Dubai. With wind-tower houses, cafes and art galleries, you will be transported back to the rustic setting of Dubai, plus it’s great to see the city during the old times.

Al Bastakiya at Al Fahidi

From November to March, watch plenty of camels on a race at the Al Marmoon Camel Racetrack. There are morning and afternoon races available and you can watch them for FREE!

The Dubai Creek is a great historical landmark if you want to get to know the beginnings of this emirate. The creek divides Deira and Bur Dubai districts and you can see traditional boats known as abras transporting passengers for 1 AED. The Dubai Creek is a great place to explore the different markets known as souks .

Abras on the Creek in Old Dubai

Along the area of the Dubai Creek,  you can head to the many souks of Dubai. There are areas dedicated to specific items such as the Textile Souk,  Gold Souk , Spice Souk , Perfume Souk, etc. A visit to the souks is one of the must-try activities. This is a perfect place to capture photography as well as discovering the covered markets of the older time.

spices and herbs

Gold Souk in Deira

When you head to The Dubai Mall’s Dubai Aquarium, you can admire over 70 species of fish and over 33,000 aquatic animals. Do you know that they also gave sharks in the tank? In front of the Candylicious shop, you can be a amazed at how the mall set up this aquarium inside their commercial complex.

one of the biggest indoor aquariums in the world

There are so many malls in Dubai as this is the most common recreational place for the family where everything is within reach. This is how Dubai beats the Middle Eastern heat. Notable mentions are the different courts of In Battuta Mall, the rustic theme of Mall of the Emirates, the Venetian inspired Mercato Mall, the souk-inspired Madinat Mall, the Egyptian inspired Wadi Mall, and the modern attractions of The Dubai Mall. More of the shopping centers are being built and for sure, there will also be more spots being taken into consideration.

China court in Ibn Battuta Mall

UAE colors at The Dubai Mall

view of the indoor Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates

Souk entrance at The Dubai Mall

Check out the water city that is Dubai Marina. Huge modern skyscrapers adorn this district which is a sight to behold. Take a stroll and admire the architecture and watch yachts and dhow traditional boats cruise along the waters. We advise you come here from late afternoon to evening so you can see the beauty during the day and when the lights come out at night!

Dubai Marina at night!

Admire the buildings and the architecture in Sheikh Zayed road, the longest road in the Emirates. Dubai World Trade Center and Emirates Towers are just among the many skyscrapers that adorn this road.

This is an amazing stretch and you can stop over at the Dubai World Trade Center station or Financial Center station and get a good view of these skyscrapers that showcase Dubai’s developments.

Shot from Financial Centre area

Most of the days in the year, you can watch the beautiful sunset in Dubai. Go to the beach, view it from your hotel, or simply just head outdoors. You can simply admire the beauty of the sun setting to make way for the night.

Always a beautiful sunset in Dubai

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These are the common places where you can explore Dubai and bring your friends for a unique and fun experience. With so many projects going on, for sure, more places will soon be accessible to the public. We hope to experience these things to do in Dubai for free and share more with our readers!

Do you places in mind that should be added to this list? Share them in the Comments section below!

2 thoughts on “11 Free Tourist Attractions in Dubai”

Interesting Blog! These are the common and famous destination in Dubai where you can easily spend time. Most people miss on various activities that one can do in Dubai. One can try Japanese cuisine at Zuma, Sea fishing and many more.

• Pingback: XDubai and Dubai Film Clean up Umm Suqeim Open Beach | Dubai Travel Blog

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20 Best Places to Visit in Dubai For Free

Dubai, with its stunning architecture, luxury shopping, and extravagant attractions, is often associated with high costs. However, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in Dubai that won’t break the bank. From beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks, this city offers a wide range of free attractions that are worth exploring. In this article, we will highlight the 20 best places to visit in Dubai for free.

1. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is a pristine stretch of coastline that offers free access to visitors. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, take a dip in the turquoise waters, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The beach also offers stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.

2. Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Watch as the water dances to a variety of music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The fountain shows are free to enjoy and take place every evening.

3. Dubai Mall

While the Dubai Mall is known for its luxury shopping, it also offers several free attractions. Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which houses thousands of aquatic animals, or witness the mesmerizing Dubai Dino, a 155-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton.

4. Dubai Marina Walk

The Dubai Marina Walk is a bustling waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the marina and its luxurious yachts. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and indulge in some people-watching. The walk is lined with various cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely meal or a cup of coffee.

5. Dubai Creek

Visit Dubai Creek, a natural seawater inlet that divides the city into two parts: Bur Dubai and Deira. Take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across the creek for just a few dirhams and enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline.

6. Al Fahidi Historic District

Explore the Al Fahidi Historic District, also known as Bastakiya, which is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai. Wander through its narrow lanes, admire the traditional wind towers, and visit the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort.

7. Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is a colorful oasis that features a stunning display of over 50 million flowers. Entrance to the garden is free for children under three years of age and for people with disabilities. It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the beautiful floral creations.

8. Dubai Water Canal

The Dubai Water Canal is a man-made waterway that stretches from the Creek in Old Dubai to the Arabian Gulf. Take a walk along the promenade, enjoy the beautiful views, and watch the colorful boats passing by.

9. The Walk at JBR

The Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) is a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining destination. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, browse through the various shops, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The Walk also hosts various events and entertainment throughout the year.

10. Dubai Gold Souk

Visit the Dubai Gold Souk, a traditional market in the heart of Dubai. Marvel at the dazzling displays of gold, silver, and precious gemstones, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling marketplace.

11. Dubai Garden Glow

Dubai Garden Glow is a unique attraction that combines art, nature, and technology. Explore the glowing garden, marvel at the light installations, and enjoy the interactive exhibits. Admission is free for children under three years of age.

12. Kite Beach

Kite Beach is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers. Watch the colorful kites soaring in the sky, try your hand at kiteboarding, or simply relax on the sandy shores. The beach also offers various facilities, including skate parks and beach volleyball courts.

13. Dubai Opera House

The Dubai Opera House is a stunning architectural masterpiece that hosts a variety of cultural performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts. While tickets are required for most shows, you can still admire the stunning exterior of the building and enjoy the surrounding promenade for free.

14. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. This protected area is home to a diverse range of bird species, including flamingos. Explore the sanctuary’s boardwalks and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

15. The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk

For a unique perspective of the Dubai Fountain, head to the Fountain Boardwalk. This floating platform allows you to get up close to the fountain and experience its grandeur from a different vantage point. Access to the boardwalk is free, but it is recommended to book in advance.

16. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Art Galleries

The Dubai International Financial Centre is not only a major financial hub but also a hub for art. Explore the various art galleries located within the DIFC, showcasing contemporary and modern art from around the world. Admission to the galleries is free.

17. Dubai Design District (d3)

Visit the Dubai Design District, also known as d3, which is a creative hub for designers, artists, and entrepreneurs. Explore the unique architecture, browse through the design boutiques, and immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere.

18. Dubai Marina Mall

While the Dubai Marina Mall offers a range of shopping and dining options, it also provides stunning views of the marina. Take a leisurely stroll through the mall, enjoy the waterfront views, and relax in one of the outdoor seating areas.

19. Dubai International Jazz Festival

If you happen to visit Dubai during the Dubai International Jazz Festival, you can enjoy world-class jazz performances for free. The festival takes place annually and features renowned international and local jazz artists.

20. Dubai Street Art

Take a walk through the streets of Dubai and discover the vibrant and ever-growing street art scene. From colorful murals to thought-provoking graffiti, the city is home to an array of street art that adds a creative touch to its urban landscape.

While Dubai is known for its opulence, there are numerous free attractions that allow visitors to experience the city without breaking the bank. From beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks, Dubai offers a diverse range of free places to explore. So, next time you visit this dynamic city, make sure to check out these 20 best places to visit in Dubai for free.

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Top 30 Free Things To Do In Dubai 2024 With Your Loved Ones!

Table of Contents

Planning a getaway to Dubai? Discover the allure of the city without straining your budget by exploring the best place to visit in Dubai for free . Dubai, renowned for its opulence, offers an array of cost-free experiences, blending modern extravagance with cultural richness. Therefore, whether meandering through historic neighborhoods, enjoying street art, or embracing nature at free outdoor spots, Dubai has something for every budget-conscious traveler.

In this article, we will delve into the myriad attractions that will not cost you a dirham, ensuring a memorable and affordable adventure in this cosmopolitan metropolis.

Free Outdoor Activities in Dubai: Embracing Nature’s Bounty

Dubai’s outdoor beauty extends beyond its cityscape. Indeed, nature enthusiasts can revel in free activities that showcase the Emirate’s natural wonders . So, here are some of the best outdoor places to visit in Dubai without spending a dime.

Public Parks: Ideal for Family Leisure

Explore Dubai’s public parks, an ideal place to visit in Dubai for free, offering green landscapes and play areas. So, discover new places to visit in Dubai for free with your family, creating lasting memories.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Escape to Ras Al Khor, a captivating place to visit in Dubai for free. Enjoy its beauty, especially places to visit in Dubai in summer for free, showcasing diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

Beach Day: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Dubai’s free-entry beaches, including JBR beach, Kite Beach, and Jumeirah Beach, beckon beach enthusiasts. So, enjoy the facilities like running tracks, volleyball courts, and skate parks for a day filled with sun, sand, and sea.

Al Qudra Lake: BBQ and Camping Haven

Discover Al Qudra Lake, a serene place to visit in Dubai for free. It is a BBQ and camping haven, offering tranquility and natural beauty. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Cycling at Al Qudra: Scenic Trails for Cyclists

Embark on an exhilarating journey at Al Qudra, a breathtaking place to visit in Dubai for free. Cyclists revel in the scenic trails, creating a perfect blend of fitness and nature. Also, with its pristine views, Al Qudra stands as an idyllic destination for both amateur and professional cyclists alike.

Historical Attractions: Exploring Dubai’s Roots for Free

Dubai’s humble beginnings as a fishing village are echoed in its historical attractions. So, immerse yourself in the city’s history by visiting free museums and heritage sites.

Bastakiya: A Glimpse into Dubai’s Past

Explore the heritage and culture of the UAE at Bastakiya, also known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Additionally, this free attraction offers a peek into the city’s old architecture, reminiscent of traditional desert homes.

Hatta Heritage Village: A Journey to the Past

Delve into the past at Hatta Heritage Village, a captivating place to visit in Dubai for free. This cultural haven showcases traditional architecture, offering a glimpse into Dubai’s historical roots. Moreover, wander through ancient forts and immerse yourself in the local heritage, making it a rewarding journey to the bygone era.

Free Museums: Learning Through Artefacts

Embark on a cultural journey at Dubai’s place to visit in Dubai for free —its museums. Explore diverse artefacts, gaining insights into the nation’s history and heritage. So, engage with exhibits at the Coin Museum and Coffee Museum, offering an enriching educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Other Fun and Free Activities in Dubai

Beyond museums and historical sites, Dubai offers a range of enjoyable activities and locations that will nt cost you a dirham.

Love Lock Bridge at The Yard: A Romantic Affair

Create enchanting memories at The Yard’s place to visit in Dubai for free—the Love Lock Bridge. Also, couples can immortalize their love by attaching personalized locks to the bridge, adding a touch of romance to their visit.

La Mer: Quirky Installations and Street Art

Discover the lively atmosphere at La Mer, a captivating place to visit in Dubai for free. Additionally, with its quirky installations and colorful street art, La Mer offers a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation by the sea.

Bluewaters Island: Home to Ain Dubai

Explore the allure of Bluewaters Island, a remarkable place to visit in Dubai for free. Also, Home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, this island offers breathtaking views and a memorable experience for visitors seeking visual delights by the waterfront.

Dubai Marina Walk: Scenic Waterfront Stroll

Experience the charm of Dubai Marina Walk, a captivating place to visit in Dubai for free. Certainly, the scenic waterfront offers a delightful stroll with family, creating cherished moments amid the picturesque surroundings.

The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah: A Retreat on the Waterfront

Indulge in the serenity of The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, a tranquil place to visit in Dubai for free. Also, this waterfront retreat offers a 1.5-kilometer promenade with spectacular views of the sea and the iconic Atlantis, The Palm.

Benefits of Exploring Dubai’s Free Attractions

• Cost-Effective Adventure: Exploring Dubai’s free attractions provides a budget-friendly way to experience the city’s diverse offerings.
• Cultural Immersion: Overall, free attractions, such as Al Seef Dubai and Al Karama Street Art, allow visitors to immerse themselves in Dubai’s rich cultural tapestry.
• Family-Friendly: Dubai’s free outdoor activities, including public parks and beaches, are ideal places to visit in Dubai with family for free. Therefore, enjoy picnics and play areas without spending a dirham.
• Nature’s Beauty: From Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to Al Qudra Lake, free outdoor spots showcase Dubai’s natural wonders, providing a serene escape.
• Historical Insight: Bastakiya and Hatta Heritage Village offer a glimpse into Dubai’s history at no cost, making it an educational experience for all.
• Artistic Delights: Alserkal Avenue’s free exhibits and street art in Al Karama provide art enthusiasts with a visual feast without opening their wallets.
• Romantic Getaways: The Love Lock Bridge at The Yard and Love Lake at Al Qudra offer couples romantic retreats in Dubai for free.
• Entertainment Extravaganza: Enjoy free shows like the Dubai Fountain and explore scenic spots like the Viewing Deck at Dubai Creek Harbour without spending a dime.

In summary, exploring Dubai’s free attractions not only saves money but also caters to diverse interests, making it an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.

Challenges of Exploring Dubai on a Budget

• Accommodations: Finding affordable options can be a hurdle, but several budget hotels cater to cost-conscious travelers.
• Dining Dilemmas: While Dubai boasts diverse culinary offerings , selecting free places to visit in Dubai becomes crucial for budget-conscious diners.
• Transportation Troubles: Navigating Dubai’s extensive public transport can be a money-saving solution for accessing best places to visit in Dubai for free.

In essence, making informed choices and exploring the wealth of free attractions in Dubai can transform your budget-conscious trip into a delightful and enriching experience.

Global Talent in Dubai: A Gateway to Opportunity

Attracting international employees to Dubai is a testament to the city’s global appeal. Also, the process of hiring and integrating these talents involves several benefits that extend beyond the workplace.

Visa Sponsorship: Employers facilitate the visa process , streamlining the entry of international employees into Dubai.

Cultural Diversity: Dubai’s multicultural environment fosters a rich blend of ideas, enhancing workplace creativity and innovation.

Tax-Free Income: Overall, international employees enjoy the perk of tax-free income , maximizing their financial gains.

Networking Opportunities: Dubai’s bustling business landscape provides ample networking opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

Career Advancement: Exposure to diverse industries and an international work environment accelerate career development for expatriates.

Quality of Life: Beyond the workplace, Dubai offers a high quality of life, with world-class amenities and numerous Dubai tourist places free for leisure.

Language Accessibility: Indeed, English is widely spoken, facilitating seamless communication for international employees in both professional and social settings.

Cultural Integration Programs: Companies often organize programs to help international employees assimilate into Dubai’s culture, ensuring a smooth transition.

In conclusion, embracing a career in Dubai goes beyond professional growth; it is an invitation to experience a global city’s unique blend of opportunities, cultural richness, and a tax-free lifestyle.

Why Choose Us: Unveiling Our Main Services

When planning to explore the places to visit in Dubai for free, your journey begins with Connect Resources. As your strategic partner in the Middle East, we offer services that go beyond expectations.

Choose our expertise in providing tourist and visit visas , making your Dubai exploration seamless. Additionally, our commitment to legal compliance ensures your journey is not just memorable but also in line with regulations. Indeed, people are at the heart of our success, prioritizing your well-being and satisfaction.

Furthermore, At Connect Resources, we understand the complexities of international travel. Overall, our services extend from hiring and onboarding to managing payroll, creating a hassle-free experience. Let us be your guide, simplifying your growth in the UAE , so you can focus on discovering the beauty of Dubai without any constraints.

Ready to delve into Dubai’s wonders? For more info on free places to visit, contact Connect Resources at +971 43 316 688 or [email protected] . Our representatives await your questions.

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Places to Visit in Dubai for free With Family – Oct 2023 Edition

Originally posted 2023-10-18 15:29:07.

Having one of the world’s largest shopping malls, the tallest building on the planet, and one of the most expensive hotels in the world, Dubai has earned the reputation of being one of the most expensive cities on earth. It would seem that there aren’t many places in Dubai to visit for no charge, pointing to the fact that most of them must charge something. There aren’t hundreds of places to visit in Dubai for free with family, but there are plenty of free attractions to see, such as shopping malls, beaches, parks, and historical sites.

Listed below are some of the most enjoyable places in Dubai to visit with your family without burning a hole in your pocket. Let’s have a look at what you have to see for free in Dubai.

Table of Contents

Cultural & Historical Places to Visit in Dubai Free

Al bastakiya: journey into past.

While Dubai has a lot of modern skyscrapers, Al Bastakiya is a good place to experience what Dubai was like before skyscrapers. Take a walk through this historical district and see where the Dubai Royal family spent their childhood. As soon as you enter the old city, you will be greeted by traditional sand houses of the Emirates that add to the feeling of a bygone era in terms of the Dubai you are experiencing now.

It is one of those free places in Dubai that has a variety of attractions to appeal to visitors of all ages, such as Museums, such as the Dubai Museum and the Coffee Museum, Art galleries, such as the XVA Gallery and the Majlis Gallery, Traditional shops, markets, and restaurants, which bring back memories of Dubai in its pre-oil days.

Al Bastakiya’s pedestrian-friendly streets make it a safe place to explore on foot, making it a must-see spot for tourists of all ages in Dubai. Having been a hub of Emirate history and culture, Al Bastakiya is home to many of the traditional Emirate souvenir shops so that you can take one home with you as a souvenir that will remind you of your trip to Dubai. Would this not be a good idea?

Dubai Old Souq –  Walking Through the Old Market’s

Why not take a boat ride to reach the old souq area while in Al Bastaika? The Old Souq area is where Dubai’s most popular free souqs can be found, including the gold souq, the perfume souq, and the spice souq. If you walk through the gold souq, you will have a fantastic experience at no cost to you. It is home to the world’s biggest ring, so why wouldn’t you enjoy the experience?

If you are finished with the Gold souq, you should head over to the perfume souq that with it’s enticing smell will transport you into another world. Some shops offer visitors the opportunity to smell some perfume themselves if they request it politely.

If gold and perfume aren’t appealing to you anymore, you might consider visiting a spice souq, where you can see hundreds of spices, the smell of which will probably make you hungry. Spend some time in spice souq and experience the world’s best spice aroma before moving on. It is therefore advisable to visit the Old Souk’s if you are looking for some free places to visit in Dubai with your family.

Naif Museum – Built from Clay, Rich in History

If you’re in Deira and looking for places to visit in Dubai with your family for free, the Naif Museum could be the right option. This two showrooms musquem was built in 1939 with a special clay and offer visitors an insight into Dubai’s history, particularly the Dubai Police Force, since it was the headquarters for the Dubai Police Force from 1939 until 1973. In 1997, the Naif museum underwent renovations and was opened to tourists. The museum exhibits traditional clothing, tools, household utensils, and ornate furnishings reflecting Emirati majlis.

With no admission fee, the Niaf museum is one of the free places to visit in Dubai accessible to disabled individuals. The Niaf museum is open Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Visit Burj Nahar – 18th Century Defensive Structure

It is well known that Dubai had political conflicts with its neighbors before the UAE foundation, so the structure was built in 1872 to protect Dubai from Sharjah. Renovations to restore it to its original shape were completed in 1992, and since then it has been designated as a historical site in Dubai. There is a beautiful view from the top of the Burj Nahar of the Deira district and the Deira Gardens, which represent the popular Arabic style of gardens.

Antique Museum – A World of Antiques

Many people collect artifacts from past civilizations. Wouldn’t it be a pleasure if you knew of a free museum in Dubai that houses these items? There is an Antique Museum in Al Quozi that displays items excavated from ancient times such as tools, pottery, jewelry, weapons, clothing, furniture, and art etc. Through temporary exhibitions, this museum connects Dubai residents with the past and reveals their shared history. You can take your family to this museum to learn about historical artifacts since there is no entrance fee.

Jameel Arts Centre – The Best of Contemporary Art

If you’re tired of ancient museums made of clay and filled with old-age historical artifacts, and are looking for a museum that reflects modern architecture and contemporary art, then Jameel Arts Centre is the museum for you. With multiple interconnected galleries and extensive landscaping, this high-tech museum was designed by British architecture firm Serpentine Galleries, and was founded in 2018 by businessman Sultan bin Ali Al Owais.

The Jameel Arts Centre is located at Jaddaf Waterfront and accessible by bus and metro. To get Jameel Arst, you can either take the D78 bus or the Green Line to Creek station, and then take the Red Line to Jaddaf station by metro.

Street Art – Bringing life to streets

When you visit the Jamel arts museum in Jaddaf, why don’t you also visit the Karama area while you’re there and see some of the most impressive street art that this area has to offer? The street art that you have to see is actually located in Karma Market where you can see plenty of stunning pieces of street art such as a dhow ship floating on water, a truck flying in the sky, tiger and lions, parrots in a dozen colors, guitars, falcons, etc.

Aside from Karama, Al Quoz is also home to numerous murals and graffiti done by Ru ben Sanchez , a Spanish street artist.

Traditional Architecture Museum –  Window into Dubai Culture

Built in 1927 as the residence of Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum, the house lies on the banks of Dubai Creek. The museum exhibits Dubai’s traditional architecture since 1994, as well as Emirati clothing, jewelry, furniture, tools, and household items. In traditional Emirati architecture, there are nine main wings and a courtyard designed with wood and gypsum that demonstrate how well-trained The ancient Emirates were without much materials.

XVA Gallery – Current Day Artists Platform

We usually think about historical and cultural things when we hear the word Al Fhadi Historical Neighborhood, but this time you may be mistaken, because there is also a contemporary art gallery here that was founded in 2003 by Mona Hauser, which has rapidly become one of Dubai’s foremost art galleries in recent years. Originally constructed in the early 1900s as a residence for the Seddiqi family, the building now showcases emerging and established Middle Eastern artists.

A number of artists have exhibited at XVA Gallery so far, including Iraqi-born Halim Al Karim, Hussein Al Mohasen, Lana Khayat, Richard Ketley, Solimar Miller and Lahore-based Huma Shoaib.

Coffee Museum – Where Coffee Lovers Unite

Coffee is a very long and rich culture in Middle Eastern and Asian countries and it is extremely unlikely that you will find someone in those countries who doesn’t drink at least two cups of coffee each day. If you’re addicted to coffee, there is no easy why you should not visit this museum. This coffee museum in Dubai tells the story of coffee from its origins to the present day. It is an alternative places to visit in Dubai for free with your family.

While it is not mandatory to buy the type of coffee you want, you will find a variety of coffee in the museum, especially if you are looking for a type of coffee not available elsewhere in Dubai.

Coins Museum – Where Coins tell Stories

In the course of Arab history, coins have been produced and influenced by economics and politics, and this museum in Dubai preserves coins from all eras. Despite its small size, the Coin Museum Dubai has over 470 coins from various historical periods, including the Umayyads, Abbasids, Ottomans, and pre-Islamic Arabs. Many coins feature intricate designs and calligraphy of that time that remind you of the past. Most of the time, this coin museum is uncrowded, so you can visit it with your family members with comfort, and the building is a beautiful piece of architecture.

If you are interested in history, numismatics, or culture, I highly recommend visiting the Coin Museum Dubai. Also, entry is free for everyone regardless of age.

Recreation Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Ras al khor wildlife sanctuary: a flamingo’s paradise.

Known as a man-made city, Dubai is filled with buildings, making it challenging for natural creatures such as birds to gather in this city. You can, however, visit a spot where you can see birds in their natural habitat. Approximately 20 minutes away by taxi from Old Souq, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to 47 bird species, including grey herons, great egrets, reef herons, cormorants, black-winged stilts, sandpipers, ospreys, and a variety of other brightly colored birds. But this place is especially home to flemengos, so you are sure to have an enjoyable experience. It is a natural sanctuary in which about 25,000 birds migrate from Asian and African countries in the winter months.

When you visit Ras Al Khor, you will find three hides – the Mangrove Hide, the Flamingo Hide, and the Lagoon Hide. As a quick summary, you can find ducks, spoonbills, raptors, and other species of birds in the Mangrove Hide, while flamingos are found in the Flamingo Hide, and waders and raptors are found in the Lagoon Hide.

This famous sanctuary is free to visit, so it deserves inclusion on a list of free places to visit in Dubai. Isn’t that right?

Visit Al Qudra Lakes – A Romantic Oasis

The desert oasis of Al Qudra Lake is a popular vacation spot for families in Dubai, providing a variety of fun activities to let you relax and unwind. On sunny days, Al Qudra serves as an ecotourism destination, a wildlife sanctuary, a desert oasis, and a place where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The lake, also called Love Lake, is a great location for evening hikes, viewing animals, and barbecues. A jogging park, pet walk, and picnic area are nearby.

The  Viewing Point –  The Ultimate Viewpoint

Whether you are looking for a group selfie with your family or simply want to enjoy spectacular views of creek from a height of 11.65 meters, The Viewing Point is a newly developed tourist attraction that is perfect for capturing magnificent views of Dubai Creek and the surrounding area as well as absorbing sensational sunsets. With its 70-metre span above Dubai Creek and 26 metre suspension over the water, it’s an excellent place for family walks, or for getting an uninterrupted view of Downtown Dubai.

Visit a Beach – U nwind with Your Family

Over 72 kilometers of coastline in Dubai isn’t just known for watersports, but also for a variety of other activities you can engage in while at the beach, making it one of Dubai’s most popular tourist attractions. Two beaches in Dubai are suitable for families: Al Mamzar Beach and Jumeirah Beach Park. Jumeirah Beach offers panoramic views of the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai cityscape, as well as a variety of services and a lively atmosphere. Among the activities available at the beach are swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and a number of restaurants and cafes.

Located on the Dubai-Sharjah border, Memzer Beach is another well-maintained family-friendly beach. The water is calm, shallow, and supervised by many lifeguards so children can swim. Besides restaurants, cafes, changing rooms, showers, restrooms, playgrounds for kids, and barbecue pits, the beach offers an ideal family outing spot for families living in Dubai and Sharjah.

Dubai Marina Walk – Experience the B est of Dubai

It is a favorite among locals and tourists since it is surrounded by towers, luxurious flats, a yacht club, and many restaurants, which appeal to people of all ages. Family gatherings are made more enjoyable by the palm trees and planted flora that line the promenade. Located next to Emaar’s Marina Towers is a dancing fountain that attracts all ages visitor. In Dubai Marina , several kid-friendly play areas are available, as well as slides, swings, and climbing structures. Parents can relax on the seats, and kids can play safely on the rubber surface. Best time to visit Dubai Marina is evening time when it is shining with amazing lights, and the temperature is ideal for walking.

The Palm Jumeirah – Most Iconic Man-Made Island

Often referred to as the world’s largest manmade island, it was officially completed in 2009. The island resembles a palm tree from above, and is home to some of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels and resorts, including the Atlantis, The Palm, and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

A 5.56-square-kilometer engineering wonder, the Palm Jumeirah has many free attractions, such as Al Ittihad Park, which includes a playground, a lake, walking trails, and an outdoor amphitheater. Also on the Palm Jumeirah, at The Pointe, a shopping and dining complex, there is a large fountain to watch for free. Additionally, Nakheel Mall is a large shopping mall on the Palm Jumeirah that puts on a breathtaking water show every evening. The roof of the mall has a viewing deck offering spectacular views of the island, in addition to shops and restaurants

Visit Al Safa Park – A Park for Everyone

Whatever you are looking for, Safa Park will provide an enjoyable time for you and your family. Visitors to Safa Park can picnic, run around the waterfall, and cheer as rivalry begins. There are four basketball courts, football fields, volleyball courts, and barbecue areas where you can prepare outdoor meals. All you need a chief’s hat and food.

Visit Al Barsha Pond Park – Your Urban Retreat

A weekend getaway to Pond Park could be a great idea if you’re looking for a place to take the kids. Quoz Pond Park offers a pond, green spaces, play areas, and grassy lawns along with volleyball, football, and basketball courts. Children ages 3 to 11 will enjoy Al Quoz Park’s two playgrounds, which feature climbing frames, shaded greenery, slides, and swings. Runners and couples alike enjoy the wide track around the pond. You can eat at Wabi Sabi, Huna, or Qahwaty Restaurants after a long day of sports or slides.

Visit Bluewaters Dubai –  F amily’s Island Getaway

With excellent restaurants and shops surrounding Bluewater, it is an ideal place to enjoy a meal and watch the scenery while eating. A lot of family-friendly attractions are available in the area, along with a wide variety of dining options and breathtaking views. For those who feel adventurous, you can ride your bicycle around the area on your own and experience the area for yourself.

Waterfront Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Visit the dubai aquarium & underwater zoo.

As you probably know, you cannot enter the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo because it will cost you a hefty amount of money; however, you should not underestimate the amazing views that you can see from the outside. It is my honest opinion that your family will have a wonderful time here. In fact, you will be able to take some amazing pictures of the aquarium along with fish in front of it. The aquarium is on the ground floor of Dubai Mall and is one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, so you should definitely visit it.

Dubai Fountain – Where Water Dances to Music

With 6,600 lights and 50 color projectors, this fountain system shoots water 500 feet into the air and uses 22,000 gallons of water per minute. It sits at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, on a 30-acre lake and costs AED 800 million (USD $218 million). Every 30 minutes, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., the fountain performs a variety of music, including classical, pop, and Arabic music. There are many good restaurants with stunning Dubai Fountain views . If you have young children, open spaces surrounding the fountain are also a great choice for watching the show.

It is free to watch the fountain show, so it is a great place in Dubai to bring the kids for a family outing.

Dubai Water Canal Dubai Tolerance Bridg

With a height of 2.1 meters and a span of 205 meters, the Bridge of Tolerance is 53 meters tall and weighs 1,700 tons with a steel deck made of 20 steel cables.

Other Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

Mohamed bin rashid library – largest arab library.

With a total area of 650,000 square feet and 4.5 million collections and over 1 million books in a variety of languages, Mohamed bin Rashid Library has nine libraries and seven floors. Its beautiful architecture will capture you from the moment you enter. A wooden frame holds the holy Quran open while Muslims read from it, which symbolizes Islamic culture in the UAE. With a robot retrieving books in less than 10 minutes and interactive reading amenities, as well as solar panels and water recycling for the green areas, this library represents the future of learning in Dubai.

See some classic cars at Alserkal Avenue

A rare example of Renaissance architecture in Dubai, Al Serkal Classic Cars Private Museum is located in Deira, an area built in the XIX or XX century during the Renaissance in France. The irregular quadrangle contains an Arabic multidisciplinary firm and an Arabic Classic Cars Collection. The collection includes three-wheel drive Dodge trucks that were made for the US Army and a 1954 Ford F-100 pickup. There is also the 1948 Chevy Thriftmaster, otherwise known as the ‘Advance-Design’ and the ‘Loadmaster’.

Laser Show at Dubai Festival City

Featuring 2.5 meters of light, fire, lasers, water screens, projections, and fountains, the Stardancer at IMAGINE contemporary dance ballet embodies gravity. Stardancer is a flowing story of struggle, beauty, and innovation that combines contemporary and classical dance with a strong original score. Jessica Hesketh and Daniel Jaber are Stardancer’s lead dancers.

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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

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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 – Yes, Free!

• August 11, 2023

Dubai may seem like a city synonymous with extravagance. However, beneath its glamorous exterior lies a treasure trove of free attractions waiting to be discovered. From vibrant cultural experiences to stunning natural landscapes, Dubai offers a plethora of cost-free activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its diverse tapestry. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the captivating places to visit in Dubai for free!

Dubai Fountain Show

Set against the iconic backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain Show is a mesmerizing dance of water and light. As the sun sets, the fountains come to life, choreographing an enchanting performance to a medley of music that ranges from classical to contemporary hits. With multiple shows every evening, this free spectacle is a must-see that seamlessly blends artistry with engineering marvel.

Jumeirah Beach Corniche

Dubai is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, and Jumeirah Beach Corniche offers a picturesque spot to experience it. Stroll along the beautifully landscaped walkway, bask in the pristine sandy beaches, and take in stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The Corniche also features fitness facilities, children’s play areas, and bike rentals, making it a perfect spot for a day out with family or friends.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Step back in time to the Al Fahidi Historic District, also known as Al Bastakiya. This well-preserved heritage area offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past with its narrow lanes, wind-tower architecture, and traditional courtyard houses. Explore the many art galleries, museums, and cultural centers that call this district home, and get lost in the charming streets that hold tales of a bygone era.

Dubai Creek

The heart of Dubai’s trading history, Dubai Creek remains an integral part of the city’s identity. Take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across the creek for a unique vantage point of the city’s skyline. Stroll along the Deira or Bur Dubai sides of the creek, where bustling souks offer an array of spices, textiles, and trinkets. The creek area is especially captivating during sunset when the vibrant hues reflect off the water.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a serene oasis nestled within the urban landscape. Home to a diverse range of bird species, including the famous pink flamingos, this sanctuary offers bird-watching opportunities from purpose-built hides. The tranquil surroundings provide a stark contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

Experience the tranquility of the desert at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. While guided tours usually require a fee, you can still explore the edges of this protected area and catch glimpses of local wildlife and stunning desert landscapes. Marvel at the shifting dunes and perhaps even catch a breathtaking sunset painting the sky with vivid hues, creating an unforgettable and serene desert experience.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Step back in time and wander through the charming lanes of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. This well-preserved area is a showcase of traditional Emirati architecture, with its wind towers and narrow alleys. Explore the many art galleries, museums, and cultural hubs that line the streets, immersing yourself in the rich heritage and artistry that have shaped Dubai’s history . Engage with local artisans, discover hidden courtyards, and embrace the nostalgic atmosphere that offers a captivating journey into the heart of the city’s past.

Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk

Take a stroll along the Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk, offering striking views of the canal’s flowing waters and the surrounding modern architecture. The area is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere that transforms the canal into a mesmerizing display of lights, colors, and reflections. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic evening walk or a peaceful retreat to enjoy the city’s enchanting urban beauty.

Hatta Hiking Trails

For those seeking outdoor adventures , the Hatta Hiking Trails offer a range of free hiking options through rugged landscapes, wadis (dry riverbeds), and mountains, providing a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. The trails cater to different skill levels, making it a wonderful way to experience Dubai’s diverse natural beauty and immerse yourself in the peaceful serenity of its picturesque surroundings.

Dubai Design District

Delve into the artistic side of Dubai at the Dubai Design District (d3). This creative hub features unique art installations, exhibitions, and creative events that showcase the city’s dynamic design scene. From contemporary art galleries to innovative design studios, d3 offers a captivating fusion of art, culture, and creativity that invites you to explore and appreciate Dubai’s thriving artistic landscape for free. Dubai’s free attractions embody the city’s dedication to diversity , culture, and natural beauty. From modern marvels to historical gems, each destination invites travelers to experience the city from a unique perspective, all without breaking the bank. As you explore these free wonders, you’ll discover that Dubai’s charm extends far beyond its glitzy reputation, unveiling a captivating blend of tradition and innovation.

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Places to visit in Dubai for Free

I can go on and on about the amazing spectacle that is Dubai. This oasis in the middle of the Arabian Peninsula is safe for travelers from all over and so much fun, but being honest, at times it can get expensive. Now that I’ve been three different times, I’ve learned that there are tons of free places to visit in Dubai, you just have to plan correctly.

If you aren’t familiar with all of the top attractions, start here to see what the allure of Dubai is all about.

Lots of the most famous attractions have features that cost money, but tons don’t! Even if you are trying to pinch pennies and want to see some of the attractions that cost money, with careful planning you can still enjoy a lot of what they have to offer for free.

Burj Khalifa  (the Best of the cheap Dubai activities)

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. This edifice is so tall that it literally cuts clouds. Not only is it jaw dropping, but it’s free to observe. The only features of the Burj Khalifa that cost money are taking the fastest elevators in the world up to the observation deck.

Full disclosure, I’ve gawked at this tower multiple times and explored its massive base, but never actually gone up in it. Given the way it is lit up, it is one of the best places to visit in Dubai at night for free. 

Dubai Fountains

Move over Bellagio Las Vegas , the Dubai Fountain Show is bigger and even more impressive. It has over 6,000 lights and can shoot over 22,000 gallons of water in the air at once.

Twice in the afternoon and every 30 minutes from 6-11 pm you can see a choreographed show of water jets, lights, and music. It really is a super cool show, which unequivocally makes it one of the best places to visit in Dubai at night for free.

Love Lake Dubai

Looking for more cheap places to visit in Dubai? How about you take a quick trip out to Love Lake Dubai at Al Qudra. This relatively new attraction was completed on the outskirts of the city. It’s obviously a manmade lake, but I love the heart shaped message.

Not only is it exceptionally romantic, it is another one of the free places to visit in Dubai. Grab your partner and go for a stroll around the lakes taking in the surrounding greenery as well.

Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary 

When thinking of Duabi, most people only think of the amazing concrete and glass structure that popped up out of the desert. Most are shocked to find out that they can see a variety of wildlife in Dubai.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect place to see all kinds of animals, including my favorite flamingos! It is one of the best cheap Dubai activities as parts of the wildlife sanctuary are free to visit.

Dubai Mall (home of many cheap things to do in Dubai)

Obviously a shopping mall is going to have a ton of things for sale, but even if you don’t buy anything from the shops it is still one of the best Dubai places to visit for free. The mall includes the Dubai Aquarium Underwater Zoo with the 10-million liter tank. You can pay to go inside, but the picture above is located on the outside and is free for anyone to approach.

Want more cheap things to do in Dubai? This mall also features all kinds of other amazing displays as well as an amazing waterfall. Read more about the Dubai Mall.

Dubai Marina (one of the best Dubai places to visit for free)

I LOVE the Dubai Marina. It is a picture-perfect environment and 100% qualifies as one of the best cheap activities in Dubai. There is so much energy and life going on in this marina. You will find tons of restaurants and shops, but aside from that you can take a stroll along the walkways lining the water or observe the street performers in the area.

I spent a New Years Eve here and absolutely loved it.

Dubai Beaches

Hungry for more cheap Dubai activities? How about sunbathing or swimming at the beach? Don’t be afraid that you won’t be able to wear your normal bikini, you can feel free to wear it and lounge on the beach. They just ask that you be respectful and cover up once you leave the beach. The Dubai beaches are some of the best free places to visit in Dubai.

Old Dubai Markets

Want to see a more traditional Dubai experience? Want to see what it was like before the Emirate had an oil boom? The Old Dubai markets are more great places to visit in Dubai for free. I loved exploring their unique wares.

Dubai Frame

The “World’s Biggest Picture Frame” is another one of the cheap activities in Dubai. You can’t miss this gigantic structure from many different parts of the city. The Dubai Frame is actually in Zabeel Park.

Dubai Half Desert Road

There is a real “Half Desert Road”, but most of the pictures you see of the road are photoshopped. There are some really amazing shots of roads partially covered with sand and the stunning Dubai skyline in the background. Unfortunately they are probably fake.

What’s not fake is the fact that the desert will blow sand dunes over existing roads. You don’t have to look too hard to find roads outside of Dubai that are partially covered with sand. Evidently, that’s just life in the desert. Many campers and explorers will venture outside of the city to find sand covered roads.

You can read more about the famous Dubai half desert road here.

Al Salam Mosque

Even if you aren’t Muslim and going inside to worship, you can still appreciate this edifice from the outside. It is located in Al Barsha behind the Mall of the Emirates. I think it is on of the most stunning mosques I’ve seen.

What other places to visit in Dubai for free or cheap should be included on this list?

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THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Dubai

Best free things to do in dubai.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Dubai Fountain

2. The Dubai Mall

3. Mall of the Emirates

4. Dubai Marina

5. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

6. KITE BEACH

7. Ibn Battuta Mall

8. Dubai Marina Yacht Club

9. Jumeirah Public Beach

10. City Walk

11. Palm Jumeirah

12. Marina Beach

13. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple

15. Al Seef

16. Dubai Festival City Mall

17. Dubai Gold Souk

18. Emirates Towers

19. Palm Islands

20. Gold And Diamond Park

21. Sheikh Zayed Road

22. Al Qudra Cycle Path

23. Dubai Marina Mall

24. Bastakia Quarter

25. City Centre Mirdif

26. Jumeirah Lake Towers

27. The Walk at JBR

28. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

29. Dubai Water Canal

30. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

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Eid Al Fitr 2024: Things to do during Eid break

Enjoy Eid holidays with these fantastic activities

The UAE will soon be in a celebration mode. If you are looking for things to do with your whole family during Eid holidays, don’t worry. The nation has a tall roster of events to help you celebrate the festive occasion.

Nawal El Kuwaitia

April 10, Dubai Opera

For Khaleeji pop songs, head to Dubai Opera on April 10. Nawal El Kuwaitia will be belting out her singles such as Qeda Omry, Raya Al Baida and Qassem We Samaany.

From Dh450. Doors open at 9pm; Dubaiopera.com

April 11, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai

Nigerian singer Rema is bringing his sound to the city. He’s best known for his breakout single Calm Down, which was released in 2022. Other songs you can sing along to are Trouble Maker and DND.

From Dh199; 7pm; Coca-cola-arena.com

April 12, Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai

After a successful concert in Abu Dhabi in January, Googoosh returns to the UAE. The singer and actress, who has a career spanning 60 years, will be regaling concert goers with numbers such as Hejrat and Man-O Gonjeshk - Hayeh Khooneh.

From Dh395; from 7pm; Dubai.platinumlist.net

Scooby-Doo! and The Lost City of Gold

April 12 - 14, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi

For a kid-friendly act, this one is a must-watch. Music and comedy meld in this show that centres on the popular Scooby gang as they investigate the sighting of ghosts in a small town. The show has been produced in collaboration with film studio Warner Bros.

From Dh95. Doors open for the matinee shows at 12.30pm and afternoon shows at 4pm; etihadarena.ae

Watch Kung Fu Panda 4

From April 11, across the UAE

If you are looking for something that the whole family will enjoy, look no further than the hilarious Kung Fu Panda 4 movie, which is releasing regionally for Eid Al Fitr. In it, we see the challenges the Dragon Warrior, Po, faces as he’s tapped to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace.

Kung Fu Panda 4 releases regionally on April 11.

Get ready to laugh till you drop

With a staggering fan base boasting over 1 million YouTube subscribers and half a million Instagram followers, Jaspreet Singh takes the stage in Dubai on April 14. His unique stand-up comedy event, taking place at Emirates International School, is set to light up the night with laughter and entertainment.

Dubai.platinumlist.net; Tickets start at Dh85

Meditate to relax and refresh this weekend

Detox your mind this weekend with world-renowned spiritual master and meditation teacher, Sant Rajinder Singhji Maharaj. He will share his years of experience and wisdom during his visit to Dubai. Born in India and educated as a scientist in both India and the US, Sant Rajinder Singh Ji has in-depth understanding of both spirituality and science, resulting in his explanation of age-old mystical teachings in a clear, logical language. At the core of his teaching is a simple meditative practice that helps one connect to one’s inner self where one can experience the inner bliss.

March 30 and 31; free public talks at Zabeel Hall 5, Dubai World Trade Centre. Registration is mandatory to attend.

- Compiled by Gaurav Nandkeolyar, Special to Gulf News

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Best places to see the April 8 solar eclipse in the totality path

A merica is gearing up for the April 8 total solar eclipse , and many are checking maps to find the best location to watch within the path of totality. But those hoping to view the corona and see a fully darkened midday sky might find themselves dodging clouds due to April weather patterns.

The last time a total solar eclipse traversed an elongated path across the continental U.S. — on Aug. 21, 2017 — Americans could be caught gazing at the midday dark from Oregon all the way to South Carolina. Most spots along the path of totality enjoyed reasonably clear, summer skies.

Those living or visiting along the path of totality next week may not end up so fortunate, as historical weather maps show the odds of experiencing a cloud-free sky at this time of year are somewhat less than ideal. In fact, finding a totally clear view at any given time is closer to the exception than the rule.

"According to NASA, at any given time, 70% of the earth is covered in clouds," said Mike Augustyniak , CBS Minnesota director of meteorology.

Not only is North America in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons during this year's solar event, but meteorologists note that we're also currently in an El Niño pattern, albeit one that's proven quieter than usual.

"An El Niño pattern tends to increase the chances of cloudy, rainy weather in those areas. Interestingly, though, that is not how this winter and spring have played out," said Augustyniak. "Since the start of 2024, Texas Hill Country and western Texas areas have been markedly drier than average; if that trend holds for the next few weeks, that would be good news for eclipse watchers."

The path of totality is only about 150 miles wide, and in America stretches roughly 2,500 miles from the Texas border to the last few towns in northeastern Maine. That leaves only so many places where you can seek the full show, though the path's width will be significantly wider than it was in 2017, according to NASA , as the moon will to be closer to Earth on this pass than it was then.

So will April showers bring spectator flowers? Here's a breakdown of which places along the path of totality are most likely to give eclipse chasers the best odds.

Viewing the eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Augustyniak said at this transitional time of year, the further south you can go, the more likely you are to experience clear skies during eclipse totality.

"Of the areas where the total eclipse will be visible on April 8, that includes the Hill Country of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila and Durango," Augustyniak said.

Of course, the further south you get, the more you increase your chances of running into not only clouds, but rain.

"Spring is our storm season of course," said Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas.

Ray said that you can almost bet on needing to do a little bit of reverse storm-chasing — in other words, doing some last-minute navigation to dart away from the oncoming clouds, rather than toward them — on or around the eclipse in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

"There will be storms around the day of April 8. I say that because we rarely get through a week in spring without a couple of rounds coming through the area during this time of the year. Will they arrive a day before and be gone? Not start up until later that day? Maybe two days later? We are looking at our long-range model the GFS for the date and it looks like storms on the eighth," Ray said, with a caveat. "Long-range models are notoriously inaccurate for a specific day. But there is a good chance the storms the model sees will materialize, give or take a 36-hour period."

Ray said that Texas sees, on average, a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about 28% of the time. Conversely, the region gets April days with mostly cloudy or fully overcast conditions about 36% of the time.

"High clouds can arrive several days before the storm system, they are overhead in April around 22% of the time. A sky with some kind of cloud cover is likely," said Ray. "A typical April day would have near overcast skies in the morning, then the heating of the day makes for more sunshine. So an afternoon even has better odds of a good view of the eclipse."

The eclipse will reach totality in Texas from about 1:30 p.m. CT near Elm Creek until wrapping up near the Oklahoma border a few minutes before 2 p.m. Some of the most populous areas along the path of totality will be during this leg, from San Antonio and Austin to Dallas-Fort Worth.

One final factor to consider if you're heading to the area — tornadoes. Ray said that the National Weather Office in Fort Worth has tallied all the confirmed tornadoes since 1880, and in April and May, north Texas has seen more than 1,100 twisters, compared with the nearly 900 seen in all other months.

"So more tornadoes in the 61-day window than all of the other days of the year combined," Ray said, "but the tornado count varies greatly from year to year."

Ultimately, Ray said that April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas.

"In short, April is not the best, nor the worst, time of the year to hope for clear or mostly clear skies. The best would be July or August. The worst would be January or February," he said. "We get a decent idea of the expected weather about seven days out. Four days out we get more comfortable talking about the timing of a rain or storm event. But it's the weather, we are trying to throw a lasso around chaos. It is not rare we forecasters look like fools."

Viewing the eclipse in Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

While many are likely to head as far south as possible, some of the biggest cities in the Midwest are likely to fuel day-of migration to spots in Missouri and Illinois, many of them likely seeing a total eclipse for the second time in a decade. A small zone centered around Carbondale, Illinois, was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be once again this month.

While those in the St. Louis area seeking areas to watch in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing roughly comparable to Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois.

"If you're unable to travel (to Texas or Arkansas), then Southern Illinois and Indiana present your best opportunity for a clearer sky, supported by the 43-year average and, of course, weather permitting," said Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

There will likely be some who decide that 90% or 95% totality is enough for them. But Ramon warns that those in the Chicago metro area could be at a higher risk to find their view obscured by clouds.

"Based on a comprehensive 43-year average , April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60 to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with similar patterns observed in Indianapolis, where cloud cover hovers between 60 to 70%," Ramon said.

Viewing the eclipse near the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

Ramon said another factor that could make viewing along the path of totality something of a challenge in the Midwest is the lingering influence of an El Niño weather pattern.

"Its presence elevates the chances of clouds across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions," Ramon said. "This year may even be a bit more cloudier than the normal."

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, including Cleveland, along with the area of Ontario south of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Erie, Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin said many of these areas are subject to the wildcard that is the Great Lakes.

"They are known for lake-effect snow, but it is the lake-effect clouds that could hide the eclipse. Erie, which is in the path of totality, averages only six clear days during the month of April. Pittsburgh, which has the potential to see around 97% of totality, only averages four clear days in April," Petelin said.

Petelin says that a southerly breeze and warmer-than-average temperatures would go a long way toward helping the Great Lakes region out on April 8. 

"While the historical data suggests the chances for a clear day are low, this winter and early spring have been exceptionally bright and warmer than usual. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we can get that perfect weather for when it matters most," Petelin said.

As it stands, the areas near the shores of the Great Lakes historically show a higher probability for clearer skies than areas inland.

Viewing the eclipse in New England

The eclipse will wrap up its march across the U.S. when the path of totality cuts across state lines from New York to Vermont just before 3:30 p.m. ET. By this point in the event, the duration of totality along the central line will have already fallen off from its peak — about 4 minutes, 30 seconds near Nazas, Mexico — to just over 3 minutes, 30 seconds, according to NASA.

"The southern edge of the totality line passes right through the towns of Middlebury, Northfield and Barre. You will need to get just north of these areas. Some suggested 'larger' towns include Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport and Burlington," said Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

In New Hampshire, the southern edge of totality will pass just north of the White Mountains. And in Maine, you'll need to get north of major cities like Portland, Augusta and Bangor. Eliasen said the entirety of Baxter State Park will be in the totality path, including Mount Katahdin.

The bad news: Eliasen said that those in the New England area face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies next Monday, based on historical patterns. The data says you're more likely to be negatively impacted by clouds pretty much anywhere in these three states than not.

"Frankly, northern New England is probably the worst place (historically speaking) in the path of totality as far as cloud cover goes," said Eliasen. "Of course, we could get lucky."

No luck? There's always the 2045 total solar eclipse

As a last-ditch hope for those who opt to stay put no matter where they're located, there's one last meteorological ace-in-the-hole that could offer reprieve, one fueled by the astronomical event itself.

"It's worth noting that, as totality approaches and sunlight is reduced, temperatures are likely to fall noticeably. Cooler temperatures can stabilize the atmosphere – like when the sun sets after a hot summer day – leading to a decrease in cloud cover," said Augustyniak. "Still, your best plan is to find an area that has no clouds to begin with."

And if the clouds end up sullying the view for some this month, another chance comes around in August 2045 , when a line of totality will stretch from northern California all the way to Miami Beach. Which, of course, will fall during the height of hurricane season.

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Getting around Dubai

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Biking is an eco-friendly way to get around the heart of a city. In select cities, you can find and ride electric bikes with Uber. Open the app to see if bikes are available in Dubai. If bikes are available in Dubai, remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws while riding.

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