Renowned for its luxury, Dubai also offers plenty of free activities and cheap things to do, from iconic landmarks to cultural gems and stunning beaches. This guide highlights six experiences that prove you can create unforgettable memories without spending a dirham!
Table of Contents
- Dubai Mall: Shopping and Entertainment
- Dubai Fountain Show: Captivating Water Display
- Old Dubai and Dubai Creek: A Journey Through History
- Gold Souk: Unique Shopping Experience
- Camel Racing: Tradition Meets Tech
- Best Free Beaches to Visit
- What to Pack for a Full Day Exploring Dubai
1
Dubai Mall
This is hands down the most impressive mall I’ve ever visited and one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free by metro! It’s absolutely massive and always buzzing with energy.
But Dubai Mall is so much more than a shopping spot if you have some money to spend—it’s home to attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and even a full-sized ice rink.
Price: Entry is free, but attractions like the aquarium and ice rink have separate ticket prices.
- Aquarium: A ticket costs AED 199 (78$ CAD) for adults and children over 2 years old.
- Ice Rink: Ticket prices vary depending on availability, typically ranging between AED 120–145 (47–57$ CAD). Click here to visit the ice rink’s official website.
Opening Hours: Mon–Thu: 10am to 11pm; Fri–Sun: 10am to 12pm.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Dubai Fountain show just outside the mall.
How to Get There: Take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station
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2
Dubai Fountain Show
Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Watch as water jets soar as high as 150 meters, dancing to a mix of classical, Arabic, and contemporary music. Evening shows, illuminated by lights, were my personal favorite.
Price: Free. For a fee, you can even watch the show up close from the lake itself for a unique perspective!
Opening Hours: Daily shows run every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot or book a table at a nearby restaurant for a dinner-and-show combo.
What to Expect: Be prepared for crowds at all times of the night as everyone gathers to watch the show. However, this is still one of the best things to do in Dubai at night!
How to Get There: Take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, then take a short walk through the mall to the fountain area.
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3
Old Dubai & Dubai Creek
Explore the Al Fahidi Historical District, visit the Dubai Museum, and take an abra ride across the creek to experience the charm of old Dubai. Strolling through the district, with its stunning architecture and welcoming shopkeepers, was a highlight of my trip.
Price: Exploring the Historical District is free.
- Abra ride: AED 1 (0.40$ CAD)
- Dubai Museum: AED 3 (1.20$ CAD).
My Highlight: Don’t miss the Heritage Museum (BLDG #33) within the Historical District! The owner is hilarious, and you’ll learn so much fascinating history. Bonus: It’s completely free to visit.
Opening Hours: Varies by location; museums typically open 8:30am to 8:30pm.
How to Get There: Al Fahidi Metro station for the historical district; Al Ghubaiba station for the creek.
4
Gold Souk
Nestled in Old Dubai, the Gold Souk in Old Dubai is a dazzling maze of over 380 shops showcasing gold jewelry, gemstones, and the world’s largest gold ring. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just admiring the incredible craftsmanship, it’s a must-visit.
From the Gold Souk, explore the Spice, Perfume, and Diamond Souks, and wander surrounding streets for hidden gems.
Price: Free to enter; prices vary by item.
Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 9pm. It’s one of the best places to visit in Dubai at night!
Pro Tip: Bargain with confidence to score the best deal! Check prices at a few different stalls first to get a sense of the going rate before starting your negotiation.
How to Get There: Al Ras Metro Station, a short walk to the souk.
5
Camel Racing
Experience the excitement of camel racing at Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track, a blend of tradition and modern technology. Watch as camels race at incredible speeds, guided by remote-controlled robot jockeys—an event like no other!
Price: Free.
Opening Hours: Early mornings, with races typically finishing by 9am on weekends (seasonal, October to April).
Pro Tip: Check the race schedule ahead of time to ensure you catch this unique spectacle.
How to Get There: Drive or take a bus to Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track.
For all the details you need to plan your visit, check out Dubai Camel Racing Guide: Everything You Need to Know.
6
Best Beaches to Visit
Dubai boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, offering crystal-clear waters, pristine sands, and incredible skyline views. Here are the top beaches to explore:
1. Jumeirah Public Beach: A popular family-friendly beach with soft sands and calm waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports.
- Price: Free entry.
- Swimsuit Regulation: Modest swimwear is recommended, especially for women. Bikini tops and swim trunks are generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing attire.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though lifeguards are on duty from 7:00am to sunset.
- Location: Near the iconic Burj Al Arab.
2. Kite Beach: Famous for its active vibe, Kite Beach is perfect for kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. There are plenty of food trucks and cafés nearby to keep you fueled during the day.
- Price: Free entry (charges apply for water sports).
- Swimsuit Regulation: Casual swimwear like bikinis, one-pieces, and swim trunks is acceptable. Avoid clothing that might offend local sensibilities.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, with lifeguards on duty from 8:00am to sunset.
3. La Mer Beach: A chic beachfront destination with a relaxed vibe, La Mer combines a pristine beach with trendy dining spots and boutique shops. It’s ideal for a mix of relaxation and entertainment.
- Price: Free entry (parking fees apply after two hours).
- Swimsuit Regulation: Respectful swimwear is mandatory. Bring a cover-up for walking around the shops and restaurants.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7; restaurants and shops typically open from 10:00am to midnight.
*As of December 2024, the beach area is undergoing reconstruction, resulting in the temporary closure of most shops and restaurants. This has created a quieter atmosphere, making it less vibrant than usual.*
4. Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach): A serene beach popular among photographers for its breathtaking sunset views and direct sightlines of the Burj Al Arab. Great for relaxation or a walk along the shore.
- Price: Free entry.
- Swimsuit Regulation: Swimwear is acceptable, but modesty is appreciated.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though it’s best to visit during daylight hours for safety.
7
What to Pack for a Full Day Exploring Dubai
1. Clothing and Accessories:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather.
- A swimsuit and cover-up for water activities.
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring malls, souks, or outdoor attractions.
2. Essentials for Sun Protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (high SPF) to protect your skin and the environment. Click here!
- Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Click here!
- Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion for soothing skin after sun exposure. Click here!
3. Beach and Water Activities Gear:
- A quick-drying towel for after water activities. Click here!
- A waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings and phone during water activities. Click here!
- Flip-flops or water shoes for comfort at beaches or pools. Click here!
4. Tech and Gadgets:
- Waterproof camera or GoPro to capture stunning scenery and water adventures. Click here!
- A power bank to keep your phone and other devices charged. Click here!
- Maps or a downloaded offline map app like Maps.Me in case of limited cell service.
5. Personal Items:
- Your passport or a copy of it for identification purposes.
- Credit/debit cards and some cash in UAE dirhams for small purchases or tips.
- Insect repellent for evening outdoor activities near water. Click here!
- A small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Click here!
6. Snacks and Extras:
- Lightweight snacks like granola bars for energy between meals.
- A reusable shopping bag for any souvenirs you might pick up.
7. Additional Dubai-Specific Tips:
- Dress Code: Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly, especially in public areas and religious sites.
- Hydration: The heat can be intense, so drink water frequently throughout the day.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
- Mosque Visits: Women should bring a headscarf for visiting mosques like the Jumeirah Mosque.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all the activities, adventures, and water related activities Dubai has to offer!
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s charm extends beyond its glitzy malls and skyscrapers, offering incredible experiences for everyone, even on a budget. Explore its culture, architecture, and natural beauty with these free activities, creating priceless memories along the way.
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