Things to Do in Dubai on a Budget

Dubai on a budget? It’s possible. This iconic city caters to everyone, irrespective of budgets. There are many things to do in Dubai on a budget that are so uniquely Dubai that you will enjoy your vacation just as much as anyone else. Let’s have a close look at what all things you can do to have a great time without burning your pockets. So, book your Dubai visa and get ready for a budget vacation.  

Ras AL Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Who doesn’t love free bird-watching? The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is open from Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. And to enter, you don’t have to pay anything. It’s free! You can view 67 different species of birds here. And they are more than 20,000 in number, so, you can imagine what a great sight they make for. The biggest attraction here though are the flamingos. They are magnificent. There are three secluded viewing areas, where you can sit and enjoy watching them.

Art Gallery Hopping

Dubai is a place of great culture, and to showcase this, they have many art galleries. And better yet, getting into these galleries is either free or very cheap.  Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is the place to soak in the art culture of the city. Almost daily, there are many exhibitions, screening, and workshops taking place here, and you can attend them to get your creative juices flowing. You should also check out Majlis Gallery and XVA Gallery in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Dhow Cruise Dubai

Forget the crazy expensive Yacht Cruises, and instead, try the Dhow Cruise. Here, you get the option of cruising either in the Dubai Creek area of Dubai Marina area. Both have their own charm. While the Creek is known for its rustic charm and classical architecture, the Marina is a futuristic development made up of some of the most iconic structures of Dubai. In the cruise, you are also treated to dinner and entertainment. This is a surprisingly affordable activity if you buy from the right tour operator.

Dubai Frame

This place is the latest entrant into Dubai’s already iconic skyline. This building is the largest frame shaped structure in the word. What’s unique is that on one side of the frame, there is old Dubai, and on the other, there is new Dubai. In the frame, there are Old Dubai and New Dubai Galleries as well. And to experience present Dubai, there’s the skydeck level which is made completely of glass and gives you stunning views. Buy combo tours to avail a tour to Dubai Frame at a great price.  

Souk Shopping  

Souks are something that are uniquely Dubai. In the Deira area, there are many concentrated markets selling good from gold to carpets. They are known as Souks, which are traditional markets. Shopping here is quite entertaining and cheap, as you get to haggle over the prices. You can actually walk off with a good bargain. These places have an old-world charm that cannot be found in the gigantic malls. You will surely have a good shopping sojourn here without hurting your budget.

Al Karama

Dubai has many Michelin star restaurants but why dine here and run out of money when you can have a perfectly good meal in the Al Karam area. This is area is full on Indian restaurants that sell delicious food at the cheapest prices. And what’s great about this place is the amazing variety on offer. In just a few Dirhams, you can feast like a king, and still have money left over. So, head to the Al Karama are when you get hungry.

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in the city that allows visitors. This is the city’s most important mosque, and quite beautiful. It has been built in the Fatimid style. You can know more about the Emirati people and their beliefs in the mosque. Just make sure that you dress moderately and behave decently when you are in the premises. This is place will show you a peaceful side of Dubai that is rarely seen or talked about.

Cinema Akil

Movies are better when they are free! The Cinema Akil showcases brilliant arthouse movies and documentaries, all year round and that too for free. You can even bring your own popcorn and enjoy the features. During winter months, there are also many pop-up theatres that of course, pop-up anywhere, and showcase popular cinema, mainly for kids. Sitting here and watching a movie with your kids is one of the best feelings.

Jebel Hafeet

If you think the Burj Khalifa is Dubai’s highest viewpoint then you are mistaken. It is the Jebel Hafeet. And you don’t have a to pay a steep price that you would have had to pay at the Burj Khalifa. Just get out of the city, and follow the directions from Al Ain City. Atop, you will see clear skies and some of the most amazing views in U.A.E. This is an activity that will take a whole day, so, don’t plan anything else. You’ll be surprised that so many people know nothing about this place.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Who would imagine a stunning garden packed with the finest species of flowers from around the in the middle of a desert city. Only the people of Dubai can make this happen. The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden, covering a staggering area of 72,000 sq. mtr. with close to 110 million flowers planted all over. Though, the place is closed in the summer months, in the other seasons, you can get in here with tickets as low as Dh 50. This is good place for people who are vacationing with family.

So, no need to worry about finances, with so many things you can do for little or no money and still enjoy the best of Dubai.