Dubai is often called the city of gold, and here's how to make the most of it on a budget.Located on the Persian Gulf, Dubai has been a major trading port for centuries. Due to its ideal geography and ambitious economic goals, the city has become synonymous with wealth and luxury. In fact, almost half the world’s gold passes through this desert metropolis where the rich go to party.Unbeknownst to most people, the city has a lot to offer for those on a budget. The government has invested heavily in free amenities available throughout the city, such as free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned bus stops, and public changing rooms. With a robust, safe, and affordable public transport system, visitors can get around with ease without having to pay for expensive Ubers. Additionally, the working population, mostly expats from the Middle East and Asia, has created a vibrant secondary economy that caters to the frugal traveler.
Things To Do On A Budget In Dubai
Bur Dubai, also known as Old Dubai, is teeming with life and offers the adventurous traveler a taste of Arabian culture as well as an intimate look into the lives of the city’s diverse expat community.
Experience the ancient world at one of the several museums, or travel the globe with your taste buds by trying the diverse array of cuisines, including Filipino, Afghani, Tamil, and many others.
One needn’t walk very far to find one of the thousand hole-in-the-wall hookah bars, tea stalls, or tasty eateries in the narrow alleyways of this charming district. Whether visitors are looking for Karak tea, camel meat, or affordable, high-quality goods such as textiles, spices, and jewelry, Bur Dubai is the place to be.
Everything in this historic district, from food to accommodation, is cheaper relative to the rest of the city. Getting to Old Dubai is easy and affordable by metro.
- Metro station: Al Ghubaiba or Gold Souk stop on the Green Line
- Cost: About $1 per ride
Since Old Dubai is situated along Dubai Creek, the cheapest, quickest, and most interesting way to navigate the area is by boat. The boats are called "Abras" and represent the traditional way of getting around in the Gulf region from as far back as antiquity. The original settlers of Dubai were fishermen and pearl divers, and visitors can get a taste of how they traveled for a negligible price.
- Cost: $0.50
- Location: Bur Dubai Abra Station and Deira Abra Station
For tourists with a penchant for glamor, the Palm Jumeirah offers unforgettable experiences that won't break the bank.
Visitors can spend an entire day on this man-made, palm tree-shaped island without spending much.
Take the monorail to the Atlantis hotel, located at the very tip of the island. Inside, marvel at the breathtaking floor-to-ceiling aquarium completely free of charge. Tourists who hear the waves calling can step onto the pristine beach for a swim, or grab an ice cream cone and experience the salty ocean air and stunning views on the lengthy boardwalk that wraps around the island.
Aim to visit the Palm in the late afternoon to catch the glimmering sunset over the Persian Gulf. Visitors who find themselves there earlier in the day should make sure to pack sunscreen.
- Cost: $5 for the monorail and $1.50 for ice cream
- Getting there: Gateway tram station in Dubai Marina
One of the most unique free activities in Dubai is night swimming.
Open till midnight every day, this beach allows visitors to swim in the warm, turquoise sea without risking sunburn. There are lifeguards on duty, confectionery stands, and showers, so the only thing to worry about is having a good time under the moonlight and palm trees. The iconic Burj Dubai is glowing in the dark nearby, reflecting on the water and creating a mesmerizing ambiance that night swimmers will never forget.
- Cost: Free of charge
- Location: Umm Suquiem night swimming beach
Desert safaris are an affordable activity that everyone must do if they are in Dubai.
Experience the primeval desert in its full glory without worrying about transport, water, food, or danger. There are several tour companies that take tourists on a brilliant journey into the desert. After dark, keeping with the cultural heritage of the desert, there is a huge buffet to enjoy while watching traditional Arabic entertainment.
- Cost: $18 for the entire package; tourists need not pay a cent more
- Duration: Six hours starting at 3 PM
- Perks: The standard package includes pick-up and drop-off, dune bashing, dinner, and a dazzling fire and dance show
Where To Stay In Dubai For Cheap
The city is full of living options with affordable prices. Depending on budget and preference, visitors can choose between dorms, single rooms in shared apartments, and private hotel rooms. Affordable private rooms can be found outside of the main city, in places like Old Dubai, while dorms and shared apartments are available everywhere, including the financial district and beach fronts, so travelers on a budget need not compromise on location.
The Nina Hostel provides bunk beds in one of the richest neighborhoods in Dubai. The rooms overlook the marina, where yachts get parked and skydivers land.
- Cost: $20/night for a bed in a male or female dormitory.
- Amenities: Air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, shared lounge, and TV area
- Location: Dubai Marina, near the JLT metro station
Hopefully, this guide has made it clear that there is plenty to do in Dubai for free or on a budget. With a little flexibility, creativity, and know-how, Dubai can provide rich and fulfilling experiences that do not cost a lot of money.