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.
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:
The emirate of Dubai is a hot tourist destination and one of the prominent reasons is because of its rich culture. Dubai is an attractive combination of the old and new. Along with the towering skyscrapers, glimpses of a bygone era peek through too. If you know where to look, you can easily explore Dubai’s culture for free.
A perfect mixture of an old and new city, Al Seef is one of the most attractive free family places to visit. it’s set on the city Creek area, which was revamped and delivered to live by Meraas. At this destination, you’ll be able to get pleasure from views of the creek’s waters. Moreover, Al Seef is also considered legendary for hosting multiple festivals that feature some of the effective free activities in Dubai. Therefore, keep an eye out for those if you intend to go.
You can simply visit Al Seef by public transportation or car. For those traveling with their own vehicle, there’s parking accessible. However, people relying on public transport, it’s great to know that the nearest railway system station to Al Seef, Burjuman is just a 10-minute walk to the area.
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
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.
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.
If you feel, the streets of Al Karama aren’t enough, you have the best chance to head to the famed AlSerkal Avenue. There is a great need to know, the Al Quoz gallery district organizes free road trips across the UAE. Here you have the best way to get in on the action without spending! These road trips intake guests to the latest performances, screenings, art exhibitions, as well as art institutions and cultural initiatives.
Location: Al Quoz
Contact: +971-4-3333464
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
Dubai’s famous Camel Racing Festival is considered the perfect way to see majestic “ships of the desert”. Best of all, it’s free. Celebrating a sport rooted deeply in the region, much like the city, the festival is the best free activity for the people who like to explore the culture of the country.
It would be best if you plan your trip during the Al Marmoom Heritage Village Festival. This annual competition attracts thousands of visitors, in fact, the best things to do in Dubai. Moreover, explore the nature reserve and indulge yourself in other activities.
If there is a need to catch up on reading without skipping the beach, you can visit any of the city’s free beach libraries. These libraries are found in several public beaches in Dubai like Al Mamzar Corniche and Umm Suqeim 1.
If you are looking for some free family activities in Dubai, a visit to the old souks is the best idea. A shopping spree isn’t cost-free under some circumstances, there is no rule against some free window shopping. Besides malls and stores, the traditional souks allow you get free entertainment In Dubai, especially for the new visitors.
The Dubai Spice Souk, Deira Gold Souk, and Old Dubai Souk are some examples. There is no need to buy anything as the trinkets, spices, and colorful garments make for plenty of Insta-worthy opportunities.
Location: Multiple Locations
Timing: Until 9:00 pm
From free camping spots to wildlife, Dubai is also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Now, it’s time to look at some of the best places in Dubai to visit for free especially for the folks who love the great outdoors.
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.
It is surprising to know that, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offers the most interesting places to visit for free in Dubai. Home to a large number of bird species such as flamingos, the sanctuary is the perfect way to witness flocks in their natural habitat. Periodic feeding sessions also allow you see the birds up close. There is no need to worry about getting scorched by the sun as the viewing areas are airconditioned and shaded areas make it one of the best free indoor spots.
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
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
Anyone looking for free activities in Dubai, there is nothing idea option than Al Qudra Lake in Dubai. It’s one of the most popular BBQ places in Dubai and offers the visitors some of the best free things to do. Keep in consideration that, there are no charges for the park entrance and you won’t have to spend anything for pitching up a tent. Ensure, you bring everything for a campfire on staying overnight, as it can get chilly.
If camping and barbequing is not something you enjoy, a lot of other things are available to check out at Al Qudra. Al Qudra is also the best attraction for both professional and amateur cyclists. For good reason. You can get to cycle while enjoying the pristine views. It’s free as long as you are going to bring your own bike.
Location:Al Qudra
Al Qudra Lake timings: Open 27/7
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Once, Dubai was a modest fishing village before it got popular as a luxury tourist destination. Here you catch an overall glimpse of what the architecture seemed like when the overall economy of this city was relied on fishing by wandering the streets or museums.
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
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)
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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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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 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)
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
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)
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)
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:
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
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).
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
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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
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
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
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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
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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
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
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
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
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
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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)
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.
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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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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