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.

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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!