There are lots of things to do in Dubai that are cheap; you just need to know where to look. You can explore famous places, soak in the vibrant culture, or enjoy good dining deals. There’s something for everyone. Walk through old neighborhoods, relax at beautiful public beaches, or visit free art shows. You can also get active with cheap outdoor yoga or bike rides on scenic routes. Being thrifty can be fun and rewarding. If you want a budget-friendly day out, here are our top picks for things to do for under Dhs50.
Cycle Around Dubai Marina
There are 7km of paths to explore around Dubai Marina. If you rent a Careem bike for Dhs20 a day, you can ride around quickly. It's a great place to watch people, and the views are amazing both day and night. It's a good way to get some exercise, and you'll feel a bit of a breeze while you ride – it's a win-win.
Cost: Dhs20
Discover the Waterfront Market
If you like cooking, shopping, or just enjoy the smell of fresh fish, Waterfront Market is a great place to visit. This busy market is full of fresh seafood, from common types to exotic ones. You can spend hours looking at the different catches displayed by many vendors, each with their unique selection. The market also sells fresh produce, meats, and spices, making it a one-stop-shop for all your cooking needs.
Even if you’re not planning to shop, you can walk around for free and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Walking through the market can give you lots of dinner ideas, whether you're an experienced chef or just cooking at home. Plus, you won't have to pay for the inspiration you'll get from seeing the different items.
Cost: Free to enter and explore, or pay for what you buy
Hours: Open daily, 24/7
Experience the City from The Dubai Frame
This cool spot at Zabeel Park lets visitors who aren't afraid of heights see the city’s past, present, and future in a one-hour tour. You’ll get unique views of old and new Dubai from a 150-meter-high glass bridge. Don’t forget your phone, as you'll want to take pictures of the amazing views. The tour costs Dhs50 and is open daily from 9am to 9pm.
Explore Palm Jumeirah
Put on your trainers, grab your water bottle, and take a walk around the boardwalk to see the beautiful sights of Palm Jumeirah. Be a tourist for the day and take some photos of the famous Atlantis. Don't forget to ride the monorail; leave the car at home and enjoy a stress-free trip. It’s just Dhs15 for a round-trip ticket, giving you easy transport and great views as you ride. The monorail is a great way to see the luxury and beauty of the area, making your visit special.
Cost: Dhs15
Experience the Al Wasl Plaza Projection Show at Expo City
You've probably seen this amazing dome on Instagram, but if you haven't seen it in person, now's your chance.
The big steel structure has the world's largest 360-degree projection surface and shows a light display every day from sunset to midnight.
Walk under the moving shapes and lights, take some photos, and enjoy the experience.
Hours: Open daily, show runs from 5pm to midnight
Stroll along The Beach
The Beach at Dubai’s JBR is great for relaxing strolls. This busy area is perfect for people-watching and enjoying a casual day out. You can find many food options, from ice cream and gourmet pizzas to different international dishes. Whether you want to shop, eat, or relax by the sea, this place has something for everyone.
Cost: Free
Capture a Snapshot of Dubai Opera
Since it opened in 2016, this beautiful dhow-shaped building has been a cultural center, hosting many shows including theater, musicals, operas, ballet, and comedians. With its modern facilities and amazing design, Dubai Opera is a key place for art and entertainment in the city. Tickets can sometimes be expensive, but it’s still worth visiting to see the building and walk around Burj Park, which has great views and a calm atmosphere. Whether you love culture or just like nice buildings, you should visit Dubai Opera.
Cost: Free
Try Topgolf
The entertainment venue at Emirates Golf Club has 90 hitting bays with climate control on three floors. General play costs Dhs140 per hour for each bay, with up to six people allowed per bay – that’s about Dhs22 each. The bay hire includes unlimited balls and the use of clubs, so you can practice as much as you want.
Cost: Dhs24 each (if six people share a Dhs140 bay).
Hours: Open Mon-Fri 10am-2am, Sat-Sun 9am-2am
Stroll Across the Bridge to Bluewaters
This is a great walk, and there’s a great lookout spot halfway for the perfect photo of JBR, the Palm, and Ain Dubai. The views are amazing and great for pictures. Keep walking until you reach the other side and take a photo under the world’s largest Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai, which looks especially beautiful at sunset. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of Bluewaters Island as you walk.
Cost: Free
Discover Great Deals at the Textile Souk
Across the Dubai Creek from the Gold and Spice souks is the lively Textile Souk in Bur Dubai. This busy market has many traders selling colorful fabrics like silk, cotton, and brocade, along with all the accessories a fashion designer might need. Besides fabrics, the souk sells handmade jewelry, embroidered textiles, and traditional clothes, making it a great place for shoppers. Get ready to look around and find unique items to take home as souvenirs.
Cost: Free
Open: Mon-Sat 6am-2pm & 4pm-9pm
Explore New Worlds at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library
Sometimes it's nice to have a quiet Saturday evening, but you don't have to stay home. If you want to relax, spend a few hours at Mohammed bin Rashid Library. It has seven floors with over 1 million books, including atlases, religious manuscripts, poetry, and literature.
When you're done exploring, sit down, read a book, and enjoy your evening.
Entry is free, but you need to book a time slot before you visit.
Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, closed
Visit Alserkal Avenue to See some Art
Alserkal Avenue in Dubai’s Al Quoz is the trendiest and most artistic part of town. It has many art galleries, performance spaces, and great places to eat. This area used to be an industrial estate but is now full of artistic activities. There are many free things to do, like visiting galleries and shops. Treat yourself to breakfast at Nightjar while you're there. A stack of blueberry and ricotta pancakes costs Dhs48 and is delicious.
Cost: Dhs48
Dubai offers many ways to spend your time, whether you want a quiet retreat or an art-filled experience. You can visit the peaceful Mohammed bin Rashid Library, a haven of knowledge and tranquility, or the lively Alserkal Avenue, bustling with contemporary art galleries and creative spaces. There are plenty of chances to enjoy books, art, and food, with a variety of cafes and eateries that cater to diverse tastes. So, whether you love reading or exploring new art, Dubai has something for everyone. Don't miss out on these special experiences in this bustling city, where tradition meets modernity and every corner has a story to tell.