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11 ways to do Dubai on a budget
Cheap eats, the metro system and more – here’s how to do Dubai without breaking the bank.
From desert safaris to market shopping sprees, the list of things to do in Dubai is a long one – and you don’t need to break the bank to experience them.
Dubai may have made a name for itself as a playground for the rich and famous, but you don’t need a designer budget to have an incredible holiday here. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find this city and emirate in the UAE has a huge variety of affordable things to do – whether you’re craving culture, adventure or cuisine. From free activities to cheap eats, here's our guide to the best things to do in Dubai on a budget.
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1. Sunbathe with unbeatable views
You don’t have to be staying at the Burj Al Arab to take advantage of the neighbouring beach. In fact, there are plenty of public beaches along the coast with spectacular views of the iconic hotel – our favourite spots include Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach and 4x4 Beach.
2. Discover Old Dubai
This one isn’t just for budget-conscious holidaymakers – everyone visiting Dubai should head here for a slice of Emirati culture. Hop in an abra – a traditional boat – to cross the creek for as little as 1 AED, which is about 16p. Once you’re there, you’ll see a completely different side to the city.
3. Go local for cheap eats
There’s no better place than Dubai to sample around-the-world cooking, and 2nd December St is a great place to start. This mile-long stretch is packed with street cafés, hole-in-the-wall food stops and shawarma stalls. Ravi’s is one of the most well-known, dishing up Pakistani curries and kebabs. Then, there’s Lebanese, Filipino, Palestinian…the list goes on.
4. Take in the Burj Khalifa from below
Don’t get us wrong, you should absolutely book Burj Khalifa tickets to take a trip up the towering skyscraper. But, you can also check out the tallest building in the world from the ground at Dubai Mall’s canal-filled outside area.
5. Get around on the metro
It makes sense to use the metro when a Silver Nol Card – or metro day pass – will only set you back 25 AED, or just over £5. Standard cabins are air-conditioned and comfortable, and if you feel like splashing out you can travel Gold Class with a Gold Card, which includes perks like big leather seats and great views.
6. Grab a bargain in the markets
Dubai’s souks are the place to pick up one-off souvenirs to take home, from jewellery and spices to fabrics and trinkets. The Dubai Flea Market should be top of every traveller’s list with its huge selection of antiques, handicrafts and textiles. For a traditional experience, put on your haggling hat and head to the Old Souk.
7. Explore Palm Jumeirah
It may be so big that you can see it from space, but a trip to the Palm Jumeirah is still doable on a budget. You can drive there, walk or take a monorail to the top. Plump for the latter, and you’ll get the best views from above as you’re suspended over the Arabian Gulf approaching the fancy Atlantis, The Palm hotel.
8. See the famous Dubai Fountain show
Dubai has no shortage of eye-opening sights to put on your to-do list, but this one takes some beating. Get front-row seats to watch the famous Dubai Fountain – the world’s tallest performing fountain – from the Waterfront Promenade at The Dubai Mall or the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, and it won’t cost you a penny. Just make sure to bring your waterproofs…
9. Get a bird’s eye view of the city
Want more in the way of incredible views? A trip to the Sky Views Observatory – which is raised by more than 219 metres above the ground – gives you panoramic vistas across Dubai without breaking the bank. An adult ticket costs around AED 80, or just over £16, and it’s worth it for the dizzying experience of walking across the 46-metre-long glass floor.
10. Treat yourself to a desert experience
Head off on a desert safari in Dubai and you’ll discover the wilderness of the Arabian Desert on a 4x4. Choose a sunset safari and you can watch the golden dunes transform as dusk sets in while tucking into a barbecue. Or go in the daytime and you can choose from activities like camel rides and sandboarding as part of your tour, making it great value for money.
11. See inside Jumeirah Mosque
The white-tinted Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in the city that’s open to the public, and it’s well worth a visit to learn about the Islamic faith and local culture of Dubai. For only 25 AED, or just over £5, you can take a 75-minute tour of the place, too. It’s also a chance to ask any questions about Emirati ways of life, something the tour guides really encourage.
Ready to make tracks around Dubai?
Find out what else Dubai holidays have to offer.
While you’re at it, you can discover the best time to visit Dubai, read about how to do Dubai with kids and find the best hotels in Dubai.
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Author: Katie Gregory
Last updated: 18.09.2025