Dubai has earned a reputation for being one of the most luxurious tourist destinations in the world all thanks to the sky-scraping buildings, exotic hotels, and malls. But, if you look hard enough you will realize that there are so many things to do for free in Dubai. With this blog, Tripx Tours explores the other side of the emirate to discover some of the free places and free things to do in Dubai.
1. Take-in the views of the attractions
Get Photographed in Front of the Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa not only reflects the architectural innovation and ability of the country but also the unrealistic implementation and imagination. The 160-story building gives a 360-degree aerial view of the stunning city of Dubai. But, if you are on a budget, you can always view the mighty building from outside. Walk to the Dubai Mall on the route towards Souk Al Bahar. It is one of the best spots to watch the Burj Khalifa.
Location: Dubai Mall
Timings: Daily from 10 am to 12 am
Free View of the Dubai Aquarium
There’s no reason to spend money on Dubai Aquarium Tickets when you can go and see the main tank outside the Dubai Mall. The world’s single largest acrylic panel in the huge aquarium is one of the free things to do in Dubai 2020.
Location: The Dubai Mall
Timings: 10 am-12 am
Burj Al Arab
Take in the great views of Burj Al Arab from the Umm Al Sequim Beach also called Sunset Beach. It is a quiet public beach which is perfect for morning strolls and relaxing in the sand with the stunning Burj Al Arab in the distant background. You can also take a dip in the clear blue waters of the beach.
Location: Umm Al Sequim
Timings: Anytime
Dubai Frame
The best place to get an amazing shot of the picturesque Dubai Frame is near Za’abeel Park. If you go towards the endpoint of the park you can get a great shot of the magnificent frame. One of the most picturesque places in Dubai
Location: Zabeel Area, Near Al Jafiliya Metro Station
Timings: Daily from 8 am to 10 pm
2. See the Flamingos at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
The next attraction on our list of the best free things to do in Dubai for free is visiting the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. The place is home to 20,000 birds of 67 species but it is widely known for its magnificent flock of flamingos. To see them, all you need to do is find one of the wooden birding hides dotted around the area of the sanctuary.
Location: Ras Al Khor Flamingo Hide Viewing Area
Flamingo Hide Viewing Area Timings: 07:30 am — 05:30 pm (Sat-Thu); 02:00 pm — 05:30 pm (Fri)
3. Visit Free Museums in Dubai
There are two amazing museums that you can visit for free in Dubai.
Coffee Museum
If you love all things coffee, then the coffee museum is the perfect place for you! Located in a villa in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the museum connects the past and present of coffee. It also houses ancient roasters, pots and coffee-related artifacts, including a pot that is 3000 years OLD! Entry is free but if you are there so buy a cup of steaming hot coffee and we promise you will return for more!
Location: Al Fahidi Historical District
Coffee Museum Timings: 09:00 am — 05:00 pm (Sun-Thu); Friday closed
Coin Museum
Even if you are not a fan of coins, Coin Museum is an amazing place to be. The museum features an interactive exhibit on the history of coins.
Location: Al Fahidi Historical District
Coin Museum Timings: 08:00 am — 02:00 pm (Sun-Thu); Ramadan timings: 09:00 am — 01:30 pm (Sun-Thu); Museum is closed on Friday and Saturday
4. Hit the Best Beaches in Dubai
Dubai has some amazing free beaches where you can go and make the most of your time. The top three favorite beaches are- JBR Beach, Umm Sequim Beach, Al Mamzar Beach, and Kite Beach. Go early as snagging a perfect spot becomes difficult due to excessive crowds. At Kite Beach, you can also enjoy water-sports for free! You can also spend as much time or as little time as you want at the amazing eateries, cafes, and lounges located near the beaches. This is the best of free family activities in Dubai.
Location: Multiple Locations Across the City
Timings: Depends on the Beach
5. Explore Best Things to See and Do in Old Dubai
Want to explore the rich history of Dubai? Take a trip to Old Dubai. The two districts of Old Dubai- Bur Dubai and Deira are divided by the stunning blue waters of the Dubai Creek. The two areas will give you a glimpse into the heritage and culture of the UAE. You can explore the Al Bastakiya free of charge! This is one of the best things to do in Dubai for free.
Location: Al Fahidi Historical District
Bastakhiya Timings: Open 24 hours
6. Visit the Souks at the Bur Dubai and Deira
Gold Souk
The Gold Souk is a traditional market in the heart of Old Dubai. The market is home to 300 retailers who mainly sell gold, silver and precious stones. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the city apart from the glitz and the glamour. You can just roam around the souk to get a feel of Old Dubai or you can buy jewelry at discounted prices.
Spice Souk
The Spice Souk is pleasurable for the senses. It is also located near to the Gold Souk. The market is home to 150 sellers who sell spices, herbs, soaps and many more. The market is an excellent way to witness the salts, herbs, and spices in their raw and natural form. Keep an open mind when you visit the place as the sellers will try and educate you about the origins and the qualities of the spices.
Location: Al Ras Deira Cost Free entry
Timings: 10 am to 10 pm (some stores are closed between 1 pm to 4 pm)
7. Take an Abra Ride at Dubai Creek
Well, this isn’t strictly free but it one of the best cheap things to do in Dubai, The Abra Ride or the Traditional Wooden Dhow Boat ride costs as little as 1 Dirham which is as good as free! You can sail down the Dubai Creek and see Old Dubai and Modern Dubai. The two main Abra stations are- Old Souk and Gold Souk.
8. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
This is tops the list of free things to do in Dubai and for a reason. The Dubai Fountain Dance is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system that performs dance routines on the tunes of Whitney Houston, Enrique Iglesias, Celine Dion, and many more famous singers.
Location: Fashion Parking, Dubai Mall
Timings: Every half hour in the starting from 6 pm to 11 pm (and until 11.30 pm on weekends).
9. Watch the Dubai Festival City IMAGINE light and water show
IMAGINE Light and Water Show at Dubai Festival City is another breathtaking attraction that you can view for free. The show offers a sensory experience to the viewers with the combination of the dancing fountain, fire and light show. It is one of the best things to do in Dubai for free. The Dubai Festival City Mall light water show timings are from 6 pm to 11 pm every day.
Location: The Dubai Mall
Timings: Every one hour in the evenings, from 6:00 pm — 11:00 pm
10. Visit the Aquaventure Water park
Yes, you read that right! On one day in a year, you can get Aquaventure Waterpark tickets for free- On your Birthday! If you register your birthday on their website you will get a “Free Aquaventure Waterpark Birthday Offer” voucher on your email which is valid on the date of your birthday and the following six days ( of course! You can use it once only!). Given the price of a regular Aquaventure ticket, it’s definitely one of the best value free things to do in Dubai!
Located in: Atlantis, The Palm
Timings: 10 am-6 pm
11. Take a Stroll Around the Dubai Water Canal
Take a walk around the beautifully illuminated walkways and pedestrian bridges overlooking the Dubai Water Canal. The great place to relax and chill. You can also watch the incredible Dubai Canal waterfall and the wi-fi there is amazing too!
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay Metro Station(Nearest Metro Station)
Timings: Anytime
