Think about luxury, leisure, and affluence, Dubai instantly stands before us. Anything precious and glittering is found here from expensive hotels to lavish resorts and grand buildings. Which is why the riches of the world prefer it for vacations? For those wondering if it is possible to visit Dubai on a shoestring budget, this list of free things to do in Dubai will comfort them.
Stroll on the Jumeirah Open Beach
This beach was a meeting point of foreigners who had come to the city for employment. That’s why it was called ‘Russian Beach.’ But now it bears its present name. Other than the change in the name, there has been no difference in the flood of visitors to the beach. This white sandy beach is longer and wider and also has a running track of 1.8km. To ensure privacy and hygiene, showers and public toilets are installed at the beach. To recharge the exhausted souls, small restaurants operate from morning until late night. The Jumeirah Open Beach is located just ahead at the Palm Strip Mall. Entry to the beach is free. Visiting this beach is one of the best free family activities in Dubai.
Dhow cruise in Dubai
In order to enjoy the free things in Dubai, you should not miss an experience to regret afterwards. A dhow cruise in Dubai is definitely not free, but it will not break your account as well. If a few dollars can buy you pleasure that is hard to forget for the rest of life, you shouldn’t mind it. Whether it is a romantic escape, or a fun time with family, the dhow cruise is a journey not-to-miss. A ticket of dhow cruise will buy you memorable experiences, including food and music.
Explore Dubai Mall
Shopping will definitely be on the agenda when in Dubai, and the sprawling Dubai Mall is a must-visit. It houses more than 1200 stores with an array of high-end, luxury, and local brands so it is a paradise for shopaholics. This mall also consists of several entertainment attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, VR Park, KidZania, Dubai Fountain, Haunted House, and 22 multiplexes. You will also find many local eateries, fine-dining restaurants, and international food chains here. It is a an amazing place to spend time with your loved ones and explore it to your heart’s content.
Enjoy the Desert
No, we are not talking about desert safari. Of course, you should go for desert safari at least once in Dubai. However, it is not imperative to go on a desert safari to enjoy the desert. You can head to the Al Qydra area which is just 30 minutes away from the city. It would be best to travel in an off-road vehicle. Also, do not forget to take your cycle as the place has a Cycle Track where you can enjoy a ride of the desert on a bike. If you are interested in sandboarding, make sure you take a sand board with you. Apart from the gorgeous views of the desert, you would also be able to see gazelle, wild Oryx and other inhabitants of the desert if you are lucky.
Watch the Dubai Canal Waterfalls
Located off Sheikh Zayed Road, the Dubai Water Canal is a recent addition to the city’s numerous wonders. Comprising 5 pedestrian bridges and a seven kilometre promenade, the Dubai Canal offers incredible views of the city. The place is perfect to go for a walk or even a jog, and it is absolutely free. However, the highlight of the place is the waterfalls. The Dubai Canal waterfall starts at 8 in the evening and lasts till 10 at night. The best thing is that you do not have to buy a ticket to watch the spectacular waterfall. If you want to view the waterfall closely, you would have to go on a boat ride which would cost you money. You would be amazed to see that the waterfall stops automatically when a boat passes through it.
Revisit Dubai’s past at Bastakiya Quarter
In the central part of Dubai, lies this tranquil neighbourhood of historical significance. Just walk ahead for a few minutes from the Dubai Museum, and you will reach to place that is quaint and untouched by the glitter and glamour of modern Dubai. This area has an old world charm and introduces you to the pre-development era. The peaceful atmosphere and the old-fashioned houses with wind towers are best to rewind. You will also come across a few small coffee and snack shops for a respite. Visiting the Bastakiya Quarter is the best free stuff in Dubai.
Rejoice the magic of Dubai Fountain
One of the free things to do in Dubai Mall is watching the spectacular fountain show just outside the mall. Take a walk on the beautiful deck of the man-made canal near the Dubai Mall and treat yourself to a spectacular show for free at Dubai Fountain. Visiting it is a must among the things to do in Dubai. The famous Burj Khalifa has been graced by the presence of this architectural and engineering genius. With a capacity of throwing water from its base to a height of 275 meters, it’s no wonder that the fountain is the world’s tallest. What startles the spectators, besides the height, are the types of shapes it forms, the moves that are synced to the music, and the wide ranges of colours channelized by 25 colour projectors.
Meander around the Spice and Gold Souks
Gold has been the quintessential item of trading in Dubai for ages. A report also claims that 20% of the world’s gold is moved from here. If you want to see the glitz and glamour in its entirety, then visit the Gold Souk. You can find different types of gold jewellery ranging from necklaces, earrings, bracelets, to wedding rings, and lots of trinkets. The retailers at this gold trading centre also sell jewelleries made of platinum, silver, and diamond.
Relax at Mushrif Park
This lush-green park is developed on 5.25 square km of area and is best to relax under the cool shades of trees and stroll on the pedestrian trails. It also has swimming pools for men and women. The park is good for barbecue, family picnic, basketball, handball, and volleyball, walking, cycling, and lots of entertainment. Camel and horse rides are also arranged for visitors. There are also entertainment facilities for people with special needs. It is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free.
Conclusion
In the end I would like to conclude this article by saying that these free things to do in Dubai will take care of your dream of visiting Dubai on a shoestring budget. But even with all the incredible free stuff in Dubai, do not hesitate to lose some bucks for a dhow cruise since it’s not every day that you get to experience such a ride on the beautiful areas of the city.
