Free Things to Do in Dubai with Your Loved Ones !

Dubai is associated with glamour, luxury, and opulence. People often believe that everything in Dubai is expensive and you have to break your bank to enjoy a holiday here. So, it will come as a surprise that there are several free things that you can do in this beautiful destination for free. Read on to find out what they are.

Who doesn’t like free things right? Read on to know more about all the free things you can do in Dubai.

Dubai Fountain

One of the best things to do in Dubai for free is to watch the magical Dubai Fountain in all its glory. It takes place every 30 minutes after 6 pm and displays a brilliant spectacle of water, lights, and music. It is situated outside Dubai Mall, and people flock to it in the evening to witness this stunning display.

Location: Outside Dubai Mall

Timings: Every 30 minutes

Ideal for: Everyone, free shows

Click a selfie against Burj Khalifa

Going to the observation deck at the top of the iconic Burj Khalifa may burn a hole in your pockets. But you can always enjoy the view of this magnificent structure from anywhere in the city and click pictures against it for free.

Location: Downtown Dubai area

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Tourists, architecture lovers

Dubai Coffee Museum

If you are a coffee lover, you will enjoy a visit to this place. The Dubai Coffee Museum takes you on an exciting journey about the history and origin of coffee. You can taste a variety of coffee and also see some beautiful artifacts and books associated with it.

Location: Al Fahidi Neighborhood

Timings: 9am to 5pm

Ideal for: Coffee lovers, cafe goers

Al Bastakiya Quarter

A visit to Al Bastakiya Quarter takes you to the city’s ancient days before the oil boom. The oldest residential neighborhood features art galleries, restaurants, cafes, and boutiques that you can explore. You can spot wind-towers on the roofs of all the buildings here, which were the traditional form of air-conditioning. This place also houses some of the best museums in Dubai, such as the Dubai Museum, Etihad Museum, and Coffee Museum.

Location: Along Dubai Creek

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: History buffs, photographers

Explore the Souks

The traditional markets of Dubai, including the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, are excellent places to indulge in some street shopping at throwaway prices. But since shopping will involve spending some money, you can always explore these markets for free, enjoy the hustle-bustle of this place, and click some insta-worthy pics. A visit to this place completely justifies applying for your Dubai visa.

Location: Deira district, Dubai Creek

Timings: Market hours vary

Ideal for: Shoppers, bargain hunters

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Watching the pretty pink flamingos in the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the free things to do in the city. You can sit in the shaded and air-conditioned viewing areas with your binoculars and see hundreds of birds in their natural habitat.

Location: Near Dubai Creek

Timings: 7:30am to 5:30pm

Ideal for: Nature lovers, bird watchers

Visit the Beaches

Dubai has many pristine beaches, including Kite Beach, JBR Beach, La Mer, and Jumeirah Beach, that are free to use. You can spend a day relaxing on the sand, watching the waves, and enjoying some tranquility or take part in watersports such as swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing. Take advantage of some of the best beaches in Dubai that are free to visit while you are in the UAE.

Location: Jumeirah coastal area

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Beachgoers, families

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most photographed mosques in Dubai city. This mosque is open to non-Muslims and is a great place to visit and learn about Islamic culture and tradition. Free guided tours are available on all days excluding Fridays, if you are interested. The intricate architecture and the façade of the mosque look breathtaking in the evening lights.

Location: Jumeirah district

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Tourists, architecture lovers

Camping at Al Qadra Lakes

Camping at Al Qadra Lakes is an activity that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Entering the park and pitching up a tent is entirely free. You can even plan a campfire and stay overnight but remember to carry all the essentials for the same. Also, you can visit Love Lake Dubai in Al Qudra lakes, which has quickly become popular getaway for its picturesque sunsets.

Location: Al Qudra Lakes area

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Couples, nature lovers

Dubai Marina Walkway

This 7km walkway around Dubai Marina is created as a waterfront development. It is the perfect place for a stroll, jog, walk or run and soak in the peace surrounding you. You can enjoy a captivating sunset, spend time with nature, and see the colorful yachts cruising the Marina waters.

Location: Dubai Marina area

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Walkers, cafe hoppers

Camel Museum

The Camel Museum is located in the Al Shindagha area and is another free place to visit in Dubai. The museum is divided into various sections where you can learn about the history of camels in the UAE, camel racing, camel anatomy, and also the relationship between the ship of the desert and Arabian people.

Location: Al Shindagha Village

Timings: 8am to 2pm

Ideal for: Families, animal lovers

Alserkal Avenue

The famed Alserkal Avenue has many impressive art galleries, exhibitions, pop-up stores, screenings, performances, cozy cafes, and more. This colorful place is most famous for Al Quoz gallery that has beautiful paintings and other artifacts. It is a great place to enjoy some culture without spending any money.

Location: Al Quoz district

Timings: 10am to 7pm

Ideal for: Culture vultures, artists

Dubai Aquarium

This award-winning aquarium is one of the most famous places in Dubai. But a ticket to see it from inside is an expensive affair. However, you can see the enchanting marine animals in the main tank of the Dubai Aquarium for free outside the Dubai Mall entrance.

Location: In Dubai Mall

Timings: Open 24 hours

Ideal for: Tourists, families

Al Seef

Al Seef is a trendy destination situated close to the famous Dubai Creek. Recently revamped by Meeras, this place balances the history and culture with contemporary elements beautifully. Al Seef also organizes many festivals that give a glimpse into the culture and heritage of the city. The place is lined with an array of retail stores and eateries is a popular hangout with locals and tourists.

Location: Along Dubai Creek

Timings: Market hours vary

Ideal for: Shoppers, creek views

Hatta Heritage Village

The Hatta Heritage provides an ideal insight into the city’s ancient days when it was a pearl-diving and fishing region. The place replicates a typical Bedouin village with citadels, forts, towers, and more. A key highlight of this place is the “Bait Al Wali,” which was the local ruler’s home.

Location: Hatta Valley, UAE

Timings: Market hours vary

Ideal for: Heritage buffs, rural landscape

Waterway Journey on Abra Delight

Ride an abra boat along Dubai creek for a budget friendly tour and enjoy picturesque views of the surroundings. These small wooden boats offer affordable rides between stations like Dubai old souq and Dubai Gold souq.

Location: Dubai Creek Harbour

Timings: Open 24/7

Ideal for: Romantic and scenic rides

Visit Infinity Tower: Exploring Modern Heights

Also called Cayan Tower, the twisting shape of Infinity Tower turns 90 degrees over its height, challenging conventional architecture. Its unique futuristic design takes spectators’ breath away, making it a popular free attraction.

Location: Dubai Marina District

Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

Ideal for: Architecture and photography lovers

Burj Nahar: Selfie Moment

The Burj Nahar fort was originally built back in 1870, using mud bricks and coral stone materials. It had three watchtowers intended to help guard the old part of the city. These days, the historic fort is protected as a monument, with lovely gardens planted around it. It’s become a popular selfie spot for tourists wandering around, wanting to snap a photo with the imposing aged towers behind them.

Location: Deira Old Souk

Timings: Anytime during daylight

Ideal for: History and culture enthusiasts

Sacred Serenity: Pray At Grand Mosque

With Quranic inscriptions, the tallest minaret in Dubai, and authentic interiors, Grand Mosque epitomizes the city’s cultural and religious heritage. Its ambiance fills visitors with peacefulness and spirituality.

Location: Bur Dubai Area

Timings: 5 AM to 10 PM

Ideal for: Muslims and non-Muslims alike

Audience with the Holy: Meeting at United Christian Sanctuary

The United Christian Church embraces diverse generations of Catholics at St. Mary’s Church, the oldest church in Dubai since 1967. People of all faiths attend sermons and experience miraculous happenings.

Location: Jebel Ali Village

Timings: Varies by service

Ideal for: Catholics and ecumenical guests

Join the Spirit-Filled Service At Pentecostal Church

As one of the biggest churches in Dubai with a beautiful interior, Pentecostal Church draws diverse congregations. People gather to pray, experience positive vibrations, and reconnect with their soul.

Location: Al Quoz Industrial Area

Timings: Varies by service

Ideal for: Christians and spiritual seekers

Seek Blessings At Emirates Baptist Church International

Although a Baptist church, EBCI welcomes a diverse congregation from various denominations and nationalities united through their expatriate status and employment in Dubai.

Location: Al Barsha South

Timings: Varies by service

Ideal for: Baptists and evangelical visitors

Admire the Architecture of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Established in 1967, St. Mary’s Catholic Church is the oldest church in Dubai that continues to serve generations of Catholics across Dubai’s diversity. People attend sermons and experience miracles.

Location: Oud Metha Road

Timings: Varies by service

Ideal for: Catholics and interfaith friends

Groove to the Lively Beats of Dubai

Enjoy the best hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s at Societe Dubai every Friday night. With its shabby-chic atmosphere and oversized lamps, the newly opened nightclub offers free entrance and dancing.

Location: Any nightclub or bar

Timings: Usually after 10 PM

Ideal for: Party animals and music fans

Watch the Traditional Indian Sport of Pehlwani

Hundreds of immigrant workers gather every Friday to watch and cheer brave men wrestling for glory in a sandlot behind Dubai’s fish market, keeping a traditional sport alive.

Location: Deira (sandlot behind the fish market)

Timings: Fridays; 5:00 pm onwards

Ideal for: Sports enthusiasts seeking cultural richness in Dubai’s traditions.

Marvel at the Luxury Vehicles of Dubai

Locals show off their luxury sports cars along The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, especially on Saturday nights. The waterfront promenade offers free entertainment through world-class car gazing.

Location: The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

Timings: evenings, notably on Saturday nights

Ideal for: car enthusiasts and luxury vehicle aficionados in Dubai.

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