While Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, you can find lots of interesting places to visit without paying a dollar. I’ve prepared a list of the Top 20 best free activities you can enjoy in Dubai next year.
-
Watch the Dubai Fountain
Watch the Dubai Fountain dance at Burj Khalifa Lake while lights and water move to different tunes.
- Address: Burj Khalifa Lake, Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Daily, shows every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM
-
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood stroll
Walk through the twisty networks of the old neighborhood which showcase Emirati architecture and culture.
- Address: Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
JBR Beach stroll
Jumeirah Beach is the ideal spot to see the sun and enjoy a beautiful view of Dubai’s cityscape.
- Address: Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Dubai Marina Walk
Take a stroll around the Marina and appreciate the breathtaking skyscraper and luxury yacht scenery.
- Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Dubai Frame
You need to pay to get to the observation deck, but you can take a stroll around the neighboring park of the Dubai Frame for free.
- Address: Zabeel Park, Al Wasl Road
- Timings: Park open 8 AM to 10 PM
-
Global Village
Appreciate the free tour to Global Village on special season days when you immerse yourself in cultures from across the globe.
- Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
- Timings: Seasonally, check local listings
-
Tour the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Catch a glimpse of flamingos and other animals thriving in their own habitat at this peaceful oasis by the city.
- Address: Ras Al Khor, Dubai
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Number: +971 4306 4000
-
Find the Street Art in Al Quoz
Experience stunning murals and paintings designed in the neighborhood of Al Quoz, which is the nucleus of modern-day art.
- Address: Al Quoz 1, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Learn About the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Although the headlining attraction is paid, you can look around the aquarium outside for free.
- Address: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Open 10 AM to 12 AM
- Number: +971 4362 7500
-
Go for a stroll around Zabeel Park
Zabeel Park is Dubai’s largest park, and it features scenic views, walking areas, and vistas of the Dubai Frame landscape.
- Address: Zabeel Park, Al Jafiliya
- Timings: 8 AM to 10 PM
- Number: +971 4340 0000
-
Attend the Dubai Shopping Festival Events
There are various events and entertainment programs during the festival that everyone gets to enjoy for free, preserving the lively vibe.
- Address: Various locations across Dubai
- Timings: Seasonal, check local listings
-
Explore the Gold and Spice Souks
Discover the actual markets of Deira where you can indulge in the luxury of enjoying the aromas and sights without laying out a single dirham.
- Address: Deira, Dubai
- Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
-
Visit the Dubai Museum
In Al Fahidi Fort, the museum opens for free on certain days and gives insight into the history of Dubai.
- Address: Al Fahidi Fort, Al Fahidi Street
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM (Saturday to Thursday)
- Number: +971 4353 1862
-
Unwind at Kite Beach
Sun, sand, and sea at Kite Beach, and a stunning view of world-famous Burj Al Arab.
- Address: Kite Beach, Jumeirah
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Explore the Dubai Design District
Observe this cultural center, where art shows and design shows live are normally open to the public.
- Address: Dubai Design District, Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Watch the Sunset at Al Mamzar Beach Park
Although there is a nominal entrance charge, the park itself is often free to visit at specified times and has some of the best views of sunsets.
- Address: Al Mamzar Beach Park, Al Mamzar
- Timings: 8 AM to 10 PM
- Number: +971 4296 6201
-
Visit the Dubai Marina Mall
Shopping is not a necessity, and even if one does shop, the marina mall itself is a pleasant location and one can window-shop too.
- Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai
- Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
- Number: +971 4436 1020
-
Witness the Cultural Events at Dubai Opera
Look out for any free event or exhibition that regularly occurs at the Dubai Opera.
- Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Varies by event
- Number: +971 4440 8888
-
Explore the Al Qudra Lakes
A secret gem, the lakes are perfect for picnics and wildlife watching, best toured during winter.
- Address: Al Qudra Road, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Number: N/A
-
Tour the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Join in with free cultural events or tours designed to foster Emirati culture awareness.
- Address: Al Bastakiya, Bur Dubai
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM (Sunday to Thursday)
- Number: +971 4353 6666
Conclusion
You can get a clear picture of Dubai’s exciting culture and nice surroundings without spending much. If you’d like more details, read Time Out Dubai. No matter if you’re a Dubai resident or visiting, doing these top 20 free activities in the city will make your time here better!
