by Dubai is known to be one of the most expensive destinations to visit. Activities like indoor theme parks in Dubai, desert safaris, beaches, shopping, and water parks do require spending some money. However, you will be surprised to know that there are lot of free things that you can enjoy in Dubai without paying even a penny. Want to know what they are? Read on!
Dubai offers a wide range of attractions and activities that won’t cost you a single dirham, proving that there are plenty of free things to do in Dubai for travelers on a budget. From exploring traditional markets to relaxing on pristine beaches, the city caters to diverse interests without breaking the bank.
Enjoy Dubai with Family: Free Things to Do Together
Souks
Wander through the narrow alleys of the souks or the traditional bazaars and enjoy window shopping. You can buy clothes, spices, dry fruits, perfumes, essential oils, footwear, and herbs. Haggle with the vendors for the best price as most shops have similar stuff. If shopping is not on your schedule, you can always roam around these markets for free, making them one of the favourite free things to do in Dubai for shopping enthusiasts.
Dubai Spice Souk
Location: 41, 34th St Al Ras, Deira
Timings: The time may vary.
Textile Souk
Location: Bur Dubai, Near Bur Dubai Abra Station
Timings: Mon to Thu & Sat to Sun: 10:00 – 22:00, Fri: 16:00 – 22:00
Souk Al Bahar
Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Near Dubai Mall
Timings: Mon to Thu & Sun: 10:00 – 00:00, Fri & Sat: 10:00 – 01:00
Dubai Gold Souk
Location: Deira, near Baniyas Square
Timings: Daily from 09:00 – 21:00
Dubai Mall and Fountain
The Dubai Mall is one of the most enormous malls in the world. While shopping and dining here is an expensive affair, you can roam around the mall for free and just soak in the luxury and extravaganza. In the evening, see the Dubai Fountain, which is a captivating spectacle of lights, music, and water.
Undoubtedly, exploring Dubai’s best shopping spots like the Dubai Mall and the adjacent fountain area is among the best free things to do in Dubai with family.
Dubai Mall
Location: Mohammed Bin Rashid Blvd., Dubai
Timings: Mon to Thu: 10:00 – 00:00, Fri to Sun: 10:00 – 01:00
Dubai Fountain
Show Timings:
Afternoon Shows: Sat to Thu at 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM, and 2:00 PM, Fri at 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM, and 2:30 PM
Evening Shows: Daily from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM every half hour
The Best Beaches to Hit in Dubai
If you are on a Dubai holiday with your children, visiting some of the beaches is one of the best things to do in Dubai for kids. Dubai has many beautiful beaches like La Mer, Kite Beach, and Jumeirah Beach. You can spend a lazy day looking at the shimmering coastline, watch magical sunsets, swim in the waters, or just laze on the sand. You can also enjoy a game of beach volleyball or go running or jogging. Several beaches in Dubai have play areas and even water parks, making them perfect for Dubai adventure activities.
Jumeirah Beach
Location: Jumeirah district, along the coast
Timings: Open daily, 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM (till 11:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays)
Kite Beach
Location: Near Jumeirah Beach
Timings: Sun-Wed: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Thu-Sat: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
La Mer
Location: Jumeirah 1
Timings: Sun-Wed: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Thu-Sat: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Coffee Museum
Coffee has been an essential part of Middle Eastern heritage for several years. The Dubai Coffee Museum is a paradise for coffee lovers where you can trace the history of this yummy drink. You can also see artifacts, roasting machines, antiques, and coffee-related books in the exhibition room. Visiting this museum is among the top free things to do in Dubai for those interested in the city’s cultural heritage.
Location: Villa 44, Al Hisn Street, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bur Dubai
Timings: Open Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Closed on Fridays.
Ras Al Khor Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife sanctuary is a protected natural wetland reserve that is home to more than 450 birds and over 45 species of plants. It is a world heritage site divided into platforms including Flamingo Hide, Lagoon Hide, and Mangrove Hide. You can spot birds such as Flamingos, Silverbills, Snowy Plovers, Herons, and other exotic birds here with the help of binoculars.
Location: Ras Al Khor Road, Dubai
Timings:
- Winter (Oct-Mar): 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Summer (Apr-Sept): 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Fridays: 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Al Bastakiya Quarter
Al Bastakiya Quarter is oldest residential neighbourhood that takes you to the ancient days of the city. The buildings are constructed with traditional materials such as stone, teak, coral, palm fronds, and gypsum.
You will stumble upon art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and cafes. You can leisurely walk through this place to get a sneak-peek into the culture of Dubai, making it one of the favourite free things to do in Dubai for history and culture enthusiasts.
Location: Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Step back in time as you wander the narrow, winding alleyways of Al Fahidi. The place is lined with historical wind-tower houses built with coral, limestone, and intricately carved teak doors.
Peek into the recreated traditional courtyard homes and shops to understand the daily life of the Emirati traders, artisans and pearl merchants from centuries past.
You can also visit the museums, art galleries, and traditional cafes without spending a penny, making it a fantastic free activity for history and culture enthusiasts.
This historical neighbourhood has a vintage vibe making it the perfect spot for some nice pictures for Instagram. This makes it one of the favourite free things to do in Dubai.
Timing: Open 24/7
Location: Bur Dubai
Alserkal Avenue
After exploring the historical Al Fahida, make your way to Alserkal Avenue. It is a former industrial area that has transformed into a thriving art district.
Here, you can explore numerous art galleries, exhibition spaces, and creative workshops without spending a penny. Wander through the narrow alleys, and admire the street art.
At this place, you will also find contemporary artworks from local and international artists. Also if your hungry, you can grab a snack from the nearby cafe and eateries.
Timing: Open daily from 10 am to 7 pm.
Location: Al Quoz 1, Dubai
Jameel Arts Centre
Are you looking for a more artistic and cultural experience? Well, the Jameel Arts Centre which is just a short drive away welcomes you.
This is a contemporary art museum that allows free entry to its galleries and exhibitions. The gallery showcases artworks from artists across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.
You can explore the center’s diverse range of exhibitions, attend artist talks, and participate in educational programs. The center also hosts film screenings, workshops, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Timing:
- Saturday to Monday: 10 am to 6 pm
- Wednesday and Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
- Friday: 12 pm to 8 pm
Location: Jaddaf Waterfront, Dubai
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Located at the heart of The Dubai Mall, this is a fascinating attraction where you can observe a wide variety of marine life without spending anything.
At the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, visitors will get to observe the massive aquarium tanks filled with sharks, rays, and thousands of other fish species. You can spend a lovely afternoon watching the creatures swim around and also learn about their habitats and way of life through the informative displays.
Timing:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 10 am to 12 am
- Thursday to Saturday: 10 am to 1 am
Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
The Viewing Point
The city of Dubai has a unique walkway that extends over the Dubai Creek. This place is known as the Viewing Point, and it offers stunning views of the skyline and the iconic Burj Khalifa.
You can take a leisurely evening stroll along the 70-meter-long deck and capture beautiful photographs with this background.
It is also a great place to enjoy a peaceful moment while taking in the breathtaking view.
Timing: Open 24/7
Location: Dubai Creek Harbour
Chinatown in Dubai Mall
Step into Chinatown at Dubai Mall, and you will be transported to a colorful slice of Chinese culture right in the center of the city. Walk through the winding pathways, which are decorated with intricate lattice woodwork, vibrant red lanterns gently swaying overhead, and beautiful stone sculptures of mythical creatures guarding the entrance.
You can browse the boutiques showcasing delicate silk garments, jade jewellery, and hand-painted ceramics or explore the souvenir shops. As you roam through the area and soak in the atmosphere, you will feel like you have stumbled upon an authentic Chinese marketplace.
Timing:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 am to 12 am
- Friday to Sunday: 10 am to 1 am
Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
The Wings of Mexico statue
There are thousands of places where you can click nice pictures for your Instagram in Dubai. But, this place has become very popular recently among tourists and locals.
There is an iconic pair of wings set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. You can strike a pose in front of these massive wings and capture a memorable shot that will definitely be a hit on social media.
The Wings of Mexico statue is a must-visit for people looking for a unique and creative photoshoot opportunity in Dubai, all without spending a single buck.
Timing: Open 24 hours
Location: Burj Plaza, Downtown Dubai
Window Shopping at Mall of the Emirates
While you might not be a shopaholic, you can still enjoy the experience of window shopping at the various stores at the Mall of The Emirates.
Tourists can explore the huge shopping complex on foot, admire all the latest fashion trends, and check out the home decor items.
At this mall, you can also catch a glimpse of the indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai. The Mall of the Emirates and the Souks are definitely among Dubai’s best shopping spots. Here, you will not only find the products you like, but you can also get them at cheaper rates.
Timing: Monday to Thursday: 10 am to 11 pm, Friday to Saturday: 10 am to 12 am
Location: Al Barsha, Dubai
Jumeirah Mosque
This iconic mosque in Dubai allows non-Muslim visitors to join free guided tours which provide insight into the Islamic religion, architecture and the local culture.
Admire the beautiful stone carvings while enjoying the peaceful serenity of this sacred place of worship.
Timing: Tours run Saturday to Thursday, but the timings vary
Location: Jumeirah Road, Dubai
Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden is beautiful outdoor garden and has hundreds of exotic flowers and incredible floral sculptures and various displays made from millions of flowers and plants. You can stroll through the various themed sections and marvel at the creative arrangements like one of the largest floral installations in the world.
It is the best place to click some beautiful pictures with your loved ones.
Timing: Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)
Location: Arjan, Dubailand, Dubai
Antique Museum
We have another museum on our list, the Antique Museum. Once you step into this place, you will be taken on a journey through time.
This is a unique bazaar-like space which is filled with antiques and knick-knacks and has a touch of Asia and the Middle East.
As you wander through the narrow passages, you will get to admire the intricately carved furniture and explore the ancient artefacts.
Timing: Open daily from 9 am to 8:30 pm
Location: Al Quoz, Dubai
Shindagha Museum
This museum is the ideal place to explore the rich history of Dubai. It is located in the largest Heritage site in the UAE and offers an insight into the daily lives of the first residents of the city.
Tourists can explore the restored houses, admire the traditional architecture, while learning about the customs and traditions which shaped the city’s past.
The best part of this visit is that you will get to learn and explore everything without paying an entrance fee.
Timing: Open daily from 10 am to 8 pm (last entry at 7 pm)
Location: Al Shindagha, Dubai
XVA Gallery
If you are an art enthusiast, then XVA Gallery is a must-visit destination, especially if you are looking for free things to do in Dubai. This contemporary art gallery showcases works from artists across the Arab world, Iran, and the subcontinent.
Here, you will get to explore the rotating exhibitions, gaze at the thought-provoking pieces, and soak up the atmosphere of the vibrant art scene without paying a single dirham.
Timing: Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm
Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bur Dubai
Dubai Water Canal Waterfall
The final free place on our list today is the stunning Dubai Water Canal Waterfall. It is the place where the waterway meets Sheikh Zayed Road.
This colourful site is a true spectacle, which offers a breathtaking display of lights and water.
Take a leisurely stroll along the canal, admire the waterfall from various vantage points, and capture beautiful photographs without spending any money.
The Dubai Water Canal Waterfall is a beautiful sight that you must not miss out on if you are visiting Dubai in June.
Timing: Open 24/7
Location: Dubai Water Canal, Sheikh Zayed Road
All of the sights mentioned on this list are year-round attractions, but they are extra special when visited during New Year’s Eve, Ramadan celebration in Dubai, and Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF).
Just before visiting these places, make sure that you are aware of the UAE 2025 Holiday Calendar With Dates and Meaning. It will help you plan things ahead of time.
