Not looking to shell out too much cash? We have you covered, this list is for the best free experiences you can have in Dubai.

Downtown Dubai

Visit the most iconic neighborhood in Dubai. With icons like the world-famous Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and Dubai Fountain, Downtown Dubai has plenty of wow-factor for visitors. But along with luxury retail, phenomenal architecture, and luxurious five-star hotels, the district also has an urban community feel thanks to its pedestrian-friendly design. 

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is home to thousands of residents, eight hotels, and dozens of restaurant with many more venues planned, and it’s only been open for nine years (such is the breakneck pace of Dubai). Any trip to the city isn’t complete without a drive onto the man-made island—only a bit over 2 square miles total—comprising 17 fronds and a surrounding crescent. 

Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah Resort Dubai. A recreation of an old Arabian town complete with bazaar (the souk), wind catchers and water canals. Madinat Jumeirah is home to some of the finest restaurants and hotels.

Gold Souk

The Gold Souk, located on Dubai Creek’s south bank in the Deira, specializes in glitz and glamour. Featuring glittering displays of necklaces, bracelets and earrings from more than 300 retailers, the Gold Souk is one of the most renowned gold jewelry trading centers in the world. In fact, approximately 20 percent of the world’s gold passes through this market. 

Public Beaches

Dubai isn’t famous for its bargains, but its public beaches are just that. They’re clean, well-maintained, and offer excellent facilities.

These are the city’s best free beaches – plus a few notable beach clubs, should you wish to shell out on a ritzier bathing experience. 

Historical Dubai

Journey into Dubai’s past with a visit to the heritage district located on the banks of the Dubai Creek. Once the entryway to the Gulf’s most successful pearl diving port, the Creek’s legendary presence is still felt today as fishermen and merchants criss-cross the calm waters in their traditional dhows.

Dubai Marina Walk

There is plenty to do in the surrounding areas of the marina, including the Marina Walk, a beachfront paved walkway with 305 outlets and 60+ restaurants to keep you entertained — not to mention active, as walking the whole area featuring seven kilometers of pedestrian walkway will take you a full day!

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

This expansive wetland reserve also serves as a breeding ground each year for crustaceans, mammals and fish, but it is the flamingos that steal the show in winter. Look closer among the mass of pink feathers and you might spot grey herons, great egrets, reef herons, cormorants, black-winged stilts, sandpipers, osprey and so much more.

Al Serkal Avenue Arts & Culture

Alserkal Avenue is full of contradictions. An industrial space that’s home to the region’s finest contemporary art galleries. A cultural district that boasts some of the most daring business concepts around. A place of carefully curated individual experiences.

Al Qudra Lake

Al Qudra Lake has been Dubai’s favorite recreational location. This desert oasis offers you a comfortable escape from the city and a range of enjoyable activities that will allow you to rest and relax. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you shouldn’t miss the Al Qudra Lake destination.