Dubai gets kind of a bad rap, if you ask me. It is often believed to be the least budget-friendly destination on the planet. But it IS possible to travel Dubai on a budget! And I’m going to share exactly how.

Is Dubai expensive? Yes. Is it possible to visit Dubai on a budget? Absolutely!

Dubai is, without a doubt, a city built for opulence and luxury. You can easily find high price tags for food, lodging, and activities as a tourist.

From the world’s tallest building to gold-leaf covered chocolates to hotel rooms surrounded by an aquarium – yes. Dubai can deliver the glitz and glamour.

But here’s the thing… While it can feel like Dubai is only focused on luxury, there are plenty of incredible ways to enjoy this futuristic metropolis without burning through your savings.

I have been traveling the Gulf for over a decade now, and over time, I’ve learned lots of ways to keep my travel budget under control in Dubai. And, just for you, I’ve outlined my top tips for affordable Dubai travel.

The best part? The “cheaper” side of Dubai is often the more “authentic” part of Dubai, containing hidden gems that the typical tourist likely hasn’t discovered. I can almost guarantee that they will leave you appreciating this vibrant city.

You May Also Like: 25 Reasons to Visit Dubai

Quick Tips for Budget Travel in Dubai

If you read no further, these quick budget tips for Dubai will set you down a better (and cheaper) path. As a frequent solo traveler in Dubai, I am always looking for ways to not break the bank while on the road.

1. Budget Tours are key.

While there are plenty of luxury excursions available, there are just as many day trips and group tours to popular places that will keep your solo costs down. From desert safaris to exploring the other emirates, booking a shared tour keeps things exponentially cheaper.

👉 BROWSE GROUP TOURS HERE!

2. Know your transportation options.

Dubai is certainly not the worst city I’ve been to for public transportation, but it’s probably not the best either.

The cheapest way to travel is by using the Metro as much as possible. It is clean, easy to navigate, and cheap.

In the winter months, make use of walking as much as possible. During the hot summer, use rideshare apps like Careem and Uber (two of my favorite travel apps) to save money over taxis.

3. Travel off season.

Yes, I am aware of how hot the summer in Dubai can be. I have been there many times in the summer, just as I’ve visited Dubai in the winter many times, too.

However, if you can stomach the heat, I can report that the hotels are significantly cheaper in the summer months. They are also sometimes cheaper in the shoulder months of late spring and early fall.

I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by traveling in the summer. Just be aware that outdoor attractions like the Miracle Garden close during the hottest months.

4. Don’t forget health insurance.

Healthcare in Dubai is entirely private. I had never needed to make use of it before the pesky conundrum we all remember in 2020, but for several years after I had to do repeated PCR tests for travel.

Make sure you get travel insurance for peace of mind in case of emergencies. It is much much cheaper than you think, and will save you a ton of money in the case of any emergency.

👉 GET A HEALTH INSURANCE QUOTE HERE!

10 Cheap (and Free!) Things to Do in Dubai

Traveling Dubai on a budget proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to make some pretty epic memories. These budget-friendly activities will show you a side of Dubai you might not expect.

1. Camel Racing

On my very first trip to Dubai, I had the pleasure of not only watching the racing camels train on the track, but also attended a camel beauty contest! It all happened by accident, but I will never forget it.

The cost? Zero dollars.

Since then, I’ve seen the camel race tracks many times, and I highly recommend checking it out for yourself. Camel races are free to attend. However, they are quite popular, so be sure to arrive early!

Camel racing offers a fascinating glimpse into true Emirati culture, and are one of the best budget activities in Dubai. These desert animals can run at surprising speeds, and the spectacle is thrilling.

Check the current camel racing events here.

2. Deira Gold Souq

While you might not be able to buy gold on a budget in Dubai, strolling the Deira Gold Souq is a great activity in and of itself.

From the world’s largest ring to glimmering knick-knacks, the bustling alleyways can be quite the adventure.

If nothing else, the Gold Souq is full of great photo opportunities. It is a can’t-miss spot!

3. Sunbathe at Jumeirah Public Beach

Did you know that Dubai has some incredible beaches with clear blue water? It’s true!

The Jumeirah Public Beach stretches out beneath the Burj Al Arab hotel and along the Dubai coastline. Bring a bathing suit, travel beach towel, and a good book and make a day of it.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out what to wear in Dubai to dress appropriately on and around the beach. Beachgoing is fine even in this conservative country, but best to be aware of a few key factors.

4. Check out public art

My absolute favorite piece of public art in Dubai is easily the Wings of Mexico statue in Emaar Plaza. But you can also find giant dandelion sculptures, bright murals, and more all around the city

5. Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek

For just 1 Dirham (roughly 25 cents), you can hop into an abra, which is a traditional wooden water taxi. You’ll cruise along Dubai Creek, which separates Old Dubai and “Modern” Dubai.

The views of old Dubai are a refreshing contrast to the glitz of the city, and you’ll definitely leave here feeling like you saw the “real” Dubai.

Riding a traditional abra is one of the best cheap things to do in Dubai, and fun way to get from one side of Dubai to the other.

6. Explore Jumeirah Mosque

The beautiful architecture of this mosque makes it worth a visit!

The exterior is a smooth white with incredible detailing along the windows, minarets, and more. The interior showcases pastel pink and yellow and blue detailing.

Be sure not to enter during prayer time. Prayer times change throughout the year but a quick search here can inform you.

Note that there is also a museum on site, but that does require a paid ticket. However, a visit to the mosque itself is free, and 100% worth it!

7. Visit the desert

There are two ways you can visit Dubai’s desert for cheap or even free.

First, you will need to avoid costly private tours, which may be obvious. But, you can sign up for a low cost group shared tour!

👉 BOOK YOUR GROUP DESERT SAFARI HERE!

In addition to dune bashing on the sand, you’ll get a traditional buffet dinner, sandboarding, and more. Check the details of the tour before booking, as the time of day can alter what is included.

If you are looking to go the free route, you can, but with caution.

It is 100% free to visit the desert on your own, without a tour. However, I strongly suggest you do not drive onto the sand unless you have past experience.

Dune driving takes expert skill and carries with it a big risk of getting stuck. But it is common for local families to go out onto the sand solo, for picnics and stargazing.

8. Walk the Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina is typically quiet during the day and lively during the night. If you want to check out some water-side nightlife in Dubai, the Dubai Marina is the place to go.

The Dubai Marina is an affluent residential neighborhood and is a common area for tourists to book hotels within. Restaurants with al fresco dining, perfume shops, pop-up craft markets, and brightly lit yachts are just some of what you’ll see here.

Needless to say that if you shop or sit for dinner, there will be a cost. But it is free to enter, walk, and people watch, and can be a fun experience – especially for first timers.

9. View the Burj Khalifa

No trip to Dubai is complete without a stop to see the famous Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world.

If you want to go inside and catch the towering views from the top, you will need to book a ticket.

But, if you just want to catch a glimpse of this famous building from the outside, that is completely free.

Furthermore, there is a free and famous fountain show at the base of the Burj Khalifa which takes place every half hour from 6pm onward, every day of the year.

👉 BROWSE BURJ KHALIFA TICKETS & PRICES HERE!

10. Stroll Al Seef

A perfect blend of old architecture and modern amenities, Al Seef is one of the best free places to visit in Dubai.

Located in Bur Dubai right near the Dubai Creek (so yes, you can reach it by abra if you wish), Al Seef is an excellent stop for photographers and Instagrammers.

The winding alleyways and sand-colored buildings transport you straight back to your childhood days watching Aladdin. Yet, if you need a quick Starbucks stop or souvenirs, you can find them here, too.

How to Save on Activities and Guided Tours

As previously mentioned, the best way to experience some of Dubai’s iconic attractions for a fraction of the price is by booking group tours.

👉 EXPLORE CHEAP DUBAI TOURS HERE!

Can You Eat on a Budget in Dubai?

Dubai has a wide array of food types and cuisine options, largely thanks to the diverse expat population here.

You can find traditional food, Indian and Pakistani food, American chains, and everything in between.

And while many luxury dining options exist, you can also find plenty of local eateries serve delicious meals at a fraction of the price.

Here are some tips to keep your dining budget in check:

1. Stay away from restaurants within or next to large attractions. These are nearly always overpriced and underwhelming. Instead…
2. Check out small hole in the wall falafel and shawarma stalls. Grab a quick, delicious falafel wrap for around $1 USD from the many roadside stalls throughout the city.
3. Go for “Meal Deals” or “Set Menus.” Many restaurants in Dubai offer lunch specials or set menus that are much cheaper than ordering à la carte. These often include a main dish, side, and a drink, offering great value for money.
4. Buy Groceries and Cook. I use this one often! Buying fresh ingredients from local supermarkets (like Carrefour, Lulu, or Spinney’s) and cooking at your guesthouse can save you a lot. Of course, this only works if your place has a kitchen.
5. Utilize Food Delivery Apps. Believe it or not, ordering food delivery via apps can be super affordable in Dubai. Use Careem, UberEats, or Talabat and check for promo codes that make it even more affordable!

Note that alcohol in Dubai is still a bit taboo, though it is possible to find if you are looking. However, venues that serve alcohol are sure to be more pricey.

Additionally, if you are into nightlife and are a woman, you are in luck. Many bars in Dubai give away free drinks to females on Ladies’ nights.

Tuesday is the most popular day for this, but check around for alternate days. I’m not a big nightlife person, so I can’t specifically list the bars to visit.

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Need more inspiration for your visit to the UAE? My Dubai & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide is jam-packed with attractions and tips for both areas.

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Why Visiting Dubai on a Budget is Worth the Effort

Most people will tell you that you can’t visit Dubai unless you have thousands of dollars to spare. This is simply not the case.

Traveling Dubai on a budget allows you to find and appreciate the city’s authentic charm far beyond the flashy skyscrapers and luxury malls. The people are warm, the population is diverse, and there is a lot more natural beauty here than you would expect.

From camel races to abra rides to the endless desert dunes, your adventure will feel even richer when you mix local experiences with affordable tips.

Cheap Accommodations in Dubai

One of the biggest categories that can eat at your budget on any trip is accommodations. This is also true in Dubai, although it is possible to find reasonable hotels here, too.

Firstly, if you are traveling during off-season, your hotels will be significantly cheaper than during the high season. we are talking 2-3 times less.

🏨 CHECK DUBAI ACCOMMODATION PRICES HERE! 🏨

However, though this was once unheard of, it is easy to find hostels in the city which can save you tons and give you kitchen facilities, to boot.

Pro Tip: In the summer, hotel prices decrease drastically. This is the low season for Dubai, and the weather is so hot that most tourists are scared away. Note that some events and activities may temporarily close in the summer months. Traveling during the summer is much cheaper, but admittedly it is not for everyone.

Here are my top two site recommendations for booking hotels at the best prices.

Hostels in Dubai

I’ve stayed in two hostels over the years in Dubai, and they were great. Kitchen, curtains on the beds, and female only, I would not hesitate to book another hostel in Dubai.

If you are traveling as a solo female in Dubai, this is a great option.

👉 CHECK DUBAI HOSTEL PRICES HERE!

Hotels in Dubai

Alternately, sometimes you just want a comfy bed and a good night’s sleep, and are willing to pay a bit more for it.

As mentioned, the prices you find will depend a bit on the season you travel. But, during the off-season, you can get a clean hotel in Dubai for around $40 USD.

👉 CHECK DUBAI HOTEL PRICES HERE!

How Much Does a Trip to Dubai Cost?

The answer is, unfortunately, it depends.

It depends on the season you visit, your tastes in luxury, and how willing you are to search for deals.

Given the wide range of prices found here, it would be very difficult to estimate an average daily price for all travelers.

However, assuming that you are a solo traveler, book budget accommodation, travel mainly by metro and visit in the off season, the cost of traveling to Dubai could be as low as $50 – 70 USD per day.

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Final Thoughts on Traveling Dubai Cheaply

Though Dubai has a big reputation for catering only to luxury travelers, this simply isn’t true. Friends who have never been are often surprised when I tell them how little hotel costs can be, particularly in the off season.

If you have a layover in Dubai, or find yourself curious to visit this popular destination, my advice is go. Do it. See it for yourself. It is totally possible to visit Dubai on a budget!

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