We all know that Dubai is riddled with fun and amazing things to do. But we also can’t lie that it can get a little expensive sometimes. Everyone understands that sometimes you just need to save a little money and keep it light and easy on your wallet. But that does mean we still can’t have fun. This is exactly why today I present you the top 10 things you can do in Dubai for under AED or, better yet, absolutely free!
Also read: All For The Gram! These Are The Top 10 Most Stunning Locations Around Dubai
1. Unleash Your Swing At Top Golf
Head over to Top golf and swing to your heart’s content with unlimited balls during your hourly booking. Gather your squad of six and brace yourself for a thrill like no other! Depending on the day and time, each player will only have to contribute between AED 22 to AED 37 per hour. But that’s not all – Top golf offers a variety of exciting games tailored to your skill level, ensuring everyone has a blast. And don’t worry about those hunger pangs because they’ve got you covered with scrumptious food options available at an additional cost.
Quick Deets
Location: Emirates Hills 2 – Dubai
Timings: Open daily from 12 pm–2 am | Fri-Sun 10 am–2 am
Contact: +971 4 371 9999
Total Cost: AED 22 to AED 37
2. Yalla Bowling – Strike Your Way To Fun
Looking for a classic and fun-filled activity? Yalla Bowling has got you covered with traditional 10-pin bowling at just AED 40 per player. Step into a world of strikes and spares as you compete with your friends in a friendly game. And the cherry on top? Yalla Bowling is conveniently connected to Magic Planet in the Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre, so you can extend the fun with more exciting adventures!
Quick Deets
Location: Mirdif City Centre
Timings: Open daily from 10 am–9:15 pm | Fri-sat 10 am–11:15 pm
Contact: +971 4 231 6316
Total Cost: AED 40
3. Ailuromania Cat Cafe – An Afternoon Of Purr-fection
I love a good cat cafe, and this one is personally my favourite. My best friends I visit this one frequently so we’ve gotten very familiar with the cats there. The entry fee for Ailuromania is much more affordable compared to other cat cafes in the city. With a AED 30 per hour entry free you get to choose from either a tea coffee or water. There is one cat there named Oreo but my friends and I thought it was very generic since she’s a black and white patched cat so we decided to re-name her Moo. So when you decide to visit and you happen to see Moo do tell her that I sent you there, and hopefully you’ll get some extra loving from her. In general cat cafes are amazing experiences with a great cause of showcasing cats that are looking for forever loving homes. All the cats at Ailuromania cat cafe are up for adoption.
Also read: 18 Pet Paradises In Dubai: Beat The Heat At These Animal-Friendly Cafes This Summer
Quick Deets
Location: Ta’Rada St – Umm Suqeim – Jumeirah 3 – Dubai
Timings: Open daily from 11 am–10 pm
Contact: +971 4 321 6661
Total Cost: AED 30
4. Discover The Art Oasis – XVA Gallery
Calling all art enthusiasts! The XVA Gallery is your haven for contemporary art in the UAE. Step into a world of diverse and captivating exhibitions showcasing artworks from around the globe. But that’s not all – this cultural oasis also hosts engaging coffee and paint workshops, allowing you to unleash your creativity. And when hunger strikes, head to their charming vegetarian cafe, offering delightful breakfast options starting from just AED 37. With ever-changing exhibits and activities, you’ll find yourself coming back for more!
Quick Deets
Location: Al Fahidi Neighborhood, 312th Road – Al Fahidi St
Timings: Open daily from 7 am–10 pm
Contact: +971 4 353 5383
Total Cost: AED 37
5. Pedal through the Night with Careem Bike
Adventurers, this one’s for you! If you’re a fan of peddling and exploring hidden gems, Careem Bike is your perfect companion. Experience the magical charm of Dubai at night as you traverse unexplored alleys and charming niches. The best part? Careem bikes are affordably priced at just AED 20 for a day or AED 50 for a whole week, making it an adventure worth embarking on. So grab your helmet, embrace the night breeze, and get ready to discover a whole new side of Dubai. To know the precise location of a Careem Bike docking station nearest to you, simply download the Careem Bike app.
Quick Deets
Location: Various docking station around Dubai
Timings: Available 24/7
Total Cost: AED 20 – AED 50
6. Sail Back in Time with a Traditional Abra Ride
Step away from the usual hustle and bustle of cars and embrace the old-world charm of a traditional Abra ride. For just AED 1, embark on a timeless boat journey that connects Bur Dubai’s station to the vibrant Deira souks. As you glide along the sparkling waters, soak in the picturesque scenery and marvel at the beauty of the city. Once you reach the other side, treat yourself to some delightful window shopping, immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere.
Quick Deets
Location: Bur Dubai
Timings: Open daily
Total Cost: AED 1
7. Alserkal Avenue – The Epicentre Of Art In Dubai
Al Serkal Avenue is the arts and culture centre of Dubai. Located in Al Quoz, the surreal district serves a platform for indie and underground artists to showcase their work. On a daily basis, the venue hosts art exhibitions, plays, musical performances, and a lot more. With artists pushing the boundaries of creativity, you have the chance to capture plenty of incredible moments on camera. And it’s absolutely free for you to go and explore.
Quick Deets
Location: Al Quoz Industrial Area 1
Timings: Open from Monday to Thursday from 10 am–6 pm
Contact: +971 4 333 3464
Total Cost: Free!
8. Delve Into History At Dubai Naif Museum
History buffs, prepare to be amazed! Visit Naif Museum, the site of Dubai’s first police station, and discover the fascinating journey of how the city became one of the safest on the planet. Explore a treasure trove of artifacts, including old uniforms and weapons, that offer a glimpse into Dubai’s rich past. The best part? It’s completely free, making it a fantastic opportunity to delve into the city’s captivating history without breaking the bank.
Quick Deets
Location: Sikkath Al Khail Road Naif Opp Hyatt Regency Hotel – Dubai
Timings: Mon-Thur 8 am–3 pm | Fridays 8–11:30 am |
Contact: +971 800 33222
Total Cost: Free!
9. Conquer The Al Qudra Cycle Track
Calling all cycling enthusiasts! Buckle up and get ready for an epic biking adventure at Al Qudra Cycle Track. This 86km long track, with a challenging 50km loop, promises to put your biking and endurance skills to the ultimate test. Don’t have a bike? No worries! You can rent one, along with a helmet and lights, at Trek UAE. And for a refreshing pit stop, head over to Last Exit food truck park. With breathtaking desert dunes as your backdrop, pedal your way through the track and keep an eye out for the occasional gazelle. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this thrilling experience is open to all, so gear up for a memorable journey that lasts up to three hours.
Quick Deets
Location: Al Qudra Rd – Dubai
Timings: Open 24/7
Total Cost: Free! (unless you require to rent a bike, AED 53 for two hours during weekdays and AED 95 for two hours during weekends.)
10. Dubai Frame – A Night Of Mesmerising Lights
Prepare to be dazzled by the beauty of Dubai Frame! While it’s stunning during the day, we recommend visiting this architectural wonder at night to witness a breathtaking display of colours and lights. Ascend to the observatory deck for just AED 50 and treat yourself to a mesmerising view of Dubai split into two halves – the old and the new. A truly unforgettable experience awaits as the city glimmers and shines under the night sky, offering you a unique perspective of its beauty and charm.
Quick Deets
Location: Za’abeel – Al Kifaf – Dubai
Timings: Open daily from 9 am–9 pm
Contact: +971 800 900
Total Cost: AED 50
11. Traditional Architecture Museum
Inside, you’ll find a rich tapestry that chronicles the evolution of Emirati architecture. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how homes were crafted in Dubai and neighbouring emirates in days gone by. What’s more, this cultural gem offers all this insight without costing you a single dirham. It’s hands down one of the best free activities to enjoy in Dubai.
Quick Deets
Locations: Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai – Dubai
Timings: Open Mon-Thur 8 AM–3 PM | Friday – 8 AM–12:30 PM | closed Saturday & Sunday
Contact: 04 353 9765
Total Cost: Free!
12. Get Fit For Free In Dubai
Are you a fitness enthusiast? Well, Dubai has a treat in store for you. “At The Park” hosts weekly free workout classes at various venues across the city. These classes cater to diverse interests, from serene yoga sessions to high-octane CrossFit cycling and lively Zumba workouts. Getting in on the action is a breeze. Simply shoot a WhatsApp message to the At The Park group chat to confirm your attendance. They’ll not only give you the class details but also connect you with like-minded fitness aficionados. It’s a great way to break a sweat, make new friends, and it won’t cost you a penny.
Quick Deets
Total Cost: Free!
13. Birthday Thrills At Aquaventure
When it comes to celebrating your special day, why not take it up a notch? Atlantis The Palm’s incredible water park, Aquaventure, offers a unique birthday gift – a free pass! Picture yourself hurtling down gravity-defying water slides, an exhilarating way to mark the anniversary of your birth. Aquaventue definitely doesn’t expect you to celebrate your birthday alone, so they’re giving your 2 friends 20% discount on their tickets. I guess it time to take that Birthday party to the Palm!
Quick Deets
Locations: Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai
Timings: Open daily from 9:45 AM–6:30 PM
Contact: 04 426 0000
Total Cost: Free for the Birthday person! 20% discount for your 2 friends accompanying
14. Dubai Fountains Boardwalk – A Stroll To Remember
Get ready for a front-row seat to one of Dubai’s most iconic attractions – the Dubai fountain show. The magic happens when you step onto their floating boardwalk. As you soak in the spectacular water and light show, you’ll also be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Burj Khalifa. And It’ll just cost you AED 20 per person.
Quick Deets
Locations: Downtown Dubai, Dubai Fountains
Timings: Open daily from 5:45–11:30 PM
Total Cost: AED 20 per person
15. The Antique Museum – A Historical Time Capsule
Brace yourself for a mesmerising adventure within the Antique Museum’s intricate network of narrow passages. This captivating realm is brimming with an eclectic assortment of antiques and knick-knacks from Asia and the Middle East. As you wind your way through this treasure trove, you’ll unearth relics that whisper tales of bygone cultures. The best part? It’s a wallet-friendly escapade, offering boundless fun and fascination without costing you a single cent. Dive into the past and let your curiosity roam free!
Quick Deets
Locations: Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 – Dubai
Timings: Opne daily from 9 AM–8:30 PM
Contact: 04 347 9935
Total Cost: Free!
You might also like: Ultimate Dubai Summer Staycation Extravaganza & Unmissable Deals Starting At AED 99 Only
