Dubai on a Budget: Your 2024 Guide to Visiting Dubai

Dubai on a budget: Is it possible? Cheap holidays to Dubai may seem like something of an impossibility. Dubai is synonymous with the glitz, glamour, and grandeur of luxury living.

Dubai on a Budget: An Oxymoron?

From the sparkling apartment complexes that tower over the Dubai Marina to the glittering designer malls, the entire UAE city exudes elegance and sophistication at every turn. Dubai is the place to travel to in order to treat yourself to a little taste of “the good life”.

All things considered, you absolutely can still enjoy Dubai on a budget. This guide runs through a few of the ways in which budget travel in Dubai is possible.

Ways to Experience Dubai on a Budget

Your accommodation does not have to break the bank

Dubai may be known for its ultra-luxurious super hotels and man-made islands but that doesn’t mean that these places are the only option. It is possible to find accommodation in Dubai that suits every budget – from mid-range to backpacker.

There is also the option to stay just outside the city in nearby Sharjah. Hotels are substantially cheaper in Sharjah and daily buses run frequently between Sharjah Dubai.

However, do keep in mind that many workers commute to Dubai daily from Sharjah. As such, traffic can be bad during peak times.

Airbnb accommodation in Dubai

Serviced apartments in Barsha Heights and other parts of Dubai are available via Airbnb for as little as £35 a night. While that is not ultra-budget travel in Dubai, it is pretty good value considering where you are.

Opting to stay in an Airbnb with its own kitchen gives you the added benefit of being able to buy groceries and cook for yourself so that you can dodge some of the expenses of eating out in Dubai. If your accommodation is centrally located, even better. That way you can get around mostly on foot without having to shell out on transport costs.

Hostel accommodation in Dubai

“At the top” hostel is a converted high-rise apartment building in the Dubai Marina that offers dorms. Not only is it the cheapest accommodation choice for travelling to Dubai on a budget, but the place also offers great views. It is social, and popular and is widely considered to be among the “best” hostel options for budget travellers in Dubai.

Backpackers Hostel in Al Karama was the very first hostel in Dubai and is also a good option. It is a little further out from the glitzy centre.

It is close to Deira and Old Dubai and makes a great base for exploring the less artificial feeling areas of Dubai. One night’s dormitory accommodation in Dubai will cost around $20.

Couchsurfing in Dubai

Dubai has a very active and large Couchsurfing community. The city is home to ex-pats and travellers from all over the world and it is not difficult to secure a Couchsurfing host here. Opting to couchsurf completely alleviates all accommodation costs.

If you are not comfortable with staying in a stranger’s home but want to meet people living and travelling in Dubai while in town, consider going along to one of the Dubai Couchsurfing meetups. The members meet every Tuesday at 8 pm in the coffee shop of the Crowne Plaza Dubai. The locals can give you some insight as to what is going on during your stay.

“Ladies Day” in Dubai

“Ladies Day” is a big thing in Dubai. On certain days and nights of the week, exclusive bars and beach clubs in Abu Dhabi and Dubai offer free admission to women. Sometimes, free drinks and food platters are also included as part of this deal.

It goes without saying that you have to be a female traveller in Dubai to enjoy ladies day perks. Male adventurers could try their luck tucking it between their legs, donning a little lipstick, and flirting with the host but not sure how well that would go down, especially in the United Arab Emirates!

Check the schedule for Ladies Day events and offers here. Alternatively, just Google search “Ladies day deals Dubai” for insight into the latest events and happenings.

Luxury Light in Dubai

A life of fast cars, super yachts, and an income where we can comfortably drop the £2,500 a night fee for staying at the Burj al Arab without flinching may be a dream for many of us. However, it is a dream that is unlikely to become a reality unless we get lucky and win big on the Euro-millions.

For a sampling of the high life without the high life prices, consider the options for spending time at these glamorous places without paying a price that means you have to sell a kidney. You may not have the £2500 to stay at the Burj al Arab for example, but you could consider pitching together with friends and renting a rooftop cabana at the hotel for the day.

With hours of poolside fun and bottomless prosecco, this is a great way to ball on a budget. Many other luxury hotels let you use their pools and exclusive beach clubs for a small fee.

For instance, a day pass for the Jumeirah al Naseem’s “Summersalt” beach club weighs in at around $90 USD . Though that is still not super cheap, it includes being driven around the resort in a golf caddy, waiter service, and free drinks, and a welcome fruit platter. None too shabby and quite an experience.

Related Article: What to Wear in Dubai

Visit Dubai in the off-season

Dubai is known for being hot all year round. The “off-season” is actually the summer months that run from June until September.

Fewer tourists visit during the summer as temperatures range from between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius making it pretty damn hot outside. You know when you open your oven door and recoil in horror as a waft of hot air hits you right in the face? Yeah, it’s like that.

Everywhere in Dubai is air-conditioned. During the off-season, many hotels slash their prices significantly to try and fill their rooms. So, even though it’s hot, your wallet will thank you for travelling during this time.

Enjoy a Day at the Races

Emiratis and expats alike love a day at the races in Dubai. While visiting the horse races or the Ascot in the UK may be an expensive, pretentious, “pinkie in the air” affair, in Dubai, these events are actually free. Horse racing is considered as being the national sport of Dubai with Sheik Mohammed himself having a fondness for spectating.

While in Dubai, you can go along to both horse racing and camel racing (yes, camel racing!) events. Both events only run from November through to March.

Dubai camel races are held at the Dubai Camel Racing Club (where else?) and races usually take place between the hours of 6 am-8 am on Friday mornings. Horse races in Dubai take place on Thursdays from 7 pm.

Browse for deals and discounts in Dubai

If you are a frugal Freda and you always like to secure the very best prices when you travel, you will be familiar with travel hacking, coupon collecting, and other ways of generally being a stinge expert travel hacker. Dubai offers many touristic experiences that you may want to cross off your list while you are around.

For example, venturing to the top of the Burj Khalifa and admiring the view, treating yourself to a spa day or having an afternoon tea at a fancy restaurant. Check out Groupon Dubai for discounts and offers for travelling to Dubai on a budget.

If you will be sticking around in Dubai a little longer – maybe for a work assignment or to visit friends then you could consider subscribing to The Entertainer. This is a local travel app.

You can purchase a membership for several weeks /months at a time. The app provides significant Dubai deals and discounts on entries and prices around the city.

Seek out free events and festivals in Dubai

The delightful camel and horse races are not the only free events that you can enjoy in Dubai. Check Time Out Dubai to see what is happening during the time of your visit.

Music festivals, art festivals, and events catered to a family audience occur frequently in Dubai. They are a fun way to enjoy the city without spending any money.

Find cheap flights to Dubai

Since Dubai is such a major transportation hub for connecting flights all over the world, it is easy to find cheap flights to Dubai. It is possible to find cheap flights to Dubai from most of Europe and the Middle East for less than £50 each way.

Use flight search engines like Skyscanner and try to search by the entire month to find the cheapest possible deal available over a wider period. It is great if you can be somewhat flexible on your travel dates.

You may be surprised to note just how much flight prices vary from one day to another. For instance, if you opt to fly on a Tuesday rather than over the weekend, you can save a relative amount.

It is a good idea to book your flights at least a few months in advance where possible. Prices start to increase the closer you get to your departure date.

You may also want to consider packing light and travelling only with hand luggage. That way, you mitigate any luggage costs.

Free and Budget Things to do in Dubai

The truth is that you do not have to spend a fortune to have an enjoyable trip to Dubai. There are plenty of things that you can do in the glittering Emirati city without breaking the bank or spending any money at all.

Visit the Hindu temple of Shiva and Krishna Mandir

Where: 62A Street Bur Dubai (Old Dubai)

There is a large population of Hindus living in Dubai. This is because many Indian workers migrated to Dubai to help build the city.

The Hindu Temple of Shiva and Krishna Mandir is a fascinating place to visit to gain an insight into their religion and culture. Friday afternoons are the best time to visit. On Fridays, you will see devotees attending the temple with offerings to the gods.

The temple is not super old, and it dates back to 1958 but it makes for an interesting visit. Festivities and celebrations are hosted here during certain notable events throughout the year (e.g. Holi).

Browse the Souk Madinat

The Souk Madinat is a 21st-century Arabian souk that is situated within the Madinat Jumeirah hotel complex. It contains all of the vibrant fabric and spice stores that you would expect to see in a traditional Arab marketplace but has been designed in fancy Dubai style.

This makes for a great photo opportunity, and the market is far less crowded and chaotic than other Dubai souks and marketplaces. It is also a good spot to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Take a wooden boat across to Deira

It is possible to take a wooden boat across the waters towards Deira from Bur Dubai (and vice versa). The wooden boat is an abra – a traditional handmade boat that is used by the Indian, Pakistani, and Bengali migrant workers crossing the creek each day to work.

The ride costs only 1 dirham and offers fabulous views of the skyline without the prices of a waterfront cruise. It also offers a unique insight into the lives of local workers.

People watch at the glittering Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina occupies a large 8km stretch filled with shimmering skyscrapers and upscale apartment complexes. The glitterati sip their cappuccinos at the various coffee shops and restaurants that line the waterfront.

Within the water itself, dozens of fancy yachts are moored. Walking here is a pleasant way to pass an afternoon and people-watch.

Head inside the Burj Khalifa

Whether you decide that venturing to the viewing deck at the top of the Burj Khalifa is worth your money is up to debate. However, it is worth at least taking a peek inside one of Dubai’s most iconic buildings for sure.

On the ground floor of the Burj Khalifa, there are many restaurants and stores. From the outside, the 900-foot dancing fountain show is nice to see before heading out for the evening.

Window shop at glistening malls

The hyper-luxurious malls that Dubai is renowned for are worth a visit even if you don’t plan on splurging. These fancy super malls are home to some of the most expensive and prestigious brand names.

They also house obscure “only in Dubai” style attractions such as indoor ski centers. Dubai’s malls are worth a walk even if only to escape the intense desert heat for a little while.

Stroll along the scenic coastline of JBR

The Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR Beach) is a long stretch of sandy white beaches and palm tree-lined promenades that sits adjacent to the Dubai Marina. JBR beach is a little like something you would expect to see in Southern California.

It’s free to relax on the coast here. Free beach wifi and cheap refreshment stalls make this an affordable day out in Dubai.

You also have a wonderful view of the Burj al-Arab from here, making it a great place for capturing photos. Al Mamzar public beach is another free option and a spot that is popular for those both interested in watersports or simply lounging and tanning by the beach.

Haggle your way through Dubai’s best souks

The Dubai Spice Souk in Deira is a perfect place to sample the very best Middle Eastern spices, fragrant fruit teas, and sweetly candied dates. If you are interested in buying perfumes, cross the road to Sikkat Al Khali Street. Here you can browse all things feminine and fragrant – from ouds sold in ornate vials to incense, essential oils, and bespoke custom-made scents crafted especially for you.

Rumor has it that Deira gold souk is home to some of the most affordable gold in the Middle East. Even if you don’t have the budget for buying jewelry though, browsing the narrow streets and elaborate facades of the jewelry storefronts here is an interesting experience.

At the Deira Gold Souk, you can also view the “largest ring in the world” (not sure of the practicality of that though!). Dubai’s Gold Souk is also worth a visit, home to many bespoke crafts.

Witness Pakistani street fighting in Old Dubai

The areas of Deira and Old Dubai are largely populated by migrant workers. On Fridays when they finish work, many of these workers gather in the streets to participate in amateur street wrestling. Arguably this is a sight not for the faint-hearted, but a fascinating atmosphere and experience nonetheless.

Wander around the Bastakia Quarter

If you are interested in an insight into what Dubai was lie before the glitzy malls, the seven-star hotels, and the flashy cars will enjoy wandering the streets of the old Bastakia Quarter. Built by Persians hundreds of years ago, the narrow passageways, crumbling ancient ruins, and looming fortresses here seemingly transport you back in time.

Unfortunately, a lot of the area was destroyed to make way for more modern developments. The 17th-century Al Fahidi Fort remains and has been transformed into a museum ($1 admission) that contains hundreds of ancient weapons.

Find local tours and excursions

Numerous local tour companies offer day trips and tours around Dubai and the wider UAE. They take you through the narrow, winding backstreets of oldtown Dubai where you can sample some of the best street food in town, and out of the city to do exhilarating activities such as dune-bashing.

While these are not free, opting to participate in a tour often works out cheaper (or at least no more expensive) than trying to organize certain things independently. There are many great activities that do not break the bank.

Better yet? Exploring with a local and someone who has actually lived in the city for a period of time and knows it well means that you have a Dubai expert on hand to ask for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and hang out while you are in town.

Recommended Dubai tours and excursions

A selection of some of the best Dubai tours and day trips is detailed below for your consideration. Reserve your spot in advance to avoid disappointment!

Budget Travel in Dubai:
Dining in Dubai

As with travelling anywhere, to minimise your food costs when travelling to Dubai on a budget, avoid restaurants in tourist areas or in expensive hotels. Fortunately, there are many excellent international options for dining out in Dubai.

International dining options

Dubai is a country filled with ex-pats and consequently, many authentic restaurants serving dishes from across the world. From Lebanese food to Indian, Vietnamese, and Thai, you can find a great quality version of virtually everything in Dubai.

Dubai food courts

Food served at mall food courts is one low-cost option. In Deira and Old Dubai, there are many Indian restaurants, street food stalls, and bakeries where you can pick something up for less than $10.

Try to do your research as to what eateries are around the neighborhoods where you are going to be spending time in advance so that you don’t wind up spending $40 on a bad burger or something as an impromptu choice. The best cafes in Dubai are not always the ones with the highest price tags.

Opt to stay in self-catered accommodation

If you opt to stay self-catered in Dubai such as by staying at an Airbnb apartment, you can drastically reduce your food budget. International supermarket chains such as Carrefour have branches around Dubai.

Fresh ingredients are no more expensive here than in most western cities. You can also pick up small sandwiches, snacks, and salad pots for a few dollars. These are great, inexpensive lunches for when you are out sightseeing.

Alcohol and drinking in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates is a relatively strict and conservative Muslim country. Alcohol is not widely available and its sale is limited to certain hotels, bars, and restaurants.

Alcoholic beverages are also heavily taxed. This makes drinking on vacation in Dubai a very expensive way to pass the time. As an indicator? Expect to pay around $12 per pint of beer while out in Dubai.

You can download the Guzzle App if you are interested in exploring the city by night. This is a phone app that offers discounts and deals at certain bars or browse for Happy Hour events and ladies nights in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Transportation Costs in Dubai

Dubai is perhaps the least pedestrian-friendly city in the world. It is not just the fact that the distances between points of interest are huge, but that the roads are not even pedestrianised or walkable.

The difficulty in getting around Dubai is not helped by the fact that the public transport network in Dubai leaves a lot to be desired. The best way to get around is by cab or by car.

Taking cabs in Dubai

Taking cabs in Dubai is often the most convenient option to get from A to B but it is certainly not the cheapest. Uber exists in Dubai as does Careem which is the UAE alternative of the app.

It is worth downloading the two so that you can compare rates and driver availability. However, you may find that the prices are cheaper via Uber.

Taking the metro in Dubai

Taking the metro is the least expensive option for getting around Dubai. The only downside is the fact that the network is not extensive and runs only around the touristic areas.

For instance, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Deira, etc. Buy an NOL metro card for 20 AED in order to receive 15 AED worth of travel credit and save money.

If you need to travel somewhere that isn’t served directly by the metro, the best thing to do is to take the metro as far as you can go, and then take a cab the remainder of the way.

Renting a car in Dubai

If you are travelling around the wider UAE or travelling as a group, renting a car is a convenient and cost-effective option. Gas is cheap, and there are plenty of beautiful and interesting sites just a short journey away from Dubai.

Places like Fujairah, Abu Dhabi, and neighbouring Muscat, Oman are much more accessible if you have access to a car. (Although you will need to read the small print as to whether the rental company allows you to cross the border between the UAE and Oman).

Certain nationalities (including EU residents) can hire a car in Dubai with just their national license. Residents of some countries require an international driving license. Check your government’s travel advice before you travel.

Expect to pay around 40-50 AED for a day’s car rental in Dubai. Prices vary depending on the season and the amount of time that you will be renting the vehicle for.

Discover Cars is a great platform that allows you to compare and contrast prices from different local rental companies. Although it adds to your final cost, it is also recommended that you get full coverage insurance for your trip.

Taking the bus in Dubai

Buses are not a convenient way of getting around Dubai. The only line that may be of any use is the number 8 bus which runs along a parallel route from Bur Dubai to the Dubai Marina and vice versa.

Various tourist sites are scattered along the number 8 route, including the Burj Al-Arab and the Souq Madinat. It can be a useful line if you stay somewhere that is situated close to one of these stops.

How Much to Budget for Travel to Dubai

Depending on your definition of “budget”, you can spend anywhere from $40 – $100 a day in Dubai. This can vary depending upon how you get around, your accommodation choices, and whether you cook for yourself or choose to eat out.

Realistically, you are looking at a budget of at least $50-60 a day if you rent a basic, yet comfortable Airbnb, you cook most of your own food, and you do predominantly free activities. You may be able to significantly reduce, or completely mitigate your accommodation costs if you opt to stay in a hostel or couchsurf.

Dubai on a Budget – FAQs

Do you still have any burning questions or concerns about how to visit Dubai on a budget? Hopefully, you will find the answers that you are looking for below.

Can you do Dubai on a budget?

Yes. Dubai on a budget is completely possible. Opt to stay in self-catered accommodation, seek out free activities, visit out of season and look for travel deals.

How much should I budget for a trip to Dubai?

The cost of a trip to Dubai varies significantly depending on the duration of your trip and your travel style. For a comfortable experience that still doesn’t break the bank, budget around $80-$100 per day.

What is the cheapest month to go to Dubai?

The summer months of June, July, and August are the cheapest times to go to Dubai. Fewer people travel here when it is scorching hot, and the hotels slash their prices to fill their rooms.

How much is a 7-day trip to Dubai?

It is a good idea to budget at least $1000 USD for a 7-day trip to Dubai. If you try to adhere to a budget of $80-$100 a day, you can do so quite comfortably. However, it pays to have a little extra backup ¨just in case¨.

Which month is expensive in Dubai?

The months of November through March mark the peak travel season in Dubai. Since most people visit during this time, hotels, flights, car rentals, and excursions are at their most expensive.

How much does a meal cost in Dubai?

If you seek out cheap restaurants (particularly those serving Indian food or fast food), you can easily get a main dish and a starter or a dessert for $15 to $20. Street food is even cheaper. Obviously, if you start going to swankier places, eating out in Dubai becomes a lot more expensive.

Parting Words

So what do you think? Does trying to explore Dubai on a budget appeal to you?

As you will note, although the city has a reputation for being glamorous and expensive, it doesn’t have to be. You can easily draw up a Dubai budget that doesn’t make you cry like you’ve chopped 95 onions.

Have you spent much time travelling around the Middle East before? Have a wonderful time in the UAE!

Safe travels! Melissa xo

highheelsandabackpack

Alice Cooper is a British Travel Writer and Blogger based in Athens, Greece. She writes for numerous high profile travel publications across the globe - including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, The Times of Israel and The Huffington Post.