Here at Time Out Dubai we are all about getting out and about (funny that).

And when the sun sets there are loads of things to see and do in the city that won’t break the bank.

Need some inspiration? Check out these things to do outdoors in Dubai (that won’t cost a dirham) as they’re all free.

Admire Atlantis The Royal at night

Palm Jumeirah’s 21km stretch is a great place to go for a leisurely stroll to get a great view of Dubai’s fanciest new hotel, Atlantis The Royal. The flat walkway passes by several mega hotels on the crescent of the manmade island and makes for a nice evening activity.
Palm Jumeirah.

Cool down with a night swim

Three beaches are now open for night swimming in Dubai; Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1, which are where to go when you fancy a nighttime dip. Equipped with lighting, so you will be able to see exactly where you’re swimming and manned by lifeguards it’s a great way to cool down at night for free.
Daily from sunset-sunrise. Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1.

Mooch about the Gold Souk

Stall after stall sells shiny new jewellery and other fineries at the Gold Souk. Weave in and out of shops, that are partly covered, as you admire loads of bling. If you want to purchase something then you will have to open your wallet.
Open Sat-Thu 9.30am-9.30pm, Fri 4pm-9.30pm Al Ras, Deira.

Look around the sculpture garden at Jameel Arts Centre

The Jameel Arts Centre is one of Dubai’s next to Dubai Creek in Al Jaddaf, this centre offers free entry. It has a small sculpture garden outside that can be explored in the evenings. You can then go inside to see the exhibits. A good wholesome night out.
Al Jaddaf.

Ogle Downtown Dubai’s skyline across Dubai Creek

11 meters above sea level, The Viewing Point is a 70-metre walkway at Dubai Creek which is free to access. The vantage point offers affords views of the Downtown Dubai skyline and even the book-shaped Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.
Dubai Creek (next to Address Grand Creek Harbour hotel).

See Burj Khalifa illuminated under the cover of darkness

Chances are you’ve already been to The Dubai Fountain and watched the water cascade up into the air as you gaze up at Burj Khalifa illuminated in lights, but one thing is for sure it never gets old. Well worth multiple visits, it is a great free activity to roster into your evening plans.
Daily, 6pm to 11pm, every 30 minutes (The Dubai Fountain), Wed-Fri 7.45pm and 9.45 pm; Sat-Sun 7.45pm, 8.15pm and 9.45 pm, Burj Khalifa light show, Downtown Dubai.

Snap nighttime street art pictures in City Walk

If admiring murals and vibrant street art is what you enjoy, taking a walk through City Walk at night is an experience you’ll enjoy. Spot eye-catching designs by names Rone, Eine, Nick Walker, Magda Sayeg and Blek Le Rat. Charge up your phone and get to City Walk to get some new arty snaps for your IG feed (just, remember to use flash).
City Walk.

Soak up the kid-friendly atmosphere at Bluewaters Dubai

Take a late-night stroll across to Bluewaters Dubai to take in some fantastic vistas. The manmade island is buzzing in the evenings, especially with people selling LED light toys and children whizzing about in mini cars. The views across to JBR and The Beach are stunning plus there are a couple of viewing platforms along the bridge that are good places to pose for photos.
Bluewaters Island Dubai.

Splash about in a water fountain at Palm West Beach

When darkness falls, why not gather up your little ones and make a beeline for one of the city’s fountains to splash about in? Dotted along the boardwalk at Palm West Beach are little fountains ideal to cool down in. Don’t forget to pack a bag of dry clothes to go home in.
Palm West Beach.

Stargaze at Kite Beach

If you want to relax on the sand after dark then why not schedule a stargazing session? Pack up a picnic blanket to prevent getting sandy as you lay back and look up to the night sky above Kite Beach. It’s recommended to take some binoculars to get a better view of the stars.
Kite Beach.

Watch an immersive laser, light and water extravaganza at IMAGINE at Dubai Festival City

Lasers dance in the night sky every night alongside a spectacular fountain display at IMAGINE at Dubai Festival City, so are well worth going to see under the cover of darkness in the hotter months. Expect to be wowed; it’s earned two Guinness World Records. This is one that people of all ages will be impressed by.
Mon-Thu 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sun 6pm-11pm (every hour). Dubai Festival City Mall, dubaifestivalcitymall.com (800 332).

Wonder around Souk Madinat

Waterways surrounded by gardens, make Souk Madinat a nice place to wonder when it’s dark. You’ll get a mega view of Burj Al Arab and it’s always hustling and bustling with people ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Take a stroll across the bridge over Dubai Canal

Head to the Dubai Canal boardwalk for a nice flat walk at night. The walkway is 3.2km long and is well-illuminated and pedestrian-friendly. There are three pedestrian bridges across the canal making it easy for you to make the walk as long (or short) as you like.
Dubai Canal.

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