Planning for a weekend in Dubai on a Dhs100 budget? Don’t fret.

Dubai offers loads of affordable activities for the whole family, from shopping and dining to exploring the city, which can help you make the most of your dirhams.

Here are some budget-friendly options to try this weekend.

Catch an independent movie at Cinema Akil

The popular independent cinema in Alserkal Avenue brings films from across the world to viewers, showcasing the stories of often marginalised communities. In addition to films, you can also expect exciting festivals, pop-ups, and more. The best part? Tickets start from just Dhs56.50. Be sure to swing by Project Chaiwala on your way out for tea and a snack.
From Dhs56.50 (per ticket). Warehouse68, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, cinemaakil.com (04 223 1139).

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Cool down at The Galleria Ice Rink Hyatt Regency Dubai

Are you an ice rink whizz? Or, just looking for interesting ways to cool down now that summer is here? Lace up your skates and make a day of it at The Galleria Ice Rink Hyatt Regency Dubai. While this rink isn’t the biggest in the city, it’s a budget-friendly option where you can skate solo, with friends or even take lessons with coaches. Keen to boogie on the ice? Don’t miss Disco nights on Thursdays and Fridays.
Dhs10 (skates hire), Dhs45 (Sun-Wed), Dhs55 (Thu-Sun and public holidays), Dhs65 (disco nights). Open daily various times. Hyatt Regency Dubai, Al Khaleej St, Corniche Deira (04 209 6550).

Experience the impossible at Museum of Illusions

Located in Al Seef, this mind-boggling museum is an interactive experience, perfect for outings with your kids, pals or partner. When visiting, you can explore thrilling optical illusions, visual tricks, and hands-on interactive displays. From holograms, stereograms, and more, you’re sure to have a blast.
Dhs90 (per adult), Dhs65 (kids three to 15), free (kids under three). Mon-Thu 10am-10pm and Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Seef (04 357 3999).

Get a dose of culture with the Jumeirah Mosque tour

This beautiful mosque is one of the top cultural tourist attractions in Dubai. It is part of The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding’s flagship program, “Open Doors. Open Minds.” When you visit, be sure to take plenty of photos of this mosque, which is made entirely of pure-white stone with geometric designs. You can tour the mosque in the morning or afternoon. Bring your appetite to enjoy a free, authentic Emirati meal served at the end of your visit. Remember to arrive 30 minutes before the tour starts to register your attendance.
Dhs40 (tour price for visitors). Open Mon-Thu 10am and 2pm (visitors) and daily during prayer times (worshippers). Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1. jumeirahmosque.ae (04 353 6666).

Have a splashing pool day at Al Furjan Club

As the city heats up, it’s important to take advantage of as many pool days as possible. Slather on your sun cream and grab your sunnies for a pool day at Al Furjan Club. Starting from just Dhs80 per adult and Dhs40 per child, this budget-friendly deal is fully-redeemable on food and drinks at McCafferty’s. This family-friendly leisure spot also has a gym and tennis courts, making it the perfect weekly hangout.
Dhs80 (per adult), Dhs40 (kids 15 and under), free (kids under three). Open daily 6am-9pm. Pavillion, Jebel Ali Village, Al Furjan, alfurjanclub.com/ (04 422 1491).

Journey through Asia at China Town, Dubai Mall

There are endless things to do in Dubai Mall, but China Town is one of the best spots in the mall by far. You can grab a bowl of steaming noodles or dumplings, sip on a cup of boba, take snaps with Chinese lanterns, shop for Asian snacks at a convenience store and much more for under Dhs100.
Mall opening hours. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai.

Shop, eat and chill at Ripe Market

This is your last call to check out Ripe Market as this weekend-only bazaar has extended for two more weeks. This popular market is dedicated to supporting local brands and has plenty on offer for the whole gang to enjoy. You can pick up jewellery, homeware and clothing from artisan stalls, or stock up with fresh produce, bread, olives and more. Diverse entertainment is also available such as zipline and crochet climbing, kids’ arts and crafts, live music, horseback and pony rides and sunset yoga, amongst other cool activities. When hunger hits, eat your way around eateries featuring Cali Poke, Boston Lane, Bao Friend and Mr Brisket. Won’t make it for the last two outdoor editions? Experience Ripe Market indoors at The Spring Souk until September 28 and at Dubai Festival Plaza until June 30.
Dhs5 (entry). Until Sun May 26; Sat-Sun 3pm-10pm. The Ripe Market Academy, instagram.com/ripemarket/?hl=en

Soak in the city at Dubai Frame

Whether you’re new to Dubai or would love to see the city from a new perspective, an observation deck is the perfect option. If you’re wondering where to go, Dubai Frame is ideal, offering unique views of both new and old Dubai. This colossal-sized frame towers at 150m high, offering panoramic vistas. Indoors, you can explore an ‘Old Dubai’ gallery, a multimedia exhibition and more. If you’re feeling brave, you can walk across the frame’s see-through floor (just don’t look down).
Dhs52.50 (adults), Dhs30.12 (kids three to 12). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park Jogging Track, Za’abeel, Al Kifaf, dubaiframe.ae.

Travel through history at Al Shindagha Museum

Set along charming Dubai Creek, Al Shindagha Museum showcases Dubai’s rich history through beautiful exhibitions. History buffs can look forward to getting a glimpse into the city’s past through interactive videos, touch displays, photographs and artefacts. Scent lovers, don’t miss visiting the Perfume House on your way out to learn the story behind Emirati fragrances.
From Dhs35 (per ticket). Open daily 10am-8pm. Dubai Creek

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