Discovering Dubai: A Guide to Free Activities

Living in a bustling metropolis like Dubai can often come with a hefty price tag. However, there are countless free activities that allow you to explore the city’s vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking for tourist attractions, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, we’ve compiled a list of enjoyable, budget-friendly things to do in Dubai. Even during the warm summer months, there are plenty of options available, whether you prefer to enjoy the great outdoors or seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces.

Explore Free Attractions in Dubai

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

While indulging in a dessert at The Cheesecake Factory, don’t miss the breathtaking marine life just steps away at the Dubai Aquarium. This impressive attraction, located in The Dubai Mall, offers visitors a chance to marvel at a variety of aquatic species, including sharks. A perfect spot for a memorable selfie!

Open Sun-Wed 10am-midnight, Thu-Sat 10am-1am. The Dubai Mall, thedubaiaquarium.com (800 382 246 255).

Dubai Canal Waterfall

The Dubai Water Canal is a remarkable development featuring a stunning waterfall where the waterway meets Sheikh Zayed Road. Whether you’re jogging, cycling, or leisurely walking along the canal, be sure to stop and appreciate the vibrant colors of the waterfall.

Open 24/7. Dubai Water Canal, rta.ae.

Night Swimming at Umm Suqeim Beach

Dubai has opened several beaches for night swimming, complete with safety features and lifeguards. Our favorite is the 800-meter stretch at Umm Suqeim Beach, where you can enjoy a late-night dip under the stars.

Free. Daily from sunset to sunrise. Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3, and Umm Suqeim 1.

IMAGINE at Dubai Festival City Mall

Prepare to be mesmerized by this award-winning show held nightly at Festival Bay. Utilizing lasers, music, fountains, and more, it creates a stunning spectacle that captivates audiences of all ages.

Free. Mon-Thu 7pm-10pm, Fri-Sun 7pm-11pm (every hour). Dubai Festival City Mall, dubaifestivalcitymall.com (800 332).

Stroll Around Chinatown in Dubai Mall

Located opposite the Dubai Ice Rink, this newly opened destination offers an authentic Asian experience that you can explore for free.

Mon-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sun 10am-1am. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. thedubaimall.com/chinatown.

Photo Op at The Wings of Mexico Statue

This iconic statue has become a favorite among Instagrammers. The wings, set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, provide a stunning photo opportunity that is not to be missed.

Open 24 hours. Burj Plaza, Downtown Dubai.

Take in the View from The Viewing Point

This 70-meter walkway at Dubai Creek offers stunning panoramic views of the Downtown Dubai skyline, including the magnificent Burj Khalifa.

Open 24/7. Dubai Creek Harbour.

Visit the Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates visitors of all ages. The choreographed water displays, set to music, make it a must-see attraction.

Daily every 30 minutes from 6pm-11pm, plus additional shows on weekends. Downtown Dubai, thedubaimall.com (04 567 2030).

Window Shop at Mall of The Emirates

Enjoy window shopping at the Mall of the Emirates, where you can explore a wide range of stores and catch a glimpse of skiers at Ski Dubai.

Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Barsha, malloftheemirates.com.

Wander Around Souk Madinat

This picturesque market offers stunning views of the Burj Al Arab and is a hub of activity, making it a great place for photographs.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah. (Shops) open daily 10am-11pm. (Restaurants) open daily 8am-2am. Al Sufouh 1, jumeirah.com (04 366 8888).

Experience Cultural Richness for Free

Wander Around Al Seef

This charming area in Bur Dubai blends contemporary and historical elements, featuring a 1.8km strip that showcases the essence of Old Dubai with its narrow corridors and market stalls.

Bur Dubai alseef.ae/en (800 738245).

Visit Alserkal Avenue

This vibrant arts district in Al Quoz is home to numerous galleries and performance spaces, offering a cultural immersion that won’t cost you a thing.

Open daily 10am-7pm. Al Quoz, alserkalavenue.ae (04 333 3464).

Explore the Antique Museum

This unique place is less of a traditional museum and more of a treasure trove filled with fascinating antiques and curiosities from Asia and the Middle East.

Open daily 9am-8.30pm. Al Quoz, antiquemuseum.ae (04 347 9935).

Browse Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

This stunning library, shaped like a traditional book rest, houses over 1.1 million books and is a great place for book lovers to explore.

Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, closed. Al Jaddaf, mbrl.ae (04 222 2025).

Snap a Selfie at Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, an architectural marvel, offers several spots around the city for you to capture that perfect photo in front of this iconic structure.

Open 24/7. Downtown Dubai.

Explore the Gold Souk

Wander through the dazzling Gold Souk, where you can admire intricate jewelry designs and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Old Dubai.

Open daily 9am-9pm. Deira.

Visit the Jameel Arts Centre

This innovative space showcases contemporary art from the MENA region and is a must-visit for art lovers.

Open Sat-Mon 10am-6pm, Wed-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri noon-8pm. Jaddaf Waterfront, jameelartscentre.org (04 873 9800).

Explore the Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili

This museum honors the legacy of a renowned poet, showcasing his handwritten works and personal belongings.

Open Mon-Thu 9am-2pm, Fri 8am-11.30am. Al Ras, Deira, dubaiculture.gov.ae (04 515 5000).

Discover Shindagha Museum

As the UAE’s largest heritage site, this museum provides insights into the lives of the first residents of Dubai Creek. Use the RTA abra for free entry.

Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha, alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae (800 33 222).

Explore the Spice Souk

Immerse yourself in the vibrant aromas and colorful sights at the Spice Souk, where you can browse a wide array of spices and local delicacies.

Open daily 9am-11pm. Al Ras, Deira.

Admire Street Art Throughout the City

Dubai is home to a stunning array of street art that can be found in various neighborhoods, providing an artistic backdrop to your explorations.

Various locations across Dubai.

Visit the Textile Souk

Located across the creek from the Gold and Spice Souks, the Textile Souk offers colorful fabrics and accessories for fashion enthusiasts.

Open Sat-Thu 9am-2pm and 4pm-8pm. Ali Bin Abi Talib Street, Bur Dubai.

Explore the Waterfront Market

The Waterfront Market in Deira is a vibrant venue where you can admire a variety of fresh catches, perfect for browsing even if you’re just looking for dinner inspiration.

Open 24/7 (except during deep cleaning). Deira Enrichment Project, Al Khaleej Road, waterfrontmarket.ae (800 627 538).

Visit XVA Gallery

Specializing in contemporary art from the Arab world, XVA Gallery regularly hosts new exhibitions, making it a great stop for art lovers.

Open daily 7am-10pm. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bur Dubai, xvagallery.com (04 353 5383).

Uncover Historical Gems in Dubai

Stroll Through Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Step back in time and explore the narrow streets of Al Fahidi, an area that showcases Dubai’s rich history before the oil boom.

Open daily 24/7. Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai (04 515 5000).

Visit the Coffee Museum

For coffee enthusiasts, this museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture surrounding coffee in the UAE.

Open Sat-Thu 9am-5pm. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, coffeemuseum.ae (04 353 8777).

Explore the Coins Museum

Learn about the history of currency in the UAE and beyond at this beautiful museum located in Bur Dubai.

Open Sun-Thu 8.30am-2pm. Al Shindagha Historical Area, Bur Dubai (04 392 0368).

Visit Hatta Heritage Village

Discover the history of Dubai’s first villages at this reconstructed village showcasing traditional life.

Daily 8am-8pm. Hatta (04 852 1374).

Embrace Nature in Dubai

Birdwatching at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature lovers will enjoy spotting a variety of birds, including flamingos, at this unique wildlife sanctuary.

Open daily 7.30am-5.30pm (Oct-Mar), 6am-6pm (Apr-Sep). Ras Al Khor, rasalkhorwildlife.ae (04 606 6822).

Camping at Al Qudra Lakes

Experience the beauty of the desert with a night of camping at Al Qudra Lakes, a perfect spot for stargazing.

Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra.

Dune Leaping at Big Red

For thrill-seekers, a visit to Big Red for some dune jumping offers an exhilarating escape into the desert.

Open daily 24/7. Rub’ al Khali (The Empty Quarter).

Picnic at Al Barsha Pond Park

Settle down for a picnic at Al Barsha Pond Park, a picturesque location with sprawling lawns.

Open Sun-Thu 8am-10pm, Fri-Sat 8am-11pm. Al Barsha (800 900).

Watch the Sunrise at Al Jaddaf

Experience breathtaking views of the sunrise over Downtown Dubai at this tranquil location.

Open daily 24/7. Al Jaddaf.

Surprise Your Partner at The Love Lakes

For a romantic outing, visit the heart-shaped lakes near Al Qudra, a perfect spot for a quiet picnic.

Al Qudra.

Desert Drive Adventure

Explore the desert landscape with a thrilling 4×4 drive. Just remember to navigate carefully!

Open daily 24/7 (best to go during the day). Various locations on the outskirts of Dubai.

Engage in Free Fitness and Sports Activities

Cheer on Horses at Jebel Ali Racecourse

Experience the excitement of horse racing at Jebel Ali Racecourse, where entry is free.

Free. Jebel Ali Racecourse, dubairacingclub.com.

Cycling at Al Qudra

The Al Qudra Cycle Track offers a fantastic cycling experience amidst beautiful scenery.

Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra.

Grab a Free ClassPass

Explore various fitness classes around Dubai with a free ClassPass, allowing you to try out different activities.

Various times and locations. classpass.com.

Hiking in Hatta

Take advantage of the stunning hiking trails in Hatta, set amidst the Hajar Mountains.

Open daily 24/7. Hatta, visithatta.com.

Jogging at Kite Beach

Enjoy a scenic run along the beautiful promenade at Kite Beach, where the ocean breeze keeps you refreshed.

Open daily 24/7. Sunset Beach-Kite Beach-Jumeirah 1.

Climb Jebel Hafeet

Take a road trip to Jebel Hafeet for a challenging hike with breathtaking views of Al Ain and beyond.

Jebel Hafeet.

Mountain Biking at Mushrif National Park

Experience the thrill of cycling through lush greenery on the 50km mountain bike track at Mushrif National Park.

Open daily 8am-10pm. Mushrif Park, dm.gov.ae/historic_item/mushrif-park/ (04 288 3624).

Sunset Walks Around Dubai Marina

Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic walkway of Dubai Marina, where stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere await.

Boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah

Enjoy a picturesque walk along The Boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah, taking in the breathtaking sea views.

Open daily 24/7. Palm Jumeirah.

Swimming at The Beach, JBR

Take a refreshing dip at The Beach on Dubai’s JBR, where entry is completely free.

Open daily 10am-10pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, thebeach.ae (800 637 227).

Explore Hatta Mountain Bike Trails

Discover the longest mountain bike trails in the UAE, perfect for cycling enthusiasts.

Mon-Fri 6am-6pm. Sat-Sun 6am-6pm. Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre, Hatta.

Walk Around Bluewaters Dubai

Enjoy stunning views of the city and sea at Bluewaters Island, where you can explore shops and restaurants.

Bluewaters Dubai (04 399 9039).

Other Exciting Free Activities in Dubai

Free Improv Nights at The Courtyard Playhouse

Experience a night of laughter at this charming theatre, where you can enjoy free improv shows.

Free. Mon & Wed, Courtyard Playhouse, The Courtyard, Al Quoz, courtyardplayhouse.com.

Free Pool Access at Barasti

Relax by the pool at Barasti Beach Club, where you can enjoy free access to their facilities.

Open Sat-Wed 9am-2am, Thu-Fri 9am-3am. Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh (04 318 1313).

Live Music at Time Out Market Dubai

Enjoy live performances from local musicians while savoring delicious dishes at Time Out Market.

Time Out Market Dubai, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com/dubai.

For more amazing things to do in Dubai, check out our full guide.

• 13 free things to do outdoors at night in Dubai
• 12 things to do for free on a Saturday night in Dubai
• 16 fantastic free things to do indoors in Dubai