Everyone knows that Dubai is home to some of the most expensive hotels, restaurants and activities in the world. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice your budget when visiting. With a little bit of planning and insider knowledge about where to look, it’s possible to have a great time in Dubai on a shoestring.
If you want to enjoy all that this bustling city has to offer without splashing out on every little thing you do, read on for our top tips on how to visit Dubai on a budget. You might be surprised by how much there is to do for very little money!
Plan in Advance
Most of the best things to do in Dubai are seasonal. Many festivals take place in specific months, and you’ll also find that hotel prices will be lower during the “off-season” of any given year. You’ll also be able to avoid the worst of Dubai’s scorching summer heat. If you can, plan your trip to coincide with one of the events listed below.
You’ll get to enjoy the festivities, but avoid the higher prices that come with visiting during a busy time of year. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds that these events bring. During Dubai’s winter, temperatures are much more bearable, so you’ll also avoid being caught in the summer heat. If you can’t avoid these months, try to visit during the day when temperatures are a little lower.
Go During the Off-Season
If you’re visiting in the winter, the weather is far more pleasant than during the blistering summer months. However, it’s also noticeably quieter, so you’ll likely find better deals on hotels, flights and public events. During the winter, you can also enjoy camel races, sand skiing and trips to see Dubai’s famous indoor ski slope. During Dubai’s autumn months, you can experience the cooler weather and enjoy the many festivals and activities that take place at this time of year.
Try Out Dubai’s Food Festivals
If you enjoy trying out new cuisines, then you’ll love Dubai’s many food festivals. From sushi to Italian and Indian, there’s something to suit every taste. Some of the most popular food festivals in Dubai include: - Italian Feast: Enjoy a range of delicious Italian dishes including pizza, pasta, gelato and coffee, all served in “Italian style”. - Guinness World Records: Eat a variety of bizarre and extreme foods, such as the world’s biggest burrito and a five-pound bag of chips. - Sushi Fest: Enjoy a selection of delicious sushi and sashimi from all over the world, all served by models dressed in Japanese costume. - Arabian Food Festival: Try traditional Arabian cuisine such as dates, hummus and shawarma, with some dishes being served in a “royal” style. - Indian Food Festival: Experience a range of Indian dishes and desserts, with some dishes being served in a “royal” style. - Italian Street Food Festival: Try out a selection of Italian street foods such as gelato and pizza served on the streets of Dubai.
Stay at Hostels and Chain Hotels
Most people assume that they need to stay at a five-star hotel when visiting Dubai, but this isn’t the case at all. There are many budget-friendly, yet comfortable and clean hotels in Dubai. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a hostel experience, there are plenty of cheap hostels in Dubai too. If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s best to avoid the many boutique hotels in Dubai and stay at a chain hotel instead.
You’ll find that the cost of a night at a chain hotel will be much cheaper than staying at one of Dubai’s many boutique hotels. There are plenty of chain hotels in Dubai, including the Hilton, Shangri-La and JW Marriott. If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, Dubai also has many “resorts”, which are basically large hotels with lots of facilities and pools. Stay at a resort if you want lots of activities and things to do nearby.
Use Public Transport
Dubai is a massive city and it’s not very walkable, so it’s best to use public transport whenever possible. You can use the Dubai Metro to get around the city. Metro tickets are very cheap and come in a variety of forms. You can also get a “gold” ticket that offers extra benefits, including reduced waiting times for trains. If you want to explore Dubai’s surrounding areas, the bus is a great option.
Buses in Dubai are cheap and efficient and can take you to places such as Abu Dhabi or the nearby city of Sharjah. If you’re with a group of people, it’s also worth considering hiring taxis. Taxis are cheap in Dubai and more reliable than buses, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure you’re aware of the taxi laws in Dubai, and secondly, don’t get ripped off by a taxi driver.
Visit the Desert
Dubai is famous for its sandy beaches, but did you know that you’re only a short drive away from the desert? Head out on a desert safari to explore Dubai’s vibrant deserts and barren landscapes. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some camels.
Desert safaris are a fantastic way to experience Dubai’s unique and diverse landscapes, and you’ll also get to try out “dune bashing”, where you drive through the desert in a 4x4. You can visit the desert on a day trip from Dubai or stay out there for a night. If you stay overnight, you’ll be able to enjoy the desert’s famous “sundowner” sunset and observe the stars in the desert’s peaceful silence.
Final Words
Dubai might be an expensive city to visit, but with these tips, you can definitely enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. You can enjoy Dubai’s many festivals and events during the winter; a time when they are less busy and more inexpensive. You can also stay at a chain hotel or visit the desert, where you can experience the desert’s famous “sundowner” sunset. If you follow our tips, you’ll be able to visit Dubai on a budget and truly enjoy the city’s many attractions and activities.
