Top 10 Free Things to do in Dubai

Dubai is well-known for its glitzy shopping malls, its over-the-top luxury destinations and of course, the glittering gold souks brimming with necklaces and bangles. But don’t let this worry you. If you’re holidaying in Dubai on a budget and want to save some of your money to spend on any of these things, give our list of 10 fun things a shot. Completely free and fun, these sure won’t let you down.

1. An Excursion Through the Ripe Food and Craft Market

While it’s a great idea to buy some fresh produce, delectable snacks and even a few handicrafts at the Ripe Food and Craft Market at Zabeel Park, you can even spend the entire day soaking in the ambience and admiring the wares displayed here. There are also music shows by local musicians that you can listen to for free.

Location: Al Quoz

2. A Taste of Culture and Crafts 

To sample Dubai’s heritage and culture, head to Al Shindagha. Totally free to enter, this place has exhibits of traditional crafts made by local artisans. From pottery to weaves, this handicraft exhibit center is a delight for lovers of crafts.

Location: Al Shindagha Area, near the mouth of Dubai Creek

3. Celebrating Camels

Camels are an integral part of the Bedouin heritage, and the best place to learn more about the Ship of the Desert is the Camel Museum. As you walk around, you will learn about the history of camels in UAE, the bond between Arabs and camels, the sport of camel racing and even, detailed camel anatomy.  There’s even an auditorium that showcases presentations on camels.

Location: Al Shindagha Heritage Village

4. Yoga Classes by FOY

If you’re a yoga or fitness enthusiast, and want to workout for free, head to the hour-long sessions hosted by Friends Of Yoga at five spots across Dubai.
Location: BurDubai Creek, Deira Creek, JLT Park,  Zabeel Park, and Internet City

5. A Course at the Eton Institute

If you’re a knowledge geek or a language enthusiast, sign-up for free introductory courses at the Eton Institute as well as for interesting cultural evenings. The best way to find out about what’s happening every month is to download their free app and check out the free events.

Location: Knowledge Village

6. Free Movie Show at Pyramids Rooftop Gardens

Who can pass up an opportunity to watch a movie on a Sunday evening under the stars? Completely free, these movies are shown under the open night sky, with colourful bean bags for people to sit on.

Location: Pyramids Rooftop Complex in Wafi complex

7. Witnessing Dubai’s Exotic Marine Life

While the entrance fee to the aquarium is 70 Dirhams, you can watch the exotic marine life at the colossal Dubai Aquarium for free, right outside the entrance at the Dubai Mall through the largest acrylic panel in the world.

Location: Outside Dubai Aquarium

8. Dancing with the Dancing Fountains

The dancing Dubai fountains are famous across the world, and the great thing is that you don’t need to spend money to enjoy this beautiful sight. Go over to the Dubai Mall to see these fountains dance to music.

Location: Outside Dubai Mall

9. A Walk Through the Gold and Spice Souks at Deira Souk

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The old-time, traditional souk in the Deira district of Dubai is great for window shoppers. While you can spend some money on gold jewellery or exotic spices, you can also just wander through this bustling market, admiring the interesting wares that range from a huge variety of gold jewellery to frankincense and pashmina shawls.

Location: Deira district

10. Watching the Thrilling Wrestling matches

If you enjoy watching the rustic sport of kushti or pehelwani, head to the sandlot behind the market in Deira to watch men from Pakistan, India and Bangladesh wrestle each other for glory.

Location: Deira

So, grab this list to save some money for the gold.

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