Dubai on a Shoestring: Experience the Glitz and Glamour of Dubai on a Budget

In Dubai, there are still lots of enjoyable activities that won’t break the bank. To begin with, Dubai has some of the most striking architecture in the world, much of which is open for public viewing without charge. Plenty of parks and open areas throughout the city are ideal for picnics or people-watching. If you’re looking for more energetic activities, playing beach volleyball or exploring one of Dubai’s many malls are inexpensive and enjoyable options. It may not be customary in other parts of the world, but in Dubai, haggling is expected when purchasing souvenirs from one of the city’s numerous traditional markets!

Although Dubai is well-known for its opulent resorts and hotels, it offers many affordable lodging options. Every traveller’s needs are catered for, with options ranging from serviced apartments and low-cost hotels to hostels and campgrounds. Hostels and campgrounds are the best options for travellers seeking the most economical lodging. Hostels are in many of Dubai’s central districts, including Deira and Bur Dubai.

Situated slightly beyond the city centre, basic campsites usually cost between AED 30 and 40 per night. Budget hotels and serviced apartments are excellent choices if you’re searching for something a little cosier. AED 150 is usually the starting price for a studio apartment in a serviced apartment, whereas AED 200 is the starting price for a basic room in a budget hotel.

When special discounts appear on any airline website, you should purchase your ticket to Dubai in advance to get the best deal. Due to its popularity, Dubai is served by numerous airlines. Major Indian metropolises are served by full-service carriers like Emirates and Etihad Airways and low-cost carriers like FlyDubai, Indigo, and Spicejet that operate flights to Dubai. You can purchase a ticket from Etihad or Emirates since their websites are regularly updated with lists of discounted fares. However, you can buy your ticket with low-cost airlines like FlyDubai, Indigo, or Spicejet to save some money on air travel. However, by selecting a local airline in the UAE, you can save even more money by taking advantage of exclusive tourist discounts at shopping centres, restaurants, spas, and many other locations.

When you are on a tight budget, the time of year you travel also matters a lot. You have to steer clear of the peak tourist season in Dubai because that’s when travel-related businesses hike their rates to make the most money. Then, the sweltering summer months and the holy month of Ramadan are the ideal times to visit Dubai on a budget. Since fewer tourists occur during this time of year, hotels, airlines, and restaurants offer guests special discounts.

Dubai taxi fares are generally less expensive than those in other countries. It is undoubtedly not the most expensive way to get around the city. It could cost you 12 AED for a taxi ride, regardless of how short the distance is. Dubai’s public transport network is incredibly well-kept. Therefore, since it is readily available there, travellers on a budget should consider this mode of transportation. An RTA NOL card is mandatory if you plan to use public transport in Dubai. Obtaining a silver or red card is the better choice for visitors.

You will pay 6 AED for the Red card and 25 AED for the Silver card. Since the Silver Card can be used on any public transport vehicle operating in Dubai, including RTA buses, metros, trams, and even water taxis, it is the better choice in the long run.

Since Dubai is among the most visited cities worldwide, anyone can find food there. Everything is available, including Japanese and American cuisine as well as European. But the cost of these foods tends to be high. When it comes to food, you should be mindful of two things when travelling on a tight budget: the type of food you eat and the location of your meal. There are differences in price points in different parts of the city. If you’re looking for inexpensive food, visit Bur Dubai and the surrounding areas. There, you can find Arabic and Indian food at meagre prices.

There is A LOT to do in Dubai! There are also plenty of affordable activities in Dubai, although some are glitzy and pricey. Here are a few ideas for inexpensive, enjoyable activities you can do in Dubai:

VIEWING BURJ KHALIFA & THE DUBAI MALL

Even though climbing the Burj Khalifa can be expensive and sometimes involves long lines, it is entirely free to view it from the outside and take in the nightly light and sound show in Downtown Dubai, outside Dubai Mall.

The sound and light show starts at 1 p.m. and ends at 1.30 p.m., with 30-minute intervals between 6 p.m. and midnight. The Dubai Mall and the nearby Souk al Bahar have many fantastic eateries with breathtaking views where you can stop for a bite.

SAVOUR THE BEACHES

While some beach activities, like renting deck chairs and riding camels, may be expensive, most beaches in Dubai, excluding resorts, are accessible.

Faccessiblehe well-known views of the Burj Al Arab, visit Sunset Beach (Jumeirah Public Beach), The Beach in JBR, or the relatively recently opened La Mer in Jumeirah 1.

Although there are accessible restrooms and changing areas, there are naturally many cafes and vendors competing for your business along these beach sections. Pack a picnic lunch, dinner, and towels from your hotel to fight the urge to spend more.

DISCOVER ANCIENT DUBAI

Take an abra ride across Dubai Creek to experience the historical al Fahidi neighbourhood, the Dubai Museum, and the spice and gold souks of Deira, or “Old Dubai.”

MONITOR THE PALM JUMEIRAH BOWLINGS

Visit one of the city’s more recent outdoor areas during the cooler months.

Take a taxi to the end of the Palm Jumeirah (avoid the ridiculously expensive Monorail), marvel at the magnificent Atlantis the Palm (you can get a free sneak peek at the beginning of the massive aquarium, The Lost Chambers), and then explore the brand-new boardwalk that winds around the outer crescent of the Palm for 11 km.

What are your thoughts, then? Would you be interested in seeing Dubai on a tight budget with Thrillark?

As you will see, despite its reputation, Dubai doesn’t have to be glitzy and expensive. Drawing up a budget for Dubai doesn’t have to be as tricky as chopping 95 onions. Have you previously travelled extensively throughout the Middle East? We hope you have a fantastic time with us in the UAE!