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Dubai, a city synonymous with luxury and opulence, also offers a wealth of affordable attractions. In this guide, we share our top picks for budget-friendly attractions in Dubai. These promise to leave you with unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or a thrifty traveler, these attractions will showcase the beauty, culture, and entertainment of Dubai in a cost-effective way.
Dubai Fountain Show:
Experience the enchanting Dubai Fountain Show, a spectacle of water and light at the foot of the Burj Khalifa. Known for its choreographed ‘dancing’ waters, this free show pairs classical, contemporary, and Arabic music with mesmerizing aquatic performances. Show times vary, so check their official website for the latest schedule. Don’t miss capturing this moment against the stunning nighttime backdrop, though be prepared for crowds!.
A treasured memory of the Dubai fountain as it gracefully sways to the rhythm of a timeless love song.
This free show is absolutely stunning at night with the lights enhancing the experience. It also gets super full in all areas with great vantage points. Popular spots include the Waterfront Promenade outside Dubai Mall, the Souk Al Bahar Bridge, and the Burj Park. We spent the evening in Dubai mall to try and get a decent spot to see the show.
Capturing this moment was a challenge amidst the bustling crowds, especially using just a smartphone. Nevertheless, the essence of the spectacle shines through.
Dubai Creek:
Explore Dubai’s heritage with a ride on a traditional abra (water taxi) along Dubai Creek. Starting at just 1 AED, this journey takes you to the heart of Old Dubai. Stroll through the vibrant Gold, Spice, and Textile Souks, where the rich aromas and colorful sights offer a stark contrast to Dubai’s modern skyscrapers.
PS. You don’t need to take a water taxi to get to the Souk’s. This is simply an additional pleasure to add to the experience.









Dubai Frame:
Standing tall in Zabeel Park, the Dubai Frame offers a unique perspective of the city’s past and present. Enjoy this architectural marvel for free from the outside, or choose to visit its observation deck for a fee. Though we skipped the deck this time, it’s on our list for future visits.
If you plan on visiting the observation deck, you can book your tickets here through our GetYourGuide partner link.
the Burj Khalifa:
Most people will tell you that the sunset views from the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa cannot be missed. At least these were the recommendations we received when planning for our trip. When we discovered that the entry tickets ranged between 170AED and 560AED per person, it was a miss for us.
If you’ve got a big budget, you should certainly head up to the observation deck (we’ve experienced other observation decks before, and it was great, it just wasn’t in our budget this time around).

If you’re looking to save money and still experience this incredible landmark, do this instead. It’s free to admire the beauty of the tallest building in the world from the outside. Take some pictures in the daytime, or watch it light up and sparkle at night. Then head over to one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants overlooking the city. Here you can sit down for a meal or drinks and catch the sunset.
This way, you get to experience the beauty of the Burj Khalifa, without paying to go inside for that “unforgettable” sunset view. You’ll get to experience the same aerial city views while spending money on food instead.
Dubai Mall:
The Dubai Mall is one of the largest most luxurious malls in the world. Boasting opulence at every corner, it’s home to luxury shopping, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, an indoor ice rink, and a range of dining options to suit every tastebud. This mall appeals to every kind of traveller. After exploring the mall, head over to the cheesecake factory and ask for a seat with an aquarium view (you may have to make a reservation for this seat ahead of time). Order your favourite flavour cheesecake and unwind while soaking up the ambience and incredible vistas.
The main aquarium tank (pictured in this video) is one of the largest suspended aquarium tanks in the world, and visible to mall visitors for free. However, there are charges if you want a closer look or wish to venture into the Underwater Zoo, tunnel walk, or other interactive experiences.
While we choose to skip the aquarium visit during our trip, indulging in our favourite slice of cheesecake against the backdrop of such an incredible view was an experience in itself. It was a simple, yet memorable moment.
Time and again, we discover that it’s the unplanned moments, those not listed in our itinerary, that bring the richest joy and fondest memories on our journeys.
Jumeirah Beach:
Take a day off the busyness of site-seeing and simply relax while taking in the beauty surrounding the popular Jumeirah Beach. There are a host of shops and cafes offering a variety of food and beverage options, but what’s better than packing your own picnic with all your favourites for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at the beach.
Don’t forget to protect your skin when spending time in the sun. Click here to read our essential tips for surviving the Dubai heat to make the most of your trip.

Dubai Marina Walk:
Dubai Marina Walk boasts panoramic views of the iconic Dubai skyline, including the majestic Burj Khalifa and the architectural marvels of Dubai Marina. The glistening waters, lined with luxury yachts and sailboats, create a mesmerising backdrop for a leisurely walk and capturing beautiful pictures.
As you amble down the walk, you might encounter talented street performers, musicians, and artists showcasing their skills, adding a touch of artistry and culture to your experience. It’s a vibrant display of Dubai’s diverse creative scene, all available to enjoy for free.
One of the best-kept secrets of Dubai Marina Walk is its breathtaking sunsets. As the sun descends behind the city’s skyscrapers, the entire marina bathes in golden hues, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere. Watching the sunset here is an enchanting experience, and we highlight that it won’t cost you a cent.

It’s important to keep an open mind while exploring the diversity of the city. Don’t be afraid to visit less popular places, immerse yourself in the traditional culture, expect highs, and positively embrace lows. Most importantly, carefully consider the things that you actually like before splurging money on it.
Remember, the simple pleasures of enjoying the scenery, the atmosphere, and the company of the people you’re travelling with, whether that’s your partner, children, parents, friends, or if you’re a solo traveller, maybe it’s learning to fall in love with your own company – these are what make our experiences in beautiful destinations truly memorable.
Until our next post!
With love and appreciation,
The Kolbes
These tips are based on our personal experiences during our travels. You may have different experiences and alternative opinions based on your own travels. These are not meant to act as directives, instead they are suggestions which may be helpful to someone planning their first trip.
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Destination: Dubai, United Arab Emirates