When you think of visiting Dubai, do you instantly dismiss the possibility because you think it is expensive? If so, keep reading because we were very much like you before our first visit to the ‘City of Gold’. We quickly realised that yes, somethings are uber expensive (alcohol, fine dining etc), but, we had prepared ourselves for that. So in reality, it didn’t come as a huge shock to pay over £10 for a bottle of beer (gulp!). However other things are no more expensive (in fact, some are cheaper) than they are in the UK. Proving that Dubai is not only for the rich and (Insta)famous, it’s a destination for the average traveller too. The obvious way to be able to visit Dubai on a budget is if you’re already teetotal or you’re willing to forego booze while in the city. For us, sacrificing booze during our break was a no-go, maybe you’re the same? Therefore, we’ve put together a list highlighting a few alternative ways you can experience Dubai without breaking the bank.
Book Attraction Tickets in Advance
If you want to see and/or visit some of the big attractions in Dubai then it’s worth booking tickets for them in advance. Not only will this ensure that your spaces are secure should the attraction be sold out on the day you wanted to visit, but also it may save you a few quid. This is because quite often online prices are slightly cheaper than paying on the door. Even if you save a couple of quid on each ticket, the money is better off in your pocket. Also, don’t forget to search the web for discount codes for whichever company (we used Attractions Tickets Direct for our tickets up the Burj Khalifa) you opt to use. By doing this, you could save even more money.
Choose Affordable Transport
Taxis in Dubai are extremely affordable. We always use them whenever we are in the city. Whether it’s from the airport to our hotel or around the city itself. You also never have to wait long for one which is a great benefit. Depending on the time of day, you may experience traffic jams. Therefore at rush hour (roughly 7.00am – 10.00am and 4.30pm -7.00pm), you may prefer to jump on the driverless metro system which will take you to all the main tourist attractions in the city. You could even rent a bike for the day for 80AED (approximately £17.50). This is a great option but maybe not one for the height of summer where temperatures can reach in excess of 45 degrees. Also, do not forget to check out if your hotel offers any free shuttles to other parts of Dubai which are a great way of seeing more without spending a penny.
Try Budget Accommodation
The more stars a hotel has and/or the closer it is to the top attractions, the more expensive it’s going to be. That’s a fact. It’s the same in any city. Therefore, if you want to experience Dubai without breaking the bank, why not consider budget accommodation while in the city. There is loads of choice in Dubai? A budget hotel is a great option if you’re not bothered about all the extras (5 restaurants, 3 bars, room service, a spa etc) that you usually find in the high-end hotels in the city. Why spend more on amenities you don’t need, right? And if you’re a backpacker/budget traveller, Dubai is also home to a number of hostels which start from around £12 a night.
Visit Free and Inexpensive Places
Just because you’re watching the pennies doesn’t mean you cannot visit the amazing malls in Dubai. The biggest and most impressive is definitely the Dubai Mall. With a range of things to see including the Dino Display, the Human Waterfall and not forgetting the fountain show which are all free, you do not even have to put your hand in your pocket. Traditional souks and Arab marketplaces are also great places to head if you want to get a feel of real Dubai. Jumeirah Mosque, the largest and only one of two mosques in Dubai to allow entry of non-Muslims, is a great place to visit too if you want to experience some culture. You can even take a guided tour for a small fee. Also if you fancy a beach day – head to La Mer, you will not be disappointed. The beach is, of course, free and you can spend as much or as little on food, drink and entertainment.
Eat at ‘Local’ Restaurants
The majority of hotels in Dubai have at least one restaurant, some even have in excess of ten. However, the higher end the hotel is, the more expensive it is likely to be. Resturants in the malls can also be very expensive. In fact, we found that food was the second most expensive thing behind alcohol. Therefore, why not check out ‘local’ independent restaurants of which there is a great mix. With a number of Asian options together with Indian, Pakistani and Lebanese you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to homemade, traditional cuisine.
With its 7 Star hotels, helipads and award-winning fine dining restaurants – yes Dubai is a playground for the rich and famous, however, we hope we have proved you can still experience Dubai without breaking the bank. So if you are a budget-conscious globetrotter who has always dismissed Dubai before because of the perceived cost of it, please reconsider. There are always ways to save a few quid.
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