Top 10 Places to Visit in Dubai For Free

If you are visiting Dubai on a budget, there is some good news for you. Not all destinations require you to spend money by paying entry fees. There are some free attractions in Dubai and amazing places you can access for free! Nothing should now stop you from touring Dubai, not even a tight budget!

Embark on a journey with us to learn about some Dubai places to visit for free.

Antique Museum

Highlights

The Antique Museum, one of the free museums in Dubai, is not a museum-looking but rather a peculiar bazaar-like structure.
The Museum has a variety of treasures, including a huge collection of Middle Eastern and Asian antiques.
Explore freely the antiques and purchase unique pieces that capture your eye, such as an antique sideboard.

Handy Tips

Draw a budget if you intend to buy items.
For convenience, opt for public transport or explore the parking options.
Double-check the museum opening hours and schedule your visit properly

Jameel Arts Centre

Highlights

Jameel Arts Centre is one of the unique places to visit in Dubai for free.
Distinct Architecture: The cutting-edge building at Jaddaf Waterfront features creative programming and research.
Empowering Art: Jameel Arts Centre showcases the MENA region artists while exhibiting a strong sense of independence.
Creative Hub: The centre is a fun place with free activities that promote the local art scene.

Handy Tips

Respect the UAE's culture and etiquette. Dress modestly, act with respect while interacting with the staff and other visitors, and pay attention to any photography limitations that may be in place in the galleries.
Check out the Jameel Arts Centre's official website in advance, or contact them to learn about the current exhibits and events.

XVA Gallery

Highlights

The XVA Gallery, one of the free places in Dubai with an emphasis on Contemporary Art, specializes in Arab, Iranian, and Subcontinental modern art.
XVA is renowned for nurturing young talent and established artists from the UAE and beyond.
Dynamic Exhibitions: Displays are regularly changed to ensure a steady supply of new artistic experiences.

Handy Tips

The XVA Gallery, a free-entry tourist place in Dubai, is linked to the XVA Café that provides a calm and artistic ambiance. Combine your gallery tour with a stop at the café for snacks, light meals, or a tranquil break.
Opt for public transportation, as parking may be scarce at the gallery.

Birdwatching at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Highlights

For free sightseeing in Dubai, go to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Diverse Bird Sanctuary: The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary houses many types of birds, offering more than just twitching.
Flamingo Spectacle: The sanctuary is known for its colorful flamingos, herons, cormorants, and ospreys.
Free Exploration: The convenient shelters allow bird viewing, thus a memorable and cost-free experience.

Handy Tips

Bring enough drinking water and light snacks, especially during the summer months.
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and appropriate footwear, keeping in mind the city's climate.

Camping at Al Qudra Lakes

Highlights

Al Qudra Lakes are the perfect destination for Easy Camping and a free picnic spot in Dubai, offering a tranquil and calm environment for camping.
This is a perfect camping option for those who find wild camping to be demanding.
Camping is one of the free family activities in Dubai where you can camp with your family or friends, especially on a chilly night, where you can light a campfire, share stories, and bond.

Handy Tips

Carry the appropriate camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, cooking appliances, and warm clothing for chilly nights.
It’s advisable to arrive early in the day in order to secure a good camping spot with scenic views of the lakes. This is due to the fact that the Al Qudra Lakes witnesses many people, especially during holidays and weekends.

Surprise your Partner at The Love Lakes

Highlights

Explore the renowned romantic spot, 'Love Lakes,' where two heart-shaped lakes are intertwined.
The Love Lakes, a top tourist spot in Dubai for free, are located near Al Qudra Lakes and are accessible using Google Maps.
You can access this spot through the D63 route near the Last Exit and Al Qudra Lakes.

Handy Tips

Personal Touches: add on to the experience by bringing your lover’s favorite things like flowers, a picnic basket with snacks and beverages, and a comfy blanket to sit on.
Plan your visit during sunset or twilight hours for a more romantic experience with breathtaking views.

Take a Road Trip and Climb Up Jebel Hafeet

Highlights

Even though Al Ain is referred to as the "Garden City," the surrounding Jebel Hafeet Mountain ranges steal the limelight with their alluring, rugged beauty.
Hiking is one of the free fun things to do in Dubai, and Seasoned hikers can set out on a four-hour excursion from the base camp to the highest viewpoints.
Enjoy phenomenal views of the huge desert and the Al Ain city below from the optimal viewpoints.
The hike to the summit is quite challenging as it demands a lot of endurance.
For an even better experience, tune in to an interesting podcast and let your thoughts roam as you conquer the strenuous ascent to get the best views.

Handy Tips

Put on comfy hiking shoes to avoid blisters and guarantee a comfortable hike.
Start the trek during morning hours to shelter from extreme sun and ensure adequate daylight.
Bring enough drinking water and energy-giving snacks for hydration and to stay energized.

Sunset Strolls Around Dubai Marina

Highlights

The Dubai Marina walkway is 7km long and is the perfect location for a Dubai free sightseeing, leisure stroll, brisk walk, or jog.
Strolling the walkway, one of the free things to do in Dubai Marina guarantees a serene environment that is not overly crowded, thus an ideal spot for a quiet outing.
Enjoy the stunning views of Yachts gracefully navigating the Dubai Marina waters.

Handy Tips

Bring enough drinking water for hydration
Learn the environment and abide by the walkway rules in place.
Apply generous amounts of sunscreen and wear headgear and sunglasses to protect your skin from the strong sun.

Stroll Along The Boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah

Highlights

The Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk is a seven-mile path constructed wholly for walks and leisure strolls along the Arabian Gulf at no cost. It is one of the places to visit for free in Dubai.
Enjoy the astonishing views of the Arabian Gulf and take in the scenic beauty.
Unlike The Palm, where charges are high, The Boardwalk is among the free things to do in Palm Jumeirah.
The walkway is open 24/7, thus offering flexibility for everyone to enjoy the waterfront walk on their own time.

Handy Tips

The walkway is open 24/7, thus offering flexibility for everyone to enjoy the waterfront walk on their own time.
Put on comfortable clothing and footwear and apply sunscreen for sun protection.
Put on comfortable clothing and footwear and apply sunscreen for sun protection.

Swim at The Beach

Highlights

Swimming at The Beach on JBR Dubai is among the free outdoor activities in Dubai.
The beach located on Jumeirah Beach Road provides the perfect swimming opportunities, and the many restaurants around cater to your dining needs.
The JBR beach is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The walkway offers a serene environment that is not overly crowded.

Handy Tips

Apply lots of sunscreen and wear hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the scorching sun.
Consider visiting during the morning or evening hours when the temperatures are more bearable.