Dubai is a city and emirate located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is a country situated in the Middle East, on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, with the others being Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
Dubai is known for its remarkable transformation from a small fishing village in the desert to a modern and cosmopolitan metropolis. It has become a global hub for business, tourism, and luxury living. While the general idea is that Dubai can be expensive, you can still enjoy some of the best things to do in Dubai for free. Here’s our list of free things to do in Dubai – the city of extravagance.
Free things to do in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa world’s tallest building
Your trip to Dubai is incomplete if you don’t check out the tallest structure in the world, It’s quite a view to gaze at being the most exceptional out of all tourists places in dubai.
- The Burj Khalifa holds the title of being the tallest building in the world. It was officially opened on January 4, 2010, and its height is approximately 828 meters (2,722 feet). It has 163 floors above ground.
- Designed by the renowned architect Adrian Smith from the architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the Burj Khalifa is celebrated for its innovative and contemporary design. Its sleek, modern silhouette is a testament to human engineering and design prowess.
2. Dancing Fountains Shows
Dancing fountains shows are captivating and choreographed water displays that combine water, music, and sometimes lights to create a visually stunning and synchronized performance. These shows are popular attractions in various cities around the world and are known for their artistic and entertainment value. Here’s some information about dancing fountains shows:
The Dubai Fountain (Dubai, UAE):
- Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is one of the most famous dancing fountains in the world.
- It features a complex system of water jets, lights, and music, with performances taking place daily in the evenings.
- The fountain dances to a variety of music genres, including classical, contemporary, and Arabic music.
- Each performance is carefully choreographed and can be viewed from various vantage points around the Burj Khalifa Lake.
3. Drive around the Palm Islands
Driving around the Palm Islands is a unique and scenic experience that allows you to explore one of Dubai’s most iconic and ambitious architectural projects. The Palm Islands are a group of man-made islands shaped like palm trees located off the coast of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Here’s what you need to know about driving around the Palm Islands:
Palm Jumeirah: The Palm Jumeirah is the first and most famous of the Palm Islands. It is shaped like a palm tree with a trunk and fronds and is known for its luxury resorts, residences, and world-class amenities. To drive around the Palm Jumeirah:
- Access Points: You can access the Palm Jumeirah via two main access points: the trunk and the crescent. The trunk connects to the mainland, and the crescent encircles the outer edge of the palm.
4. Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is one of the world’s largest and most famous shopping malls, located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It’s not just a shopping destination but also a major entertainment and leisure complex. Here’s some information about The Dubai Mall:
The Dubai Mall is enormous, covering a total area of over 13 million square feet, making it one of the largest malls in the world. It features more than 1,300 shops, boutiques, and stores, offering a wide range of retail options, from high-end luxury brands to affordable fashion.
5. Dubai Aquarium
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the standout attractions located within The Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping malls, situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Here’s some information about the Dubai Aquarium:
- The Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. It is located on the ground level of The Dubai Mall and is visible from various points within the mall. The main tank holds approximately 10 million liters (2.6 million gallons) of water.
- The centerpiece of the Dubai Aquarium is a massive cylindrical tank that houses a diverse range of marine life, including thousands of fish and other aquatic creatures. Visitors can marvel at the underwater world from a 48-meter-long (157-foot-long) walk-through tunnel that runs through the tank.
6. Enjoy the cinema under the stars
Enjoying cinema under the stars in Dubai is a unique and unforgettable experience that perfectly embodies the city’s penchant for luxury and innovation. Open-air cinema screenings are a popular trend in Dubai, allowing movie enthusiasts to watch their favorite films amidst stunning desert landscapes or on the rooftops of skyscrapers. The warm desert evenings provide the perfect backdrop for a cozy movie night, complete with comfortable seating, gourmet snacks, and the latest blockbusters or timeless classics. Whether you choose a desert setting with dunes and starry skies or a rooftop venue with panoramic city views, the combination of cinematic entertainment and Dubai’s extravagant charm creates an enchanting evening for locals and tourists alike. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the magic of cinema while savoring the city’s luxurious hospitality and stunning vistas.
7. Dune Bashing
Dune bashing in Dubai is a popular and exhilarating desert adventure that allows visitors to experience the thrill of driving across the stunning sand dunes of the Arabian Desert. It’s one of the most sought-after desert activities in Dubai and offers a unique blend of excitement and natural beauty. Here’s what you need to know about dune bashing in Dubai:
- Dune bashing involves riding in a 4×4 vehicle, usually a powerful SUV or off-road dune buggy, as an experienced driver takes you on a thrilling rollercoaster-like journey across the desert dunes. The ride is bumpy, adventurous, and promises an adrenaline rush.
- Dubai’s proximity to the Arabian Desert provides a convenient and breathtaking backdrop for dune bashing. Many tour operators offer dune bashing experiences in the desert areas surrounding the city.
8. Take a glimpse of the Old Dubai
Taking a glimpse of Old Dubai is like stepping into a time capsule that reveals the city’s rich heritage and cultural roots. In contrast to the futuristic skyline and modern extravagance that Dubai is famous for, Old Dubai, particularly in areas like Al Bastakiya and Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood, showcases the city’s historical charm. Narrow winding streets, traditional wind-tower architecture, and mud-brick buildings transport visitors to a bygone era.
The Dubai Museum, housed in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, offers a fascinating insight into the city’s history and transformation. You can also explore the vibrant textile and spice souks along the Dubai Creek, where traders have plied their goods for centuries. Taking an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across the creek provides a picturesque view of the bustling waterway. This glimpse into Old Dubai offers a captivating contrast to the city’s modernity, highlighting its enduring cultural traditions and the spirit of a dynamic metropolis with deep roots.