Things to do in Dubai on a Low Budget
Price: $29 per person
The Dubai that you see today is not how it was 100 years ago – it’s not even how it looked ten years ago. But to get a glimpse of what life was like in Dubai back then, take a tour of the traditional and cultural part of Dubai. There, you will see souks, sand, and dhows, beautifully put together to represent what Dubai’s past was like. You can take a traditional boat, an abra, and ferry over Dubai Creek to souks filled with gold, spices, dried fruits, and so much more. Many of the museums are also filled with historical photographs and artifacts that will give you a feel of past centuries.
See Modern Dubai by Night
Price: $30 per person
One of the cheapest yet most beautiful things to do in Dubai is to walk around the bustling city at night. You can do it for free on your own or if you have $30 to spare, you can hire a guide that will take you on a fun and informational tour. You’ll be surprised by all there is to see and do from having a cup of chai at a local eatery to heading to the clubs and numerous five-star hotels that can be found there. Because it is such a cultural nation, people often are surprised by the bustling nightlife that can be found in Dubai. Lights, crowds, and clubs – everything you need to dance the night away is there.
Have an Authentic Emirati Dining Experience
Price: $20 per person
Honestly, you could find a meal for much cheaper at the local eateries but picked an average based on what you could get and where you get it. The array of flavors that you find in Dubai is incomparable to any other place in the world. You can head over to the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi and enjoy an authentic Arabic meal in a magical setting complete with cushioned seating on the floor. Have a meal fit for a king without the royal bill! Tip for the traveler: It is common to eat traditional Arabic foods directly with your hands, so don’t be surprised if you see this.
Visit the Lost Chambers of Atlantis Aquarium
Price: $27 per person
It is said that when building the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai, the crew uncovered a maze of passages and ruins – ones that led them to believe it was indeed the lost city of Atlantis itself. It was this discovery that led to the creation of The Lost Chambers aquarium – an underwater maze that visitors of all ages enjoy exploring. There are over 20 marine life exhibits and daily shows; walking around the maze is a treat all on its own though since you’re sure to encounter eels, piranhas, seahorses, and sharks. The aquarium has an interactive aqua theatre and is great fun for kids!
Get a Bird’s Eye View of Dubai Visiting the Top of the Burj Khalifa
Price: $33 per person
For a little over $30, you can head to the 124th floor of the tallest skyscraper in the world and a 360-degree view of downtown Dubai is laid before you. You’ll be surrounded by the luxurious decor of the Burj Khalifa and an array of photographs and artifacts from its construction. The tour takes approximately 1½ hours but guests can walk around and explore for as long as they like after. With a limited budget, this is definitely one of the better things to do in Dubai.