18 Free Things To Do In Dubai As A Tourist (2026 Guide)
Dubai has gained a reputation for being one of the most visited countries in the world, and South Asian tourists make up for about 15% of tourists to this wonderful emirate. If you also have Dubai on your list of countries to visit but are tight on the budget, we can assure you there are many things you can do in Dubai, for free. Don’t believe us? Keep reading.
When we think Dubai, we often think of something ultra-luxury, lots of gold and glitter and sky-high buildings with amazing views and magnificent facilities. But do not let the over-the-top luxury and glitter dampen your spirits to travel to Dubai on a budget – there are indeed many sights and attractions that one can enjoy and experience without spending any money. Yes, behind the richness and the grandeur, this middle-eastern cosmopolitan marvel has something for everyone.
So whether you’re visiting on a backpacker’s budget or just looking to stretch your travel funds, Dubai is full of memorable experiences that won’t cost you anything. And you will still be as awed and impressed as anyone else.
Here’s your updated 2025 guide to the best free things to do in Dubai as a tourist — ideal for anyone who wants to explore the city beyond the luxury price tag.
TL;DR – Free Things to Do in Dubai
Dubai offers stunning beaches, cultural gems, skyline views, adrenaline pumping activities, and desert serenity — all without spending a single dirham. From old-world souks to flamingo-filled wetlands, there’s plenty to do for free while soaking in the spirit of the city.
1. Wander Through Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Step back in time in the beautifully preserved Al Fahidi District (formerly Al Bastakiya). With its winding lanes, traditional wind towers, and coral-clad homes, it’s a rare glimpse of old Dubai — no tickets needed. Many of the art galleries and courtyards are free to enter, too.
Explore on foot and be awed with Dubai’s oldest building made in the 1780s. Take your time to appreciate the historic Al Fahidi Fort. And talk a walk down the rich history in the Dubai Museum, and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Does not cost a buck.
2. Explore the Dubai Creek and Ride an Abra (Almost Free)
Dubai Creek is where it all started- and Dubai became what it is today. The views on the Dubai creek are amazing, especially if you go there during morning hours. Handling thousands of ships everyday, this is Dubai’s busiest port and offers a glimpse of the city’s commercial scene. Plus, the skyline views are terrific and make for perfect holiday pictures.
While a ride on a traditional wooden abra costs just 1 AED, exploring the Creek’s banks is totally free. Stroll along the promenade, take in the atmosphere, and watch the boats cross between Deira and Bur Dubai.
Be mindful, swimming in the creek is not allowed.
3. Visit Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Yes, there are flamingos in Dubai — and you can see them for free! This protected wetland is home to thousands of birds and has bird hides where visitors can quietly watch them in action, especially during winter months.
Being free, you do not have to book the tickets for Ras Al Khor, but the timings run from 7:30am to 5:30pm during the winter season, and from 6am to 6pm between April to September. Free guided tours are also available through the official website.
4. Catch the Dubai Fountain Show
If you are looking for free things to do in Dubai in the evenings, then try catching the Dubai Fountain Show from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. every day. Held at the base of the Burj Khalifa,in the Dubai Mall, this world-famous fountain show is a breathtaking display of music, light, and water.
These captivating shows run for 30 minutes and are completely free to watch.You can also catch afternoon shows at 1pm and 1:30pm from Saturday to Thursday as well as 2pm and 2:30pm on Fridays. (Note: Temporarily paused until winter 2025 for upgrades.)
You will love these with the melodies that play, ranging from Michael Jackson’s Thriller, to Power by Korean pop band EXO. All ages, entertained by par!
Related Reading: 15 Best Things To Buy In Dubai
5. Marvel at Burj Khalifa from Ground Level
While the Burj Khalifa offers some stunning views from the observation deck at floors 124, 125 and 148, you don’t need to go up the tower by purchasing tickets to appreciate it. If you are traveling to Dubai on a budget, you can still soak in the Majestic Burj Khalifa from its lobby and by walking around the Burj Khalifa Park to experience the best of the sights.
Go ahead, snap some epic photos, and enjoy the energy of downtown Dubai without a ticket.Plus, you may be able to take part in giveaways and contests going on at the Ground Level, without any additional spend.
6. Hit the Beach – for Free!
Dubai is home to some of the stunning beaches with clear waters and golden sands. If you are traveling on a budget with family and cannot access the private beaches the high-end resorts offer for their guests, worry not. Public beaches like JBR Beach, Kite Beach, and Sunset Beach are clean, scenic, and free to access for everyone. In these beach districts, you can sunbathe, take a dip, or just walk along the sand. Infact, some of them also offer water sporting activities that you can enjoy to the fullest.
Head to The Black Palace Beach for stunning views of Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Madinat Jumeirah against the beachlines.
7. Discover the Art at Alserkal Avenues
One of the most prominent and culturally significant free attractions in Dubai has to be the Art Galleries at the Alserkal Avenues. Located in the industrial Al Quoz area, Alserkal is a hub for contemporary art and culture. Most galleries are free to visit,enabling you to admire art and artists without any cost involved.
And to enrich the experience, you can find many cafes, restaurants and a host of free events such as free talks and exhibits. The 500,000 square feet quintessential Dubai art hub also boasts of elite community events.
8. Visit the Zabeel Park around Dubai Frame Park Grounds
One of the free the free things to do in Dubai with kids is to hit the Dubai Frame Park Grounds on a nice, sunny morning. While going inside the Frame Park costs money, walking around Zabeel Park and snapping a selfie from the outside is completely free.
It’s a great spot for a picnic and skyline views with many kids activity areas and parks that are free to use. If you wish, you could take a boat ride (for an additional cost) or explore the seasonal attractions. All in all, Zabeel Park is also great to just relax, walk or jog along the wide expanse of greenery.
9. Experience the Fountain Show IMAGINE for FREE
The Dubai Festival City Mall offers a grand show IMAGINE that does not require you to spend anything to watch. The spectacular IMAGINE show showcases some of the best techniques in using sound, light, water, fire and lasers with pyrotechnics and dramatic effects for a grand experience.
If the fact that you get to watch this mesmerizing fountain light-sound-laser show for free does not get you excited- hear this. It has world records for the largest projection screen in the world along with being the largest water projection screen. Officially holding the Guinness titles, this show should be on your to-do list, free or not. Plus, there are 6 different shows, and they run every evening.
10. Dubai Mall Free Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Experience
What to do in Dubai Mall for free? Well, you can be wowed by the marine life without buying a ticket. Yes, that’s right.
- Grand acrylic viewing panel: From Dubai Mall’s ground floor (near the indoor waterfall), you get a sweeping view of the massive 10-million-liter glass wall tank, home to sharks, rays, colorful fish, and stunning marine moments—all for free.
- Mobile viewpoints: The aquatic tank is visible from three mall levels, so take your time exploring different angles for the best glimpse into the underwater world.
For a closer look and to walk through the tunnel, you will need to buy tickets.
11. Window Shopping at Dubai Mall
Even if you don’t plan to shop, wandering through one of the world’s biggest malls is an experience itself. The exotic brands, their stunning showrooms and the products they have will definitely leave you swooning!
See the indoor waterfall, browse the bookstore, or watch the tons of people from different countries – taking in all the luxury of the world at one spot! Moreover, the Dubai mall is a mammoth space, and walking in, soaking all the displays and the architecture is going to leave you awed.
12. Walk Along the Dubai Marina
Do you like to watch the world go by while you sip a coffee in the sunshine? Well, then you can head to the Dubai Marina, a stunning area to explore on foot. Watch yachts glide by, admire the skyscrapers, or catch some free street entertainment in the cooler evenings. There are many attractions around the Marina and the Promenade, however, they do have their own dress codes and prices. Yet, the walk is without any entry fee.
13. Soak in the atmosphere at Souk Madinat Jumeirah
If you are fond of Middle-Eastern style markets, with stalls and shops covered all under one roof, you will love to stroll and window shop in the Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Modeled after a traditional Arabian bazaar, this open-air market offers amazing views of the Burj Al Arab. It’s fun to explore the winding alleys and canals even if you don’t buy anything.
14. Stroll the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
Some of the Emirates’ top resorts like The Atlantis and The Palm are along this Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk. Understandably, a lot of these areas are restricted, but that is not to say you cannot marvel at the magnificence of these grand and ultra-luxurious places. Although you will only get glimpses for free, you can still try to buy a Day-Pass at the Atlantis and actually be there.
And if that does not suit you, just take this wonderful 11 km boardwalk along the beach rewarding yourself with panoramic views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf. You will pass through many food trucks and some equally great restaurants. It’s especially magical around sunset.
15. Watch Camel Racing at Al Marmoom
Camel Racing has been one sport that has been integral to the Emirati lifestyle since ages. And if you too have plans to experience the thrill, and enjoy the crowd-cheering moments, and that too without any cost for entry – this is where you need to be.
If you’re in Dubai during camel racing season (typically winter), head to Al Marmoom Heritage Village (half an hour from the city) to watch the races — it does not cost and it’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
16. Check Out The Dubai Stars
For a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere with amazing views and iconic landmarks, head to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard in the evening. The entry is free, while accessing the attractions comes with a cost. Encircling the majestic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, this 3.5km stretch is a treat on foot as you walk by the upscale residences and luxury hotels.
Plus, Dubai’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame is located on. Spot the names of international celebrities as you wander the strip.
17. Check Out Free Public Art Installations
To satisfy the creative mind of yours, you can check out multiple art galleries and many of them are free and open for public. Dubai regularly features temporary and permanent public art, especially in Downtown Dubai, City Walk, and La Mer. Another popular spot for art lovers is Jameel Arts Centre. Keep your eyes open for murals and sculptures, as global artists have painted the walls into visual poetry, and it is a treat for people who read the colors and the strokes..
18. Attend a Free Fitness Class During Dubai Fitness Challenge
Each November, Dubai turns into a massive outdoor gym with hundreds of free fitness events across the city.If you are a fitness enthusiast and happen to be in Dubai at the time, do enjoy the workouts without spending a Dirham. Plus, you can always get your steps and workouts walking by amazing souks and other attractions. The beaches and parks often feature open gyms, so there is no excuse to not work out while holidaying in Dubai!
Bonus Tips for Exploring Dubai for Free:
- Timing is everything: Visit early mornings or evenings to beat the heat.
- Pack light: but include sunscreen, water bottles, and a hat.
- Use the metro: While not free, it’s cheap and connects you to most places listed above.
- Check events calendars for public holidays or city-sponsored festivals offering free entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Dubai doesn’t always have to mean blowing your budget. If you know where to look, the city offers a treasure trove of free, memorable experiences. Whether you’re wandering ancient alleys, catching a fountain show, or soaking in a beach sunset, there’s a version of Dubai that’s just as golden without the gold.
Pack your curiosity, your camera, and your reusable water bottle. The city’s waiting — and it won’t cost you a thing.
