An In-Depth Guide to the Free Places in Dubai

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it has something to offer everyone. From its stunning skyline and luxurious shopping malls to its traditional markets and stunning beaches, there is plenty to explore in this city. But, one of the best things about Dubai is that there are plenty of free places to visit and explore. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best free places in Dubai so you can experience the city without breaking your budget.

A Brief History of Dubai

Dubai has a long and storied history. For centuries, the city was a small fishing village, home to a few thousand people who harvested pearl from the Persian Gulf. In the late 19th century, Dubai began to become an important trading port and by the beginning of the 20th century, it had become a prosperous center for trade and commerce. In 1966, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum took control of the city and transformed it into a modern metropolis. Today, Dubai is one of the most advanced cities in the Middle East, with a population of over 2.5 million people.

What Makes Dubai Unique

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of cultures and traditions from around the world. The city is home to people from all walks of life, from wealthy expatriates to humble locals. It is also home to an impressive skyline of towering skyscrapers and impressive architectural feats. While Dubai is known for its luxury malls and designer stores, there are plenty of free places to explore in the city. Below, we’ll outline some of these free places in Dubai so you can experience the city without spending a lot of money.

The Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is one of the best free places to visit in the city. Located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, which dates back to 1787, this museum gives visitors an insight into the history and culture of the city. Here, visitors can learn about traditional life in Dubai, as well as its economic and cultural development over time. The museum also houses a range of artifacts from ancient times, as well as interactive exhibits that showcase various aspects of life in Dubai.

Dubai Creek

One of the most iconic sights in Dubai is the historic Dubai Creek. This man-made waterway flows through the heart of the city and has been used by traders and merchants for centuries. Today, it is used for both transportation and leisure activities. Visitors can take a traditional abra boat ride along the creek, which offers incredible views of the city skyline and its many attractions. There are also several restaurants and cafes along the banks of the creek where visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine.

Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most stunning places to visit in Dubai. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, this grand mosque is composed of white marble and features intricate Islamic architecture. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque grounds and learn about its history and significance in Dubai’s culture.

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world and it is home to a range of shopping, dining and entertainment options. While there are plenty of stores here where you can shop till you drop, there are also plenty of free activities available too. Visitors can explore the mall’s aquarium, take a stroll through its gardens or enjoy stunning views from its observation deck. The mall also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, movie screenings and cultural performances.

Al Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai and it is known for its traditional wind tower buildings and narrow alleyways lined with traditional cafes and restaurants. This area offers a glimpse into what life used to be like in Dubai before it became an international destination. Visitors can walk around this area to explore its winding streets or visit its art galleries, museums and cultural centers.

The Heritage Village

The Heritage Village is a living museum located on the banks of Dubai Creek that offers visitors an insight into traditional Bedouin life in the region. Here visitors can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving and metal works as well as local customs and beliefs. The village also hosts regular cultural events such as folk music performances and art exhibitions.

The Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago that was created by reclaiming land off the coast of Dubai. This man-made island has become one of the most iconic sights in the city with its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches and stunning views of the city skyline. Visitors can take a stroll along its boardwalk or take a boat tour around its perimeter for some incredible views.

Popular Tours in Dubai

In addition to exploring these free places in Dubai on your own, there are also some incredible tours available that offer visitors a unique insight into this fascinating city. Below, we’ve outlined two popular tours that you can book to experience Dubai like a local.

Desert Safari Tour

A desert safari tour is one of the best ways to experience traditional life in Dubai. This tour takes visitors off-road into the desert where they can ride 4x4s over sand dunes and explore Bedouin villages. Visitors will also get an opportunity to ride camels and watch traditional falconry demonstrations as well as enjoy traditional meals cooked over an open fire. This tour offers an unforgettable experience that will provide plenty of lasting memories for years to come. You can book a desert safari tour here.

Traditional Dhow Cruise

A traditional dhow cruise offers visitors an opportunity to explore Dubai Creek on an authentic wooden boat known as a dhow. This tour takes visitors on a leisurely journey along the creek with views of iconic sights such as Burj Khalifa and The Palm Jumeirah as well as traditional souks and markets along its banks. The cruise also includes live entertainment with traditional music performances, dancing and dinner on board with views of some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. You can book a traditional dhow cruise here.

Conclusion

Dubai is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone – from luxury shopping malls to fascinating cultural attractions. But one of the best things about visiting this city is that there are plenty of free places to explore too! From exploring The Dubai Museum to taking a stroll through Al Bastakiya, there are plenty of opportunities to experience all that this city has to offer without spending a lot of money. Additionally, there are some incredible tours available too – from desert safaris to traditional dhow cruises – that offer visitors an unforgettable experience of this unique destination. So why not plan your trip now and start exploring all that this incredible destination has to offer?