Is Dubai Expensive?

Dubai Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Welcome to Dubai: a thriving and vibrant city located in the United Arab Emirates, known for its stunning architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and overall glitz and glamour. Dubai has experienced a huge surge in tourism in recent years, and an increasing number of expats have decided to give up their lives in their home country to settle in Dubai. The city's popularity has inevitably led to increased prices for accommodation, travel, dining, and more.

However, those on a budget can benefit from our guide on exploring Dubai without overspending.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Dubai

How Much Do Things Cost in Dubai

Where to Stay in Dubai on a Budget

Dubai is a popular tourist destination where visitors come to enjoy a luxurious holiday. Despite this, there are still affordable options available:

• Hostels: Staying in hostels is an excellent way to connect with other travellers, save money, and have a fantastic experience where you can make new friends. Dubai is dotted with hostels that offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities like bathrooms and kitchens.
• Budget Chain Hotels: Familiar chains and local establishments offer competitive rates for rooms that are pleasant and provide basic amenities. You'll find plenty of budget hotels located near attractions allowing you to enjoy the vibrant city life without having to spend a fortune!
• Guesthouses: These establishments offer a more homely and cosy experience where you'll receive a simple room in a more intimate setting.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Dubai

Dubai is often described as a top holiday destination, but it's important to remember that the city is also a growing home to thousands of expats who are moving to Dubai at an increasingly rapid rate. Therefore, there are plenty of areas that offer affordable accommodation options, many of which are in residential areas, so you can live like a local and get a real taste of local life in Dubai.

Some of the areas where you'll find pleasant and budget-friendly accommodations are as follows:

• Deira: Located in the historic district of Dubai, Deira hosts plenty of affordable accommodation options. You'll find hotels, guesthouses and hostels closely located to attractions such as the Gold Souk, Spice Souk and Deira Clocktower.
• Al Rigga: This budget-friendly neighbourhood can be likened to a trusted companion for cost-conscious travellers. You'll discover that the rates of hostels and serviced apartments are considerably more affordable compared to the city's downtown area. Additionally, Al Rigga provides excellent public transportation facilities to swiftly transport you to and from shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Bur Dubai: Another historic district featuring affordable accommodations, particularly in areas around Al Fahidi Street and Al Fahidi Metro Station.

What to Expect from Staying in Dubai and How to Book a Cheap Room

Dubai has people flocking to visit the gorgeous city for good reason! Aside from the sun, sea and sand, visitors can expect their accommodations to offer modern, clean rooms with excellent amenities. Many even offer beautiful sea views. For those seeking a more intimate setting, guesthouses and smaller establishments are great options. Complimentary Wi-Fi and air conditioning are standard in most places, along with the warm hospitality that the Emiratis are known for.

Those searching for comfort and convenience on a budget should follow our top tips:

• Book in advance: Leaving things last minute is a huge risk as it'll leave you with much higher prices. Book at least 60 days in advance to access the best deals.
• Consider location: Determine the proximity of the hotel to the attractions or areas you plan to visit, ensuring convenience during your stay. This also saves money on commuting.
• Be flexible with your travel dates: Dubai experiences a significant drop in tourism during the incredibly hot summer months when many residents leave the city. However, autumn and winter see more crowds, cooler temperatures, and pricier hotel deals.

How to Get Around Dubai Easily and Cheaply

Dubai has everything one could need to get around easily and conveniently. This city is well developed, modern and extremely efficient. The best part is that there are also affordable options.

Take a look at the following:

• Walking and Cycling: Explore the pedestrian-friendly areas on foot or by bicycle. Many neighbourhoods such as Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah Beach offer pleasant walking paths and dedicated cycling paths. Exploring on foot also allows you to tour at your own pace as well as discover hidden gems.
• Dubai Metro Day Pass: Purchasing a Dubai Metro day pass allows you to have unlimited rides on the metro and bus within 24 hours.
• Dubai Ferry: This is an incredibly scenic method of getting around as you get to soak in Dubai's coastline and landmarks as you travel. The ferry connects key destinations such as Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek and Al Ghubaiba Marine Station.

How to Eat Well in Dubai Without Spending a Fortune

Local Eateries and Cafes: Up for a culinary adventure? Then head down to the street vendors and casual eateries for local authentic food such as shawarma, falafel and kebabs.

Daily Specials and Promotions: Keep your eyes peeled for restaurants offering lunch specials, happy hour deals or set menus at reduced prices.

Buffet Meals: Buffet menus can sometimes offer better value for money as you get to enjoy a wide selection of dishes at a fixed price. It would be beneficial to explore this option, especially for breakfast and lunch hours.

Make use of the apps: Download apps such as Careem, Playbook and the Entertainer to find special offers. You can even narrow down your search to specific days, overall vibes and themes such as 'ladies' night'.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Dubai

Dubai is brimming with fun and exciting activities, with some even being free! Check out the following:

Dubai has its fair share of museums, and most of them are free. Here are our top picks:

• Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai Museum): Located in the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood, visitors are offered free admission on the first Friday of every month. Explore Dubai's heritage, culture and history through the museum's exhibits and displays.
• Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al-Sheef: Located in gorgeous Jumeirah, this enchanting Emirati house offers insight into the traditional lifestyle of Emiratis by showcasing artefacts, furniture and historical documents.

Here’s what to do in Dubai for 5 AED or less

• Visit Public Parks: Numerous parks in Dubai allow entry for 5 AED or less. You'll find Safa Park, Mushrif Park and Zabeel Park to be beautiful green landscapes perfect for causal strolls and recreational activities.
• Take an Abra Ride: For an authentic Emirati experience that is one to remember, hop aboard a traditional wooden boat known as an Abra. They operate between Deira and Bur Dubai and offer a scenic ride across Dubai Creek at an affordable price.
• Explore Old Souks: Gold Souk and Spice Souk and examples of traditional souks where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere, mingle with the locals and step into another world very different from the glitz and glamour of Dubai city life.

How to Enjoy the Nightlife and Culture in Dubai on a Budget

Attend Free Events: Keep your eyes peeled for cultural events that are free to attend. Some of these include live music performances and art exhibitions across the city.

Happy Hour Deals: Many bars, restaurants and lounges across Dubai offer happy hour specials where you can enjoy discounted drinks and food. Take advantage of these specific hours to make a saving during your evenings out.

Night Photography: Photography enthusiasts exploring Dubai after sunset should engage in the free and creative activity of capturing the vibrancy and glamour of Dubai's nightlife.

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