Fabulous Things to Do in Dubai for Free
Dubai might be known for its record-breaking towers and luxury shopping malls, but there’s another side to the city, one that’s full of experiences that won’t cost you a single dirham. From beautiful beaches and outdoor art to historic neighbourhoods and the best family-friendly fun, the city offers more than enough to fill your weekend calendar without opening your wallet. Whether you’re a resident planning a budget-friendly outing or a tourist seeking local colour, here are some of the most fabulous free things to do in Dubai.
Stroll through Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Step back in time in Al Fahidi, where narrow alleyways, sand-coloured buildings, and wind towers tell the story of old Dubai. This district near Dubai Creek is one of the city’s oldest heritage sites. While the museums and galleries here may charge a small entry fee, wandering the streets is completely free and entirely rewarding.
You’ll spot traditional architecture, courtyards filled with bougainvillea, and beautiful wooden doors that make great photo backdrops. Don’t miss the Coffee Museum’s free tasting samples or the occasional poetry readings at House of Wisdom.
Catch the Dubai Fountain Show
Right outside the Dubai Mall and next to Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain puts on a choreographed water show every 30 minutes in the evenings. Watch as streams of water dance to everything from opera to K-pop, reaching heights of up to 140 metres. You don’t need to book a dinner table with a view, just stand by the railings or sit on the edge of the Burj Lake promenade and enjoy the spectacle for free.
Pro tip: head to the bridge between Souk Al Bahar and The Dubai Mall for one of the best vantage points.
Visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Yes, you can see flamingos in Dubai, and yes, it’s completely free. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is just a short drive from Downtown and offers an incredible escape from the city. During winter, the sanctuary is home to thousands of flamingos, along with herons, egrets, kingfishers, and more.
There are dedicated bird hides where you can observe the wildlife up close. Bring binoculars if you have them, and visit early in the morning for the best views.
Chill Out at a Public Beach
Dubai has plenty of public beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, or just take in the views. JBR Beach is one of the most popular, complete with lifeguards, showers, and walking paths. Kite Beach is another favourite, especially with joggers, kite surfers and families.
If you prefer something quieter, try Al Sufouh Beach, sometimes called the ‘secret beach’. It’s less developed and perfect for a peaceful sunset.
Watch Sunset at Dubai Creek Harbour
Tucked away just beyond Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour offers expansive waterfront views with the city skyline in the distance. It’s a brilliant place for an evening stroll or casual photoshoot. Art installations, a wide promenade, and relaxed vibes make this a local favourite.
If you go just before sunset, you’ll catch the golden light bouncing off the water and Burj Khalifa in the distance, all for free.
Enjoy a Gallery Crawl in Alserkal Avenue
Dubai’s art scene is alive and well in Al Quoz, and many of the exhibitions at Alserkal Avenue are open to the public. Entry to most of the galleries is free, and you’ll find everything from contemporary Arab photography to experimental installations and performance art.
Check out Leila Heller Gallery, The Third Line, and Green Art Gallery for standout collections. Time your visit around one of their Art Nights or public talks for an even richer experience.
Visit the Camel Racing Track at Al Marmoom
Want to witness something uniquely Emirati? Head to the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track during racing season (typically winter). Watching camels race, accompanied by robot jockeys, is something you won’t forget. Races usually take place early in the morning, around 7 am, and spectators are welcome free of charge.
Arrive early, bring a camera, and soak in the atmosphere of a centuries-old sport with a distinctly modern twist.
Go Window Shopping in Gold and Spice Souks
Dubai’s traditional souks in Deira are a sensory overload in the best way. At the Gold Souk, you’ll see window after window of glittering gold jewellery from chunky bangles to intricate wedding sets. Walk a few minutes to the Spice Souk and you’ll be surrounded by towers of saffron, cinnamon, rose petals, and dried lemons.
You’re not obligated to buy anything, and wandering the narrow lanes is half the fun. Just smile if the vendors try to tempt you with a “special price.”
Walk the Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk
Stretching from Business Bay to Jumeirah, the Dubai Water Canal is lined with footpaths and cycling tracks perfect for an evening stroll. The star of the route is the pedestrian bridge with the waterfall curtain near Sheikh Zayed Road, which lights up beautifully at night. You can start at Safa Park and walk west, or explore the shorter route from Al Habtoor City.
Best of all, you’ll get an entirely different view of Dubai – peaceful, open, and full of movement.
See Free Performances at Dubai Mall and City Walk
Dubai Mall often hosts live shows, music, and even dance performances around the atrium, especially during festivals like Eid or the Dubai Shopping Festival. Similarly, City Walk features open-air stages and pop-up events on weekends. You might stumble upon a breakdance battle, a violin solo, or a full-on street theatre performance — and it’s all open to the public. For more insights on where to go and what to explore, check out our Guide UAE section. Got questions? Contact us anytime for help planning your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all public beaches in Dubai free?
Yes, many of Dubai’s public beaches are free to enter and enjoy. Popular stretches like JBR Beach, Kite Beach, and Al Sufouh Beach do not charge for access, and they come with basic amenities like showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards on duty during the day. While beach clubs and private hotel beachfronts do require a fee or a minimum spend, public beaches are open to everyone. Keep in mind that parking may be paid in some areas, and weekend crowds can be heavy, so visiting early in the day is a smart move.
Is Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary open year-round?
Yes, the sanctuary is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between November and March, when migratory birds, especially flamingos, arrive in large numbers. During these cooler months, you’ll also see various waders and birds of prey. Entry is free and no booking is needed. Three bird hides are located around the sanctuary with clear signage, and there are binoculars on-site if you don’t bring your own. It’s ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, or just a quiet, nature-filled break from the city.
What time does the Dubai Fountain show start, and how long does it last?
The Dubai Fountain shows begin every evening at 6 pm and run every 30 minutes until 11 pm. Each performance lasts approximately 3 to 5 minutes, with music, lights, and water choreographed in sync. There are also two daytime shows at 1 pm and 1:30 pm, except on Fridays, when they shift to 1:30 pm and 2 pm. The shows are visible from many spots around Burj Lake, but some of the best free views are from the Souk Al Bahar bridge and the waterfront steps in front of The Dubai Mall. Try to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, especially on weekends, to secure a good view.
Do I need to book in advance to visit Alserkal Avenue galleries?
For the majority of galleries at Alserkal Avenue, walk-ins are welcome and there’s no charge for entry. You can spend a few hours exploring the art spaces, creative studios, and pop-up installations entirely at your own pace. However, for special events, guided tours, talks, or performances — particularly during Alserkal Art Week or other seasonal activations — advance registration may be required. Check the official Alserkal Avenue website or Instagram for the latest updates. Some studios also offer workshops, which usually require pre-booking and may come with a fee.
Is camel racing available all year in Dubai?
Camel racing is a seasonal activity, typically held during the cooler months, from October through March. Races usually take place early in the morning, around 7 am, at venues like the Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, which is about 40 minutes from central Dubai. It’s free to attend, and while there’s no stadium seating, you can watch from the sidelines or inside your vehicle if you follow the convoy of support cars along the track. The atmosphere is both competitive and culturally rich, offering visitors a rare glimpse into one of the UAE’s oldest traditions.
