Free Things to Do in Dubai

One of the top free things to do in Dubai is the Dubai Fountain. It is the world's largest choreographed water fountain in the beautiful Burj Complex. This dancing fountain surges as high as 150 meters in complete synchronisation to classical, Arabic and other popular world musical numbers. The show begins in the evening every day, and you can watch the fountain show from the Dubai Mall complex, or sit in one of the restaurants with a fountain view.

Dubai offers a selection of free public beaches along its stunning coastline, providing travelers with access to the city's pristine shoreline without any entrance fees. From the popular Jumeirah Beach to the scenic Umm Suqeim Beach, these open-to-all waterfront destinations offer opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks.

Located primarily in the historic districts of Deira and Bur Dubai, souks are renowned for their diverse goods, from glittering gold and precious gemstones in the Gold Souk to exotic spices, aromatic herbs, and fragrant incense in the Spice Souk. The Textile Souk dazzles with colorful fabrics, intricate embroideries, and traditional garments, while the Perfume Souk entices with various captivating scents and handcrafted perfumes. These souks are free to explore are a great cultural experience.

Nestled in the region popularly known as 'New Dubai', Dubai Marina is a conceptualized man-made canal city. It offers luxurious lifestyles through its exquisite waterfront development along the Persian Gulf shoreline. There are classy hotels and upscale shopping and other leisure options here. It also contains the Dubai Marina Mall Complex, a shopping and entertainment destination.

Exploring the malls in Dubai is a fantastic free activity. The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, boasts an impressive indoor waterfall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and the sprawling Dubai Fountain show, all accessible for free. Mall of the Emirates is home to the unique Ski Dubai. Ibn Battuta Mall, themed around the travels of the famous explorer, provides a cultural journey through its stunningly decorated courts representing different regions of the world.

Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is housed in the largest mall, which is the Dubai Mall. It has a vast array of marine life and what’s more exciting than getting to view it just from the outside without paying for any combo ticket whatsoever. The aquarium timings are 10 AM - 12 AM. While making plans to visit the aquarium, one can also add a trip to downtown Dubai to their list. It is nearby and here stands the tallest building in the world Burj Khalifa.

One of the most instagram famous spots in Dubai is the The Wings of Mexico Statue located against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. A stunning photo-op, it is free to click a picture here. The Wings of Mexico Statue is located in The Burj Plaza.

The Walk at JBR near Dubai Marina is a beautiful avenue lined with swaying palms on either side, offering many shops and restaurants. It is nearly a mile long and has plazas and arcaded doorways. The Walk is host to multiple events and festival venues and is a must-visit after sunset.

Dubai Festival City Mall offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a family-friendly destination. The mall is home to the famous IMAGINE Show, a free nightly spectacle featuring water, laser, and fire displays synchronized to music. Visitors can explore international brand stores, enjoy waterfront dining along the canal, and take in the scenic views of Dubai Creek. It’s a great place to relax, shop, or experience one of Dubai's most visually stunning attractions.

Al Fahidi Neighborhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, is one of Dubai’s oldest areas, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and traditional architecture. The neighborhood features narrow alleyways, wind towers, and restored buildings that now house art galleries, cafes, and cultural centers. Visitors can explore the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, offering insights into Emirati traditions, or enjoy a stroll along Dubai Creek. With its serene courtyards and cultural ambiance, Al Fahidi is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse into old Dubai.

Located near Al Qudra Lakes, Love Lake is a picturesque heart-shaped lake symbolizing romance and serenity. The area is ideal for picnics, walking, and photography, especially with its artistic landscaping of flowers and trees spelling "Love." Visitors can enjoy the tranquil surroundings, spot wildlife, and relax in this peaceful desert retreat. Love Lake is particularly enchanting at sunset, offering a romantic escape from the city’s busy pace.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library represents a fusion of cultures, civilizations, and education, serving as a unique cultural icon that reflects Dubai's rich heritage. Situated along the historic Dubai Creek and crafted as a traditional Islamic lectern, the library has nine levels spanning over 54000 sqm. One of the free places to visit in Dubai, it has dedicated sections for Maps and atlases, media and arts, special collections, business and periodicals, and a young adult.

Dubai’s Coffee Museum is a coffee lover’s paradise in the Al Fahidi Heritage Hub neighborhood in Bur Dubai. The eccentric museum brings coffee lovers and the coffee culture together under one roof for the love of the cup of brewed Joe (Coffee). The robust home of the Coffee Museum showcases the coffee bean journey from around the world and how it was discovered back in time. It is free to visit for all.

Nestled in the region popularly known as 'New Dubai', Dubai Marina is a conceptualized man-made canal city. It offers luxurious lifestyles through its exquisite waterfront development along the Persian Gulf shoreline. There are classy hotels and upscale shopping and other leisure options here. It also contains the Dubai Marina Mall Complex, a shopping and entertainment destination.

Alserkal Avenue is an arts and culture district in Al Quoz, Dubai. The Alserkal District accommodates several houses for local and global artists, art galleries, museums, performing platforms, design studios and exhibition halls. You can visit these for free, including modern art at Custot Gallery and North African works at Elmarsa Gallery.

With over 500 flamingos and several species of birds and fishes, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve. Perfect for tourists, environmentalists, photographers and botanists, it is a protected area and has a large number of migratory birds, fishes, crustaceans and mammals. It is free to visit and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Ladies can now forget their wallets when they leave their place looking for a good time. Dubai’s night scene brings them exclusive offers to enjoy free food and beverages at any bar, restaurant or club. Earlier, Tuesday was the traditional day for the ladies night-out; however, now, different venues host it on different nights as well as during the day. The fun doesn’t end here; one can indulge themselves in a bit of grooming with offers on mini spa treatments, swimming pools and beaches all to themselves and their girl pals.

Jebel Maleihah in Sharjah is a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Dubai. Popularly known as Fossil Rock due to the marine fossil deposits found in its slopes, one can enjoy dune bashing in the slippery sands of the desert, or one can take up their spades and go fossil hunting. Other activities that one can enjoy here are ATV riding, hiking, and camping, or one can just enjoy the picturesque rocky outcrops of the desert. Don’t forget to carry the picnic baskets.

What adds a cherry to the top of one’s Dubai vacation - watching a movie under the stars on a rooftop and that too for free. The Pyramids Rooftop Complex in the Wafi Mall in Old Dubai has got one covered. It’s a weekly event and takes place every Sunday. So sprawl out and relax on the beanbags that they lay out for every Sunday movie night. One can also carry their own pillows and blankets to cosy up their outdoor cinema experience.

South Asian wrestling, known as Pehlwani or Kushti, is a favorite sport among Indian ex-pats in Dubai. For the pehlwans or wrestlers, it is a way of life. Those who want to experience the excitement of a wrestling ring free of cost can head over to the Deira Fish market, where the competition takes place on a sandy patch just before sunset every Friday. The crowd sits in circular rows as the pehlwans strip down to the bare minimum in their colorful loincloths, and the goal is to tackle and pin one’s opponent to the ground on their back.

Al Qudra Lakes, located in the middle of Dubai's desert, is a serene retreat for nature lovers. The area is home to over 170 species of birds, including flamingos and swans, making it ideal for birdwatching. You can enjoy a picnic by the lakes, take a leisurely walk, or spot wildlife such as gazelles. The surroundings are peaceful and perfect for a quiet escape from the city's hustle. Al Qudra is also popular for its romantic Love Lake, a heart-shaped lake set amidst sandy dunes.

Al Seef is a charming heritage district on the banks of Dubai Creek, designed to reflect Dubai’s pearl-diving past. The area is lined with sandstone buildings, wind towers, and cobbled streets, offering a glimpse into traditional Emirati life. Visitors can explore courtyard cafes, artisan shops, and cultural displays while soaking in the historical atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for leisurely walks and scenic views, especially during the evening. While wandering, you’ll discover a blend of old-world charm and modern waterfront development.

The Wings of Mexico is a striking sculpture near Burj Khalifa, offering a picture-perfect spot for tourists and photographers. Created by Mexican artist Jorge Marin, the bronze wings symbolize freedom and transformation. Positioned to perfectly frame the Burj Khalifa in the background, it’s one of Dubai’s most Instagrammable locations. Visitors often line up to pose with the wings, creating a memorable keepsake of their Dubai experience. The installation is free to visit and beautifully lit at night, making it an all-day attraction.

This protected wetland reserve, located on the edge of the city, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its large population of flamingos, especially during the winter months. Visitors can use dedicated viewing hides to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat, along with other species like herons and egrets. The sanctuary is peaceful, offering a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Entry is free, making it a must-visit for wildlife photography and eco-tourism.

Bluewaters Island is a vibrant destination connected to JBR by a pedestrian bridge, offering stunning views of Dubai’s coastline. It is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, which serves as a striking backdrop for photographs. Visitors can enjoy free walking tours of the island, discover unique public art installations, or simply relax on its promenades. The island lights up beautifully after sunset, creating a lively yet relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking an evening stroll.

Souk Madinat is a modern recreation of a traditional Arabian marketplace, blending old-world charm with contemporary luxury. Located near Burj Al Arab, the souk features winding alleyways, canals, and stunning views of the iconic hotel. Visitors can explore unique shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the waterways. It’s free to wander through, and the area is especially magical at night with its soft lighting and reflections in the water. A stroll here offers a unique combination of shopping, culture, and scenic beauty.

Located in Bur Dubai, the Iranian Mosque, also known as the Imam Hussein Mosque, is a stunning example of Persian architecture. Its vibrant blue-and-green-tiled façade is intricately decorated with floral patterns and Quranic inscriptions. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque’s exterior and courtyard, though entry inside requires adherence to proper dress codes. It’s a peaceful spot for those interested in Islamic art and culture. The mosque’s unique design makes it a standout attraction in the bustling district.

Dubai Mall’s Chinatown is a visually captivating area with neon-lit streets, a hall of Chinese lanterns, and photo-friendly installations like giant pandas. Located near the Dubai Ice Rink, it’s a free-to-enter section that offers a vibrant and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the rich decor, take selfies, and enjoy the lively ambiance. The Chinatown section is a relatively new addition, making it an offbeat attraction within the bustling mall. It’s a perfect spot for families and photographers alike.