Dubai doesn’t need to be expensive. There are plenty of fun activities and sights to see in the city that is also budget-friendly, Top Spots Dubai shares the very best.
1. Green Planet
Escape the desert heat at Green Planet, an indoor bio-dome located in City Walk Dubai, just outside of downtown Dubai. This living, breathing tropical rainforest offers an immersive and educational experience for children and adults alike. With over 3,000 species of plant and animal life, guests can explore three floors of sweeping canopies, encountering toucans, turtles, sloths, and macaws along the way. Green Planet is the perfect opportunity to learn about the rainforest ecosystem and appreciate the beauty of nature.
2. Dubai Mall Aquarium (outside viewing is free)
Situated in the heart of Dubai Mall this 10-million-litre tank forms one of the largest aquariums in the world. There’s the opportunity to pay to walk through the tunnel inside but you can also view it from the outside. There’s a whole world of remarkable underwater wildlife inside including more than 140 species of marine life, 300 rays and sharks.
3. Visit Dubai’s Impressive Malls
Dubai Mall, Fountain Viewing Area
The Dubai Mall holds the title of the world’s largest mall. There are retail options here for every taste from leading luxury brands to department stores and high street favourites. There’s also a cinema, games zones and an ice rink, and the Dubai Mall Aquarium. Once you’ve explored what the mall has to offer inside make your way outdoors and enjoy a free viewing of the impressively choreographed Dubai Fountains. Located on the Burj Lake the Dubai Fountain takes the title of the tallest choreographed fountain in the world.
Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai Viewing Area
Head to the Mall of the Emirates and discover a touch of the alps in the desert. Ski Dubai is a winter wonderland with snowy adventures to enchant everyone. Spectators can watch the skiers make their way down the slopes and even catch a glimpse of the famous Ski Dubai penguins.
4. Miracle Garden
During the mild winter season, Dubai Miracle Garden invites families to enjoy outdoor adventures and immerse themselves in nature. This world’s largest flower garden features over 150 million blooming flowers arranged into imaginative creations such as an Emirates A380 aircraft and a floral castle. Visitors can also admire fields of sunflowers, a heart tunnel of roses, and an umbrella tunnel, making for beautiful photo opportunities. Open seasonally from November to May, Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-see for kids and adults alike.
5. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
In the Jumeirah district, which stretches across Jumeirah 1, Jumeirah 2, and Jumeirah 3 there are lots of things to see and do. Take in the beautiful stretches of beach, homegrown cafes and boutiques and the Jumeirah Mosque which was built in 1975.
5. The View at The Palm (off-peak timings)
One of Dubai’s newest landmarks, The View at The Palm is an observation deck located on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower. Standing at 240 meters high, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, the sea, and the Dubai skyline. Tourists can take a break and refuel at the café located on the deck. The View also has direct access to the Nakheel Mall shopping mall, which features a variety of restaurants, retail options, and entertainment.
6. At the Top Burj Khalifa (off-peak timings)
The Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world at 555 meters, is a must-see attraction for thousands of visitors to Dubai each year. At the Top, you’ll take a dedicated elevator with projections that make you feel as if you’re flying. As you ascend to the 125th floor, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the Dubai landscape. Once you reach the top, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the mesmerizing sights from the highest viewing point, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
7. Sky Views Glass Slide
Sky Views Dubai incorporates three elements – the Glass Slide, the Observatory and the Edge Walk each offering guests 360-degree views of downtown Dubai and its major sights including Burj Khalifa. First visitors enjoy a glass elevator ride which offers unbeatable views all the way to the top, then a spiral staircase transports them to a 46m-long glass walkway. The Glass Slide is open to adults and children and gives guests the chance to enjoy a thrilling ride through a transparent tunnel.
9. Old Dubai, Dubai Souks and Dubai Creek
Old Dubai offers a taste of the thriving community from which the city has evolved. A Dhow Cruise is a must. Take an abra across Dubai Creek, journey through the gold and spice souks to stock up on unexpected souvenirs and then step into the Dubai Museum, situated in the city’s oldest building, the Al Fahidi Fort to discover the region’s rich heritage. Visitors can also explore the Al Seef district if they’re looking for food with a creek-side view of the passing abras and water taxis.
10. Ladies’ Days and Nights
Across the city of Dubai ladies can avail special offers day and night. From complimentary food and beverages in bars and restaurants on certain nights of the week to free entry or special offers available in beach clubs and other city attractions, check with individual retailers to discover these special budget-friendly offers for ladies. Head over to Top Spots Dubai’s other blog posts and social media accounts to discover our pick of the best Ladies’ Days as well as fully/partially redeemable offers.
