Revealed: Top 8 free tourist offerings in Dubai

Who ever said Dubai is all about splurging money for entertainment – this city has enough in store for everybody. With sprawling beaches to illuminated walkways, there is a lot on offer whilst opting for a pocket-friendly outing.

The Dubai Fountain
At over 900 feet in length, swaying to golden tunes of yesteryears as well as contemporary tracks, this water, light and music extravaganza is a must-see spectacle. Catch breathtaking views from a vantage point atop the Logma terrace or Karma Kafé.

Show timings: Saturday-Thursday 1pm and 1.30pm; Friday afternoon 1:30pm and 2pm. Evening shows 6:00pm-11:00pm; every 30 minutes.

Dubai Water Canal
Bisecting Sheikh Zayed road, Dubai’s water canal is a man-made vision to behold. The 3.2 km waterway offers a mechanical waterfall basking in colourful hues, with five pedestrian bridges designed for leisure strollers.

La Mer
For beach goers or those who relish a good tan, La Mer offers that and more. Visitors can stroll through the destination and enjoy the beach. Those looking to do more can also visit the restaurants, cafes, shops, and waterpark at La Mer.

Timings (retail): Sunday-Wednesday 10am–10pm, Thursday-Saturday 10am-12am
Timings (restaurants & cafés): Sunday-Saturday 10am–12am

IMAGINE (Dubai Light, Laser and Fountain Show)

The recipient of two Guinness World records, the light, laser and fountain show plays out at the festival bay every night. Swaying water fountains, engaging imagery and immersive sound weaves together art and technology in the best way possible.

Show timings: Weekdays 7:30pm-10:00pm; Weekends 7:30pm-11:00pm

Dubai souks
By the creek within the heart of old Dubai is the gold souk, home to hundreds of retailers, some nearly as old as the city. Also, close by is Dubai’s traditional spice market, a chef’s delight, housing sacks of natural herbs, spices, rice, and more.

Location: Al Ras, Deira

Kite Beach
Kite Beach is the ultimate beach spot with stretches of white sand and the city’s horizon in full view. Alongside vibrant sights, the beach also offers a library and kids activities.

Dubai aquarium
While a visit to the entire aquarium is not technically free, visitors can spend hours gazing at the massive Dubai aquarium facade – where you can see hundreds of sea creatures – without paying a single penny. Located with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is the largest of its kind in the world. Spread across a sprawling 10 million-litre tank, it houses over 33,000 aquatic animals.

Operating hours: 10am–midnight (last admission: 11.30pm)