7 Free Attractions in Dubai You Need to Know 

Xperience Team
17 Jul 2024 - 5 min read

Dubai conjures images of soaring skyscrapers, opulent shopping malls, and luxurious adventures. But did you know this dazzling city also offers a wealth of free experiences waiting to be explored? From breathtaking natural landscapes to cultural gems and iconic landmarks, Dubai caters to budget-conscious travelers and curious adventurers alike.

So, get ready to discover the hidden side of Dubai with our top 7 picks for free attractions!

1. Explore Jameel Arts Centre

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For art enthusiasts visiting Dubai, the Jameel Arts Centre is a must-see. Located on the banks of the historic Dubai Creek, this vibrant hub boasts multiple galleries showcasing the latest trends in contemporary art. Explore solo and group exhibitions featuring international artists, with a particular focus on the Middle East and Indian subcontinent. You might even encounter specially commissioned works from Art Jameel's own impressive collection.

2. Get Sunshine at Dubai's Beaches

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Dubai's golden sunshine beckons with its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. Public beaches are scattered throughout the city, offering a refreshing escape.

For a vibrant atmosphere, head to The Beach opposite JBR, where the city skyline meets the sea. This popular spot is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively ambiance.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more serene setting, Black Palace Beach offers stunning views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel.

3. Unveil Panoramic Dubai Views for Free at The Viewing Point

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Looking for a panoramic perspective of Dubai that won't cost you a dime? Look no further than The Viewing Point at Dubai Creek Harbour! This innovative, free-to-visit structure juts out 26 meters over the water, offering unobstructed views of both Dubai Creek and the dazzling Downtown Dubai skyline.

Whether you crave a romantic moment, a social media-worthy backdrop, or a peaceful place to reflect, The Viewing Point promises a truly unforgettable experience!

4. Going to Dubai Aquarium

While exploring the vast Dubai Mall, don't miss the chance to see a slice of the underwater world for free! The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, resides within the mall.

Here, you can marvel at a variety of marine life, including sand tiger sharks and rays, swimming past the massive main glass wall. If you crave a closer look through the immersive 48-meter walkthrough tunnel, that requires a separate ticket.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

10.0/10

United Arab Emirates

RM 230

5. Spot the Birds at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

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Believe it or not, Dubai boasts a hidden gem for nature lovers! Just a stone's throw from the city's bustling center lies the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. This 6.2-square-kilometer haven, known as the "Cape of the Creek”, offers a diverse wetland ecosystem teeming with life.

Salt flats, mudflats, mangroves, and lagoons create a perfect habitat for a variety of birds. Flamingos are the undisputed stars of the show, but with over 60 bird species and 500 types of flora and fauna in total, there's something for every nature enthusiast to discover.

You can explore this sanctuary completely free. Observation points are readily available, and allowing you to witness the wonders of nature up close!

6. Relax at Al Qudra Lakes

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Just a half hour from Dubai's center, Al Qudra Lakes offers a relaxing escape. This desert oasis is part of a wildlife reserve, so you can spot animals like oryx and desert foxes. Want to be more active? Enjoy a picnic by the lake or cycle the Al Qudra Cycling Track.

Birders will be amazed with almost 200 species calling the lakes home, you might see swans, geese, ducks, or even flamingos. Keep an eye out for rare birds like the steppe eagle and Asian houbara too!

7. Visit Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

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Dubai has a stunning new landmark by the water, The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library! This architectural gem, shaped like a traditional Islamic lectern, is the biggest library in the region, having opened its doors in June 2022. Step inside and discover a treasure trove of knowledge over a million books, both physical and digital, await you across its nine floors and vast space.

But, the library is more than just books! There are quiet study areas, fascinating exhibitions, a relaxing cafe, a beautiful courtyard, a bookstore to fuel your reading habit further, and even a theater for events. They cater to all ages, with plenty of material for children as well!

Using Go City to Explore More Attractions

Dubai has so much to offer, but visiting everything can get expensive! Go City's Explorer Pass can help you save big on must-see attractions. Imagine seeing the breathtaking view from the Burj Khalifa, getting your thrills at Aquaventure Waterpark, exploring the desert on a safari with dinner, and enjoying a scenic cruise with a delicious meal aboard a traditional Dhow boat - all for one low price!

The Explorer Pass lets you choose admission to 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions from a giant list, including popular options like the Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus tour, Burj Khalifa's observation deck, theme parks like LEGOLAND and IMG Worlds of Adventure, water parks like Aquaventure and Yas Waterworld, cultural experiences like the Dubai Opera House tour and Qasr Al Watan, thrilling adventures like desert safaris and speedboat tours, and relaxing activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. This pass is the perfect way to explore Dubai's best and tick off those bucket list experiences without breaking the bank!

Tight on budget but still want to see Dubai's top sights? Look no further than the Go City Dubai Explorer Pass! This pass, also available on Traveloka. It's a great option for budget-minded travelers who want to experience the best of Dubai without overspending!

Go City: Dubai Explorer Pass

United Arab Emirates

See Price

Dubai might be known for its luxurious experiences, but there's also plenty to see and do for free. So, pack your bags, start planning your itinerary using these free activities as inspiration, and get ready to discover the magic of Dubai!

Ready to experience Dubai for yourself? Traveloka makes it easy to plan your entire trip. Book your flights, find the perfect accommodations for your needs, and even purchase attractions tickets all in one place! Don't wait any longer, visit Traveloka today to start building your dream Dubai adventure!

In This Article

• 1. Explore Jameel Arts Centre
• 2. Get Sunshine at Dubai's Beaches
• 3. Unveil Panoramic Dubai Views for Free at The Viewing Point
• 4. Going to Dubai Aquarium
• 5. Spot the Birds at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
• 6. Relax at Al Qudra Lakes
• 7. Visit Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
• Using Go City to Explore More Attractions

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