30 Free Things to Do in the Emirates: Discover the Best of the UAE Without Breaking the Bank

Looking for a budget-friendly vacation in the Emirates? Look no further! Here are 30 free things to do in the UAE that won’t cost you a dime. From iconic landmarks to cultural experiences, we’ve got you covered.

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa - The world’s tallest building offers stunning views of Dubai for free from the observation decks on levels 124 and 125.

2. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden - This floral wonderland features over 45 million flowers arranged in stunning designs and patterns. Admission is free, but you’ll need to pay for parking (AED 30).

3. Take a stroll along JBR Beach - This beautiful beach offers clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views of Dubai’s skyline. Admission is free, and you can enjoy activities like volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding for an additional fee.

4. Wander through the Global Village - This annual event brings together cultures from around the world with food stalls, souvenir shops, and live performances. Admission is free, but some attractions and rides may charge a fee.

5. Visit the Dubai Museum - Located in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, this museum offers a glimpse into the region’s history and culture through exhibits and artifacts. Admission is free.

6. Walk along the Dubai Waterfront - Take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina or the Jumeirah Beach Residence promenade for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Admission is free, and you can stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat.

7. Enjoy the Dubai Fountain Show - This world-famous water show features stunning choreography and music, and it’s completely free to watch from the public viewing areas along the waterfront.

8. Visit the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum - Located in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, this museum offers a glimpse into the region’s history, culture, and heritage through exhibits and artifacts. Admission is free.

9. Explore the Hajar Mountains - This rugged mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and traditional villages to discover. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for transportation or guided tours.

10. Attend a traditional Arabic coffee maker demonstration - Learn about the art of making traditional Arabic coffee at one of Dubai’s many cultural centers or museums. Many offer free demonstrations and tastings.

11. Take a self-guided tour of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding - This organization offers free tours, lectures, and workshops to help visitors understand Emirati culture and traditions.

12. Visit the Jumeirah Mosque - One of Dubai’s most beautiful mosques, this stunning architectural wonder is open to visitors for guided tours (free) on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings.

13. Attend a Ramadan iftar at a local restaurant - Many restaurants in the Emirates offer free or discounted meals during Ramadan if you’re willing to share an iftar (breaking fast) meal with locals.

14. Take a stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood - This charming area offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past with historic buildings, museums, and art galleries. Admission is free.

15. Visit the Umm Al Quwain Museum - Located in the heart of Umm Al Quwain, this museum features exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and heritage. Admission is free.

16. Enjoy the Abu Dhabi Corniche - This stunning waterfront area offers beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, a promenade for walking or jogging, and plenty of parks and gardens to relax in. Admission is free.

17. Take a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - This stunning mosque features intricate architecture and design elements from around the world. Guided tours are free but must be booked in advance.

18. Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi - While not entirely free, this iconic museum offers a pay-what-you-wish policy on Wednesdays and Thursdays after 6 PM. The museum features a stunning collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

19. Explore the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital - This unique hospital specializes in treating falcons and offers free tours to visitors. Learn about the region’s important falconry tradition and see these magnificent birds up close.

20. Attend a traditional Arabic coffee ceremony - Many Emirati households still observe this ancient tradition, which involves brewing and serving traditional Arabic coffee to guests. You can attend a free ceremony at one of Dubai’s many cultural centers or museums.

21. Take a self-guided tour of the Al Ain Oasis - This stunning oasis features over 147,000 date palms and offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for transportation or guided tours.

22. Visit the Abu Dhabi Fish Market - This bustling market offers an array of fresh seafood and local produce, as well as stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for samples or purchases.

23. Attend a Dubai Summer Surprises event - During the summer months, Dubai hosts a range of free events and activities, including concerts, fireworks displays, and cultural performances. Check the official website for schedule details.

24. Take a stroll through the Jebel Ali Village - This charming area offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for purchases or activities.

25. Visit the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2020 - While not entirely free, this iconic pavilion offers a range of free exhibits and attractions, including a virtual reality experience and a traditional Arabic coffee maker demonstration.

26. Attend a Dubai International Film Festival screening - This annual festival features an array of local and international films, with many free screenings held in outdoor venues throughout the city. Check the official website for schedule details.

27. Take a self-guided tour of the Dubai Miracle Garden - This floral wonderland features over 45 million flowers arranged in stunning designs and patterns. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for parking (AED 30).

28. Visit the Al Ain Zoo - Located in the heart of Al Ain, this zoo features an array of animals from around the world, including a giant tortoise, giraffes, and lions. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for additional activities or attractions.

29. Attend a traditional Arabic henna night - Many Emirati households still observe this ancient tradition, which involves applying intricate henna designs to the hands and feet. You can attend a free henna night at one of Dubai’s many cultural centers or museums.

30. Take a stroll through the Ras Al Khaimah Waterfront - This scenic area offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, walking trails, and plenty of parks and gardens to relax in. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for transportation or guided tours.

Statistics:

• 30 free things to do in the Emirates
• Over 45 million flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden
• 147,000 date palms at the Al Ain Oasis
• 124 and 125 observation decks at the Burj Khalifa
• AED 30 parking fee at the Dubai Miracle Garden
• Pay-what-you-wish policy on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Note: All of the above activities are free, but some may require payment for additional activities or attractions.