Keeping the travelers spoilt by choices and luxuries, Dubai is an affluent and prosperous city. It has fabulous malls, swanky hotels, upscale restaurants, sky-piercing architecture, private yachts and everything pretty and costly. With things outrageously expensive, this city has been the bane of backpackers and the budget-ridden travelers. However, the reality check is you can explore Dubai in your budget.
Just follow these tips that save you a lot of bucks and let you thrill in free attractions too-
1. Book your flight tickets early
The international flights could shoulder a hefty invoice if booked a week or two before the date of journey, especially when it’s the busy airport like Dubai. Better, when you need tickets or visit visa for Dubai, contact the agents who could get you best deals and slashed prices. Do not be hesitant even if that means layovers or few connections.
2. Take the metro
Many first-time travellers settle inside the taxi for the intercity travelling. It might sound affordable at once but could easily pile up. So, hop on the metros, which are widespread and efficient public transport and charges as per the zones covered. Apply for the one-day pass/ electronic fare cards that have a flat rate for all zones.
3. Find inexpensive accommodations
Downtown Dubai is brimming with costlier options of hotels that could bust your budget. So, direct towards the traditional areas or book a room in the hostels- this saves a fortune. These rooms come with free wifi, breakfast and other good services to make it a decent stay.
4. Use Groupon
This is inarguably popular in Dubai. Check out their website and you can be loaded with several discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and other tempting packages. So, the next time you think of restaurants, spa, entertainment, movie or things to do, discover the offers and discounts here to save big.
5. Buy Entertainer
A worldwide recommended magazine, Entertainer offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, drinks, clubs, parks and activities. Either get a copy in the supermarkets/ bookstores or go online.
6. Search local food
You can take your taste buds on a gastronomic ride in the local outlets or street hawkers, rather than paying like a river in those international chains of restaurants. Few tips on food are-
- Celebrate the happy hour: The big-time drinkers can enjoy an array of specials in these happy hours at McGettigan and Agency’s 100.
- Flock to Old Dubai: You can always find cheap eats in the old part of the city which has heritage buildings and souks. Dine at the Indian and Lebanese restaurants or the mall food courts, which have a low-cost menu. The fast-food chains also come at dirt cheap rates.
Find the cheap brunch: On Fridays, some places in the city serve lunch at inexpensive rates.
7. Unwind at beach
Public beaches in Dubai are opened free for visitors. And this is the perfect place to immerse in the glitz and glamour of the city. Do some work on your tans, play volleyball, revel in the watersports, lounge in hammocks, bask in the sun, nibble some snacks and stroll as you feast your eyes on the world’s best architecture. Few promenades have shops, restaurants, outdoor markets, game arcade, library and other facilities too. Kite Beach, La Mer, The Beach JBR and Black Palace beach are the finest options to soak up in the sun without a dirham.
8. Soak in culture
From 3 AED entrance fee at Dubai Museum to 20 AED Jumeirah Mosque, there is plenty of attractions in Dubai that could grab your attention. That means you can sightsee without blowing your bank. Duck inside the Dubai Mall and unravel endless entertainment actions one after other. The Dubai Marina Walk would introduce you to one of the most wealthy neighbourhoods of the emirate. Later, you can cruise through Old Dubai on the Abra boat at a mere rate of 1AED.
9. Shop in souks
Ditch those branded goods at the fancy malls, and head towards the traditional souks. The gold souk has the cheapest jewellery in yellow diamond and has a wide variety of it displaying through the stores. Walking through the spice souks, you can smell the intense aroma. Also, the handicrafts, souvenirs, textiles, and carpets come at a very reasonable price.
So, that means budget cannot ruin your dream vacation to Dubai. Plan ahead smartly and cherish every memory.
