Revealed: Budget friendly tips for tourists visiting Dubai

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While Dubai is a tourist’s delight with its picturesque locations, high-rises, iconic fountains and sand stretches, it could prove to be heavy on the pocket for those who may be unaware of budget-friendly tips.

Here are a few routes by virtue of which a trip to the city can be memorable, pocket-friendly and fun too.

1. Opt for public transport
Since it is not pragmatic to cover the entire city on foot and taxis and Ubers will rack up the bill, opt for public transport methods. Hop onto the metro, tram or bus, which would enable one to see the entire city and would work out reasonable too. Visitors can travel the Dubai metro for as little as Dhs3 or purchase a NOL card starting from Dhs25 for long-haul travel.

2. Shop souvenirs from Grand Souk
The Grand Souq offers visitors the chance to shop around and buy clothes, herbs and, more importantly, cheap souvenirs. From magnets to fabrics, there is an abundance of options to take home for friends and family.

3. Visit cultural hotspots 
Many tourist spots such as beaches, malls, and even mosques, are free. Visitors can also connect with the traditional way of life that was prevalent in Dubai at the Al-Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

4. Enjoy exclusive happy hours 
If restaurants in the UAE prove to be financially burdensome, scour for happy hours offered across select spots. Some great happy hour deals to checkout include the ones at the Hi-Five restaurant and lounge which offers selected house beverages from Dhs25, or RIVA beach club which offer select drinks from Dhs28.

5. Walk the beach
The beaches in Dubai are free to use and the perfect way to cool off! Visit La Mer in Dubai for not only a beach experience but also the opportunity to play carnival games, or even workout.

6. Explore Old Dubai
Old Dubai is where one can find connect with local culture and heritage. It is home to souqs, Dubai Creek, and a lot of museums and architecture. To cross the Dubai Creek, visitors can pay Dhs1 and ride in an authentic abra.

7. Window shopping
Malls in Dubai are air-conditioned and always bustling, which make them very attractive to tourists. While shopping in itself can get expensive, window shopping doesn’t cost a thing.

8. Global Village
The UAE is known for being a melting pot of culture and diversity, so why not head to the place that brings together the best of everywhere. While entry into Global Village is Dhs15, it is only open from October to April every year.

9. Use discount apps
Apps such as Zomato and discount offers such as ‘Entertainer’ are perfect for those looking for good deals and great food. A 3-month ‘pro’ membership for Zomato is only Dhs25 and offers up to 40 per cent off at a variety of restaurants. Entertainer too, offers deals such as ‘two-for-one’ at many restaurants or up to 50 per cent off.

10. Skip the hotels
If hotels across the city get pricey, Airbnb offers an excellent alternative for visitors who, while prefer their space, are also looking for the ‘home-away-from-home’ experience.