Dubai is often associated with ultra-modern skyscrapers, expensive restaurants, and luxury hotels. Yet behind this glossy façade lies a different city—open, cultural, and surprisingly generous when it comes to free attractions. Here, you can enjoy spectacular shows, stroll through artistic districts, watch flamingos, and admire sunsets on the beaches without spending a penny. In this large and detailed guide, we introduce ten of the best free things to do in Dubai that will help you see the city from different angles and make your trip truly memorable.
A dancing masterpiece at the foot of skyscrapers: Dubai Fountain
One of the coolest places in Dubai that you absolutely must see is the Dubai Fountain—and the best part is that it’s completely free. It is located right next to Dubai Mall, along the waterfront. Every evening, crowds gather to watch this water show, which looks especially stunning against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
The fountain is truly impressive: jets of water shoot up into the air, sometimes reaching heights of up to 140 metres, all perfectly synchronised to music. The soundtrack varies—from Arabic melodies and world-famous hits to even Bollywood songs. The result is a mesmerising dance of water and light that’s impossible to look away from.
The show starts after sunset and repeats every 30 minutes. Interestingly, each performance is slightly different, so you could stand there all evening without getting bored. This place is like Dubai’s calling card—grand, spectacular, and unforgettable. If you’re in Dubai, don’t miss it. Bring friends or family and enjoy the magic together—it’s one of those experiences that stays with you for a long time.
The creative energy of the metropolis: Alserkal Avenue
If you want to feel the cultural pulse of modern Dubai, head to Alserkal Avenue. What was once a cluster of industrial warehouses has now become one of the city’s most exciting creative hubs. You can freely wander through contemporary art galleries, view works by artists from around the world, and explore interesting temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
There is always something happening at Alserkal Avenue: a new café opens, a quirky concept store appears, or a live music performance takes place. Walking through this district, you’ll discover a completely different Dubai—not the tourist version, but a real, vibrant, and inspiring city.
This is a place where life is constantly buzzing, where modern artists and designers gather. You can easily spend several hours here just strolling around and taking everything in. Alserkal Avenue is more than a collection of galleries—it’s a community where people meet, exchange ideas, and create together. Lectures and workshops are often held here, offering opportunities to learn something new or try your hand at something creative.
If you want to experience an authentic, artistic side of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue is a must-visit. And don’t forget to stop by one of the local cafés—it's a great place to enjoy excellent coffee and a light bite after exploring the galleries.
A journey through time: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
To understand what Dubai was like before skyscrapers and shopping malls, you should visit the historic Al Fahidi district. It’s like stepping into a time machine that transports you to a completely different world. Here you’ll find narrow pedestrian streets perfect for wandering and traditional houses with wind towers. These towers weren’t just decorative—they once served as natural air-conditioning systems, keeping homes cool.
The atmosphere here is calm and peaceful, especially near Dubai Creek. You can sit by the water, watch the boats pass by, and imagine how people lived here many decades ago.
Al Fahidi is home to many interesting spots, including art galleries and museums—and some of them are completely free to enter. One highlight is the Coffee Museum, a true paradise for coffee lovers. It расскаnts the history of coffee, different brewing methods, and coffee traditions that have existed for centuries. You’ll learn how coffee was prepared in the past and might even pick up a few new insights.
A walk through Old Dubai is like touching the soul of the emirate. This is where you can see how it all began and feel the authentic culture of the place. It’s a very different Dubai—not the glossy one from postcards, but a real city with deep roots and traditions. Visiting Al Fahidi helps you understand how Dubai transformed into what it is today. Set aside at least half a day—you definitely won’t regret it.
Light, water, and lasers: the Imagine show at Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai has an amazing free show that’s well worth seeing, and it takes place at Dubai Festival City Mall. It’s called Imagine, and it combines everything at once: lasers, fountains, fire, and surround sound. The highlight is the world’s largest water projection screen, where images are projected directly onto water. The result looks absolutely spectacular.
You can come every evening and watch the show outdoors, completely free of charge. It’s a perfect place to spend an evening with the whole family. After such a bright and dynamic performance, you’re guaranteed to leave with great memories. So if you’re in Dubai, don’t miss it! The show runs every evening, so it’s easy to fit into your plans. And the best part—it’s free, which makes it even more appealing. Just come, relax, and enjoy an impressive multimedia spectacle. It’s a wonderful way to end the day and get a boost of positive emotions.
A new perspective on the city: The Viewing Point at Dubai Creek Harbour
If you love beautiful views and want to take atmospheric photos, The Viewing Point is a must-visit. This modern observation deck extends 26 metres over the water and rises almost 12 metres above the bay, offering breathtaking views of Dubai Creek and the city skyline.
It’s an ideal spot for many occasions: a romantic walk with your partner, a peaceful sunset meditation surrounded by silence and beauty, or taking stunning photos for social media. And the best part—entry is completely free. You don’t have to pay a single dirham to enjoy these views.
The Viewing Point is not just an observation deck; it’s a place where you can feel connected to the city and see Dubai from an unusual angle. It’s easy to get there, and nearby you’ll find plenty of other interesting spots to explore. You can stroll along the Dubai Creek promenade, watch traditional dhow boats, or stop by a local restaurant for something tasty. Overall, The Viewing Point is perfect for anyone who wants to see a different side of Dubai, enjoy stunning views, and take great photos—all for free.
Contemporary art by the water: Jameel Arts Centre
Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, Jameel Arts Centre is one of the region’s leading contemporary art hubs. There’s always something happening here—exhibitions by artists from the Middle East or India, or displays from the centre’s own Art Jameel collection. The architecture and layout are thoughtfully designed, creating a calm and inspiring atmosphere where you can explore art at a relaxed pace.
You can easily spend several hours here, discovering fascinating works and installations. And the best thing of all—entry to the galleries is free. You can enjoy a cultural experience without spending anything, making it an excellent option if you’re looking for something enriching while sticking to a budget.
Sun and sea with no limits: Dubai’s public beaches
Dubai is a true paradise for beach lovers—and many of its beaches are completely free. Soft golden sand, warm turquoise water, and sunshine all year round—it’s a dream come true.
One of the most popular spots is The Beach at JBR, where there’s always a lively atmosphere, plenty of cafés and shops, and stunning views of Dubai’s skyscrapers. It’s a perfect mix of urban energy and seaside relaxation.
If you’re looking for something quieter and more secluded, head to Black Palace Beach. This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape from the city, with incredible views of Palm Jumeirah and the iconic Burj Al Arab.
No matter which beach you choose, there’s plenty to enjoy: swimming in the sea, walking along the shore, playing beach volleyball, or building sandcastles with children. Be sure to stay until the evening to admire Dubai’s magical sunsets—they’re truly unforgettable. Visiting Dubai’s public beaches is one of the best ways to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the emirate. And don’t forget your sunscreen!
An underwater world behind glass: Dubai Aquarium at Dubai Mall
In Dubai, you can see something impressive even inside a shopping mall—for free. Inside Dubai Mall, there is a massive aquarium, one of the largest in the world. And here’s the best part: you don’t need to buy a ticket to enjoy it. A huge glass wall allows you to see everything at once—sharks, rays, and countless marine creatures swimming right beside you, as if you were underwater yourself.
You can simply walk through the mall and suddenly find yourself face to face with the underwater world. It’s an amazing experience that requires no diving, no purchases, and no effort—just walk and admire. It’s especially exciting for children, but adults will find it just as fascinating.
A natural oasis in the heart of the metropolis: Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Just a few minutes’ drive from Dubai’s busy city centre lies a true hidden gem—the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. This is not just a park, but a vast, protected natural area filled with mangrove forests, shimmering lagoons, and salt flats. It is home to countless bird species, from small songbirds to majestic birds of prey. But the most famous residents here are undoubtedly the pink flamingos.
These graceful birds gather in large flocks, and watching them is a truly special experience. The sanctuary features specially designed free observation platforms, offering excellent views and fantastic photo opportunities. Imagine standing in complete peace and quiet, listening to birdsong and breathing fresh air—just steps away from a bustling modern city filled with skyscrapers.
This unique contrast between untouched nature and urban proximity makes Ras Al Khor an unforgettable place to visit. It’s perfect for escaping city stress, relaxing, and reconnecting with nature. Birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking calm and inspiration will find something to love here.
A walk along a symbol of luxury: Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
Palm Jumeirah is, of course, one of Dubai’s ultimate symbols of luxury, often associated with high-end resorts. But enjoying its beauty doesn’t have to cost anything. Picture yourself walking along an 11-kilometre-long boardwalk stretching across the crescent of the island. On one side, the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf; on the other, iconic luxury hotels—pure visual delight.
The boardwalk is perfect at any time of day. In the morning, enjoy a relaxed stroll with a fresh sea breeze. During the day, take stunning photos with the sea and resorts as your backdrop. In the evening, sit back and watch a magical sunset as the sky fills with vibrant colours.
After your walk, be sure to visit The Pointe. From here, you’ll get an incredible view of Atlantis The Palm, especially breathtaking in the evening when the hotel is beautifully illuminated. It’s the perfect spot for memorable photos.
Even if staying at a luxury hotel on Palm Jumeirah isn’t in your plans, a free walk along the boardwalk and views of Atlantis The Palm will leave you with wonderful memories of this iconic place. Just come and enjoy.
Dubai is a city that knows how to amaze—not only with luxury, but also with accessibility. Its free attractions are diverse and genuinely impressive: from dancing fountains and ultra-modern shows to peaceful nature reserves and historic districts. Travelling around Dubai, you can easily fill each day with vivid experiences without exceeding your budget. The key is knowing where to go and staying open to new discoveries.
