Tips for travelling to Dubai on a budget

How to be frugal in the desert

Dubai has an expensive reputation as a layover for the rich and famous. The Emirates' 7 star hotels, luxury restaurants and caviar facials doesn’t usually attract many budget travellers.

But with some clever planning, you can enjoy the delights of the Emirate on a shoestring budget. Here are a few tips to help you discover the best of Dubai without breaking the bank.

Travel by metro

Image by Stefan Wisselink (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The cheapest way to travel around Dubai is by using the Metro. A day pass costs only 14 AED (circa €3.5) and gives you unlimited access for 24 hours. It’s an extremely modern and well organised system and all information and directions are displayed in English.

When booking your hostel, pick something that’s close to a Metro station as well. That way you’ll save time and money by avoiding taxis.

Book affordable accommodation

Dubai has accommodation options to cater for all budgets. If you take your time and do your homework, then you’ll find a range of budget hostels and apartments to suit your pocket. Some cost as little as €13 per night. Find out more when you book with HostelsClub.

Eat cheap

Image by mmmsedap (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Okay you can’t afford to eat out in a 7* star hotel restaurant every night, but Dubai has budget dishes available in almost every cuisine. If you want to keep your costs down, then consider Lebanese, Indian or Chinese food. European dishes are generally more expensive than Asian cuisines in Dubai.

The ‘Friday brunch’ is an institution in Dubai and thousands of people sit alongside each other for an all-you-can-eat binge. Some brunches start from as little as 150 AED and will keep you stuffed for the rest of the day - saving your budget for other activities.

Also, if you want to visit Dubai on a budget you will probably have to forget about alcohol, as it’s only served in Western hotels and expensive restaurants. Small beers cost around €7 if you’re able to visit one.

Relax on the beach for free

Image by Ismail Mia (Flickr/Creative Commons)

While many tourist attractions in Dubai are expensive, one of it city’s greatest pleasures is absolutely free. The sun and sea won’t cost you a cent and you can spend all day sunbathing - one of the highlights of any trip to Dubai. Bring some refreshments along from the local supermarket and save money on iced tea and bottled water while you're at it.

Adapting to a low cost lifestyle

Travelling to Dubai on a budget means you will have to forget about fancy helicopter rides, eating in posh restaurants and clubbing into the small hours. But if you really want to visit Dubai, this shouldn't be a problem if you're able to adapt. Once you settle down for an evening meal in the blazing sun, you'll be glad you made a few compromises.