How to Save Money in Dubai: Tips and Tricks | Visit Dubai (2024)

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Fri, June 23, 2023

Dubai's peak travel season is between October to March, when the weather is at its best and the city is buzzing with activity. But the summer months are the ideal time to visit if you're on a budget. You'll find great deals on hotels, lower airfares and discounts at top malls and attractions. While the weather heats up, you'll still be able to make most of your trip as many of Dubai's top venues are indoors and air-conditioned.

What's more, you can take in year-long sunshine at one of the emirate's many luxurious beach resortsat bargain prices during off-season months. Summer is also the time for the year's second biggest shopping festival,Dubai Summer Surprises,which is usually held during July and August (expect sales of up to 90 per cent off!).

Save some cash by hopping onboard theDubai Metro,which covers key areas of the city including the airport and popular tourist sites. Most major mallslikeMall of the Emirates,City Centre DeiraandDubai Mallare along the metro network.

The most cost-effective option is to purchase a 'Nol' card, which can also be used to access the tram inDubai Marina, thePalm Jumeirahmonorail and public buses that reach every neighbourhood in the city.Nol cards can be bought and topped up at all metro and bus stations, and several malls and supermarkets across the city.

You can get closer to the sights by renting an e-scooter. There are several operators across the city, each offering flexible pricing options. Try Skurtt – their smartphone app lets you view nearby scooters, with a QR code to unlock your ride. Best of all? Pricing is set at a very reasonable 0.50 fils a minute!

If you're visiting Old Dubai, hop aboard traditional water taxis, known as abras, when crossing the iconic Creek. Not only will this wooden boat get you to the other side of town for just AED1, you'll also enjoy a scenic view of the traditional Arabian houses, wind towers and minarets, set to the backdrop of the new skyline.

You can get a taste of Dubai's melting pot of cultures in the Karama, Bur Dubai and Deira neighbourhoods, where a string of hole-in-the-wall cafes and eateries offer delicious bites for as little as AED10. Our favourites include Pakistani fare at Ravi'sandIranian kebabs at Al Ustad Special Kebab. Mall food courts also cook up fast food and snacks that won't put a dent in your wallet.

If you’re staying at an apartment with cooking facilities, stock up on essentials at a nearby supermarket, where you can also pick up some snacks to keep you going through the day.

A little research can uncover an endless series of discounts anddeals for foodand beverages,spas,theme parksand tourist experiences.Plan your dream deals-focused itinerary withDubai Passand get pre-paid, discounted access to some of thecity's best attractions, tours and sightseeing packages.

You can also find deals on websites and apps such as Groupon, Cobone or The Entertainer, which lists hundreds of 2-for-1 discounts at restaurants, spas and more. Don't forget to ask your hotel concierge for value-for-money deals too.

Dubai International Airport'sDubai Duty Freehas grown into one of the biggest travel retail operators in the world, offering designer merchandise,perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, food and toys. There are plenty of special deals and package offers across various product categories that can be a great bargain in comparison to what you'd pay outside of the airport.

The airport also has a special section for tourists torecover VATpaid on their expenses in the UAE, so don't forget to keep your shopping bills and food bills ready to get a tax refund before you leave the country.