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BY Lekha Menon · Contributor

The tallest building, highest observation wheel, longest driverless metro, largest mall aquarium, Dubai is a city that loves superlatives. The emirate doesn’t do half-measures; it innovates as a futuristic metropolis driven by high-tech advancements and cutting-edge architecture, and is now a global tourist destination.

In 2024, Dubai saw 16.79 million visitors and 39.19 million room bookings with Dubai International Airport (DXB) retaining its crown as the world’s busiest airport with 923 million passengers. Western Europe accounted for 20% of the guests, with 1.2 million of them British.

Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 high net worth individuals have traded the grey skies and tax burdens of their homeland for the sun-kissed tax-free allure of Jumeirah.

However, amid all the glitz, Dubai isn’t just for the ultra-rich. There are ways to enjoy Dubai’s bling on a budget.

When to visit

With average temperatures of 15-20C, Dubai winters are a delight, with outdoor markets, pool days, desert camps and al fresco brunches.

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However, December and January are also marked by the annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and New Year's Eve celebrations which means massive crowds and tariffs hitting over £1,310 per night. For great weather at better prices, consider October to December or March to May.

That said, don’t discount summer. The heat can feel unbearable but due to Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – a programme of deals, activities and entertainment running throughout the summer – you could get amazing hotel rates in key locations from £65 per night. So if you are willing to swap sandy beaches for shiny malls and immersive indoor fun, May to September could be a sweet spot.

Where to stay

Some of the city’s poshest areas offer affordable stays for those who know where to look.

Skip influencer-recommended resorts and search for steal deals. For instance, in Palm Jumeirah, hotels like Aloft offer sea views from as little as £66 per night in July.

Consider properties near metro stations such as Rove Hotels, Citymax or Premier Inn. To cut costs even further, check out Facebook groups like That Dubai Girl, Expats in Dubai and Dubai Short Term Rentals.

Dubai travel hacks

1. Local SIM card

Data isn’t cheap in the UAE so grab a tourist SIM at Dubai International Airport and choose a package from any of the three telecom major majors — Du, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile. The cheapest plan starts at £11, which you can top up as required.

2. Nol travel card

Dubai’s clean and easy-to-navigate metro is connected to most tourist hotspots. Buy a silver or gold Nol card at any station and use it to travel without spending a fortune. A word of caution – expect crowds at peak hours.

What to do in Dubai

Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

If indulgence had a permanent address, it would be The Dubai Mall, crowned 2024’s "most visited place on earth". With more than 1,200 stores and 200 eateries, an ice rink, rooftop go-karting, artificial waterfall, museum and Virtual Reality Park to name just a few, it’s a retail paradise. Entry is free and pocket-friendly activities include skating (from £20) or VR Park (from £9).

Settling down at one of the promenade cafes to watch the Dubai Mall fountain show where water jets dance to music and lights every 30 minutes in the foreground of the Burj Khalifa is free entertainment on 365 nights a year.

Getting there: Exit at Dubai Mall station and take the travelator directly into the mall.

Sheikh Zayed Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard

Downtown Dubai features an illuminated tree-lined boulevard with upscale cafes which offer great spots for people watching over a whiff of sheesha and a gourmet meal.

The street also features fine-dining restaurants, the magnificent Dubai Opera, plush nightclubs and sky-high residences.

Be sure to snap photo of yourself at the Wings of Mexico statue – definitely one for the Instagram grid.

Dubai on a cruise

Exploring Dubai by water offers a unique glimpse into its diverse charms.

For a luxe feel, set sail from Palm West Beach on Palm Jumeirah, the world's largest man-made archipelago, with a sunset cruise from here offering spectacular views of resorts like Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. Aboard a sleek private yacht, you can even bring your own food and drinks with a price tag from £17.

Getting there: Take the tram to Palm Jumeirah station, then hop in a cab to reach Palm West Beach for around £2.60.

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A few kilometres away, Dubai Marina is a lively district with soaring skyscrapers and a buzzing promenade and offers more diverse options – from high-end yachts from £22 to affordable government-operated water taxis from £1.50 for the same route.

Getting there: Exit at Sobha Realty station and walk to the promenade.

At the other end of town, traditional wooden dhows navigate Dubai’s famous creek in what is a nostalgic, intimate contrast to the marina’s sparkle. The best boarding point is Al Seef, a charming neighbourhood, with tickets starting at £9.

Getting there: Alight at Burjuman metro station and walk 10 minutes to Al Seef.

Bluewaters Island

A man-made island destination featuring luxury high rises, hotels, high-end dining and Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel.

While not a budget stop, the promenade offers free, postcard-worthy views of the gulf and Dubai’s skyline. It's particularly worth a visit during DSF and DSS, when 1,000 drones take to the skies for a spectacular show every night.

Getting there: Take the tram to Jumeirah Beach Residence 2 from Dubai Marina metro station, walk along the beach and take the connecting bridge to Bluewaters.

Madinat Jumeirah

A space where Arabian charm meets modern luxury, Madinat Jumeirah is all about winding waterways, lantern-lit pathways, the hippest restaurants and bars and exquisite but expensive souvenirs. Close up views of iconic and sail-shaped hotel the Burj Al Arab are an added bonus.

Getting there: A taxi ride from Mall of the Emirates metro station.

Al Fahidi Heritage District

In a city obsessed with the future, Al Fahidi Heritage District or Bastakiya is a rare peek into the past. Of course, it’s built for purpose but its narrow alleyways, hidden art galleries and cafes are truly charming. And for those who love discovering a city through food, the Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, a Michelin Bib Gourmand gem, blends history with hearty Emirati flavours. Stop by for a plate of cheese sambousa (£7.50) or chicken majboos (£3).

Getting there: Exit Al Fahidi metro station. Bastakiya is a 10-minute walk.

A cheap abra ride to the souks

The AED1 (22p) abra ride is one of those touristy must-dos that never gets boring. The short and scenic ride aboard a rickety wooden boat along the Dubai Creek, takes you to the lively souks for just a dirham.

The Gold Souk is the star, with blinding window displays of gold, diamond and gemstone jewellery. Just a short walk away, the Spice Souk hits your senses with the fragrance of saffron, cinnamon and dried roses spilling from oversized jute sacks. Nearby, the Utensil Souk beckons with traditional cookware.

Bargaining is a must. So, channel your inner haggler and get the best deals on Arabic perfumes, spices and bags.

Getting there: Exit at the Al Ghubaiba station, follow the signs toward the creek bustling with traditional wooden abras.

Global Village

Running for six months each winter, sprawling cultural haven the Global Village on the outskirts of Dubai is a tapestry of art, music, shopping and traditions from around the globe.

With more than 26 country pavilions, here you can find everything from faux fur coats from Afghanistan, jewellery from India or handicrafts from Ghana.

Entry costs £5.

Getting there: Special buses run from the Mall of the Emirates metro station for £2.20.

Beach fun

With vibrant beach clubs, Dubai’s shores offer an irresistible sunny escape. Head to The Beach, JBR, a waterfront hub buzzing with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants for a classic beach day. Take a morning dip and grab breakfast by the beach at Eggspectation or Operation Falafel.

If you prefer a laid-back, sporty vibe, try Kite Beach. Quieter and less commercial, it’s popular for kitesurfing, beach volleyball and skating, plus its scenic running track lining the coast.

One of Dubai’s few designated night-swimming beaches, Umm Suqeim Beach features extra lighting, digital safety screens and lifeguards for a safe moonlit dip.

Entry to all these beaches is free.

Desert pop-ups

Desert pop-up cafes are seasonal, off-the-beaten-path gems that provide exclusive escapes amid vast dunes and starry skies.

Some standout spots include Parker’s, My Coffee Space, One Degree Cafe and the Caia Bamboo, all known for their affordable yet stylish ambiance. Other spots spread across Sharjah, Al Faya Desert and Al Marmoom desert offer similar experiences. The cost varies from around £10 to £45 including food, coffee and activities.

Getting there: Rent a car and drive down.

How to eat for less

Karak and shawarma

Buy rich, spiced and milky karak tea (22p) and a shawarma (£1.50–£3) from a roadside cafe for an unbeatable combination.

Karama, Bur Dubai and Deira’s Joint

These areas are your best bet for hearty, flavourful and inexpensive bites where a meal for two costs around £15. Al Ustad deserves a special mention for its authentic Persian kebabs.

Waterfront market

Dubai's Waterfront Market is a massive fish, meat and vegetable market that also houses beautiful seaside restaurants where you can watch fresh seafood being cooked. A meal for two costs around £10 to £25.

Global Village

Beyond shopping, Global Village is a foodie’s paradise with more than 200 eateries serving everything from boreks and biryanis to Bosnian kebabs and sushi. Don’t miss the floating market for mouthwatering Asian street food.