12 free and fun things to do in Dubai for students

If you love adventure but are visiting Dubai on a budget exploring Hatta is a must. Go trekking in the greenest area of Dubai. It lies about 130 kilometres south-east of the city, high in the Hajar Mountains.

You can also go cycling, dip in pools, kayaking, horseback riding, paragliding and more at Hatta. Enjoy this ultimate experience of local heritage and adrenaline-fueled adventure and make your Dubai trip memorable.

• Duration: 3-4 hours
  
  
• Highlights: Hatta Mountain Trail, Hatta Wadi Hub Trails, Hatta Rock Pool.
  
  
• The best trekking spots: Hatta Rock Pools and Hatta Heritage Village trails.

Yes, it is free to explore. However, if you want to do any of the activities in Hatta, you will have to pay for those activities.

Image Credit: Anas Thacharpadikkal/Gulf News

The park’s atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family, and you can bring your snacks to keep costs down. With its lush greenery and scenic views, JLT Park changes an ordinary movie night into a memorable experience.

If you're looking to visit Dubai on a budget, this enchanting setting offers free movie screenings in a stunning outdoor environment. Picture yourself lounging on cosy bean bags, surrounded by the shimmering skyline, while enjoying classic films or new releases.

• Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai
  
  
• Timings: 7:30 pm every Saturday
  
  
• Highlights: Iconic setting, comfortable seating, cool evenings

There are many free beaches in Dubai with crystal clear water and golden sand making them perfect spots for sunbathing and relaxation. Kite Beach is particularly popular among adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like kitesurfing and beach volleyball. Checkout this list of beaches and what you can do there:

Each beach offers a unique experience, ensuring that there's something for everyone in this sun-soaked paradise.

Burj Khalifa is a great example of modern architecture and engineering and not adding it to your Dubai budget itinerary is a big miss. You might have heard that there is an entry fee for Burj Khalifa, yes that’s true but it is for the observation deck on floors 124,125 and 148. You don’t need to spend a penny to visit it.

• Timings: 24/7
  
  
• For 124th, 125th floors and 148th floors: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  
  
• Highlights: Observation decks, Lighting displays, Sky lounge, Fine dining
  
  
• Light show: Starts around 7:45 PM and runs every half hour until 10:45 PM

The 160-storey tall building provides visitors with 360-degree views of Dubai. There are multiple dining options in the building, you can explore them while enjoying this view.

Whether you're heading to shop for spices or simply enjoying the view, don’t miss the chance to experience this delightful ferry. And experiencing sunset from the water is nothing short of magical—truly a blissful moment to share with loved ones.

The ride, lasting about five minutes, offers scenic views of the creek's lively atmosphere and its rich maritime heritage.

Riding an Abra boat across Dubai Creek is an experience that perfectly blends tradition and adventure. For just 1 AED (approximately $0.27 USD), you can hop onto one of these unique boats and take a journey that feels like a step back in time.

Located in the heart of Old Town, it is one of the must-try things to do in Dubai for anyone who loves coffee. Whether you're sipping a freshly brewed cup or browsing through historical exhibits, it’s a delightful way to spend an hour or two immersed in the world of coffee.

This museum offers a delightful experience and shows the journey of coffee. As you step inside, you're greeted by a warm atmosphere filled with the rich aroma of coffee, inviting you to explore its fascinating history.

• Location: Bastakiya, Villa 44 - Al Hisn St - Al Fahidi - Dubai
  
  
• Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)

You can delve into various international brewing techniques and even enjoy documentaries and books dedicated to the beloved beverage.

Dubai Marina is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city, especially for those following Dubai budget itineraries. This luxurious waterfront district, adjacent to the iconic Palm Jumeirah, features stunning skyscrapers and an energetic atmosphere.

Here’s why Dubai Marina should be on your list:

Whether you're looking to unwind after a day of exploration or seeking a picturesque spot for your next Instagram post, Dubai Marina offers something for everyone.

Pro-tip: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views over the water.

Whether you feel like shopping or just want a day at peace, exploring malls is the thing to do. From the Mall of the Emirates to Dubai Mall and Dubai Festival City Mall, there are a plethora of shopping malls in Dubai. And if you are visiting Dubai on a budget, going to these malls is a really cool thing to do in Dubai.

The Dubai Mall stands as one of the largest shopping centres in the world, featuring an impressive array of stores and dining options. Alongside shopping, you can explore attractions like an aquarium, a movie theatre, an ice rink and even a virtual reality park.

The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a stunning destination if you're looking for an authentic shopping experience away from the malls. This traditional marketplace combines the charm of old-world souks with modern amenities.

A visit to Dubai wouldn’t be complete without exploring the famous Dubai Gold Souk in Deira. This bustling market is home to over 350 retailers selling exquisite gold jewellery, making it a paradise for shoppers and window shoppers alike.

• Highlights: Engage in friendly haggling for the best prices on gold and precious stones.
  
  
• Cultural experience: Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Dubai as you stroll through the market’s covered walkways. It is one way to explore cultural attractions in Dubai for free.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to see thousands of birds, including the stunning pink flamingos, all for free. Just a short distance from the city, this sanctuary is a quiet escape into nature.

Highlights:

• Flamingo spotting: Witness these beautiful birds up close in their natural habitat.
  
  
• Photography opportunities: Capture vibrant colours and scenic backdrops for your social media.
  
  
• Best Spots: Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.

No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the iconic Palm Jumeirah. This man-made island is renowned for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches and thrilling water activities.

Take a stroll in breathtaking vistas of the Dubai skyline from various vantage points around the island.

The Dubai Fountain, located at Burj Lake, is a captivating wonder that combines water, music and light. As one of the tallest performing fountains in the world, it attracts the public eager to witness its mesmerising shows.

Highlights:

• Free entertainment: Enjoy nightly performances every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM without spending a dime.
  
  
• Choreographed displays: Watch as jets of water dance to a variety of musical genres, creating a stunning visual experience.
  
  
• Prime viewing spots: Gather along the waterfront promenade for the best views of this enchanting show.

There’s no need to be super rich to enjoy Dubai. This is your ultimate list of all the free ways to experience the many sides of this city.