Raemona Roundup // Free Things To Do in Dubai

Dubai has a reputation for glitz, glamour, and sky-high price tags, but the city also knows how to spoil you with plenty of things that don’t cost a dirham.

Whether you’re after wellness, culture, or simply a fresh perspective on the city, here are some of the best free things to do in Dubai.

// Run the Palm Jumeirah Track

Dubai loves its runners, and the Palm Jumeirah Crescent has one of the most scenic running tracks in the city. With the Arabian Gulf on one side and the Dubai skyline on the other, it’s motivation enough to keep you going - plus, it’s completely free.

Palm Jumeirah Trunk, The Palm

// Take a Night Swim

There’s something magical about diving into the ocean under the stars. Several Dubai beaches now allow safe night swimming, with lifeguards on duty until midnight and in some places until the early hours. Pack a towel, bring your friends, and enjoy the warm Gulf waters without the blazing sun overhead.

Jumeirah Public Beach, Umm Suqeim Night Swimming Beach, Kite Beach

// Watch the Sunset at Al Qudra Lakes

Escape the city for a taste of desert serenity. Al Qudra Lakes is perfect for picnics, cycling, or simply soaking in the sight of swans gliding across the water as the sun sets. The best part? It’s just a short drive from Dubai.

Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve

// Visit the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

For book lovers (and architecture enthusiasts), the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a must. Shaped like an open book, it houses over a million titles and offers quiet reading corners, cultural exhibitions, and sweeping views of the Creek. Entry is free, making it one of Dubai’s best cultural escapes.

Al Jaddaf, Dubai Creek

// Discover Street Art in Jumeirah & City Walk

Dubai has a growing street art scene, and the walls of Jumeirah and City Walk make for the perfect open-air gallery.Wander with a coffee in hand, snap a few photos, and enjoy the creativity on display - all for free.

City Walk, Al Wasl and Jumeirah backstreets

// Explore Al Fahidi Historical District

Step back in time at the Al Fahidi Historical District (also called Al Bastakiya). This charming maze of wind towers, art galleries, and cultural courtyards lets you explore old Dubai at your own pace. It’s a rare pocket of calm and history within the bustling city.

Bur Dubai, near Al Fahidi Metro Station

// Catch a Fountain Show at Dubai Mall

Yes, it’s touristy - but there’s a reason people keep going back. The Dubai Fountain show outside The Dubai Mall remains one of the most impressive free spectacles in the city, with water jets dancing in sync to music every half-hour after sunset. (Although currently under maintenance, it’s expected to reopen in October 2025 - worth the wait!)

Downtown Dubai, next to Burj Khalifa

// Watch Flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

A peaceful haven for birdwatchers, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary feels worlds away from the city despite being only minutes from Downtown. Here you can see hundreds of pink flamingos (especially during the cooler winter months) alongside more than 200 bird species, all set against Dubai’s dramatic skyline backdrop.

 Ras Al Khor, near Dubai Creek

The takeaway? Dubai doesn’t always mean spending big. Some of the city’s most memorable moments are free, you just need to know where to look.