United Arab Emirates

Modern cities, deserts, and public spaces on a reasonable budget

Country: United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪

Overview

This itinerary presents the UAE from a practical perspective: focusing on free or low-cost attractions, public spaces, beaches, and walkable areas.

While the UAE is not a cheap destination overall, it can be surprisingly affordable if you avoid luxury-only experiences and rely on:

  • public transport,
  • free city attractions,
  • reasonably priced food and accommodation outside premium zones.

The route is centered on Dubai, with easy extensions to Abu Dhabi and other emirates.

Dubai – Modern City & Free Landmarks ▾


Dubai is the main entry point and the easiest emirate to explore without a car.

Free highlights:
• Dubai Mall Aquarium (viewing area) – huge aquarium visible for free
• Dubai Fountain – nightly fountain shows (free)
• Burj Khalifa area – impressive architecture even without going up
• Kite Beach – free public beach with Burj Al Arab views
• Jumeirah Public Beach
• JBR Walk & Marina – pedestrian-friendly waterfront areas
• Al Fahidi Historical District – traditional houses and courtyards
• Dubai Creek – walkable historic area with old markets

Low-cost options:
• Dubai Frame – paid entry, but reasonably priced for panoramic views
• Abra boat across Dubai Creek – very cheap and atmospheric
• Dubai Miracle Garden

Getting around:
• Metro – modern, clean, and affordable
• Trams and buses cover most tourist areas
• Walking works well in older districts and waterfronts

Everyday travel tips:
• Food courts and local restaurants are affordable
• Supermarkets and casual cafés keep daily costs reasonable

Recommended stay: 3–5 days.
Dubai works well even for longer stays if you focus on daily-life infrastructure rather than attractions.

Dubai → Abu Dhabi ▾


Abu Dhabi offers a calmer and more spacious alternative to Dubai.

How to get there:
• Intercity bus from Dubai (comfortable and inexpensive, ~1.5–2 hours)
• Taxi or car (faster, more expensive)

Highlights:
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – free entry, one of the most impressive sites in the UAE
• Corniche waterfront – long seaside promenade
• Public beaches and parks
• Modern architecture and museums (some paid, some free areas)

Recommended stay: 1–2 days.
Abu Dhabi feels more relaxed and less crowded than Dubai.

Other Emirates – Optional Extensions ▾


If time allows, consider visiting other emirates for a different perspective.

Sharjah:
• Strong focus on culture and museums
• Traditional architecture
• Easily reachable from Dubai

Ajman:
• Quiet beaches
• Less developed and more local atmosphere

Ras Al Khaimah:
• Mountains and desert landscapes
• Hiking and viewpoints
• Better suited if you have a car

These emirates are less touristic and often more affordable than central Dubai.

Getting around the UAE

  • Public transport works very well within Dubai and between major cities
  • Intercity buses are comfortable and inexpensive
  • Car rental is optional, not mandatory
  • Taxis are convenient but increase costs quickly

You do not need luxury transport to enjoy the country.

Best season

The UAE is highly seasonal.

Best time to visit:

  • November–March – pleasant temperatures for walking and beaches

Challenging period:

  • May–September – extreme heat, outdoor activities limited

This itinerary works best in the cooler months, when public spaces are enjoyable.