Dubai’s photographs are always so glitzy, a sparkling, glamorous playground for the rich. It’s famous for its most expensive experiences: a stay in the Burj Al Arab, edible gold ice cream (approximately INR 57,000, or AED 3000), and the designer labels at the Dubai Mall…But there are ways to visit this city even on a budget. All you have to do is to plan smart.
When to Visit?
The most comfortable time to visit is during the winter months, between November and March. The weather is mild, with temperatures rarely going above 30 C (in November) and going no higher than 26 C in December, January, and February. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so prices across the board skyrocket.
Photo by Nextvoyage from PexelsThat doesn’t mean you arrive in summer either. The heights of Dubai’s summer can be excruciating, with temperatures going up to 40 C in June and July!
To take advantage of lower rates, fewer tourists, and bearable weather, the best time to visit Dubai on a budget is April and May. It doesn’t get hotter than 36 C during this period, with lows in the mid-twenties.
Getting There
Depending on several factors, including point of origin, travel dates, and the date of booking, you may get better flight rates. The airline you choose to fly with will also influence the costs. Ticket costs can vary dramatically from average rates going between INR 12,000 to INR 25,000. Carriers like Emirates are likely to be noticeably more expensive than domestic carriers like SpiceJet and Indigo.
Remember to book your tickets well in advance to get better prices!
From Dubai International Airport, you can find connections into the city via bus, metro, taxi, and app cabs like Uber and Careem. However, the most affordable options are the bus and the metro. The former can be confusing if you’re new to the city, whereas the metro is only available at Terminals 1 and 3, and you may need to take the airport shuttle service (functional 24 hours a day), to reach there.
Accomodation
At an average of INR 114,000 a night, the Burj Al Arab is not in everyone’s budget. That’s fine. There are other options available.
Hostels: If you’re travelling alone or with friends, a hostel is a sensible idea. You can book a bed in a shared room for approximately INR 1000-2000 (AED 51-103) a night. Some hotels even offer private rooms for approximately INR 5000 (AED 258). Depending on the hostel, you can avail services like free wifi, currency exchanges, luggage storage, and the use of the hostel’s amenities like the microwave, linens, towels, hair dryers, and lockers.
Budget Hotels: Families may prefer a hotel, and there are several budget hotels to choose from. You can get a room at the Golden Sands Hotel Apartments for approximately INR 2863 (AED 148) a night. Another option is the Rove Hotels chain that offer rooms for approximately INR 5029 (AED 260) a night.
Finally, you can also consider Airbnbs in Dubai, which will give you a wide range of accommodation options depending on your needs and budget.
Attractions
Believe it or not, there are things you can see and do here that won’t collapse your bank account.
1. Take a Guided Tour of Jumeirah Mosque
For approximately INR 500 (AED 25), you can take part in a guided tour of Jumeirah Mosque, hosted by the Sheikh Muhammad Centre for Cultural Understanding. You will learn about the region’s history and what makes it tick. The mosque is open every day of the week except Friday. Make sure you are dressed modestly, and women must cover their heads before entering the mosque.
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