How to manage your finances in Dubai
The elegant, opulent Dubai is more of a luxury travel destination. But it is entirely possible to go on a sojourn in even glitzy Dubai within a budget if you know how to manage your finances well. While you may not be able to buy ice cream coated in gold flakes, you can still enjoy the spell of Dubai’s old and the new without breaking the bank.
How to save money on accommodation in Dubai?
You can plan ahead of time carefully and look for hotel deals, access to restaurants in Dubai and things to do. If you take the time to research well and book well ahead of time you can snag yourself a lovely deal. Check with hotels like the Avani Deira Dubai Hotel to see if they offer packages.
How to save money in Dubai – visit the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter in Dubai is full of historical sites, ancient vibes, and a lingering sense of nostalgia. You can see what the city was like when the creek was the life’s blood of the traders and people who lived there. This area is cheaper than the rest of the city. You can get to the Dubai Museum for just 3 AED (Emirati Dirham). You can take a boat ride across the Creek for just 1 AED. Most of the attractions are similarly priced except for the extravagant Gold Souk.
How to save money in Dubai – check out cheap eats
Dubai is known for its haute cuisine dining scene, but it also offers budget eating for people travelling on a budget. You can look for roadside eateries and do look for some fast food. This is a great way to save money. You can balance your meals with some restaurant meals and street food to stay healthy. If your hotel offers complimentary breakfast, fill up on this meal and go for a light late lunch.
How to save money in Dubai – take the metro
Walking from place to place is not an option in Dubai. Taxis and Uber offer comfort, but these are expensive. You can sidestep this problem if you use the Dubai metro. It is a good way to get around without causing too much of a dent in your pocket. You can even enjoy great views of the city.
How to save money in Dubai – look for places with free entry
This is a secret most travellers don’t know. There are some places that offer entry at no fee. You can visit nightclubs without paying an entrance fee and stay off the alcohol to save money. Alcohol is expensive in Dubai and going teetotal for your holiday is a great way to save some cash. If you’re a woman, ladies night usually is on Tuesdays.
How to save money in Dubai – visit parks
Parks are lovely in Dubai during winter with the temperatures down. You can get lost in greenery and enjoy a lovely picnic and people-watch. It is safe for kids to let out their steam while you relax.
How to save money in Dubai – look for free events
Dubai loves to party and organize events. You’ll find concerts and sporting events scattered throughout the year. Some events don’t charge an entrance fee, but you’ll have to buy your own food.
Tips for saving money in Dubai
If a hotel or restaurant gives you a choice between charging your own currency or Dirham, always choose the latter. You can also keep your shopping to a minimum and enjoy the activities instead. You can combine some local activities with authentic flavours with more exciting ones to keep expenses at a minimum. Don’t forget to plan for plenty of downtime.
