Dubai isn’t all about glitz and glam (although it has plenty of that too!). This dazzling desert metropolis also features a surprising number of fantastic free indoor attractions that are perfect for budget-conscious travellers or those seeking respite from the scorching sun.
Galleries at Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue, within easy reach of properties like Oaks Liwa Heights, is a vibrant hub brimming with contemporary art galleries, performance spaces, design studios, and more. This thriving community serves as a launchpad for UAE’s rising artistic stars, fostering creativity and innovation. The best part? Exploring this haven of artistic expression is completely free! Wander through a multitude of galleries and spend a delightful day immersed in Dubai’s burgeoning art scene.
The Courtyard Playhouse
Is your wallet feeling a little empty but your funny bone tingling? Head to The Courtyard Playhouse in Al Quoz for a dose of free side-splitting comedy! This quirky theatre, easily accessible from some of the best hotel suites in Dubai, throws hilarious improv shows every Monday and Wednesday, with various other one-off performances throughout the month. Check their website (https://courtyardplayhouse.com/) to see what’s playing during your visit. Remember, registration is essential to secure your spot, so get clicking!
Coffee Museum
The alluring Coffee Museum, nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is a must-visit for coffee fans (or anyone who needs a caffeine fix!). This aromatic attraction in Dubai celebrates everything coffee-related, delving into deep-rooted Arabic traditions and the fascinating global coffee culture as well. Learn about different roasting techniques, marvel at historical coffee paraphernalia, and sample fresh brews. Who knows, you might just discover your new favourite coffee!
Clemens Schmillen, Dubai Coffee Museum5, CC BY-SA 4.0
Dubai Dino
Retail therapy meets prehistoric wonder at the Souk Dome of Dubai Mall where you can find the nearly complete fossil remains of a 155-million-year-old Diplodocus longus! Named ‘Dubai Dino’, this awe-inspiring attraction can be viewed absolutely free of charge and is bound to be a hit with budding young palaeontologists and fans of Jurassic Park. Suffice it to say, coming face-to-face with this behemoth, stretching an impressive 24 metres long and towering 7.6 metres high, is sure to leave you speechless!