How you can visit Dubai for less
From the extravagant skyscrapers to the flashy cars, gold souks and designer outlets, Dubai is often seen as a destination for the rich and famous. It is common knowledge that if you want to travel to Dubai and enjoy all it has to offer, you have to be prepared to pay more than a normal trip. However, a holiday in Dubai does not have to leave you crying at the next month’s bank statements! Whilst Dubai is most definitely a lavish place to visit, if you do your research and plan well ahead, it could cost you just as much as an average holiday. Here are 4 tips to help you spend less when visiting Dubai:
1. Use Groupon deals for sightseeing and tourist attractions
Groupon has a special UAE site that offers a number of deals and discount packages for tourist attractions in the UAE, including Dubai. You can save as much as 80% off the most popular attractions and excursions including desert safari tours, beauty and spa packages and money off highly rated bars and restaurants for food and drink.
2. Book a hotel in Deira
Whilst a night’s stay at the 7* Burj Al Arab may seem extremely attractive, it will leave you at least £1400 (approx. US$1880) out of pocket! The most affordable hotels and apartments in Dubai can be found in Deira, north of Dubai Creek. Deira is the oldest part of Dubai and so offers more of an authentic UAE experience than other areas of the city more influenced by western culture. The area also offers a number of souks (gold and spices) near the waterfront and great places to shop within walking distance from most hotels and apartments as well as easy access to the city centre. Prices for hotels can start as low as £40 (approx. US$52) per night for 4* hotels or £26 (approx. US$32) per night for 3* places. Not to mention, the quality of hotels in Dubai is usually higher than most countries so you are likely to get great value for your money booking a place here.
3. Visit in the low seasons
Like other destinations, Dubai is usually cheapest to visit in the first and last quarters (Jan – March or Oct – Dec) of the year. These periods are also the best time to visit if you are looking for moderate heat. With a tropical desert climate, the average temperature in Dubai can reach a scorching 41°C (106 °F) around August – ouch! If you’re looking for cheap flights but still want hot weather, it’s best to visit in April or May where you can enjoy average highs of 31°C (88 °F).
4. Bargain hunt in the souks
It’s almost impossible not to see at least one of the popular souks (markets) whilst visiting Dubai. If you would like to do some shopping and plan to take a trip to the malls for jewellery, accessories or condiments, it is recommended that you also visit the souks to find deals that you may not necessarily find in the stores. There are a number of different souks offering a wide range of products including gold, spices, bags, watches, textiles and even fruit and vegetables. The key to finding a good deal at the souks is to haggle. Before you visit, find out the average market prices for the items that you want and be prepared to negotiate with traders. Go around different stores and make sure to check that you are not being sold fake items at designer prices.
With so much to offer at reasonable prices, Dubai could be your next affordable destination! For more on low cost activities in Dubai visit Get Your Guide.
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