Dubai offers plenty of romantic spots to explore with your girlfriend without breaking the bank. Here are the top 10 free places to visit:
1. Jumeirah Beach: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pristine shoreline of Jumeirah Beach, offering stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
2. Dubai Fountain Show: Head to the Dubai Fountain at the base of the Burj Khalifa for a mesmerizing water and light show, set to music. It's especially romantic in the evening.
3. Dubai Marina Walk: Take a romantic walk along the Dubai Marina promenade, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the stunning views of the marina and its skyscrapers.
4. Dubai Miracle Garden: Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, home to millions of flowers arranged in elaborate displays. Admission is free for children under three years old and people of determination.
5. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya): Wander through the narrow lanes of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Bastakiya, and admire the traditional Arabian architecture.
6. Dubai Creek Park: Spend a relaxing day at Dubai Creek Park, one of the city's oldest and largest parks. Enjoy a picnic, take a stroll, or rent a bike and explore the park together.
7. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a wetland reserve home to a variety of birds, including flamingos. It's a peaceful oasis away from the city buzz.
8. Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk: Walk along the Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk and enjoy the stunning views of the canal, waterfalls, and surrounding skyscrapers.
9. JBR Beach: Relax at JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence), where you can sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this popular beachfront destination.
10. Dubai Gold Souk: Take a stroll through the vibrant lanes of the Dubai Gold Souk in Deira. Even if you're not buying, the dazzling displays of gold and jewelry are worth seeing.
These spots offer a perfect blend of romance, relaxation, and exploration, all without spending a dirham.
HOW TO GET THERE....
Jumeirah Beach:
Located along the coast of the Jumeirah district, Jumeirah Beach is easily accessible by public transportation. From a main bus station, you can take a bus to the "Jumeirah Beach" stop, which is close to the beach. Alternatively, you can take the Dubai Metro to the Dubai Marina station and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to the beach.
Dubai Fountain Show:
The Dubai Fountain is situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa, in the heart of Downtown Dubai. You can reach it by taking the Dubai Metro to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, it's a short walk to the Dubai Fountain. The fountain shows typically occur in the evenings and are free for everyone to enjoy.
Dubai Marina Walk:
Dubai Marina Walk is located in the Dubai Marina district. You can take the Dubai Metro to the Dubai Marina station and then walk to the Marina Walk, which stretches along the waterfront. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the "Dubai Marina Mall" stop and then walk to the Marina Walk.
Dubai Miracle Garden:
The Dubai Miracle Garden is situated in Dubailand, near the Arabian Ranches. You can take a bus from a main bus station to the "Dubailand, Terminus" stop and then transfer to a feeder bus service that takes you directly to the Dubai Miracle Garden.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya):
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Bastakiya, is located in the Al Fahidi district of Bur Dubai. You can take the Dubai Metro to the Al Fahidi station and then walk to Bastakiya, which is a short distance away.
Dubai Creek Park:
Dubai Creek Park is situated near the Dubai Creek in the Umm Hurair district. You can take a bus to the "Dubai Creek Park" stop, which is close to the park entrance. Alternatively, you can take the Dubai Metro to the Al Jafiliya station and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to the park.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary:
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the Dubai Creek, near the Ras Al Khor Industrial Area. It's best accessed by taxi or private vehicle, as public transportation options to this area are limited.
Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk:
The Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk is situated along the Dubai Water Canal in the Business Bay district. You can take the Dubai Metro to the Business Bay station and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to the boardwalk.
JBR Beach:
JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence) is located in the Dubai Marina district. You can take the Dubai Metro to the Jumeirah Lakes Towers station and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to JBR Beach.
Dubai Gold Souk:
The Dubai Gold Souk is situated in the Deira district, near the Dubai Creek. You can take the Dubai Metro to the Al Ras station and then walk to the Gold Souk, which is a short distance away.
These transportation options should help you navigate your way to these romantic spots in Dubai without any hassle.
5 APPS THAT WILL HELP YOU TO NAVIGATE YOUR WAY IN DUBAI
Looking for directions in Dubai? Here are some top navigation apps to help you get around:
1. Apple Maps: Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and CarPlay, Apple Maps provides real-time updates and routes for driving and walking. It supports both Arabic and English, offers live traffic updates, and allows you to share your ETA with friends. Plus, you can share lists of your favorite locations with ease.
2. Google Maps: With adaptive technology and spoken cues, Google Maps is a widely used app for navigation. It offers aerial and satellite views, real-time traffic updates, and the ability to share your live location with others. Available in multiple languages, Google Maps helps you find the best routes even if you get lost.
3. RTA Smart Drive: If you're in Dubai and want to save data, RTA Smart Drive is the solution. It provides turn-by-turn directions, live traffic updates, and alerts for key landmarks like metro and bus stations. Available in English and Arabic, this app helps you navigate without internet connectivity.
4. Waze: A community-driven navigation app, Waze offers real-time updates on traffic, accidents, and road conditions. It provides warnings about congestion, tolls, and speeding, helping you avoid fines. While not yet available in Arabic, Waze is a popular choice for its current traffic data and user-friendly interface.
5. Yango Maps: Yango Maps offers detailed navigation in Dubai, with over 3,000km of roads mapped out. It suggests the quickest routes and provides real-time traffic updates. Plus, it highlights convenient parking spots nearby. Available in both English and Arabic, Yango Maps is a valuable tool for navigating the city.
Whether you prefer Apple Maps, Google Maps, RTA Smart Drive, Waze, or Yango Maps, these navigation apps make getting around Dubai easier and more convenient.
OTHER THINGS TO DO OR GO TO AT DUBAI
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo:
Situated within The Dubai Mall, the aquarium offers a mesmerizing glimpse into marine life. Entrance to the main aquarium viewing area is free, providing an opportunity to marvel at various aquatic species. Whether you're enjoying dessert at The Cheesecake Factory or wandering through the mall, don't miss this aquatic wonder. It's undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Dubai that won't cost you a dime. You can even snap a selfie with a shark if you dare!
How to Get There:
The Dubai Mall is conveniently accessible by public transport. From any main bus station, take a bus to the Dubai Mall stop. Alternatively, hop on the Dubai Metro and alight at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, it's a short walk to The Dubai Mall.
Dubai Canal Waterfall:
The Dubai Water Canal, a recent marvel of city development, boasts a stunning waterfall where it meets Sheikh Zayed Road. Whether you're leisurely boating, jogging, or strolling along the Canal, take a moment to bask in the radiant glow of this remarkable rainbow cascade. It's one of the city's most spectacular free attractions, offering a vibrant focal point for all to enjoy.
How to Get There:
The Dubai Water Canal is easily accessible by taxi or private vehicle. Public transportation options to this area may be limited due to its location.
IMAGINE at Dubai Festival City Mall:
Prepare to be dazzled by the multi-Guinness World Record holder, IMAGINE, at Festival Bay every night. This breathtaking show combines high-powered lasers, water screens, music, and more to create a stunning spectacle of light and color. Best of all, it's completely free for everyone to enjoy, making it a must-see attraction in Dubai.
How to Get There:
Take the Dubai Metro to the nearest station and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to Dubai Festival City Mall.
Raise the stakes at Riverland:
Riverland, nestled at the heart of Dubai Parks and Resorts, offers a delightful dining and retail experience. The best part? You can explore this vibrant area without purchasing a ticket. Soak up the beauty of Riverland and enjoy the spectacular weather Dubai has to offer, all without spending a dirham.
How to Get There:
Riverland is conveniently accessible by public transport. Take a bus or the Dubai Metro to the nearest station and then walk to Riverland.
Stroll around Chinatown in Dubai Mall:
Chinatown, located on the first floor of The Dubai Mall, promises an authentic Asian experience. Take a leisurely stroll through this new destination, which offers a range of shops and attractions, all free for you to enjoy. Whether you're admiring the architecture or browsing through the shops, Chinatown is a delightful spot to explore.
How to Get There:
Access The Dubai Mall by public transport. Take a bus to The Dubai Mall stop or use the Dubai Metro and alight at the nearest station.