Top 10 Free Winter Activities in Dubai
Dubai is a city which with its modern architecture, high-end shopping malls and a seemingly limitless supply of things to do. But there is another side to this exciting city and there is a lot you can do here for free. While during the cold and pleasant weather especially in the winter months, Dubai is one of the best places to be for outdoor activities. It is possible to find many free things to do in the city starting from the beautiful beaches to historical monuments.
This is the best time to visit Dubai because there are many places to visit especially the unconventional and outdoor places. The climate is moderate and ranges between 15-25 degrees Celsius, which makes it easy for tourist to explore the old neighborhoods and new attractions. In fact, winter presents a lot of activities that anyone, whether a resident or a tourist, in Dubai can engage in at a relatively cheap price. Some of the best things that you can do in terms of sightseeing, nature, and learning more about the city are completely free.
From strolling at the shorelines of pristine beaches to discovering the architectural wonders of the city in a self-drive Dubai Modern City Tour, Dubai is a combination of the old and new world that everyone will surely love. The winter season does add beauty to the open spaces in Dubai and also creates the right ambience for free activities which make it the best time to explore the city.
Here is the Top 10 Free Winter Activities in Dubai
1. Stroll along Kite Beach
Kite Beach is a popular park for residents and visitors in the area and becomes even more popular during the winter months. This is especially because the weather is a little cooler and this gives you the perfect opportunity to take long strolls along the beach. This is a good opportunity to have a volley on the sand, to try paddle-boarding or just to sunbathe. It is also ideal for a family day since there are many food trucks and other relatively relaxed food joints close to the beach. There are also specific areas for water sports particularly kitesurfing, jogging, and exercising at Kite Beach. From here you will get a good view of the famous Burj Al Arab and it is a very good place to relax.
2. Learn about Al Fahidi Historic District
To get a glimpse of the past, you should visit Al Fahidi Neighborhood that is referred to as Al Bastakiya. Unlike the new Dubai, this area gives a sneak peek of the historical side of Dubai by displaying the culture of the region. The district is well known for its intact wind tower houses, narrow streets and cultural heritage. Visiting its narrow lanes you can find art galleries, museums and craft shops exhibiting Emirati architecture and culture. While in the place, do not forget to take your time and visit the Coffee Museum or the Dubai Museum since they shed light on the history and culture of UAE.
3. The Burj Khalifa Light Show should not be missed
The Burj Khalifa is one of the most famous landmarks of Dubai, and although to get to the observation deck you have to buy a ticket, the show of lighting on the facade of the tower is free. Each night the Burj Khalifa becomes a light show where shows are choreographed around various themes. The winter evenings are perfect for outdoor performances and that makes it a perfect time to watch the show from the Dubai Fountain side.
4. Take a Walk Along Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is the birthplace of the city and continues to be a focus of the city’s cultural heritage. Taking a walk near the creeks is a very relaxing affair especially during the winter. Now you can watch the wooden abras used for transporting people across the water, which also shows the duality of Dubai. There are souks around which are traditional markets and which can offer you to visit the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk to feel the spirit of trading in Dubai. However, if one wants to get a taste of the cultural side of Dubai, one should allocate some time and visit such places as Heritage Village or Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House to get a glimpse of Dubai’s earlier days.
Also Check Dubai Dhow Cruise Creek Tickets
5. Enjoy the Dubai Fountain Show
Being situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain show is one of the best free winter attractions in Dubai. The water through the jets of the fountain can rise up to 150 meters and is done in harmony with the music and lights. It is a show that is performed several times in the day and in the evening, so it is convenient to get to. Nightfall and in particular winter nights with a cool wind blowing from the water are the ideal time to watch this phenomenon. It is free to watch the Dubai Fountain Show and also an excellent opportunity to take nice pictures of the Burj Khalifa.
6. Go to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are interested in wildlife, then Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is an unseen corner in the middle of Dubai. This wetland reserve area is a habitat to hundreds of bird species with the popular pink flamingos being most conspicuous during the winter. The sanctuary is free to the public and as you observe the birds, no structures or enclosures are built that would confine the birds. Ras Al Khor is one of the best winter activities in Dubai for families and bird watchers as it is a perfect opportunity to leave the noisy city and enjoy the time on the nature.
7. Explore La Mer Beachfront
La Mer is a dynamic beachfront that is for leisure and fun. In winter the place is full of people enjoying the cold weather, coffee shops and graffiti walls. There is a promenade where you can take a walk, a beach where you can lie down and sunbathe, shops, and cafes. The numerous murals and the use of modern architecture enhance the lively ambiance of the place thus making La Mer ideal for both day and night activities. Winter in La Mer is good for families or couples or anyone who needs a free space to spend their day with beautiful view of the beach.
8. Take a Picture with the Dubai Frame
Although one needs to pay for ticket to get inside the Dubai Frame, it is always free to marvel at this architectural marvel from outside. The Dubai Frame is 150 meters tall and is situated in Zabeel Park giving a view of both, the old and new Dubai. During winter it is great to have a walk in Zabeel Park where one can have a picnic or just take pictures of the Frame and the skyline. This colossal construct represents the link between the city’s history and its relatively recent growth into the modern metropolis that it is today, and as such, is definitely worth a visit when on a self-guided Dubai Modern City Tour.
9. Wander Along JBR Walk
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) Walk is an outdoor activity center that is always alive and can be visited during winter without having to spend any money. There are numerous street artists, paintings and sculptures, and occasional fairs and bazaars. Walk around the boardwalk, where you can enjoy colorful nightlife, shop in temporary stores or just walk along the coast. Winter at JBR Walk is quite friendly for the climate and it is an ideal place for the evening walk, watching people or to attend live shows.
10. Experience a Self-Guided Dubai Modern City Tour
If you wish to appreciate the contemporary architecture of Dubai without having to pay your way, go on a DIY Dubai Modern City Tour. You can also see famous places such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, the Cayan Tower, and the artificial Palm Jumeirah island. These sites are the best example of Dubai’s becoming a global city and are ideal for a free day of visiting. It is also important to visit such places as Dubai Marina, where you can just walk along the promenade and watch the beautiful views of some of the tallest residential buildings in the world. This tour is a combination of modernity and innovation and one of the most entertaining winter activities to do in Dubai for architecture lovers.
Conclusion
Some of the best free things to do in Dubai are even more enjoyable during the winter months when the climate is ideal for sightseeing. As a culture vulture, nature lover or someone who just wants to gawk at the new buildings, Dubai has it all. Include the following free winter activities in Dubai in your list when planning for a cheap vacation. And remember, when wandering around, do not forget about the Dubai Traditional City Tour in order to see the magnificent skyline and other city attractions.
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