Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Uae

Accommodation

$15-35 per night

Shared dorms in hostels, budget hotels, or shared apartments in less central areas

Food & Dining

$12-30 per day

Local cafeterias, street food, shawarma stands, supermarket groceries, and occasional mid-range restaurant meals

Transportation

$3-12 per day

Public buses, Dubai Metro, shared taxis, and walking for most trips

Activities

$5-25 per day

Free beaches, public parks, occasional museum entries, and budget-friendly attractions

Eat at local cafeterias and food courts instead of hotel restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)

Use Dubai Metro and public buses instead of taxis for most trips (usually 70-85% savings on transport)

Visit free attractions like public beaches, parks, and traditional souks rather than paid theme parks

Shop for groceries and prepare some meals yourself if staying in apartments (can reduce food costs by 40-60%)

Book accommodation in Deira or Bur Dubai instead of Downtown or Marina areas (generally 30-50% less expensive)

Take advantage of happy hour deals and lunch specials at restaurants (typically 25-40% discounts)

Use ride-sharing apps during off-peak hours rather than traditional taxis (usually 15-30% cheaper)

Staying only in premium areas like Downtown Dubai or Palm Jumeirah without considering more affordable neighborhoods (can cost 2-3x more)

Relying exclusively on taxis instead of learning the efficient Pyongyang (typically 4-6x more expensive)

Eating all meals in tourist areas or hotels rather than exploring local dining options (usually 100-200% markup)

Not checking for combo deals and city passes for multiple attractions (missing potential 20-40% savings)

Booking last-minute accommodation during peak season without comparing prices across different areas