TripSuggest

Things to do in United Arab Emirates

2 destinations in United Arab Emirates, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in United Arab Emirates

Best time to visit United Arab Emirates

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Abu Dhabi
Flights to Abu Dhabi are cheapest from mid-June through August (summer), when temperatures are extreme and tourist numbers drop, with savings of roughly 30-40% versus the October-March peak season. For the best balance of price and pleasant weather, aim for late April-May or September-October, when fares dip 15-25% below peak and temperatures are more manageable.
Dubai
Flying in late January through early March or in September avoids both peak winter-holiday crowds and brutal summer heat, with fares typically 20-35% lower than December-January peak. Midweek departures (Tuesday/Wednesday) consistently save $50-$120 versus weekend travel.

Is United Arab Emirates expensive?

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Abu Dhabi
About $40 a day on a shoestring, about $255 comfortably.
Dubai
About $55 a day on a shoestring, about $243 comfortably.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Free things to do in United Arab Emirates

  • Abu Dhabi: Corniche Beach A pristine, well-maintained public beach stretching 8 km along the waterfront with free access and stunning skyline views.
  • Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Visit Free guided tours offer deep cultural insight into Islamic architecture and traditions at one of the world's most beautiful buildings.
  • Abu Dhabi: Heritage Village An open-air living museum on the Breakwater recreating traditional Emirati life with craft demonstrations and historic dhow boats.
  • Dubai: JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence) Free public beach with skyline views, volleyball, and a buzzing boardwalk
  • Dubai: Dubai Frame Exterior & Zabeel Park Walk around the golden picture-frame landmark and relax in a huge green park
  • Dubai: Al Seef Heritage District Stroll the atmospheric creek-side promenade lined with traditional wind-tower architecture

Cheap eats in United Arab Emirates

  • Automatic Restaurant in Abu Dhabi, Mixed shawarma platter with garlic sauce and fresh bread Plates $4-8
  • Al Mrzab Restaurant in Abu Dhabi, Lamb harees or chicken machboos with karak chai Plates $5-10
  • Sajway in Abu Dhabi, Saj bread wraps stuffed with cheese, zaatar, or spiced chicken Plates $3-7
  • Ravi Restaurant (Satwa) in Dubai, Mutton karahi with fresh naan Plates $3-6
  • Al Ustad Special Kabab (Deira) in Dubai, Charcoal-grilled kebab platter with rice Plates $4-7
  • Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant (Umm Suqeim) in Dubai, Freshly fried fish and prawns with masala sauce Plates $6-10

More in Middle East

Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

All destinations in Middle East