By Indoor Places To Visit In Dubai For Free
There are many amazing Indoor Places To Visit In Dubai For Free, whether you’re with your beloved family or with friends. This city offers a perfect blend of modern attractions and cultural experiences, including indoor markets, museums, theme parks, and shopping malls. Let’s explore Dubai’s top rated indoor spots.
Top 25 Indoor Places To Visit In Dubai For Free
Dubai is among the top-visited cities of the world due to its rich culture, top rated attractions, stunning architecture, and world-class amenities, regardless of the weather. You might think that this city will cost you too much to explore, but don’t worry, as I’m going to share with you a list of the top 25 indoor activities to try in Dubai.
- Alserkal Avenue
- Museum of the Future
- Chinatown In Dubai Mall
- IMG Worlds of Adventure
- Burj Khalifa
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Antique Museum
- Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project
- Times Square Center
- Riverland Dubai
- Ski Dubai
- Jumeirah Beach
- Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Al Qudra Lakes
- Al Seef
- KidZania
- Dubai Fountain
- Play DXB
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
- The Foundry
- Dubai Dino
- Cinema Akil
- Dubai Camel Race Track
- Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili
- Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Alserkal Avenue
Address: 17th St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 333 3464
Working Hours: Every Day: 7 AM to 10 PM
Google Rating: 5.5(6.6k Reviews)
Alserkal Avenue, located at Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, is among the top rated places to visit in Dubai. If you’re an art lover, make sure to visit this charming spot. This vibrant art hub is home to 70 contemporary art galleries, featuring unique exhibits, public art, studios, and creative spaces that showcase regional and international art. Enjoy live music shows here while exploring art galleries for free, including modern and North African works.
2. Museum of the Future
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 888 8888
Working Hours: Every Day: 9 AM to 9 PM
Google Rating: 4.4 (43k Reviews)
The Museum of the Future is a truly remarkable architectural marvel in Dubai. You can visit the futuristic innovation in design and technology, including a robot barista and flying fish drones on its ground floor, for free.
The building’s glowing Arabic script is especially stunning in the evening, especially for family photos. However, you’ll need a ticket for full access.
3. Chinatown In Dubai Mall
Address: First Floor – Dubai Mall – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 888 8888
Working Hours: Every Day: 10 AM to 12 PM
Google Rating: 4.6 (3.4k Reviews)
Chinatown, located on the first floor of Dubai Mall, is a great spot for an authentic Asian experience. You can also enjoy dinner at some of the best Dubai Mall restaurants with fountain view, or you can stroll around for free while watching giant panda sculptures, classic red lanterns, traditional decor, culture, and the oriental ambience of its colourful streets.
4. IMG Worlds of Adventure
Address: City of Arabia – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 403 8888
Working Hours: Every Day: 12 PM to 10 PM
Google Rating: 4.3 (31k Reviews)
If you’re with family and kids and looking for the best indoor places to visit in Dubai for free, consider IMG Worlds of Adventure. It is one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks in Dubai, featuring six distinct zones, including Lost Valley, Marvel, and Cartoon Network.
Try to visit here in the evenings and enjoy the thrilling rides and attractions like the Velociraptor coaster. You can also enjoy themed dining.
5. Burj Khalifa
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 888 8888
Working Hours: 24/7
Google Rating: 4.7 (165k Reviews)
Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai, the world’s tallest building. This must-visit free attraction in Dubai offers stunning views of the city. While the Burj Park provides stunning views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.
This beautiful green oasis is perfect for relaxation, family picnics, and enjoying the scenery, and is also a hub for events like the winter market during the Dubai Shopping Festival. You can even rent bicycles here.
6. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Address: Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 33222
Working Hours: Every Day: 7 AM to 8 PM
Google Rating: 4.6 (15k Reviews)
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a perfect spot if you love to explore culture, art, and history. This must-visit indoor place in Dubai features narrow alleyways, restored traditional houses, art galleries, traditional architecture, courtyards, historic buildings, museums, and iconic wind towers.
This historical spot will give you a fascinating glimpse into Dubai’s past. Also, don’t forget to visit the Coffee Museum to learn about the rich history of coffee culture.
7. Antique Museum
Address: 12B 19 Street – Al Quoz – Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 347 9935
Working Hours: Every Day: 9 AM to 8:30 PM
Google Rating: 4.2 (471 Reviews)
Get ready to explore a treasure of vintage goodies at the Antique Museum, which is one of the best indoor places to visit in Dubai for free. It features a vast collection of antiques, ceramics, handicrafts, souvenirs, and handmade items. This museum also supports women artisans from around the world.
8. Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project
Address: 45PP+HFX – Umm Suqeim – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 887853
Working Hours: Wednesdays at 11 AM and Fridays at 1 PM
Daily Educational Session at 11 AM.
Google Rating: 4.7 (56 Reviews)
If you’re a nature lover, head over to Umm Suqeim for a visit to the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project. This project was started in 2004, and since rescuing and rehabilitated over 2,100 turtles. You can even join the weekly feeding schedule on Turtle Island, learn about these gentle creatures and see the project’s efforts.
9. Times Square Center
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Quoz – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 887853
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10 AM to 10 PM
Friday to Sunday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.1 (8.4k Reviews)
If you’re looking for some top rated indoor activities in Dubai for free to visit with your family, head over to the Times Square Center located at Sheikh Zayed Road. It is the perfect spot for families with young kids and adults.
This mall has craft workshops, free play zones, magic shows and Chill Out Ice Lounge. Just make sure to check their schedule for free weekend events.
10. Riverland Dubai
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 2629464
Working Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM to 10 PM
Friday & Saturday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.5 (15.7k Reviews)
Riverland Dubai, located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, is a fun place offering a range of retail, dining, and entertainment options for families. It has four themed districts, including French Village, India Gate, Peninsula, and The Boardwalk, which are connected by a 1km long river.
Consider visiting the Peninsula, which has a large outdoor venue for concerts and festivals, with street food and live performances. Also, must visit the JumpX, which is the world’s largest inflatable park, featuring climbing walls, obstacle courses, and more.
11. Ski Dubai
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 044094000
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Friday: 10 AM to 12 AM | Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM to 12 PM
Google Rating: 4.5 (38k Reviews)
Ski Dubai, located at Mall of the Emirates, is a stunning winter wonderland. It offers a penguin colony, snow-covered slopes, skiing and zorbing, and even a thrilling zipline ride. The Snow Park area offers fun for non-skiers.
Try to book morning lessons if you’re a beginner, while experienced ones can try the freestyle zone.
12. Jumeirah Beach
Address: Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Working Hours: Saturday to Wednesday: 7:30 AM to 10 PM
Thursday & Friday: 7:30 AM to 11 AM
Google Rating: 4.6 (6.2k Reviews)
Jumeirah Beach, which is among the best beaches in Dubai, is also a free spot to visit for families, with its white sands and warm waters. You can plan a picnic here with your family or friends, enjoy the beach, and swim. There are also many top rated restaurants in JBR to satisfy your taste with delicious food.
13. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Address: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 800 382246255
Working Hours: Every day: 10 AM to 10:15 PM
Google Rating: 4.5 (72k Reviews)
Some of the must-visit things to do in Dubai Mall are to visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. This stunning destination features a massive indoor suspended aquarium that is home to rays, 300 sand tiger sharks, and other aquatic species.
There’s also a 48m tunnel for a walk through to get a closer look, but you’ll need to buy a ticket for that. You can also try shark feeding and cage diving.
14. Al Qudra Lakes
Address: Madinat Latifa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Working Hours: 24/7
Google Rating: 4.5 (1.9k Reviews)
If you want to spend some quality time with your loved ones while having a picnic and also want to enjoy native wildlife, head over to Al Qudra Lakes. This serene camping spot in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is free to visit.
You can also do cycling here and can also spot native wildlife like desert foxes, oryx, and over 170 various bird species, including flamingos, swans, and rare birds like the steppe eagle. Try to plan in Winter for a comfortable experience.
15. Al Seef
Address: Al Seef St – Al Hamriya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10 AM to 10 PM
Friday to Sunday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.6 (21k Reviews)
Al Seef is the best indoor place to visit in Dubai for free in the evenings, if you want to explore the city’s heritage and culture. You can enjoy traditional UAE cuisine, stroll along the waterfront, the heritage area, and the historic souks.
You can also shop for local handicrafts, see local artisans at work, and watch street performers here. Overall, it’s a great place for both kids and adults to explore the country’s rich history.
16. KidZania
Address: Second level. Cinema Parking, The Dubai Mall – Financial Ctr St – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 448 5222
Working Hours: Every Day: 10 AM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.3 (3.9k Reviews)
KidZania is located on the second floor of Dubai Mall and is a dream place for kids to learn through play. Your kids get to earn “kidzo” money and can discover future careers in a fun, interactive way here by taking on various roles.
17. Dubai Fountain
Address: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 888 8888
Working Hours: Every half hour from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM
From 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Google Rating: 5.8(108k Reviews)
The famous Burj Khalifa Dubai Fountain is a stunning attraction, which is located at the base of the Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain show is performed every half hour in the evenings, featuring a mesmerising display of water, music, and lights.
The fountain’s choreographed shows feature various music genres and can be enjoyed from outside or from the comfort of Dubai Mall. You can enjoy the Burj Khalifa Light Show here too, while watching this beautiful water show in the evening.
18. Play DXB
Address: Dubai Mall – Financial Ctr St – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 56 682 4804
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10 AM to 12 AM
Friday to Sunday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.3 (4k Reviews)
One of the best indoor activities in Dubai for free is to visit Play DXB. It is spread across 7,000 square meters in Dubai Mall and features over 30 rides and experiences. It is a great spot for all ages to have an adrenaline-packed adventure.
19. Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
Address: Al Jaddaf – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 800 627523
Working Hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: closed | Friday: 2 PM to 9 PM
Google Rating: 4.6 (1.6k Reviews)
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, located at Al Jaddaf, Dubai, is an architectural gem, a cultural hub, and a haven for book lovers. Islamic lecterns inspire their unique design. The library features study rooms, a collection of over a million books in Arabic and other languages across nine levels, exhibitions, and activities for children.
20. The Foundry
Address: Boulevard Crescent – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 367 3696
Working Hours: Every day: 10 AM to 10 PM
Google Rating: 4.6 (360 Reviews)
The Foundry is a must-visit place for art enthusiasts. You can visit free shows all summer to explore new works from local and international artists. It features a library, film screenings, art space, workshops, café, and co-working areas to explore and connect with others.
21. Dubai Dino
Address: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 800 382246255
Working Hours: 24/7
Google Rating: 4.1 (610 Reviews)
The Dubai Dino is located in Dubai Mall’s Souk Dome. This indoor fun place can be visited anytime during mall hours. The 155 million-year-old Diplodocus longus skeleton is a 24-metre-long exhibit, which is an awesome sight.
22. Cinema Akil
Address: 25hours Hotel Dubai, One Central – Trade Center St – off Sheikh Zayed Road – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 56 995 1225
Working Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Friday: closed
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday: 7 PM to 11 PM
Google Rating: 4.7 (18 Reviews)
Cinema Akil, located at the 25hours Hotel Dubai, is a charming spot to catch a movie with your loved ones. Sit on red velvet seating and enjoy a vintage vibe while watching your favourite shows on a big screen.
23. Dubai Camel Race Track
Address: Al Ain Road, Al Marmoom – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 718 8888
Working Hours: Every day: 5 AM to 10 PM
Google Rating: 4.5 (282 Reviews)
Watching camel racing is a unique experience for everyone. You can get this experience at Al Marmoum Camel Racetrack with your family and friends.
24. Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili
Address: Sikka 26A – Deira – Al Ras – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 800 33222
Working Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday: 9 AM to 12 PM | Saturday & Sunday: closed
Google Rating: 4.3 (50 Reviews)
The Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili, located at Deira, is among the top rated indoor places to visit in Dubai for free if you love to explore history. This hidden gem is dedicated to preserving the life and work of such an important Arabic poet. This museum features historic artefacts, like the poet’s original handwritten works, furniture, personal pen, literature, and other belongings.
25. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Address: Ras Al Khor Road, Ras Al Khor – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 800 33222
Working Hours: Every day: 6 AM to 6 PM
Google Rating: 4.3 (2.6k Reviews)
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem located in Ras Al Khor in Dubai. It is a habitat for a wide range of birds, including flamingos. Make sure to explore this spot whenever you plan a visit to Dubai. It is a perfect spot for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Free Indoor Attractions Can I Visit In Dubai Mall?
You can enjoy various indoor attractions in Dubai Mall, such as Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium, Human Waterfall feature, Dubai Dino, and Fashion Avenue.
Is The Dubai Coffee Museum Free To Enter?
Yes, the Dubai Coffee Museum, located at Al Fahidi Historical District, is free to enter. It showcases antique coffee brewing tools and rich history.
Which Free Libraries Can I Visit Indoors in Dubai?
You can visit Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, Al Ras Library and others across Dubai.
Where Can I See Free Art Galleries Indoor In Dubai?
Visit Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz and Jameel Arts Centre at Jadaff Waterfront to explore exhibitions and art installations.
Are There Any Free Museums I Can Visit Indoors In Dubai?
Yes, you can visit Dubai Municipality Museum near Deira Creek and Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort at no cost for an immersive look at local culture and history.
