Day 1

Breakfast - While there is a plethora of small Indian cafeterias dotted around the city, for a cheap and cheerful, simple breakfast that will only set you back AED10-15 (approx. MYR 10.85 – MYR 16.25), head to Raju Omelet. This Dubai favourite serves a variety of Indian street food alongside delicious cups of tea in a cute café environment – and all at very wallet-friendly prices.

Morning Activity - Take a little tour of the Dubai Creek via an Abra Crossing, where you can ride in a traditional boat that glides across the water for a mere AED1 (approx. MYR 1.08) ! Once you’re done, head to the souks in the Al Fahidi area and take your time perusing the colourful offerings, or even snap up a bargain.

Lunch - It may be simply named, but whether you’re on a tight budget or you just want to grab a quick bite from somewhere that’s on the go, why not pick up a shawarma from one of the many Eat & Drink Restaurant outlets around town? The restaurant has been in the city for decades and is a familiar sight to many residents – even better, a tasty shawarma will only set you back AED5 (approx. MYR 5.40). 

Afternoon Activity - Brush up on your history and knowledge of local culture by exploring what the Al Fahidi Historical District has to offer. There is plenty to see, learn and do at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, with the Coffee Museum and the Dubai Museum just down the road.

Dinner - One of Jumeirah’s most well-loved and longstanding seafood institutions, Bu Qtair restaurant is a must-try. It’s the very definition of cheap and cheerful – they only have two key options, but their fried fish and fried shrimp are simply epic – and hardly make a dent in the budget as well.

Evening Activity - Take a walk along Dubai Marina and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city (and some of its most beautiful evening views) entirely for free – and walk off your dinner while you’re at it! Bonus: It can be uniquely romantic, and if you’re inspired to, there are plenty of places to stop at and grab a night cap along the way.

Day 2

Breakfast - For an affordable breakfast that boasts large portion sizes, and organic, local produce wherever possible, head to the Surf House Dubai, where breakfast is kept casual but the food quality (and smiles!) are taken seriously.

Morning Activity - Rent a stand-up paddleboard from the Surf House Dubai for just AED80 (approx. MYR 86.60) and head onto the water for a light workout that also promises you one of the best views of the Burj Al Arab – directly from the water – and some unforgettable holiday snaps on the beach.

Lunch - One of every Dubai resident’s go-to’s, Zaatar w Zeit restaurants are found all over town and are a quick, cheap, and easy way to pick up a delicious (and relatively healthy) meal.

Afternoon Activity - Rent a car (many companies offer options for AED60-80 [approx. MYR 64.95 – 86.60] a day) and drive out to Hatta for the afternoon. It’s only an hour away, and once there, it’s abundant in stunning natural beauty. You can hire kayaks or paddle out onto the water for less than AED100 (approx. MYR 108.25) and take a picnic with you for when hunger strikes. Don’t forget the camera!

Dinner - Ravi Restaurant is one of Dubai’s most famous destinations for Pakistani food, yet it’s not at all a costly one. The food here is delicious, affordable, and always reliable. It’s a must-try.

Evening Activity - The Dubai Fountain at the Dubai Mall is amongst the city’s best attractions, and not only are the world-famous, unique, choreographed displays held during regular intervals throughout each evening, but they’re also free for everyone in the area to enjoy.

Stay and Sleep - Set right in the heart of Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi district, just steps away from some of the city’s best attractions, from Dubai Museum, to the Creek and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (not to mention within walking distance of a metro station), the Orient Guest House is a tranquil – and affordable – hideaway. This little boutique-style guesthouse has 10 rooms decorated in a traditional Arabian style, and the entire house feels like a home from a bygone age – complete with a majlis area and courtyard for weary travellers to relax in. Nearby, the XVA Hotel offers a similar feel with a more artistic slant – it’s connected to a gallery – whereas if you’re looking to stay in the busier parts of the city, the Rove Hotels are an excellent option that offer contemporary surrounds at affordable prices in key areas across Dubai.

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