Holidays to Dubai are teemed with dizzying skyscrapers, exciting souks and spectacular white-sand beaches. Whilst Dubai has garnered an expensive reputation, you shouldn't write off this high-flyer as unaffordable. In fact, we're so confident you can find some free fun that we've dedicated this post to the 8 very best free things to do in Dubai. 

1. Watch The Dancing Fountains 

Head out of the Dubai Mall to find this all singing, all dancing spectacle. Take in the city's iconic skyline as you enjoy a free light, music and free-flowing Vegas-inspired fountain show. 

2. Hit The Beach

Soak up the Arabian rays at Jumeirah Public Beach. Pan the shoreline to find sparkling seas, spectacular cityscapes and perhaps the odd camel or two...

3. Tease Your Senses At The Spice Souk

Take in the colours, smells and calls of the street vendors at the Spice Souk. This delight in Deira will give you a flavour of the city's cultural curios - just follow your nose! 

4. Get Down To A Dhow Yard

For a genuine look at the Emirate's history, check out the dhow yard at Al Jaddaf. The traditional ships still used for trading are all made here. See firsthand the craftsmanship of the makers as boats of all sizes and specs are built and repaired. 

5. Get Back To The Green

For a city with one foot in the future, Dubai certainly hasn't scrimped on green spaces. Get out into the green and relax in one of Dubai's gorgeous parks. Kick back with a family picnic under one of the perfectly manicured trees or get a sweat on by using some of the complementary work out equipment. 

6. Say Hello To The Sand Dunes

You don't need to hire a 4 x 4 for a memorable sand dune experience. Head out of town to the Al Qudra region for some thrifty drift action. Have a leisurely cycle around the designated cycle track or hop on a sandboard in true dune style. Though we wouldn't judge you if you just wanted to ogle at it, to be fair... 

7. Stroll Through Old Arabia

The traditional Arabic architecture in Madinat Jumeirah echoes a time gone by. From its own private canal right through to the traditional fabric canopies, this charming corner of Dubai will take you back to the old Arabia. 

8.  Go To A Free Outdoor Cinema Screening 

Embrace the fair-weather winter temperatures and catch an outdoor cinema screening. Reel Cinemas hosts a free pop-up at Rise Dubai Creek Harbour each Thursday throughout the winter months. Line up to be released soon, so be sure to tie in your favourite flick with a winter sun visit.