When most people think about Dubai, they probably picture the skyscrapers, the shopping malls, and the resorts. But here’s a shocker: you don’t have to spend a lot of money in Dubai! When careful and thoughtful planning is organized, a budget Dubai trip cost from India can be surprising—of course, in a good way! So, whether you are a student, a backpacker traveling solo, or a family on a budget, you can visit and enjoy Dubai without going overboard.
The best part? With The Tarzan Way, an AI-generated personalized trip planner, you will be able to create a budget, interest, and travel style-based itinerary for your trip. It’s like a traveling buddy that helps you plan smart and keep costs within reason.
Why Travel Dubai on a Budget?
Despite its name as a luxury destination, the truth is that Dubai is very welcoming to budget travellers. Between cheap meals in Indian restaurants in Karama, free beach access along Jumeirah, and inexpensive, efficient public transport services, Dubai has something for everyone. The key is the timing of your trip, smart bookings and thoughtful experiences—all of which will maximize value.
If you’re still wondering, “How to travel Dubai on a tight budget?”– this guide is for you.
Flights – Cheap Flights from India to Dubai
One of the most significant costs is airfare. Fortunately, given that Dubai is a very well-connected city to India and that there are many airlines on this route, prices can be influenced by competition.
Tips about cheap flights India to Dubai:
- You can secure the best fares by booking 3–4 months in advance.
- Low-cost airlines like Air India Express, SpiceJet and IndiGo also tend to sell ₹8,000–10,000 one-way fares.
- You can also sign-up for price alerts and check partner sites and comparison booking sites.
- If you have flexibility with dates, it usually equals lower-cost fares. Flying on off-peak days (usually mid-week) is also usually less expensive.
For those watching expenses, tracking off-peak travel Dubai deals from India is the key.
Cheapest Time to Visit Dubai from India
When do you want to go. The most cost-effective time to travel to Dubai from India is generally during the summer months (June-August). The weather can be extremely hot, but this is when hotels and flights offer high discounts.
Shoulder seasons – September to early November and late February to March – can also provide some good deals but, again, are usually considered manageable weather. If you want to prioritize economy over comfort, you should avoid going in December or New Year’s, as this is when Dubai experiences its highest prices.
Visa – Dubai Visa Cost for Indians 2025
Plan an India trip? You’ll need a visa. Here is what to know:
- Dubai visa for Indians cost 2025 range from ₹6,500–₹8,500 depending on the provider.
- Typically, it only takes a couple of working days to process (3–5).
- If you are traveling for a short time, a 14-day tourist visa is the cheapest option.
And what about Dubai visa on arrival Indians eligibility & cost?
As of now, Indian passport holders with a valid US/UK/Schengen visa are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Dubai. The fee is approximately ₹2,000–₹2,500, which would be easy for any frequent international travel to handle.
Accommodation – Affordable Hotels in Dubai for Indian Tourists
There are many options for accommodation than just luxurious resorts. Travelers on a budget will have plenty of places to stay at across the price spectrum:
- Hostels and guesthouses: Start around ₹1,500–₹2,000 a night.
- Budget Hotel: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 a night for basic services.
You can consider cheap options in Deira or Bur Dubai as opposed to staying Downtown.
Some of the cheapest hotels in Dubai for Indian tourists are located close to the metro and also save time and money from transportation.
Food – Cheap Food Options in Dubai for Budget Travellers
Dubai is a paradise for food enthusiasts. If you seek luxurious dining, you can find it there. Conversely, if you’re looking to maximize your travels as a budget traveler, you can find an infinite number of food options that are budget-friendly.
For budget-oriented food options in Dubai:
- Dubai street food costs: Shawarma for ₹150, falafel for ₹120, or a full Indian thali at Karama between ₹400 – ₹600.
- Super —an amazing idea for grab-and-go food is hitting up places like Carrefour -or Lulu (both grocery stores) to grab a quick meal.
- Old Dubai has cheap meals in Pakistani, Indian, and Filipino places that serve a generous meal for under ₹700.
Food can be as cheap or expensive as you want to make it while in Dubai. It’s all about where you go to eat.
Transport – Saving Money in Dubai with Metro & Buses
Dubai’s metro and buses are clean, safe, and efficient.
- A Nol Card (public transport pass) starts from ₹500–₹1,000, depending on zones.
- Metro rides are as low as ₹60–₹150.
- Daily passes are cheaper if you plan to hop around.
If you compare saving money in Dubai transport like metro/buses vs taxis, public transport wins, hands down. A short taxi ride may cost you 700-800 rupees, with the same coverage in the metro costing less than 150 rupees.
Budget Itineraries – Dubai in 5 Days
If you are curious about what a best budget itinerary Dubai 5 days looks like, then here is a sample itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Old Dubai – Al Fahidi, spice souks, and gold souk (free to wander).
- Day 2: Jumeirah Beach (free), stroll the Dubai Marina, and have dinner at Karama for inexpensive food.
- Day 3: Burj Khalifa (the cheapest tickets are online), the Dubai Mall, and then watch the fountain show at night (free).
- Day 4: Oregon Desert Safari budget package (₹2,500-₹3,500) and an evening creek stroll.
- Day 5: Miracle Garden (entry fee is affordable) and then Global Village (cheap eats + entry).
This mix balances some free & cheap things to do in Dubai that are must-sees while you are visiting.
Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
Yes, you read that right—there are plenty of free experiences in a city known for luxury.
- Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach – free access.
- Dubai Fountain show – free daily spectacle.
- Souks (spice, gold, perfume) – no entry fee, just browsing magic.
- Al Fahidi Historical District – old-world charm.
- Dubai Creek – traditional abra ride for just ₹20.
For culture enthusiasts, check out Old Dubai’s Hidden Gems: Cultural Charms for a Romantic Getaway—a blog that dives deeper into the city’s heritage-rich side.
Budget vs Luxury Travel in Dubai
So what’s the budget vs luxury travel Dubai cost difference?
- Budget traveler: ₹50,000–₹70,000 for 5–7 days (basic hotels, public transport, street food).
- Luxury traveler: ₹2–3 lakhs for the same period (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours).
Both experiences are valid—it depends on what you want. If you’d rather splurge, read Skyline Serenade: A Glamorous Honeymoon at the Burj Khalifa to see Dubai from a luxury lens.
How Much Money Needed for 7 Days in Dubai from India
On average, how much money needed for 7 days in Dubai from India?
- Budget: ₹60,000–₹70,000 per person (including flights, hotels, food, and activities).
- Mid-range: ₹1–1.2 lakh.
- Luxury: ₹2.5–3 lakhs or more.
This makes Dubai flexible—you can adjust based on your budget.
FAQs – Dubai on a Budget
How much does a budget trip to Dubai from India cost?
Expect around ₹60,000–₹70,000 for 5–7 days, covering cheap flights, visas, affordable hotels, food, and transport.
What is the cheapest month to visit Dubai from India?
June to August is the cheapest, thanks to off-season deals. September and March are also wallet-friendly with better weather.
How many days are enough for a budget Dubai trip?
5–7 days are perfect. A best budget itinerary Dubai 5 days already covers highlights, while 7 days allows for slower travel.
Can I travel to Dubai with ₹50,000 from India?
Yes, if you book cheap flights, stay in hostels or budget hotels, and use public transport, ₹50,000 is possible for a short 4–5 day trip.
What are the free things to do in Dubai for tourists?
Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Fountain, souks, Al Fahidi district, and creekside walks—all free.
Is public transport in Dubai cheaper than taxis?
Definitely. A metro ride can be under ₹150, while taxis easily cost 5–6 times more.
Which budget airlines fly from India to Dubai?
IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, and Go First are popular low-cost carriers.
Are hostels or budget hotels available in Dubai?
Yes. Areas like Deira and Bur Dubai have hostels starting at ₹1,500 per night and hotels from ₹3,000.
What is the average daily food cost in Dubai for Indians?
₹500–₹800 per day if you stick to street food, Indian restaurants, and supermarket meals.
Final Thoughts
So, is one able to have a budget Dubai trip from India? Absolutely. From cheap flights from India to Dubai tips, to affordable hotels in Dubai for Indian tourists, to cheap food options in Dubai for budget travellers, there’s so much to do without spending more than your budget allows.
Whether you are looking for the old-world charm in Old Dubai’s Hidden Gems: Cultural Charms for a Romantic Getaway, have a luxurious wish list like Skyline Serenade: A Glamorous Honeymoon at Burj Khalifa, or just want a fun escape after reading Dubai Dreams: Honeymoon Adventures Unveiled, Dubai has something for everyone.
And to assist with planning, let The Tarzan Way be your advisor on that journey. With AI-powered personalization, to save money whilst planning a personalized, practical itinerary that suits your way of travelling.
Dubai is not about luxury seekers – it is for everyone if you have the right plan.
