6-Day Ultimate Budget Backpacking Route in United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is often perceived as a playground for the wealthy, but for the savvy backpacker, it offers an incredible mix of high-tech infrastructure and deep-rooted Arabian heritage that can be explored for very little. By leveraging the extensive Dubai Metro, intercity buses, and the abundance of free cultural sites, you can see the best of this desert nation without the luxury price tag.
This itinerary focuses on the 'Classic Route' connecting Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. We prioritize staying in highly-rated hostels, eating at local cafeterias where a shawarma or biryani costs a fraction of a restaurant meal, and enjoying the world-class public beaches and heritage districts that require no entry fee.
Day 1: Dubai - The Historic Creek & Souks
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Start your journey in the narrow alleyways of Old Dubai. This district showcases traditional wind-tower architecture. Entrance to most of the art galleries and small museums here is free.
Abra Ride Across the Creek
Take a traditional wooden boat (Abra) from the Bur Dubai station to Deira. It costs only 1 AED (roughly $0.27) and offers the most iconic views of the historic waterfront.
Gold and Spice Souks
Wander through the sensory overload of the Deira souks. While buying gold isn't on a backpacker budget, the experience of browsing the spice markets is completely free and culturally rich.
Al Seef Waterfront
Walk along the Al Seef promenade where modern architecture meets traditional heritage styles. It is a perfect spot for sunset photography without spending a dime.
Day 2: Dubai - Modern Icons & Public Beaches
Jumeirah Public Beach
Head to the public section of Jumeirah Beach for a perfect view of the Burj Al Arab. It’s a great spot for a swim and a picnic with supplies from a local Carrefour or Lulu Hypermarket.
The Dubai Mall & Aquarium Wall
Take the Metro to Dubai Mall. You don't need to shop to enjoy the massive indoor waterfall or the world's largest suspended aquarium acrylic panel, which can be viewed for free from the mall floor.
Dubai Fountain Show
Watch the world's largest choreographed fountain system at the base of the Burj Khalifa. Shows run every 30 minutes in the evening and are completely free to the public.
Street Food in Al Karama
Take the Metro to Al Karama. This neighborhood is famous for cheap, delicious Indian and Pakistani street food. A full meal here will cost you less than $6.
Day 3: Sharjah - The Cultural Capital
Intercity Bus to Sharjah
Take the E303 bus from Union Metro Station to Sharjah. It is a short 30-40 minute ride and very affordable using your Nol card.
Sharjah Central Souk (Blue Souk)
Explore this stunning piece of Islamic architecture. The Blue Souk is famous for its intricate tile work and is a great place to photograph the local market culture.
Heart of Sharjah
Visit the largest historical preservation project in the region. Many of the restored houses and heritage sites offer free or very low-cost entry to learn about Emirati history.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Relax by the Khalid Lagoon. Like Dubai, Sharjah has its own impressive fountain show at Al Majaz, surrounded by affordable cafeteria-style dining options.
Day 4: Abu Dhabi - Grand Designs
E101 Bus to Abu Dhabi
Catch the intercity bus from Ibn Battuta station. The 2-hour ride is comfortable, air-conditioned, and provides a look at the desert landscape between the two emirates.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This is one of the few mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslims and it is absolutely free. Ensure you dress modestly according to the guidelines provided on their website.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Corniche is an 8km long manicured waterfront. The public beach areas are free to enter and provide a great way to cool off while looking at the city skyline.
Founder's Memorial
Visit this beautiful tribute to Sheikh Zayed. The 'Constellation' artwork is particularly stunning at night when it is illuminated, and entry is free.
Day 5: Abu Dhabi - Heritage & Palaces
Heritage Village
Located on a breakwater near Marina Mall, this reconstructed village offers a glimpse into pre-oil life in the UAE, including workshops for traditional crafts.
Emirates Palace (Public Areas)
While staying here costs thousands, you can walk through the public lobby and gardens for free. It’s an amazing way to see the pinnacle of UAE luxury without spending a cent.
Wahat Al Karama
This war memorial across from the Grand Mosque offers a reflective space with a incredible 'reflection pool' view of the mosque itself, perfect for photographers.
Dinner at Al Khalidiya
Explore the backstreets of the Khalidiya district for some of the best budget Lebanese and Syrian shawarma joints in the city.
Day 6: Al Ain - The Garden City
Bus to Al Ain Oasis
Take a regional bus from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a massive date palm grove with an ancient 'falaj' irrigation system that is free to walk through.
Al Jahili Fort
One of the UAE's most historic buildings, this mud-brick fort was built in the 1890s and houses a free exhibition about the desert explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
Al Ain Camel Market
Experience a truly authentic tradition at the last remaining camel market in the UAE. It’s a gritty, fascinating, and free experience (just be prepared for the smell!).
Return to Dubai
Take the direct bus back to Dubai to catch your flight. Spend your final night in a social hostel to share stories with fellow travelers.
Best Time to Visit United Arab Emirates
The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler winter months from November to March. Temperatures are pleasant (20°C to 30°C), making it possible to walk the streets and enjoy the beaches. Avoid the summer months (June to September) at all costs, as temperatures regularly exceed 45°C with high humidity, making outdoor exploration nearly impossible.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), which is pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of 3.67 AED to 1 USD. While credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, keep some cash for small purchases at local cafeterias, souks, and for the Abra rides. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill at small eateries is appreciated.
Getting Around United Arab Emirates
The UAE has an excellent public transport system. In Dubai, the Metro and Tram are your best friends. For intercity travel, RTA buses (like the E101 or E303) are clean, reliable, and cheap. To use any public transport in Dubai, you must buy a 'Nol' card, while Abu Dhabi uses the 'Hafilat' card system. Taxis are available but can be expensive; use the Careem app to book more affordable 'Hala' taxis.
