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Affordable Dubai

Indulge in Dubai’s affordable luxuries

Tue, August 30, 2022

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or your loved ones, here are some of the best affordable Dubai experiences that won’t dent your bank balance.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or your loved ones, here are some of the best affordable Dubai experiences that won’t dent your bank balance.

1

Seek out a five-star spa session at Armani Hotel

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The sleek, modern interiors of the low-lit Armani/SPA ooze luxury – plus it's located in the famed Burj Khalifa. Take advantage of the spa's Couple's Celebration, a 50-minute weekday experience that takes place in a private treatment room. It includes a scrub, wrap and massage for just AED693 per couple. Remember, many spas across Dubai host regular promotions, so it's worth calling ahead to see what deals are on at your favourite pampering spots.

2

Lunch for less at BB Social

Tacos from Akira Back at W Dubai

Helmed by executive chef Alexander Stumpf, BB Social dining is a homegrown concept that has been making culinary waves in the city thanks to its menu inspired by multicultural medleys. Take advantage of the eatery's weekday 4B offer, with classics starting from only AED30 from 12pm-4pm. The focus is on Eastern cuisine – where baos, bowls and grills influenced by Pan-Asian and Middle Eastern flavours shine. Other high-end eateries also offer set-price lunch menus at a fraction of their usual a la carte costs, so it's worth signing up for daytime dining.

3

Spend and save on shopping

Al Quoz fashion boutique Retold has a careful edit of preloved finds ranging from high street bargains to designer label steals, each selected by founder Sian Rowlands. By encouraging people to buy second-hand clothes instead of brand new outfits, Rowlands hopes to reduce the UAE’s carbon footprint and encourage customers to cut out fast fashion and invest in well-made pieces that will last. Designer fans looking for a bargain should also check out Dubai Outlet Mall and The Outlet Village for discounted high-end finds.

4

Glam blowouts at Be Bar

The co-owner of this women-only hair salon is trained in Los Angeles and it shows, with happy clients walking out with red carpet-ready locks. Blow-dries are the forte at Be Bar – from glam vintage curls to effortless beach waves, with each blowout including the best mini head massage in town and luxe brands for washing and conditioning precious locks. Head here before brunch or dinner to get a glamorous hair makeover, starting from just AED160.

5

Stock up on saffron at the Spice Souk

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More expensive per ounce than gold, the fiery-hued saffron spice derives from the purple crocus flower. Its hefty price tag is due to the laborious nature of the harvesting process, and relative scarcity in the global market. However, at Dubai’s own Spice Souk, by the Creek in Deira, you'll find that saffron is very affordable. Here, haggling is not only welcome, but expected, and you can buy high-quality saffron for anywhere between AED10 and AED30 per gram. There are plenty of other exotic ingredients to discover here too, including dried flowers, tangy Arabian sumac and more.

6

Cruise on the Creek

Boat Riding at Dubai Creek in Dubai
There's nothing quite as magical as seeing Dubai from the water. If splurging on a yacht rental isn't in your budget, then why not splash out on a private abra ride on the atmospheric Dubai Creek. For a set price of AED120 per hour, you can gather family and friends, pack a picnic and set sail to take in the sites and sounds of this historic area. If you want to explore further, consider a ride aboard the city's official 'water taxis' or the Dubai Ferry, both offering competitive fares.
7

Buy into memberships and savings

There are plenty of apps and websites that help rack up savings. After an initial investment, the Entertainer App makes everything more affordable with two-for-one vouchers that you can redeem at a wide variety of upmarket spots. From spectacular spas like the Park Hyatt's Amara to fine dining restaurants like Zheng He's, family-friendly fun and luxury hotel stays, you'll end up getting 50 per cent off the total price. Don't forget to check out Visit Dubai's exclusive deals and offers too, with additional savings at top attractions.

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