Published on Jul 1, 2025Updated on Feb 25, 2026
Dubai, a city where futuristic skyscrapers meet timeless traditions, is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking adventure, luxury, and culture. From iconic places to visit in Dubai, like the towering Burj Khalifa, to the vibrant traditional markets such as the Gold Souk, the city offers endless wonders.
While Dubai’s allure is undeniable, a trip to this dazzling destination comes with significant costs, making smart financial planning essential.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the top tourist places in Dubai and explain how you can explore these hotspots with the help of a personal loan.
Related Read: Benefits of Personal Travel Loans in India
Dubai’s attractions range from architectural marvels to cultural gems, but visiting them requires budgeting for tickets, transport, and more. Below are some famous places to visit in Dubai and the associated costs you may expect.
The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is a must-visit place in Dubai. Tickets to the observation decks on levels 124 and 125 cost approximately AED 150 - 250, depending on the time of day, type of package, and age category (children typically receive discounted entry). Premium experiences, such as access to level 148, come at a higher price. Dining at one of its upscale restaurants can further add to your expenses.
A shopper’s paradise and one of the top tourist places in Dubai, the Dubai Mall combines retail, dining, and entertainment. Entry is free, but attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo charge separate admission fees. Expenses can rise significantly when dining or shopping at premium outlets.
Jumeirah Beach, one of Dubai’s top tourist spots, provides free access to its beautiful shores. However, activities such as jet skiing or enjoying meals at nearby beachfront cafes can be costly.
The Gold and Spice Souks are Dubai sightseeing places where culture and commerce collide. Souvenirs or jewellery purchases can range from AED 100 to a few thousand.
Housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum is a must-visit place for history buffs. Entry costs around just AED 3, but combining it with nearby attractions like Bastakiya Quarter cafes or dhow rides can increase expenses.
Jumeirah Mosque is a cultural gem among Dubai sightseeing tourist spots. Entry is free, but guided tours are available for a modest fee. Additional expenses may include local shopping or meals in the area.
Global Village, a seasonal Dubai tourist spot, blends shopping, dining, and entertainment from around the world. Entry is around AED 22 - 27, but rides, food, and souvenirs can push costs higher.
For thrill-seekers, Skydive Dubai is easily one of the top 10 places to visit in Dubai. Prices vary by package but typically start around AED 2,000 for a tandem skydive.
A desert safari is a quintessential thing to do in Dubai. Packages typically range from AED 150 - 500, depending on inclusions like dune bashing, camel rides, or BBQ dinners.
A traditional abra (wooden boat) ride across Dubai Creek is typically an affordable activity. However, pairing it with visits to nearby attractions like the Dubai Frame or dining in the area can raise your overall expenditure.
A trip to Dubai involves a range of expenses beyond just visiting attractions. Round-trip flights from India typically cost between INR 15,000 and INR 40,000, depending on the season, airline, and how early you book. Accommodation can range from INR 3,000 per night at budget hotels to INR 20,000 or more for luxury stays. Daily food expenses average between INR 2,000 and INR 5,000, while local transport (including taxis and the metro) may add around INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per day.
To manage these costs, it’s important to create a detailed travel budget. List the must-see places to visit in Dubai, estimate costs for each, and include extras like souvenirs, activities, and special dining experiences. Prioritise the top 10 places you want to see, such as the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame, and allocate your funds accordingly. Use online tools to track currency exchange rates, as Dubai operates in UAE Dirhams (AED). Booking flights and attractions in advance can help reduce expenses, but always leave some buffer for unplanned costs.
A personal loan can help bridge the gap between your available savings and your ideal travel itinerary. By spreading out expenses into manageable EMIs, you can avoid dipping into your emergency fund or postponing your trip. Moreover, if you have a strong credit profile, you may qualify for attractive personal loan interest rates, reducing your overall borrowing cost.
That said, it's important to use a loan responsibly – borrow only what you need, compare lenders carefully, and ensure timely repayment to maintain financial health. Use a personal loan EMI calculator to plan your repayments and stay within your travel budget.
*Please note that all costs mentioned above are only estimates. Actual costs may vary depending on the time of visit, attraction policies, and selected packages.
A personal loan from SMFG India Credit can turn your dream Dubai holiday into reality, without the burden of financial stress. With loan amounts ranging from INR 50,000 to 30 lakhs*, you can comfortably cover flights, accommodation, and exciting experiences like skydiving or desert safaris. Interest rates start at just 13%* per annum, and flexible repayment tenures of 12 to 60 months let you choose a period that fits your budget. Use our personal loan eligibility calculator to check how much you may qualify for, and apply online today with minimal documentation.
* Please note that this article is for your knowledge only. Loans are disbursed at the sole discretion of SMFG India Credit. Final approval, loan terms, disbursal process, foreclosure charges and foreclosure process will be subject to SMFG India Credit's policy at the time of loan application. If you wish to know more about our products and services, please contact us
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