Where to Find Discounts in the UAE

TRANSPORT

Start optimizing your expenses as soon as you land. The first opportunity? Your transfer from the airport to the city. Consider taking the metro instead of paying a fivefold taxi surcharge for airport pickups. The station is conveniently located near the terminal, and Dubai's metro system is recognized as one of the most advanced in the world (no surprises there).

So, not only is this an affordable and comfortable way to get around, but it’s also your first attraction in the city.

The city’s transportation system is divided into zones, and the fare for each metro trip depends on the route — specifically, the number of zones you pass through. A standard ticket for a trip within one zone costs 4 AED).

Here’s my top recommendation for all tourists: get yourself a Nol Card. This transportation card lets you travel on all public transport (except the monorail) at reduced rates. Simply top it up, and the fare for each trip will be a few dirhams less compared to buying a single ticket. The cost of the Nol Card is approximately 25 AED, and 19 AED remains as a balance for your trips. It’s economical and convenient since you don’t need to buy a ticket every time.

You can find details on how to get a Nol Card and check fares here.

Believe us, this card will come in handy more than once! Dubai’s transportation system is so well-designed that, with just a Nol Card, you can travel across the city and visit all the landmarks and malls. And it’s not just limited to the metro. 

Pick a route and explore a new part of the city every day!

Another transport attraction and a great alternative to taxis, especially if you’re heading to the Palm Jumeirah, is the monorail. While Nol Card isn’t valid for the monorail, you can purchase a ticket starting at 10 AED and reach your destination in true futuristic style.

And let’s not forget — taxis in Dubai aren’t about luxury; they’re surprisingly practical. The best option is to use the city’s official taxi services, which you can easily hail on the street. The starting fare for such a taxi is just over 5 AED, with the rest calculated by the meter. (Though, if you pre-book the same taxi — for example, to your hotel—the starting fare would range from 9 to 13 AED). Additionally, familiar apps like Bolt and Uber operate in the city.

SHOPPING

Hack #1: Use the tax-free system. It’s available in many stores across Dubai, and almost every mall has Planet Tax Free machines where you can process your cashback of up to 5% all by yourself.

Buy food and souvenirs in supermarkets. Oriental sweets, dates, baklava, nuts, bags of spices ranging from saffron to unique peppers, and, of course, Dubai chocolate — all of this can be found in large Carrefour supermarkets at a fraction of the price compared to duty-free shops. One of the best Carrefour stores is conveniently located in the Mall of the Emirates, a popular spot for most of our tourists.

Carrefour also offers an excellent deli section with high-quality food at reasonable prices. If you’re in a hurry, you can grab a meal right there in the food court. Alternatively, stock up on delicious treats, seafood, and fruit for a picnic in the park or on the beach with a sea view.

Regular supermarkets in the UAE don’t sell pork. However, select Spinneys and Choithrams stores have separate “hidden” rooms offering a wide selection of pork products. For alcohol, visit licensed stores like MMI or AFRICAN + EASTERN (found in Dubai and Abu Dhabi), where you can often snag great discounts on unique selections. Just don’t forget to bring your passport!

Outlets are what we need. Dubai is the perfect place to update your wardrobe with your favorite brands without draining all your savings. The secret lies in shopping at local outlets like Dubai Outlet Mall or The Outlet Village, as well as stock stores from the Brands For Less chain.

ENTERTAINMENT

If you ever doubted the hospitality and generosity of Dubai residents, you’ll change your mind now. Every day, numerous local venues post free offers and special deals for ladies on the Ladies Night Dubai platform: free entry to nightclubs and beach clubs, complimentary drinks, discounts on menus, and more. Have you seen anything like this in any other country? Save this treasure link! 

Additionally, many establishments, including hotel bars and restaurants, feature Happy Hours with extra special offers. For instance, at the Li Brasil restaurant in Address Beach, you can enjoy unlimited Aperol Spritz³ daily (except Sundays) from 5 PM to 8 PM for just 108 AED.

Here are some more ideas to get WOW experiences without breaking the bank or even for free:

• Enjoy complimentary champagne, wine, and oysters every Thursday at Ritz Carlton Residences Business Bay. Welcome!
• On Mondays at Dubai Bowling Centre, organize family activities for just 1 AED per person.
• On Mondays and Wednesdays, kids get free unlimited access to video games and rides at the Madina Mall Kids Club.

Where else can you find great deals?

• Dubai Daily Deals
• It`s Free Dubai
• GroupOn
• Dubai Savers
• Cobone

Well, we’ve debunked the myth, now it’s time to debunk our routines in Dubai.

DUBAI WITH JOIN UP!™

• We offer direct flights to Dubai from Bucharest with Fly Dubai.

¹ Guinness World Records

² https://www.fab.com/listings/08e9f9af-f996-4edc-a9c0-c9b7c48586c3 

³ Name of a cocktail