Doing Dubai Without Going Broke (Yes, It’s Possible)

If there’s one thing Dubai is renowned for, it’s luxury – no surprises there! But when Team STELLAR was invited to experience Dubai’s “Luxury for Less,” we couldn’t resist exploring what this dazzling desert city has to offer without totally blowing our budgets.

The flight from Ireland is around 7.5 hours, and even in Economy, Emirates offers a touch of elevated luxury that makes the journey feel more comfortable. Upon arrival, we checked into the recently opened 4-star Mama Shelter, which was the perfect base for our 5-day adventure. This trendy, quirky hotel is ideally located close to all the major sights, with a stunning pool deck that makes it impossible to resist lounging around. Whether you’re relaxing by the swim-up bar or catching some rays in a cabana, the vibe is laid-back yet stylish.

Our first activity was a perfume-making workshop with Oo La Lab. After learning about top, middle, and base notes, it was time to create our own unique scents – some combinations were a bit daring, but that’s all part of the fun! This would make for a fab experience on a girls’ trip or for couples looking to do something a little different.

Dubai’s skyline is iconic, and it’s home to countless rooftop bars and restaurants offering stunning views. One highlight was the AURA Skypool, perched 210 meters above sea level. The 360-degree infinity pool offers jaw-dropping views of the Dubai skyline, Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast here (AED 95 / €19), with the option to rent a sunbed if you want a little more comfort, though it’s totally not necessary to appreciate the views.

Dining in Dubai is an experience in itself, and we were lucky enough to try Fi’lia, the region’s first female-led restaurant. Award-winning Italian dishes take centre stage, with fresh ingredients from the firewood oven and handmade breads and pastas. And just like AURA, Fi’lia offers yet another restaurant with incredible city views.

Another standout spot we visited was LOWE, a dining gem that’s perfect for those seeking something a little different. This innovative restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the dishes are a celebration of bold flavours and creative presentations. If you’re a fan of contemporary dining in a stylish, modern setting, LOWE is a must-visit. We were lucky enough to sample some of their top menu items, and each dish exceeded expectations.

We capped off our first evening in Dubai with a sunset yacht cruise from Xclusiv Yachts (AED 210 per adult). Starting from the vibrant Dubai Marina, we enjoyed spectacular views of the coastline as we watched the sun dip below the horizon – a fantastic way to get an overview of the city on our first night.

No trip to Dubai would be complete without a beach day, and we headed to Kaimana Beach, one of the city’s many beach clubs. For AED 300 (€61), you can snag a sunbed right on the beach, or AED 250 (€51) for a pool lounger. Kaimana’s laid-back but glam atmosphere, coupled with a delicious lunch menu, made it a memorable spot to unwind. If it’s not your scene, the area has plenty of other themed beach club options to explore.

After enjoying the beach, we took the opportunity to explore a few more iconic spots in Dubai. First up was Dubai Frame, an architectural marvel offering breathtaking views of the city from its 150-meter-high observation deck. At just AED 50 (€10) for an adult ticket, it’s a budget-friendly way to take in Dubai’s skyline and learn about its history.

Next, we explored Alserkal Avenue, a cultural and creative hub in Dubai, offering everything from contemporary art galleries to performance spaces. Best of all, entry is free, and many of the exhibitions and events don’t charge an admission fee. It’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in Dubai’s growing art scene, and there’s plenty of options if you fancy shopping or eating.

The grand finale of our trip was the Vintage G-Class Evening Heritage Safari at Al Marmoom. Our guide, Imran, was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the experience even more enjoyable. We rode through the golden sands of Al Marmoom, spotting desert wildlife along the way.

At the Al Marmoom Oasis Desert Camp, we immersed ourselves in an authentic Bedouin experience, enjoying a 6-course dinner that showcased traditional flavours. The evening concluded with fire performances, a camel show and a spot of stargazing. A truly jam-packed, unforgettable way to end your Dubai adventure!

Dubai’s luxury doesn’t have to break the bank, and there’s plenty to enjoy without splashing out at every turn. From stunning views and unique dining experiences to desert safaris and a bit of pampering by the pool, Dubai truly offers a wealth of experiences for every budget.

For more, head to visitdubai.com