Book now: This is the best time to lock flights. Keep monitoring fares. During this time, airlines release some promo seats because December is in high demand. It is always suggested to purchase when a good fare appears. You can also set price alerts and keep comparing with other sites. Choose weekdays: It is suggested to choose travel dates around weekdays as flight prices mid-week (between Tuesday–Thursday) are often lower than during weekends.Stay budget-friendly neighborhoods: While one part of Dubai looks extremely luxurious, there are neighbourhoods such as Deira and Bur Dubai which offer a good mix of budget friendly accommodations without compromising on amenities. The per night rates are comparatively cheaper. If you can, book a centrally located hotel, closer to Metro. This way you could save extra bucks on travel. Serviced apartments are also a good option. Insider tip: Hotels in Deira have much lower rates than downtown Dubai. It’s a great neighbourhood with some amazing shopping centres. How to save on transportation
When in Dubai, get a Nol card. It is a card used for public transport and is a money saver deal. Dubai is a clean city. All means of transport including metro, tram and buses are safe and cheap. As a budget traveller, it’s suggested to use a Nol Silver or reusable Nol card. Single-zone trips can cost as low as AED 3 (Silver) which is like INR 73. Longer trips are economical compared with taxis. All the prominent attractions such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, and many DSF events are easily accessible by metro. If you can, avoid taxis as they can be costly; use the Metro/tram and walk if possible. Dubai is also a pedestrian friendly city. Local street-food cultureThe best part of Dubai is that it has a strong street-food culture that won’t cost a bomb. One can eat well at many shawarma stalls and food courts. For about AED 10 (INR 241), one can get a good meal at food courts and neighbourhood restaurants in Deira, Karama and Al Rigga. What should be your shopping strategy to get maximum benefit
First thing first, make a wishlist of everything you want to shop. It’s always better to know what items you want in electronics or fashion brands. You can quickly compare prices during the festival.Start following different online official pages of malls and brands to understand the sale. You can find out the dates of DSF flash sales and midnight clearance events on social channels. This will also help you plan your travel dates. Bargain at traditional souks: Yes, bargain. When in Dubai’s souks (local bazars), you can bargain even on gold! Dubai’s perfumes are also quite a rage among visitors and often have negotiable prices in the traditional souks. So before you head for Dubai, enhance your bargaining skills, it will save significant bucks!Free attractions: Some of the major attractions in Dubai are free! Dubai Fountain is free to watch, it won’t cost a dime walking the famous Jumeirah Beach Boardwalk, and window-shopping at Dubai Mall is the best free thing to do in Dubai! Pay selectively: When in Dubai, pay selectively. For example, attractions such as Burj Khalifa observation deck and Desert safari are unmissable experiences. Spend money at these places. Book in advance for a better deal.Where to confirm official schedules and events
For the most accurate DSF event calendar, do visit the festival page of Visit Dubai and keep an eye on press releases from authority only. These are the only official sources you must trust. With all these tips, you can make great memories and get the best festival deals without breaking your bank balance. Happy shopping!