It’s that magical moment again when the UAE gears up for a well-earned break and this time, it’s for a holiday that holds both spiritual depth and cultural significance: the Islamic New Year Holiday.
If you’re staying local and looking to make the most of the long weekend in Dubai without spending a single dirham, you’re in the right place. While many are eyeing staycations or flights out, there’s actually a ton of free things to do in Dubai if you plan it right.
And honestly, sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don’t have to pay for.
With Dubai Summer Surprises kicking off, night beach vibes, and heritage sites buzzing with activity, this Islamic New Year Holiday is shaping up to be full of fun, family time, and festive flair.
Whether you’re into culture, music, the outdoors, or just want a quiet moment by the sea; Dubai has something free and fantastic for you.
Let’s explore everything you can do to make this long weekend in Dubai memorable… without touching your wallet.
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What Is the Islamic New Year Holiday in Dubai?
The Islamic New Year Holiday, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the new year in the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the historic migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah, a moment that signifies a new beginning and spiritual renewal in Islam.
In the UAE, the Islamic New Year Holiday is an official public holiday observed on the first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. This year the holiday will fall on June 27, 2025, giving residents a long weekend to enjoy.
This holiday is not marked with fireworks or major celebrations like Eid, but it is a time for reflection, family gatherings, and peaceful spiritual practices. Mosques may host lectures or Quran recitations, and many residents take the opportunity to pause and reset their personal goals.
For many, the Islamic New Year Holiday is also a time to reconnect with heritage, visit culturally significant places, and enjoy the city in a slower, more meaningful way.
And with the long weekend in Dubai, there’s no better time to explore everything this city has to offer for free.
UAE Announces Hijri New Year Holiday: 3-Day Weekend This June 2025
Best Free Things to Do in Dubai on Islamic New Year Holiday
Whether you’re fasting, reflecting, or simply unwinding with loved ones, here are the best free things to do in Dubai during the Islamic New Year Holiday:
1. Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) Opening Weekend
The timing couldn’t be better Dubai Summer Surprises kicks off on June 27, turning the entire city into a vibrant hub of live performances, mall activations, and family events.
- Free performances by Abri & The Band, Sabrina, Reina Khoury, and Noel Kharman at Dubai Festival City Mall
- Jadal and Al Shami live at City Centre Mirdif
- Roaming entertainers, drummers, and themed shows across malls
Even if you’re not shopping, the DSS energy is infectious, making it one of the most exciting free things to do in Dubai this weekend.
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2. Free Night Swimming at Dubai’s Public Beaches
Take a dip after dark! Night swimming is now open at Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3, and Umm Suqeim 1 beaches; all equipped with 800m of floodlights and lifeguards on duty.
This is the perfect long weekend in Dubai activity, especially if you want to avoid the heat but still enjoy the sea. Bring your friends, towels, and coolers, it’s absolutely free.
3. Explore Al Seef and Heritage Village
Get a taste of old Dubai along the Al Seef promenade which is full of traditional architecture, art installations, and cultural exhibits. Just a few minutes away, Heritage Village near Al Shindagha offers insight into Emirati life, all free to wander.
It’s peaceful, picturesque, and very on-theme for the Islamic New Year Holiday.
4. Soak in Sun On Kite Beach
If you’re craving a sun-soaked morning or evening jog, Kite Beach is your go-to. Free volleyball courts, walking tracks, and unbeatable sea views make it one of the most refreshing free things to do in Dubai.
For families, spots like Al Mamzar Beach Park (walk-in access is free on some days) offer playgrounds and shaded areas.
5. Live Music and Cultural Entertainment at Malls
Many DSS concerts are free. From acoustic sessions to traditional drumming and Arabic oud music, roaming performers are set to light up malls throughout the long weekend in Dubai.
Check in at Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall, or Dubai Hills Mall for free DSS stage shows and cultural pop-ups.
6. Soak in the DSS Shopping Festival Atmosphere
Even if you’re not buying, the vibe inside malls during DSS is lively and colorful. Think:
- Themed décor
- Photo booths
- Light projections
- Free kids’ zones
- Raffle draws (no purchase necessary to watch or enjoy!)
Add this to your list of casual free things to do in Dubai, especially if you’re with kids.
7. Play Games for Just Dhs10 at GLITCH, Al Ghurair Centre
GLITCH is celebrating its second birthday, and from June 27 to 29 and they’re offering games, bowling, and laser tag for just Dhs10 each.
Even better? You’ll get 200 arcade points for just Dhs10; perfect if you’ve got kids (or a competitive streak). This deal runs from 10am to noon, so it’s a great early activity for the Islamic New Year Holiday before the afternoon heat kicks in.
Located inside Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, GLITCH makes a fun and air-conditioned alternative to outdoor plans. Plus, once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can refuel at the food hall just steps away.
One of the most exciting free things to do in Dubai (almost!) this long weekend in Dubai, especially if you’re looking for fun that won’t break the bank.
Bonus Tips for This Long Weekend in Dubai
- Use the Metro: Parking at malls can get packed. Dubai Metro is fast, air-conditioned, and wallet-friendly.
- Visit early morning or late evening to beat the heat, especially at outdoor spots like Kite Beach and Al Seef.
- Stay updated on DSS timings through Dubai Calendar or mall websites.
- Pack light and wear comfortable clothes if you’re planning to do multiple free activities in one day.
Also learn to use sunscreen in Dubai because you might be doing it wrong!
Final Word
You don’t need a luxury resort or a fancy dinner reservation to enjoy the Islamic New Year Holiday in the UAE. Sometimes, a walk by the sea, a moment of stillness at a mosque, or a musical surprise at your local mall is enough to make a day special.
With this list of free things to do in Dubai, your long weekend in Dubai can be full of joy, reflection, and new memories; without spending a single dirham.
