Dubai on a Budget: Travel Expert Shares 3 Money-Saving Hacks

A London-based travel content creator has outlined three money-saving hacks for visiting Dubai, one of the world’s most expensive destinations. Paige, who goes by @travelsbypaige on Instagram, shared the tips in a video detailing how travelers can fly, dine and drink for less in a city famed for five‑star hotels, glittering skyscrapers and high-end dining.

Her first recommendation for travelers flying from London is to take an overnight flight to Dubai. The overnight schedule, she says, can help save on meals and a night’s accommodation because you’ll land in time for breakfast and skip paying for your first night’s stay — just pack a neck pillow and pray for sleep.

Her second tip is to book half-board accommodations, which include breakfast and dinner each day. Paired with the right hotel, this can keep costs down by pre-paying two key meals, giving guests the option to explore local food outside the hotel at lower prices. Paige adds that many top‑tier hotels offer half board, and you’ll dine like royalty without the royal bill.

Her final tip centers on drinks: look for Ladies' Day events on certain days, which Paige described as a vibe with great prices, dreamy venues and drinks deals that make it a girls’ trip essential. She notes that while the incentive is aimed at female guests, some venues offer good rates for men as well.

Separately, travel experts have highlighted similar budget-minded approaches for other bucket-list destinations. Sheryl Drane, Maldives destination expert at Travelbag, says a luxury Maldives holiday can be affordable with savvy timing. She recommends traveling in the off-season—May to October—when flight and hotel prices can drop by about 20 percent compared with peak season.

Drane notes that these months also offer ideal surfing conditions and fewer crowds, making them attractive for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. She cautions travelers to plan transfers carefully; while seaplane rides add a glamorous touch to the journey, they can add hundreds of pounds to the trip.

One of the easiest ways to trim transfer costs, Drane says, is to book a shared speedboat transfer, which is more affordable and still offers a memorable experience.

Taken together, the tips illustrate how travelers can pursue refined experiences in world-class destinations without breaking the bank, reflecting a broader trend of budget-conscious travel advice that remains popular among global outlets.