A HUGE Dubai tourist attraction visited by millions is set to close. The Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system, shooting water 500m into the sky. The iconic fountain will close for most of 2025, to undergo a major upgrade. It will present its last show on Saturday, April 19 - earlier than anticipated as the fountain wasn't meant to close until May. The renovation expected to take around five months - with plans to reopen for the winter sun season. The Dubai Fountain show is held every 30 minutes daily in the Byrj Khalifa Lake and can be seen from Dubai Mall. It was designed by creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Vegas. Some songs regularly featured in the show include Thriller by Michael Jackson, Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman’s Time to Say Goodbye and Power by Korean pop band EXO. When the fountain reopens, it'll boast advanced technology, improved choreography, and an enhanced sound and lighting system used in the regular performances. More to Dubai than meets the eye Dubai is known for being a pricey holiday destination. Renowned for its luxurious resorts, gourmet dining and designer bouquets, Dubai is often perceived as a destination exclusively for high end travellers. However, there's much more to this city. Dubai also caters to visitors seeking memorable experiences without breaking the bank. From exploring historic sites, to enjoying public beaches, there are many hidden cultural gems to uncover for very affordable prices. Old Dubai and the Creek This vibrant district showcases the city's roots as a key trading hub alongside the Dubai Creek. Take a traditional abra ride across the Creek for just 20p one way. For a longer journey, opt for a dhow cruise and explore even more of the city from the water. The Creek is also home to the bustling souks, fascinating marketplaces that are free to enter. Wander through the AI Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a free to enter heritage site featuring wind tower houses and narrow alleyways. Nearby, the Al Shindagha Museum offers deeper insights into the UAE’s rich past with exhibition houses; entry is £10 for adults and £4 for students when booked online. For stunning views of the city skyline, visit The Viewing Point at Dubai Creek Harbour, a free 70m walkway extending over the water. Alternatively, explore Al Seef, a modern-meets-historic district along the Creek, with its blend of heritage architecture, contemporary shopping and dining options. Attractions and landmarks No visit to Dubai is complete without experiencing its iconic landmarks. Downtown Dubai is a must-see, home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. For panoramic city views, head to Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park (£10 for adults, £4 for children). Another top attraction, Sky Views Dubai is a unique way to enjoy the skyline. For £17, thrill-seekers can enjoy panoramic views from the 52nd floor at the Observatory, and glide down the spectacular Glass Slide from level 53 to 52. Culture and museums Dubai’s cultural landmarks offer an affordable way to understand the city’s heritage. Explore the iconic Jumeirah Mosque (£8, including a guided tour), or dive into the UAE’s history at the Etihad Museum (£5 for adults, £2 for students). Art lovers will appreciate the free-entry Jameel Arts Centre, a contemporary gallery on the Jaddaf Waterfront. For coffee enthusiasts, the Coffee Museum in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood showcases traditional brewing techniques and offers an authentic cultural experience. Public beaches Dubai’s public beaches are perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure. Kite Beach, with its jogging tracks, water sports, and cafes, offers a family-friendly beach club, whilst SOLE MIO, starting at £25 per adult, includes beach access, a beach umbrella, a lounger, and towels. Kids under 12 years old can enter for free, without a lounger, while entry including a lounger and towel costs £17. Alternatively, visit Al Mamzar Beach Park (£1 entry) or Jumeirah Public Beach, where you can swim day or night. For stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, head to Sunset Beach in Umm Suqeim. The Beach at JBR is another free-entry hotspot, complete with sunbathing, shopping, and dining options. Parks, nature and walking areas Dubai’s public parks offer affordable spaces for outdoor fun. Popular options include Zabeel Park, Creek Park and Al Mamzar Beach Park (each £1 per person). For a day trip, head to Hatta, a mountain reserve 90 minutes from the city, where you can hike, explore the free-entry Hatta Heritage Village, or enjoy adventure sports. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is another free attraction, where you can witness flamingos and other wildlife close to the city. For a splash of colour, visit Dubai Miracle Garden (tickets from £21), featuring floral displays, mini-golf, and the world’s largest flower arrangement of an Emirates A380. The Dubai Pass is a great way to experience all that is possible in the city. The all-inclusive prepaid card grants cash-free access to more than 30 key attractions across Dubai, making it the perfect way to explore the city’s world-class destination proposition. Offering convenience, flexibility, ease of use and savings, prices start from £111 for a Dubai Select Attractions Pass. A Dubai Stopover Pass combines some of the most iconic attractions, tours and cruises into a prepaid attraction pass to save time and money. Perfect for those wanting to see more of Dubai during a stopover, you can choose two, three or four attractions to visit over 36 hours. Prices start from £74 for adults and £59 for children (3-12). A prime example is Emaar Hospitality Group’s Rove Hotels. The three-star properties have become trendy tourist hotspots, designed with quirky, locally inspired art. What makes the hotels so popular is their focus on functionality – be it their DIY laundromats, luggage lockers, a 24-hour supermarket, or self-service check-in stations. Visitors can search by neighbourhood if they’re looking to find some trendy hotels at great value. Areas such as Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai, Deira or Al Barsha are some of the best bets for budget hotels. Staying in these bustling areas also offers the chance to experience some of the city’s most exciting spots, provides an authentic glimpse into local life, and gives an insider’s view into the city’s traditional architecture.