Backpacking through United Arab Emirates on a tight budget — totally doable

Did United Arab Emirates on a shoestring for 13 days and it was absolutely manageable. Based in cheap guesthouses near Al Ain centre and ate mostly at local spots — Camelicious ice cream from street stalls cost almost nothing and was better than anything in a tourist restaurant.

Palm Jumeirah has an entry fee but worth every penny. world-class shopping was a free discovery that ended up being one of my favourite moments of the trip. Budget travellers: United Arab Emirates is worth your time and money, just avoid the tourist-priced restaurants.