50 thrifty TIPS!

Short on cash? Here are 50 ways to save as the credit crunch creeps up on Dubai Discuss this article

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41. Taxis, 4x4s and cars aren’t the only ways of getting about in Dubai, believe it or not. And we’re not just talking about helicopters and yachts. The bus system now has dozens of routes, journeys within Dubai cost a mere Dhs2 (or Dhs15 to Abu Dhabi) and it is reliable (we use it to get to work every morning). Abras are even cheaper at Dhs1, if you’re lucky enough to have a commute that involves crossing the Creek. And if you’re brave and live near cycle paths, now is the time to peddle your way into work. Just make sure you wear a helmet, self-consciously or not.
Approximate saving: If you spend Dhs40 on cabs a day…Dhs9,980 per year

42. Tell friends and family to always book a flight and hotel package when they visit. This always works out cheaper, no matter how many discounts the hotel's claim to have.
Approximate saving: If you have three visitors a year who save Dhs2,000 each…Dhs6,000 per year

43. If you're going to the UK fly half-way cheaply with Air Arabia or Jazeera to somewhere that has budget links to Britain, such as Istanbul. Then pick up a flight for Dhs250 or similar. And, you can sneak a mini-break in the middle. Bonus.
Approximate saving: If you usually fly three times a year for Dhs3,000…Dhs4,500

44. Determine walking routes to and from your flat – then let the taxi drop you there instead of at your front door. Look after the fils and the Dirhams will look after themselves, as they say.
Approximate saving: If you save Dhs20 a day…Dhs2,600

45. Drive slower and save petrol (and, erm, potentially lives).
Approximate saving: Your life and others’.

46. The RTA recently set up an official car pool service. You might even make a new BFF. See www.sharekni.ae for more.
Approximate saving: If you half a daily Dhs40 taxi fare…Dhs5,200

To make general savings click here
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To make budget savings click here
To make beauty savings click here
To make kids stuff savings click here
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