Dubai is ready to welcome you

Explore a Modern Oasis

Dubai blends the new with the old, inviting all to enjoy Middle Eastern heritage with futuristic architecture and ultra-modern amenities.

Dubai feels like a playground for all ages with its mega shopping malls, entertainment resorts, and luxury hotels.

Experience fine-dining from the world’s tallest skyscraper or taste the rich spices at the open air bazaar. Then head to the beach for sunbathing along the shimmering coastline. Need help planning when you visit Dubai? Find out what to see, do, costs, and more in this Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide.

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When to visit Dubai

Located in the middle of the desert along the Arabian Gulf, this city experiences high temperatures and dry heat throughout the year. Dubai’s coolest month is in January and it’s hottest month in August.

You could say Dubai has two seasons: blue skies and cooler weather attract crowds during the peak winter season (October through April). Temperatures average 87° F(30°C) to 65°F (18°C) with very little rainfall and the warmer summer months (May to September), with temperatures reaching above 37°C.

Best times to beat the crowds: May, June, July, August
Best time for beachgoers: November to March
Best time for budget travelers: April to October

What to do in Dubai

Dubai offers something for all types of travellers

A visit to Dubai means ultra-modern amenities enhanced by a touch of traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. Witness the enchanting cultural heritage of the region on a desert safari, at the camel racetracks, or while exploring the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Top that off with a day of swimming and sunbathing on pristine beaches along the Arabian Gulf.

Families will love activities for all ages at places like Aquaventure Waterpark, Ski Dubai, or at the ice rink and aquarium at the Dubai Mall. Couples can share a bubbly Friday brunch at Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah or a romantic dinner at the rotating Sky Dubai⁠—don’t forget to buckle your seatbelt! Friends in town seeking adventure should book a desert safari or Sky Dive Dubai.

For a taste of the local cuisine, head to the restaurants at Dubai Marina for a chic meal by the sea with views of luxury yachts. The Jumeirah Beach Residence “The Walk”, The Dubai Mall, and Burj Al Arab all host world-class dining establishments. Check out the city’s sprawling bazaar at the Dubai Spice Souk, with vendors selling traditional spice mixes and indoor or outdoor places to eat.

Dubai Mall

One of the largest shopping malls.

Burj Khalifa

The world’s tallest building – Book ahead!

Desert Safari

A day in the desert camelback riding and sand surfing.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, and gypsum.

Sky Dive Dubai

Free falling from a plane for 60 seconds at 130 MPH.

Burj Al Arab

The world’s only “7-star hotel” with an atrium filled with gold.

Madinat Jumeirah

Beachfront resort complex with restaurants, bars, and bazaars.

Al Marmoom Camel Race Track

Camel race track, a heritage that dates back to the 7th century.

Kite Beach

Sandy beaches with kite surfing and beach chaises.

Where to stay in Dubai

Dubai has a population of just over 3 million people spread across an expansive cityscape. That means plenty of space, and plenty of options for where to stay. From 7-star resorts (yes, we said 7) and boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, Dubai has places to stay for all price points.

Destinations are far apart, so if you prefer convenience, choose accommodations near your preferred activities. Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is the best spot for beachgoers, although also the most touristic. In this walkable district, families and groups can enjoy sunbathing and strolls along the promenade and canals.

If you have extra to spend, Downtown Dubai gives access to fine dining, glamorous clubs, and designer shopping. Those looking for true luxury should stay on the palm-shaped island, Palm Jumeirah, where you’ll find the Atlantis Hotel, one of the nicest hotels in the city.

Those on a budget should consider Old City, although you’ll have a 30 km / 18.6 miles journey to the Marina beach district. The functional Al Barsha offers a budget-friendly neighborhood close to the Mall of the Emirates.

Find your Stay in Dubai

Which airlines fly to Dubai?

Ready to fly? Emirates has a reputation as the country’s premier airline, with impeccable service, spacious seating, and lots of inflight entertainment. Emirates Airlines flies into Dubai from six continents, and its fleet consists of the Airbus A380 — the largest commercial passenger plane ever built.

Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Qantas all fly routes via the UK and Dubai. Turkish Airlines, Asiana Airlines and SWISS stand out as top-rated airlines that fly into Dubai.

Other large airlines that service flights to Dubai International Airport include British Airways, Air France, Air Canada, Qantas, American Airlines, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore Airlines, Aeroflot, Air India, and Royal Jordanian.

How long is the flight to Dubai?

Located on the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai sits along the Arabian Gulf. A direct flight from London to Dubai International Airport takes approximately 7 hours.

How to get from the airport to the city centre?

The Dubai International Airport sits just 10 miles from Downtown Dubai. You can easily get around by taxi or metro. Taxis service Dubai International Airport for a flat rate of 20 dirhams (roughly £4.36). The metro stretches across the city, connecting the airport to Dubai Marina (and beyond). It consists of the red and green lines, both of which service the airport. Although renting a car is an option, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

How to get around in Dubai?

You’ll have no trouble getting around Dubai by taxi. Despite some of the pricier costs of the city, the metered taxis are both cost and time efficient. Look for tan cabs with red tops. Expect to pay a fare starting at 12 dirhams (£2.59) and increasing by roughly 2.82 dirhams (£0.61) per mile. Uber also operates in Dubai.

Dubai has two metro lines: the red and green lines. The city has nearly 50 stations that usually run from 5 AM until midnight. Fares depend on the zones you travel through, ranging between 2.00 dirhams to 6.50 dirhams (£0.43 to £1.40). Use a Nol Card for fare, which you can purchase at select bus stations, ticket vending machines, and RTA service centers in Dubai.

The Roads & Transport Authority operates over 100 bus routes in Dubai. The Number 8 route is usually the most useful for travelers, as it stops through Burj Al Arab and the Dubai Marina. Passengers can pay using the Nol Card.

Although Dubai has well-maintained roads, tourists in town may find it intimidating to navigate. That said, if you would like to brave the city by car, you can rent a vehicle at the airport. You will need to bring an international driver’s license to do so.

Experience this coastal city like a local while traveling by boat. The traditional wooden boat called an abra runs across Dubai Creek, with many locations in Downtown Dubai. The ride costs just 1 dirham (roughly £0.22) per trip. Pay by cash only.

Currency

Dubai uses the United Arab Emirates dirham, shortened AED, DH, or Dhs. You can exchange at the Travelex at the airport or the many licensed exchange offices throughout the city. You can also find cash points (ATMs) all over the city that accept foreign bank cards.

Many major businesses will accept USD, but having dirhams in cash will ease travel and save money. The UAE is a swipe-friendly country, and most retailers accept international credit and debit cards, including Visa and MasterCard.