Flights to Dubai
Ride an abra across Dubai Creek to the spice souks, watch the fountains from the foot of the Burj Khalifa, and spend a winter afternoon on Kite Beach. Dubai pairs old trading-port character with its sci-fi skyline.
- Currency
- UAE dirham (AED)
- Language
- Arabic; English widely spoken
- Time zone
- GST (UTC+4), no daylight saving time
- Plug type
- Type G, 230 V
- Main airport
- Dubai International (DXB)
Overview
Dubai grew up around its creek, where wooden dhows still load cargo beside the gold and spice souks of Deira. Across the water, the wind-tower houses of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood preserve how the town looked before oil. Traditional abra boats connect the two banks, as they have for generations.
Twenty minutes down Sheikh Zayed Road, the scale changes completely. Downtown Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain sit at its base, and the Museum of the Future's calligraphy-covered ring stands farther along the highway. Farther south, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence line the coast with towers, beach clubs, and a waterfront promenade, and Palm Jumeirah extends into the Gulf. When the weather cools, desert camps and dune drives on the city's edge offer a very different view of the emirate.
Dubai International is Emirates' hub and one of the world's busiest airports for international passengers. Emirates flies nonstop from a dozen US gateways, including New York JFK, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington Dulles, as well as from Toronto. From there, the airline's network continues on to Asia, Africa, and the Indian Ocean.
Highlights of Dubai
Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain
Ride up to the At the Top observation decks at sunset, then watch the fountain show on the Burj Lake from the promenade below.
Dubai Creek and the souks
Take an abra from Bur Dubai to Deira, then explore the Gold Souk and Spice Souk and the dhows moored along the wharf.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Wander the coral-stone lanes and wind towers, and book a traditional Emirati meal and Q&A at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Desert safari
Head out to the dunes in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve area for a sunset drive, falconry displays, and dinner at a desert camp.
Museum of the Future
The torus-shaped landmark on Sheikh Zayed Road holds immersive exhibits about space, ecology, and technology. Book timed tickets in advance.
Where to stay
Downtown Dubai
Home to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Opera District. It's best for first-time visitors and shoppers.
Dubai Marina and JBR
High-rise waterfront with a beach, a promenade, and plenty of restaurants, a good match for beach lovers and nightlife.
Deira and Bur Dubai
The historic creekside districts, full of souks and heritage sites, with lower prices. They suit culture seekers and budget-minded travelers.
Palm Jumeirah
Resorts with private beaches and big-name hotels, ideal for families and anyone who wants a classic resort stay.
Airports and getting into town
The Dubai Metro Red Line stops at Terminals 1 and 3 and reaches the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station in roughly 20–30 minutes before continuing along Sheikh Zayed Road toward Dubai Marina. Terminal 2, which is used mainly by flydubai, has no metro station, so use a taxi or bus from there. Taxis wait outside every terminal and take about 15–25 minutes to Downtown, depending on traffic.
Best time to visit
November to March is the best time to visit, with warm, sunny days that are ideal for beaches, desert trips, and outdoor dining. This is also when the Global Village cultural park is open and the Dubai Shopping Festival runs over December and January. From June to September, temperatures regularly exceed 104°F (40°C) with high humidity, so sightseeing moves indoors. Hotel rates dip in summer, however. Ramadan moves about 11 days earlier each year and changes daytime dining and opening hours, so check the dates when you plan.
Airlines flying to Dubai
Popular routes to Dubai
Flying out of Dubai
Travel tips from our desk
- Get a Nol card for the metro, tram, and buses. There are Gold Class carriages and a section reserved for women and children, so check the signs before you board.
- The UAE weekend is Saturday–Sunday, and many businesses change their hours around Friday midday prayers.
- Dress modestly in malls, souks, and heritage areas, and cover your shoulders and knees at religious sites. Swimwear is fine at beaches and pools.
- In the hotter months, plan outdoor sightseeing for early morning or after sunset, and use the air-conditioned metro walkways between stations and malls.
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Read the guide →Flights to Dubai — frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from New York to Dubai?
Emirates' nonstop flights from New York JFK take about 13 hours. Emirates is the only airline flying nonstop between New York and Dubai.
Which airport serves Dubai?
Dubai International (DXB) is the main airport and Emirates' hub. Terminal 3 handles Emirates, Terminal 2 handles most flydubai flights, and Terminal 1 serves most other airlines.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March has the most comfortable weather for beaches and desert trips. Summer is extremely hot, though hotel rates are lower.
How do I get from Dubai airport to the city?
Take the Dubai Metro Red Line from Terminals 1 or 3, which reaches Downtown in roughly 20–30 minutes, or a taxi, which takes about 15–25 minutes.
Can I visit Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
Yes. Abu Dhabi is about 90 minutes to 2 hours by road, and intercity buses and tours make it an easy day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
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