Planning a flight to Dubai? This destination attracts millions of tourists from all over the world thanks to its architecture, luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural and entertainment offerings. Check out this article to learn how to travel to Dubai comfortably and without hassle.
What documents are needed to travel to Dubai?
The primary document you must have when traveling to Dubai is a valid passport. It must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date into the United Arab Emirates.
Most citizens of EU countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia do not need to apply for a visa in advance. Upon arrival at Dubai airport, you’ll receive a free tourist visa valid for either 30 or 90 days, depending on your country of origin. It’s always a good idea to check the current visa requirements at the UAE embassy or on official government websites before your trip.
Major airports offering direct flights to Dubai
The main airport serving the city is Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the busiest airports in the world. A smaller but still important airport is Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which mainly handles low-cost and charter flights.
Direct flights to Dubai are available from many major cities around the world. In Europe, the most extensive options are offered by airports like London Heathrow and Gatwick, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam Schiphol.
In the United States, popular nonstop flights are available from New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (O’Hare), as well as Houston and Dallas.
Connections from Asia and Australia, such as Singapore Changi, Kuala Lumpur, and Sydney, also offer convenient and direct flights.
See also: Dubai driving license – what you need to know as a tourist
How long does it take to fly to Dubai?
Flight time to Dubai depends on your departure location. Flights from Western Europe, such as London or Frankfurt, take about 6–7 hours.
Traveling from New York takes about 12–14 hours, while flights from the U.S. West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles) can take up to 16 hours.
Travelers from Australia (Sydney) should expect about 14 hours in the air, and flights from major Asian cities like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur take approximately 7–8 hours.
How to buy cheap plane tickets to Dubai?
The best way to find cheap tickets to Dubai is by planning in advance. The optimal time to buy a ticket is about 2–3 months before your planned departure. Use popular flight comparison tools like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights, which offer price alerts. This way, you’ll get notified when prices drop.
It’s also worth subscribing to airline newsletters, such as those from Emirates, Flydubai, Lufthansa, or British Airways, as these carriers often promote special deals and discounts on flights to Dubai.
Popular airlines offering flights to Dubai
The most commonly chosen airline servicing Dubai is Emirates – known for its high-quality service, modern aircraft, and rich onboard amenities. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, Flydubai could be a great option, offering competitive prices and comfortable, though more economical, travel conditions.
Other reputable airlines that regularly offer connecting flights to Dubai include Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways.
Check this article: The best attractions in Dubai to visit by car
What to know before flying to Dubai?
When packing for your trip, pay attention to baggage regulations. Each airline has its own limits for carry-on and checked luggage in terms of size and weight. For a long flight, it’s best to dress comfortably and in layers to adjust easily to the onboard temperature.
Mobile apps like TripAdvisor for finding tourist attractions, XE Currency for quick currency conversions, or the official airline apps can also be useful for check-in and flight info.
Also plan your airport transfer. A great choice is to rent a car in Dubai, with the vehicle delivered to the airport at your designated time.
Summary
Good organization and early planning for your trip to Dubai will ensure a comfortable journey and help you avoid stress. Now that you know all the essential information, we wish you a pleasant flight and unforgettable moments in Dubai!
