Cheap flights to Dubai

Direct flights from London to Dubai take approximately 7 hours. Multiple airlines offer frequent non-stop services throughout the day, making Dubai one of the most accessible Middle Eastern destinations from the UK. Several regional UK airports also offer direct flights.

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March when temperatures are pleasant (20-30°C) and ideal for outdoor activities, beach days, and desert safaris. This is peak season with higher prices. December and January are particularly popular but can be crowded. April and October are shoulder months with moderate heat. Summer (May-September) is extremely hot (40-45°C) but offers significant hotel discounts and indoor attractions.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest airports, located approximately 5km east of central Dubai. Terminal 3 serves Emirates flights exclusively. The airport offers excellent facilities and transport connections including the Dubai Metro, taxis, ride-share services, and hotel shuttles. Some flights use Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai South.

The cheapest time to fly to Dubai is during the summer months (June-September) when extreme heat (often exceeding 40°C) deters many visitors, though indoor attractions remain comfortable. Prices also drop slightly in May and October. Avoid December-February, Easter, and UK school holidays for the best deals.

Dubai is 4 hours ahead of the UK during GMT (winter) and 3 hours ahead during British Summer Time. The UAE doesn't observe daylight saving time, so the difference changes when UK clocks change in March and October. The minimal time difference makes jet lag very manageable.

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, but English is extremely widely spoken in Dubai due to the large expatriate population. Virtually all signs, menus, and business transactions are available in English. UK visitors will have absolutely no communication difficulties in this cosmopolitan city.

UK tourists can drive in Dubai using their UK photocard driving licence for short visits (check current regulations as they can change). However, many visitors find taxis, the Metro, and ride-share services like Uber and Careem very affordable and convenient. If renting a car, be aware of different driving customs and strict traffic laws.

Yes, numerous direct flights operate from multiple UK airports to Dubai throughout the day. London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Newcastle all offer non-stop services with Emirates, British Airways, or Virgin Atlantic. Dubai's popularity and Emirates' large network make it extremely accessible from across the UK.

Emirates and British Airways operate the most frequent direct flights from various UK airports to Dubai. Other airlines offering non-stop services include Virgin Atlantic, with flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and Glasgow. Many connecting flights are also available via European hubs.

When you arrive in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll receive a free visit visa on arrival valid for 90 days within a 180‑day period. There’s no need to apply in advance.

Flight prices from the UK to Dubai vary considerably by season. Economy return tickets typically range from £300-£700, with the lowest prices during summer (June-September) when temperatures soar. Peak season (December-March) commands higher prices, especially around Christmas, New Year, and February half-term. Booking 6-10 weeks in advance usually secures competitive fares.

Dubai offers the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa with observation decks, the stunning Burj Al Arab hotel, traditional souks selling gold and spices, and the expansive Dubai Mall with its aquarium and fountain shows. Experience desert safaris with dune bashing and camel rides, visit the historic Al Fahidi district, explore the artificial Palm Jumeirah island, relax on Jumeirah Beach, enjoy indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, or dine at world-class restaurants. Dubai combines futuristic architecture with Arabian heritage and luxury.

The United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) is the currency in Dubai. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted everywhere, including taxis. Contactless payment is standard in most establishments. ATMs are plentiful. While Dubai is quite cashless, carrying some dirhams for smaller vendors, tips, and traditional markets is useful.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Dubai. While the UAE has excellent modern healthcare facilities, medical treatment can be very expensive for visitors without insurance. Comprehensive coverage should include medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost belongings, and coverage for activities like desert safaris or water sports.

Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. Emirates economy typically allows 30kg checked baggage (for most fare types) and 7kg hand luggage. British Airways and other carriers usually allow 23kg checked and around 10kg hand luggage for economy. Premium cabins offer significantly higher allowances. Business and first class passengers receive generous limits.

Dubai has a desert climate with extremely hot summers and warm winters. Summer (May-September) is intensely hot at 38-45°C with high humidity, particularly July-August. Winter (November-March) is pleasant at 20-30°C with occasional rain. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures (30-35°C). Most time is spent in air-conditioned comfort during summer. It's consistently sunny and dry – vastly different from the UK's variable weather!