Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to Dubai (DXB)

About Dubai

Discover Dubai

Why visit Dubai?
Dubai is a city where futuristic skylines, year-round sunshine, and sandy shores come together. You will find dramatic architecture, large malls, and waterfront promenades, all set against the calm of the Arabian Gulf and the surrounding desert.

What to expect
Expect a polished, modern city with distinct districts, from the marina and beach suburbs to Downtown Dubai and the historic creekside quarters. Air-conditioned indoor spaces, efficient transport, and wide boulevards make it easy to explore even in warmer months.

Plan your trip
Dubai is a natural hub if you are combining the Middle East with Europe, Africa, or Asia. Many visitors stay a few days to enjoy the city before continuing their journey, using it as both a destination and a gateway to nearby emirates and desert landscapes.

Top sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Ride the high-speed lift to the observation decks of the world-famous tower for sweeping views over Downtown Dubai and the desert beyond.

The Dubai Mall

Explore hundreds of shops, an indoor ice rink, and an impressive aquarium in this vast lifestyle and entertainment complex.

Dubai Marina

Stroll along the marina promenade at sunset and watch yachts glide past the high-rise skyline, with cafes and restaurants lining the water.

Palm Jumeirah

Take the monorail along this palm-shaped island for coastal views, beach clubs, and photo stops of Dubai’s modern shoreline.

Dubai Creek

Cross the creek on a traditional wooden boat and wander the narrow lanes of the old trading areas and restored historic houses.

Desert excursions

Join an evening desert trip to experience golden dunes, soft light, and expansive horizons just beyond the city limits.

Dubai Fountain

Watch choreographed water shows set to music at the base of Burj Khalifa, best enjoyed after dark when the city lights up.

Jumeirah Beach

Relax on soft sand with views of iconic hotels and the blue Gulf waters, with shaded areas and facilities nearby.

Experience Dubai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Dubai’s metro and tram lines link key districts such as the airport, Downtown, and Dubai Marina, making longer journeys simple. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available for door-to-door trips, while shaded pavements and waterfront promenades are ideal for short walks in cooler hours.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Dubai revolves around comfortable indoor spaces, waterfront strolls, and relaxed evenings in open-air areas once the sun is lower. Different neighbourhoods have distinct characters, from sleek high-rise clusters to older trading quarters along the creek that hint at the city’s maritime roots.

Where to unwind
You can unwind on city beaches, in landscaped parks, or by wandering air-conditioned indoor gardens and promenades in major complexes. Early mornings and evenings are the most pleasant times to enjoy outdoor spaces, when the light softens and temperatures are more comfortable.

A taste of Dubai

Street food & local specialties
You will find simple eateries and casual spots serving grilled meats, flatbreads, and rice dishes, especially in older neighbourhoods and around small local centres. International flavours are easy to find alongside regional specialities, giving you plenty to sample in one day.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern dining districts cluster around Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and large malls, where you can choose from cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and global chains. Portions are often generous, so sharing or ordering several dishes to try a mix of flavours works well for groups.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable experience, choose venues with skyline, marina, or waterfront views, or restaurants located in landmark towers. Many hotels also offer refined all-day dining, where you can enjoy carefully prepared menus in calm, well-designed surroundings.

Retail therapy in Dubai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dubai’s malls act as social and lifestyle centres, bringing together international brands, cinemas, indoor attractions, and large dining areas. Air-conditioned and spacious, they are comfortable places to spend a few hours browsing, especially during the warmer parts of the day.

Markets & local crafts
Alongside modern retail, you can explore areas known for textiles, gold, and handicrafts in the older creekside districts. Smaller streets and shopping arcades around these neighbourhoods are good places to look for souvenirs, local designs, and more traditional items.

Evening retail scene
Many malls and key shopping streets are open late, with illuminated facades and lively promenades creating an evening atmosphere that feels relaxed yet vibrant. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach these areas after dark and return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Dubai

Winter season (November to March, peak season)
During the winter months, daytime temperatures usually range from about 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This is considered peak season, with comfortable conditions for outdoor sightseeing, beach visits, and desert trips, and many outdoor events taking place across the city.

Shoulder season (April to May, and October, shoulder season)
In these months, temperatures typically sit between 28°C and 35°C (82°F to 95°F). As a shoulder season, days are warmer but still manageable, especially in the mornings and evenings, and you can enjoy quieter attractions and pleasant late-night walks along waterfronts.

Summer season (June to September, low season)
Summer brings higher temperatures, often between 35°C and 40°C (95°F to 104°F), with strong sunshine. This low season is ideal if you prefer indoor activities, as malls, hotels, and attractions are well cooled, and you can plan short early or late outdoor moments around the heat.

Frequently Asked Questions