Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Dubai (DXB)

About Dubai

Discover Dubai

Why visit Dubai?
Dubai is a modern desert city where futuristic skylines meet calm waterfronts and wide, open sands. You will find striking architecture, relaxing beach resorts, and an international atmosphere that welcomes visitors from around the world.

What to expect
The city is defined by landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, alongside vast malls, waterfront promenades, and carefully planned neighbourhoods. Air-conditioned spaces, efficient roads, and well-signed areas make it easy to navigate between the coast, old town, and newer districts.

Plan your trip
Dubai is a convenient gateway to the wider region, with connections across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Many travellers combine a city stay with time by the beach or in the desert, making use of the citys hotels, attractions, and year-round calendar of events.

Top sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Ride high-speed lifts to observation decks in the worlds tallest tower and take in sweeping views over Downtown Dubai and the desert beyond.

Dubai Mall

Explore one of the largest shopping centres globally, home to international brands, an impressive aquarium, and family-friendly entertainment.

Dubai Marina

Stroll along the marina promenade, enjoy waterside cafés, and admire the skyline of high-rise towers and luxury yachts.

Palm Jumeirah

Visit this iconic palm-shaped island for beachfront hotels, relaxed seaside dining, and views back towards the city skyline.

Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi

Take a traditional boat across Dubai Creek and wander the narrow lanes of the Al Fahidi historical district to see restored wind-tower houses.

Desert safari

Head into the surrounding dunes for guided desert experiences, sunset views, and starry night skies away from the city lights.

Dubai Frame

Walk across a glass-floored skybridge that frames panoramic views of both old and new Dubai from a single vantage point.

Experience Dubais everyday rhythm

Getting around
The Dubai Metro is a fast and reliable way to travel between the airport, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and several key districts. For a different perspective, try a tram ride around the marina or a water taxi along the creek, then use taxis or ride-hailing services for shorter hops.

Local life & culture
Daily life centres on cool, air-conditioned malls, relaxed cafés, and waterfront promenades that come alive in the evenings. In older areas near Dubai Creek, you can see traditional trading districts, while newer neighbourhoods such as City Walk and Jumeirah Beach Residence have a more contemporary feel.

Where to unwind
You can relax along public beaches facing the Arabian Gulf, where early mornings and late afternoons are especially pleasant. Many hotels offer pool access and shaded loungers, and city parks with leafy spaces provide a quieter break from the skyline and shopping streets.

A taste of Dubai

Street food & local specialties
You can sample grilled meats, fragrant rice dishes, and regional snacks in casual eateries around old Dubai and neighbourhood cafés. Areas near Dubai Creek and Al Karama are known for simple, flavourful plates that reflect both local and wider regional influences.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern dining districts such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and City Walk offer a wide choice of international cuisines. Many restaurants serve sharing plates or smaller portions, making it easy to try several dishes in one meal with family or friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, choose venues with views of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, or the wide sweep of Palm Jumeirah. Rooftop terraces, beachfront restaurants, and high-floor dining rooms offer a calm setting to watch the city lights while you enjoy a long, unhurried dinner.

Retail therapy in Dubai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dubai is known for its large, comfortable malls that combine shopping, dining, and entertainment. At Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and other lifestyle centres, you will find international labels, local designers, cinemas, and indoor attractions under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the malls, traditional souks near Dubai Creek offer textiles, perfumes, and decorative items in a more intimate setting. In districts such as Al Fahidi and Alserkal Avenue, smaller galleries and boutiques showcase regional art, design pieces, and handmade gifts.

Evening retail scene
Many shopping areas stay open late, with illuminated façades and busy promenades creating a relaxed evening atmosphere. Night-time visits to waterfront retail districts are popular, and public transport and taxis make it straightforward to reach these areas after dark.

Best time to visit Dubai

Winter season (December to February, peak season)
During winter, daytime temperatures in Dubai average around 20–25°C (68–77°F), with cooler evenings and very little rainfall. It is a popular time for outdoor dining, beach walks, and exploring the citys main attractions in comfortable conditions, so many events are scheduled then.

Shoulder season (March to May, shoulder season)
In spring, temperatures gradually rise from about 25°C (77°F) towards the low to mid-30s°C (mid-80s to low-90s°F). Warm days are ideal for pool time and indoor attractions, while early mornings and later evenings remain pleasant for marina strolls and open-air cafés.

Summer season (June to September, low season)
Summer brings hot conditions, often above 35–40°C (95–104°F), with high sunshine hours and warm evenings. This period highlights Dubais indoor lifestyle, with malls, indoor theme parks, and hotel facilities offering cool, comfortable spaces to enjoy your stay.

Autumn transition (October to November, shoulder season)
In autumn, temperatures ease from the high 30s°C (around 100°F) back towards the low 30s°C (upper 80s°F). The sea remains warm, evenings become more comfortable, and more outdoor events and alfresco venues gradually reopen across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions