Flights from Rome (FCO) to Dubai (DXB)

About Dubai

Dubai, where desert meets futuristic skyline

Dubai is a city of striking contrasts, where glass skyscrapers rise from golden desert landscapes and traditional souks sit alongside vast air-conditioned malls. You can stroll along the waterfront at Dubai Marina one moment, then find yourself exploring historic lanes along Dubai Creek the next. The city is designed for visitors, with efficient transport, clear signage, and a welcoming, international atmosphere.

Whether you are travelling for business, a family holiday, or a short stopover, Dubai offers a wide choice of hotels, dining, and attractions. From theme parks and beaches to cultural districts and design hubs, you can tailor your stay to be as relaxed or as active as you like. Warm weather most of the year and reliable sunshine make it easy to plan time outdoors, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings.

Top sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Ride high-speed lifts to observation decks in the world-famous tower and take in sweeping views of Dubai and the surrounding desert.

Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain

Browse hundreds of stores, then head outside in the evening to watch the choreographed fountain show set against the city skyline.

Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi District

Cross the creek by traditional boat and wander through restored alleys lined with wind towers, museums, and art spaces.

Palm Jumeirah

Visit this palm-shaped island for beachfront resorts, dining with sea views, and a monorail ride along its trunk.

Desert experiences

Venture beyond the city limits for dune landscapes, scenic sunset photo stops, and peaceful desert horizons.

Experience Dubai on land, water, and sand

You can experience Dubai at your own pace, from relaxed waterfront strolls to guided city tours. Hop-on, hop-off buses and organised excursions make it easy to see the major sights, including Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and the historic creek area, with informative commentary along the way.

Out on the water, dhow cruises and modern boat tours offer a different view of the skyline, especially around sunset when the towers light up. If you enjoy more active pursuits, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and skydiving over the Palm are all popular options. In the desert, guided trips let you explore the dunes in controlled conditions, stopping at viewpoints and designated rest areas to appreciate the stillness of the landscape.

For a cultural angle, plan time in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the nearby museums and galleries. Creative districts such as Alserkal Avenue host exhibitions, performances, and design shops, giving you insight into the citys growing arts scene.

A taste of Dubai

Dubai is known for its diverse food scene, shaped by influences from across the Middle East, South Asia, Europe, and beyond. You can start the day with freshly baked flatbreads and aromatic coffee, then later try grilled meats, fragrant rice dishes, and mezze-style sharing plates. Many neighbourhoods offer casual eateries where menus are displayed clearly and staff are used to explaining dishes to visitors.

Waterfront areas such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and the Palm are popular for leisurely dinners, with many restaurants offering outdoor terraces in the cooler months. Shopping districts and malls also house a wide range of cafés, bakeries, and dessert shops, which makes it easy to combine a meal with your sightseeing.

For something more contemporary, reservations-only restaurants led by well-known chefs showcase seasonal ingredients and carefully composed tasting menus. Whether you prefer street-side snacks or refined dining rooms with skyline views, you will find plenty of options to match your style and schedule.

Retail therapy in a city of malls and markets

Dubai is famous for its expansive malls, where you can find international fashion, electronics, beauty brands, and homeware under one roof. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates are destinations in their own right, with attractions, dining, and entertainment alongside their many shops. Air-conditioned spaces and extended opening hours make it easy to browse at almost any time of day.

Traditional souks near Dubai Creek offer a different kind of shopping experience, with narrow lanes filled with small stores selling textiles, jewellery, perfumes, and spices. Here, shopping is as much about atmosphere as it is about what you buy, and it is worth taking time to wander and explore.

Design-focused districts and smaller boutiques are growing across the city, particularly in areas like City Walk and Alserkal Avenue. These are ideal if you are looking for contemporary fashion, artwork, or locally inspired gifts. With such variety, you can combine big-name brands with memorable finds to take home.

Best time to visit Dubai

Winter season (November to March, shoulder season): Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Days are warm and evenings comfortably cool, ideal for outdoor sightseeing, beach visits, and desert excursions. This period draws many visitors, creating a lively but still relaxed atmosphere across the city.

Shoulder heat (April to May, shoulder season): Temperatures generally sit between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It feels noticeably warmer, but mornings and evenings are still pleasant for walking tours and alfresco dining. Hotel pools and indoor attractions help you balance time outside with time in cooler, air-conditioned spaces.

Summer season (June to October, low season): Average temperatures often range from 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F), with high humidity at times. Most activities comfortably shift indoors, where malls, attractions, and restaurants are well air-conditioned. Early-morning and late-evening hours work well for beach strolls and skyline photo stops, creating a different perspective on the city.

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