Flights from London (LON) to Dubai (DXB)

About Dubai

Dubai, where desert meets futuristic skyline

Dubai is a city of striking contrasts, where glass towers rise from golden sand and traditional souks sit beside expansive malls. As one of the Middle Easts most dynamic cities, it blends innovative architecture, waterfront promenades, and lively neighbourhoods into a destination that feels both modern and welcoming. Whether you are visiting for a short break or an extended stay, you will find plenty to explore in compact, well-connected districts.

Along the coast, pristine beaches line the Arabian Gulf, offering calm waters and sweeping views of the city skyline. Inland, you can wander atmospheric lanes by the historic creek, step into air-conditioned galleries and cafes, or head to rooftop terraces as the sun sets behind the skyscrapers. With reliable transport, well-developed visitor facilities, and year-round attractions, Dubai is an easy city to navigate at your own pace.

Dubai also serves as a convenient base for exploring the region, with day trips into the desert and boat excursions along the coast. From family-friendly theme parks to sophisticated dining and design-focused hotels, the city is designed around comfort and variety, letting you tailor your stay to exactly how you like to travel.

Top sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Ride the high-speed lifts to the observation decks of the Burj Khalifa for expansive views across Dubais skyline and desert.

Dubai Mall and Fountain

Explore one of the worlds largest malls, then step outside in the evening to watch the choreographed Dubai Fountain shows.

Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi district

Stroll narrow lanes of restored wind-tower houses by Dubai Creek and see how the city looked before its modern transformation.

Palm Jumeirah

Walk or cycle along the Palm Jumeirah waterfront and admire the engineering that created this palm-shaped island development.

Desert experiences

Join an organised desert outing to cross rolling dunes, watch the changing light at sunset, and experience the quiet of the open landscape.

Experience Dubai on land, sea, and sand

You can experience Dubai from many angles, from walking tours through heritage quarters to cruises along the coastline. Around Dubai Creek and the Al Fahidi area, guided walks introduce you to traditional architecture, local crafts, and small museums. These compact districts are ideal for exploring on foot in the cooler hours of the day, with cafes and galleries providing shaded breaks.

For time by the water, head to Jumeirah Beach or the Marina area, where you can swim, try gentle water sports, or join a boat trip to see the skyline from the sea. Boardwalks and promenades are designed for strolling, jogging, or simply sitting to watch the city lights. Many operators offer evening cruises, giving you a relaxed way to see illuminated towers and waterfront landmarks.

Beyond the city, desert experiences are a highlight. Organised trips from Dubai take you over dunes by 4x4 or on more leisurely routes, often with stops at scenic viewpoints. In the cooler months, you can also try outdoor activities such as cycling tracks, hot air balloon rides at sunrise, or visits to nature reserves on the urban edge, where you see how the landscape changes from city to desert.

A taste of Dubai

Dubais dining scene reflects its global outlook, with restaurants that range from relaxed waterfront cafes to refined fine-dining venues. You will find simple eateries serving grilled meats, rice dishes, and fresh bread alongside contemporary restaurants offering tasting menus and creative takes on regional flavours. Many hotels house notable restaurants, which makes it easy to find a memorable meal close to where you stay.

Beachfront areas and the Marina are popular for long lunches and evening dinners, where you can sit outdoors when the weather is cooler and enjoy views of the sea or skyline. In older neighbourhoods by Dubai Creek, smaller cafes and restaurants offer a quieter atmosphere, with menus focused on comforting everyday dishes and fresh juices.

Food halls and modern markets have also become part of the citys landscape, bringing together a variety of international cuisines under one roof. Whether you prefer casual street-style bites, family-friendly buffets, or chef-led experiences, Dubai offers a wide range of options, often within easy reach of major attractions and shopping districts.

Retail therapy in the desert city

Dubai is known for its large, air-conditioned malls, where you can browse international brands, design labels, and homeware in one place. These complexes often combine shopping with entertainment such as cinemas, aquariums, and indoor attractions, making them easy places to spend a few hours between sightseeing. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates are among the most visited, with clear wayfinding and helpful services for visitors.

If you prefer a more traditional atmosphere, head to the historic souks near Dubai Creek. Here, narrow alleyways are lined with shops selling textiles, gold jewellery, perfumes, and everyday goods. Even if you are not planning to buy, wandering through these markets offers a vivid sense of the citys trading heritage and lively street life.

Waterfront districts and newer developments also feature open-air retail promenades, where you can combine shopping with dining and views. Look out for local designers, artisan products, and regional crafts in dedicated boutiques or seasonal markets. With extended opening hours and a relaxed approach to browsing, you can choose the time of day that suits you best.

Best time to visit Dubai

Winter season (November to March, peak season). Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), with warm days and cooler evenings. This is considered ideal for outdoor sightseeing, beachfront walks, and desert excursions, and many festivals and events take place during these months.

Shoulder season (April to May, and October). Expect temperatures around 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with plenty of sunshine and gradually warmer days. It is a good time to enjoy poolside breaks, indoor attractions, and evening strolls, with slightly quieter beaches and popular sights compared with mid-winter.

Summer season (June to September, low season). Temperatures can climb above 38°C (100°F), often reaching 40°C to 42°C (104°F to 108°F), but indoor spaces are well air-conditioned. This is a positive time to focus on malls, museums, and hotel facilities, and to enjoy quieter attractions during the hottest part of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions