Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Dubai (DXB)

About Dubai

Discover Dubai

Why visit Dubai?
Dubai is a modern desert city where futuristic skylines meet golden beaches and vast dunes. You can expect a blend of slick urban experiences, calm waterfronts, and easy access to adventures in the surrounding desert.

What to expect
The city centres on waterfront districts such as Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek, as well as iconic areas like Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. Air-conditioned malls, shaded promenades, and a well-planned road network make it straightforward to move between neighbourhoods.

Plan your trip
Dubai works well for short getaways and longer stays, with stays often combining beach time, city exploration, and desert excursions. It is also a natural gateway to the wider region, with onward links to other cities on the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.

Top sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

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

Dubai Mall

Explore one of the world’s largest shopping centres, complete with an aquarium, ice rink, and extensive dining options under one roof.

Dubai Marina

Stroll along the marina promenade, where residential towers, waterside cafés, and boat cruises create a lively evening atmosphere.

Palm Jumeirah

Visit the palm-shaped island for resort beaches, family attractions, and views back to the city skyline from the surrounding waters.

Dubai Creek

Take a traditional boat across the creek and explore the historic quarters and trading areas that shaped the early city.

Desert safaris

Head out of the city for dune landscapes, sunset viewpoints, and cool evening temperatures in the surrounding desert.

Dubai Frame

Walk through this giant picture-frame structure to see contrasting panoramas of Old and New Dubai from its elevated walkway.

Experience Dubai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
The Dubai Metro is an efficient way to travel between key districts such as the airport, Downtown, and Dubai Marina. Taxis and ride-hailing services fill in the gaps, while short walks along shaded promenades or through linked malls help you cover the last stretch comfortably.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Dubai blends international influences with long-standing trading traditions. Cafés, waterfront parks, and mall atriums act as informal meeting points, while different neighbourhoods showcase varied lifestyles, from relaxed coastal areas to bustling commercial zones.

Where to unwind
You can unwind along public beaches, landscaped creekside parks, or in hotel pool areas that overlook the sea or skyline. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor time, when the light softens and temperatures are more comfortable for walking or relaxing outside.

A taste of Dubai

Street food & local specialties
Dubai’s food scene brings together flavours from across the region and beyond, with casual eateries around Dubai Creek and older neighbourhoods serving grilled meats, rice dishes, and freshly baked breads. Small cafés and snack spots make it easy to try a variety of local-style plates.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and major malls, you will find an array of casual restaurants ranging from quick bites to family-style venues. Many places offer sharing plates and modest portions, encouraging you to sample several dishes over one relaxed meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable dining, choose restaurants with terraces facing the fountains in Downtown, elevated venues in skyscrapers, or seaside locations on Palm Jumeirah. These settings pair carefully prepared menus with views of the skyline, waterfront, or desert horizon.

Retail therapy in Dubai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dubai’s malls act as lifestyle destinations, combining international fashion labels, local designers, cinemas, and indoor attractions. Large centres such as those in Downtown and along Sheikh Zayed Road offer air-conditioned comfort and varied dining for full days indoors.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and characterful finds, explore traditional trading streets near Dubai Creek and newer creative districts on the city’s fringes. These areas showcase textiles, homeware, and regional-inspired crafts that differ from items found in the larger malls.

Evening retail scene
After dark, malls remain lively and shopping streets glow with illuminated façades and window displays. Night-time temperatures make outdoor promenades more inviting, and reliable public transport and taxis help you reach these areas and return to your hotel with ease.

Best time to visit Dubai

Winter season (November to March, peak season)
During the cooler months, daytime temperatures average around 20–26°C (68–79°F). Outdoor dining, beach visits, and desert excursions are particularly pleasant, and many cultural events and outdoor festivals take place across the city.

Shoulder season (April to early May, and late October, shoulder season)
In these transition months, temperatures rise to around 28–34°C (82–93°F), yet mornings and evenings remain comfortable. This is a good time for poolside stays, indoor attractions, and shorter walks along the waterfronts.

Summer season (May to September, low season)
Summer brings high heat, often 35–40°C (95–104°F) or more, but Dubai is well adapted with extensive air-conditioning, shaded walkways, and indoor attractions. It is an ideal time to focus on malls, indoor theme parks, and leisurely hotel stays.

Frequently Asked Questions