Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to United Arab Emirates

Discover the United Arab Emirates

Discover the United Arab Emirates

Why visit the United Arab Emirates?

The United Arab Emirates blends modern skylines with desert landscapes, coastal resorts, and rich heritage. You will find world-famous landmarks, luxury stays, and welcoming hospitality across its cities.

What to expect

Expect futuristic cityscapes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, restored historic quarters, and desert dunes within easy reach. The UAE offers year-round sunshine, family attractions, cultural districts, and waterfront promenades along the Arabian Gulf.

Plan your trip

Use the UAE as a gateway to the wider Middle East and beyond, with excellent air links and modern infrastructure. Plan time for both city sightseeing and day trips into the desert or along the coast.

Top experiences in the United Arab Emirates

Soak in Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Stroll Dubai Marina s waterfront promenades, then head to Palm Jumeirah for beach clubs, resorts, and sweeping views back to the city skyline.

Explore historic Dubai Creek

Take an abra boat across Dubai Creek, wander through restored alleys in Al Fahidi, and browse traditional souks filled with textiles, spices, and gold.

Head into the desert dunes

Join a guided desert excursion for dune drives, sunset photo stops, and a quiet moment under the stars away from the city lights.

Visit world-class museums and galleries

Discover striking museums and cultural districts that showcase regional art, history, and design in architecturally bold spaces.

Relax on the Arabian Gulf coast

Spend a day on public and resort beaches, where calm waters, waterfront cafés, and family-friendly promenades line the shore.

Experience the United Arab Emirates way of life

Getting around

The UAE is well connected by modern roads, taxis, and ride-hailing services, with metro and tram lines in Dubai and plentiful intercity buses. Domestic and regional flights link key cities and nearby countries for onward journeys.

Local life & culture

Daily life brings together Emirati traditions and a mix of international influences, from waterfront strolls and majlis-style gatherings to cultural festivals and art events. Dress codes are relaxed but respectful, and hospitality is warm and generous.

Where to unwind

Unwind at beach parks, landscaped waterfronts, and desert resorts that offer quiet pools and wide open views. Many hotels feature spas and rooftop terraces, while early mornings and evenings are ideal for peaceful walks outdoors.

A taste of the United Arab Emirates

National dishes & specialties

Look out for Emirati favourites such as slow-cooked rice and meat dishes, fragrant stews, and cardamom-scented sweets, often best enjoyed in heritage quarters and traditional-style cafés.

Casual & modern dining hubs

From waterfront food halls to mall food courts, you will find everything from Middle Eastern grills to Asian and European flavours. Each neighbourhood offers its own mix of cafés, bakeries, and relaxed restaurants suited to families and groups.

Signature & scenic dining

Enjoy sky-high restaurants with city views, beachfront venues beside the Gulf, or stylish hotel dining rooms that pair refined menus with thoughtfully designed interiors.

Retail therapy in the United Arab Emirates

Malls & lifestyle hubs

The UAE is known for vast malls that combine international brands, local designers, indoor attractions, and dining, giving you a full day out in air-conditioned comfort.

Markets & local crafts

Browse traditional souks and smaller boutiques for textiles, perfumes, and handicrafts, where you can find regional designs and distinctive keepsakes to bring home.

Evening retail scene

After dark, malls stay lively with late-opening shops and illuminated atriums, while promenades around marinas and waterfronts buzz with shoppers and diners.

Best time to visit the United Arab Emirates

The UAE has a desert climate with hot summers and warm, sunny winters.

From November to March (peak season), days are generally warm and pleasant, around 20–28°C (68–82°F), with cooler evenings that are ideal for outdoor sightseeing and desert trips. This is when most outdoor events and activities take place.

April to early June and October (shoulder season) bring hotter afternoons of about 30–36°C (86–97°F), with higher sunshine and rising humidity, but mornings and evenings can still feel comfortable for walks, sightseeing, and beach visits.

From late June to September (low season), temperatures are often 38–45°C (100–113°F) or higher, with high humidity along the coast. During this period, many travellers focus on air-conditioned attractions, indoor dining, and pool time, planning outdoor activities for very early or late in the day.

Frequently Asked Questions