Dubai, UAE Travel Guide
Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. It’s a global city and business hub of the Middle East. Based on the latest Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index was visited by 15.79 million travelers. Dubai is the fourth most-visited city in the world according to this report after Bangkok, London and Paris. The city leaves behind Singapore, New York City and Tokyo on the list. Dubai has attracted world attention through large construction projects like the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
Most of the major cities in the world falling under Alpha and Beta categories are connected with nonstop flights to Dubai. Emirates dominate the flight routes. Hence, all options from economy to premium economy, business and first class flights are open for you.
Quick Facts
- 6 months validity after date of arrival
- One page required for entry stamp
- Not required for stays under 30 days
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY/EXIT Geographic Location
Dubai is an integral part of the Arabian Desert. It is located on the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates and is at 16 m or 52 ft above the sea level. The city shares borders with Abu Dhabi in the south, Sharjah in the northeast, and the Sultanate of Oman in the southeast.
Dubai is located at 25.2697°N 55.3095°E. The city has an area of 1,588 sq mi (4,110 km2). The city has expanded itself 88 sq mi into the Arabian Sea.
Airports in Dubai
Dubai is a major transport hub in the Middle East and the world. The city is served by two major airports as mentioned below:
1. Dubai International Airport Location: Dubai International Airport is situated in the Al Garhoud district, 2.5 nautical miles (4.6 km; 2.9 mi) east of Dubai
Hub For: Emirates, flydubai
Focus City For: UAE Air, Mahan Air
Interesting Facts: Dubai International Airport ranks as the 3rd busiest airport by international passenger traffic after Atlanta GA, US (ATL) and Beijing, CN (PEK) airports, according to the Airports Council International Report.
2. Dubai World Central Airport Official Name: Al Maktoum International Airport
Location: 23 miles or 37 kilometers southwest of Dubai in Jebel Ali
Interesting Facts: The airport still under constructions intends to handle all types of aircraft. Up to four aircraft will be able to land simultaneously.
Airlines Operating Nonstop Flights to Dubai from USA
Origin US Cities | Airlines |
San Francisco (SFO) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Los Angeles (LAX) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates, Jetblue Airways |
New York City (JFK) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates, Jetblue Airways |
Houston (HOU) to Dubai | Emirates, Jetblue Airways |
Boston (BOS) to Dubai | Emirates, Jetblue Airways |
Seattle (SEA) to Dubai | Emirates, Jetblue Airways |
Airlines Operating Nonstop Flights to Dubai from Non-US Cities
Origin Global Cities | Airlines |
Hong Kong (HKG) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Singapore (SIN) to Dubai (DXB) | |
London (BKK) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Amman, AMM to Dubai (DXB) | |
Beijing, PEK to Dubai (DXB) | |
Johannesburg, JNB to Dubai (DXB) | |
Incheon (ICN) to Dubai (DXB) | |
Madrid (MAD) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Rio De Janeiro (GIG) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Paris (CDG) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Taipei (TPE) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Barcelona (BCN) to Dubai (DXB) | Emirates |
Frankfurt (BCN) to Dubai (DXB) | |
How Long is the Flight to Dubai?
It’s important to know the flight distance to London from your city or departure airport. Take a look at the flight distance and expected time an airplane might take to cover that distance. Nonstop and connecting flight options are available. Possible layover airports could be New York – JFK, Abu Dhabi – AUH, and Beijing – PEK.
Distance to Dubai from prominent US cities are mentioned below. Take a look at the flight distance and flight time (doesn’t include the layover time).
Flight | Flight Distance | Flight Time |
San Francisco to Dubai Flight | 8,096 miles/13029 km | 16 hours 41 minutes |
Los Angeles, CA to Dubai Flight | 8,333 miles/13410 km | 17 hours 10 minutes |
Chicago, IL to Dubai Flight | 7,244 miles/11658 km | 14 hours 59 minutes |
New York City to Dubai Flight | 6,848 miles / 11021 km | 14 hours 12 minutes |
Dallas to Dubai Flight | 8,041 miles/12941 km | 16 hours 35 minutes |
Philadelphia, PA to Dubai | 6,933 miles / 11158 km | 14 hours, 22 minutes |
Best Time to Visit Dubai
Winter, the time between December and March, is the best time to visit Dubai, UAE. However, you are most likely to witness a surge in flight booking tickets as well as hotel accommodation charges. The crowd influx also makes it difficult to find cabs at a reasonable rate. Hence, consider visiting the city during spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) when the weather is pleasant, the crowd is manageable, and rates are affordable.
What are the Top Attractions in Dubai?
1. Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort Dubai Museum is the main museum in Dubai that is sheltered in the Al Fahidi Fort. Constructed in 1787, this is the oldest existing building in Dubai. Entering the fort, a path takes you to the galleries that showcase antiquities and artefacts from the 1800s. Besides holding domestic items, the museum also houses artefacts derived from African and Asian countries that had trade relations with Dubai. The museum also has got dioramas showing life in the Emirate before the advent of oil dating as old as 3000 BC. The museum receives over 1 million visitors in the year 2013.
2. The Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre Built over 35,000 square metres, this is a complex including a 39-storey office tower, the World Trade Centre Residence, eight exhibition halls and the Dubai International Convention Centre. It was built in 1979 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai. The convention center can accommodate more than 4500 delegates in its multi-purpose hall. Book your low-cost airplane tickets to Dubai to have a glimpse of this incredible space.
Originally referred to as the Dubai Clocktower, it has been recognized by Telegraph newspaper as one of the 17 most beautiful clock towers around the world. It’s in eastern Dubai in Deira, at the intersection of Umm Hurrair Road and route D 89 (Al Maktoum Road).
Visiting a destination and not getting acquainted with its culture is something indigestible. Get the most of your Dubai flight deal by taking a trip to this Heritage Village that showcases the ancient customs of the country and the special characteristics of old houses, handicrafts, patterns, and much more. Dubai Culture & Arts Authority is its administrative body. Working hours at Dubai Heritage Village are Sunday to Thursday, 8:00- 22:00, Friday and Saturday from 3:00 to 22:00.
Adventures in Dubai, UAE
A free-fall from Sand islands, the world’s tallest building or from Dubai Marina could be an unforgettable life-time experience. The former takes the shape of the world map and is occupied with hotels resembling huge chandeliers. The speed of the fall gives an adrenaline rush. The entire setup of your ensemble is designed meticulously. The parachute opens at the right time to make the fall safe and secure. Once it opens, you will feel relaxed.
The Hajar Mountains running east of Dubai through Ras al-Khaimah emirate and Oman is a paradise for mountain bikers. There are much hardcore organization devoted to making travellers have the best mountain biking experience. There are several narrow trails, wadi beds and animal paths to test your mettle.
The best way to say hello to Dubai is to throw the gear in a 4×4 and head for the nearest set of dunes. Far from the hustle and bustle of the urban life, it’s time to discover you. Off the Dubai to Hatta road, Shwaib is a good spot. Spend an evening and enjoy barbecue, henna painting, camel ride and belly dance.
4. Reef- and wreck-diving Had there been no reef and wreck nobody would risk their life for the sake of entertainment. But thanks the Red Sea along the Middle East is covered with a reef that makes the diving or other water sports safe. Moreover, the underwater experience is incredible. You come across a wide range of flora and fauna that not just look great but oxygenate the water to keep marine animals alive. Wondering how to book a cheap air ticket to Dubai?
Events in Dubai
1. Dubai Shopping Festival Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the largest shopping extravaganza in the Middle East. Started in 1996 to promote retail trades, the festival has moved beyond. It’s now clubbed with a diverse range of activities comprising fun and entertainment and food choices targeting adults and kids both. The festival sees a vast crowd including couples, family vacationers, and corporates. The celebration is attended by roughly 3 million visitors every year. Wondering when to visit? The festival is organized mainly in the first quarter of the city. Check DSF 2019 dates and the cheap flights.
The event is recognized as the region’s premier food and beverage, footwear, fashion, and lifestyle fair that bridges manufacturers, retailers and consumers. Discover the best products from the leading brands like Edson Sabajo, Stretch Armstrong, Greg Hervieux Black Rainbow, etc. The festival is held in December. Sole DXB 2019 is scheduled to be organized at Dubai Design District from December 6 to December 8.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cities in the USA have nonstop flights to Dubai? Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Houston–Intercontinental (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), Orlando (MCO), and San Francisco (SFO). Emirates Airline (EK) operate most of the nonstop flights.
2. How long does it take to fly to Dubai? The approximate distance and flight time between Medina and some popular US cities are as follows:
Departure City | Flight Distance | Flight Time | Time Difference |
New York (JFK) | 6,867 miles/10662 km | 14 hours 14 minute | Dubai is 08 hours ahead |
Los Angeles (LAX) | 8,390 miles (13502 km) | 17 hours 17 minutes | Dubai is 11 hours ahead |
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) | 8071 miles (12990 km) | 16 hours 39 minutes | Dubai is 09 hours ahead |
Denver (DEN) | 7,812 miles (12573 km) | 16 hours 07 minutes | Dubai is 10 hours ahead |
San Francisco (SFO) | 8,158 miles (13129 km) | 16 hours 49 minutes | Dubai is 11 hours ahead |
3. Which airline has the cheapest ticket to Dubai? Egyptair. It’s the flag carrier airline of Egypt, and a member of Star Alliance. Cairo International Airport (CAI) in Cairo, hub of the carrier, serves as a point of connection for connecting flights between USA and Dubai.
4. What is the minimum validity for travelers with US passport? 6 months validity after date of arrival.
5. Is tourist visa required for US citizens visiting United Arab Emirates? Not required for tourist stays under 30 days
6. What is the currency restriction for US citizens to visit United Arab Emirates? 7. What is the contact information of U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Dubai or UAE? Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4.
Telephone: +(971) (2) 414-2200
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(971) (0) 2-414-2200
Email: abudhabiacs@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Dubai
Corner of Al Seef Rd. and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Rd
Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000
Emergency Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000
Email: DubaiACS@state.gov
The normal work week in the UAE is Sunday through Thursday