City of superlatives
Dubai takes you to an exotic paradise of white sand beaches, futuristic landscapes and vast shopping malls mixed with ancient Arabic tradition. There is something for everyone within this exciting UAE metropolis, where families will enjoy spending precious time together on the picture postcard Jumeriah Beach. For adventurers, the stunning Arabian Desert awaits and allows you to sample sand boarding, explore camel farms or enjoy a desert jeep safari.
Take a tour along the pretty Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden abra, before taking a stroll through the atmospheric souks where you can haggle for a holiday bargain. Select from an array of beautiful handmade jewellery, striking leather goods and aromatic spices including saffron and cinnamon. Be sure to take a break at the authentic cafés serving shisha and thick Arabic coffee and watch the world go by.
Holidays in Dubai offer upmarket amenities within Dubai City, which has been carved out of the desert. Designer shopping awaits at the boutiques lining the extensive, modern malls in addition to plenty of tax free bargains. When hunger strikes, sample the Michelin starred restaurants and chic cafés that make Dubai so popular with foodies. You will be spoilt for choice with our fine collection of luxury hotels in Dubai. Atlantis The Palm is a spectacular oceanic resort perched on the world’s largest manmade island, Atlantis. Guests can indulge in a luxury Spa, Aquarium and over 20 bars and restaurants.
Head 10 minutes out of downtown Dubai, and you’ll soon be in the Dubai Desert – a huge swathe of red-gold sand dotted with tiny towns and designer hotels.
Flight time from the UK to Dubai is approximately 6 hours 30 minutes.
Summers in Dubai are seriously hot – 40°C kind of hot. Although all buildings are air conditioned, outdoor activities can be uncomfortable in this kind of heat, and some may even be closed. November to April is the best time to visit Dubai; rain is scarce, and temperatures stay at a comfortable mid-20s average.
British citizens will be granted a free 30-day visa upon arrival in Dubai.
In most tourist destinations in the Emirates (such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi), it’s customary to leave a 10% cash tip in restaurants. Small tips are appreciated for other services; aim for five to 20 UAE dirhams for porters bringing your bags to your room and for taxi drivers.
The official language of Dubai is Arabic. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.
