Discover
United Arab Emirates
Dubai does nothing by halves
This is the city of the world's tallest building, palm-shaped islands, indoor ski slopes and malls the size of small towns, rising out of the Arabian desert alongside traditional souks and spice markets.
It's a destination built for indulgence: beach resorts with private cabanas, sky-high dining, desert camps under the stars and some of the world's most glamorous hotels. It's also surprisingly family-friendly, with water parks, theme parks and endless winter sunshine.
For Australians, Dubai is both a destination in itself and the perfect stopover on the way to Europe.
Exclusive Holiday Getaways members could be swapping the commute for the Burj Khalifa through our weekly holiday giveaways, all while enjoying member rewards and supporting our charity partners.
How To Get There
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is Emirates' home base, with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Qantas customers can fly on Emirates through the two airlines' partnership.
Perth: about 11 hours
Adelaide: about 13.5 hours
Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane: about 14 to 14.5 hours
Dubai is six to seven hours behind Australian eastern time.
Getting Around Dubai
Dubai Metro: fast, clean and cheap, linking the airport, Downtown, Dubai Marina and the malls. Women-only and Gold Class carriages are available.
Taxis and ride-hailing: plentiful and reasonably priced, through Careem, Uber or the official cream-coloured taxis.
Tram and monorail: the tram serves Dubai Marina, and the monorail runs along Palm Jumeirah.
Abra water taxis: cross Dubai Creek between the old souks for just a few dirhams.
Best Time To Visit
November to March: peak season, with warm, sunny days around 24–30°C. Perfect for beaches, desert trips and outdoor dining.
April to May and October: hot but manageable, with better hotel deals.
June to September: extremely hot, often over 40°C. Prices drop sharply, and you'll spend most of the day indoors or by the pool.
Ramadan: dates move each year. It's a fascinating time to visit, but expect shorter opening hours and respect rules on eating and drinking in public during daylight.
Things To Do
Downtown and Modern Dubai
Burj Khalifa: ride to the observation decks of the world's tallest building. Book a sunset slot.
Dubai Fountain: the free evening fountain show at the foot of the Burj, set to music.
Dubai Mall: shopping, an aquarium, an ice rink and hundreds of restaurants under one roof.
Museum of the Future: a striking building with immersive exhibitions about tomorrow's world.
Old Dubai
Al Fahidi Historical District: wander the wind-tower houses, galleries and cafés of old Dubai.
Gold and Spice Souks: haggle for gold, saffron and spices across Dubai Creek.
Abra ride: cross the creek the traditional way, by wooden water taxi.
Beaches and the Desert
Desert safari: dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and a Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
Hot air balloon: a sunrise flight over the desert dunes.
Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach: clear, warm water and views of the Burj Al Arab.
Palm Jumeirah: beach clubs, waterfront dining and the Atlantis resort.
Family Fun
Water parks: Aquaventure at Atlantis and Wild Wadi.
Ski Dubai: real snow, skiing and penguins inside the Mall of the Emirates.
Theme parks: IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai Parks and Resorts.
Where To Stay
Downtown Dubai: for Burj Khalifa views and walking access to the Dubai Mall and fountains.
Palm Jumeirah: for beach resorts and private beaches, with family favourites and ultra-luxury hotels.
Jumeirah Beach: for classic beachfront resorts with views of the Burj Al Arab.
Dubai Marina and JBR: a lively waterfront with beaches, restaurants and good-value apartments.
Desert resorts: for a night or two of total escape among the dunes.
Budget Guide
Dubai can be as extravagant as you like, but it doesn't have to be. As a rough guide per person, per day, excluding flights:
Budget: around A$120–200 for a simple hotel, casual dining and the Metro
Mid-range: around A$300–500 for a four- or five-star hotel, restaurant meals and a desert safari
Luxury: A$800+ for iconic resorts, fine dining and private experiences
Luxury hotels can be excellent value in the hotter months, from June to September.
Past Giveaways
Dreaming of desert sunsets and skyline views? Explore our latest holiday giveaways for your chance to win.
Past Giveaways
FAQs
No visa is needed in advance. Australian passport holders receive a free visa on arrival in the UAE, typically valid for 30 days. Your passport needs at least six months' validity. Check Smartraveller before you travel.
The UAE has strict rules on medication. Some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines, including some containing codeine, are controlled or banned. Check the UAE Ministry of Health's rules and carry your prescription and a doctor's letter.
Swimwear is fine at beaches, pools and resorts. In malls, souks and public places, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women should cover their hair when visiting mosques.
Yes, in licensed venues such as hotels, bars and restaurants. Drinking in public or being drunk in public is illegal.
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