ViewsBurj Khalifa
The world's tallest building at 828 meters; the top decks are on the 124th floor and above.
Cheap flights to Dubai
Compare flights to Dubai, United Arab Emirates from anywhere in the world. Add where you're leaving from, pick dates if you have them, and book with the seller.
Dubai at a glance
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Airports
- Dubai International (DXB)
- Search code
DXB- Money
- UAE dirham (AED)
Discover Dubai
Desert dunes, the world's tallest building and old trading souks along a historic creek. Dubai mixes Arabian tradition with record-breaking ambition.
What it's called
- دبي (Dubayy)its Arabic name
- City of Goldfor its famous gold souk
- Pearl of the Gulffrom its pearl-diving past
Things to do in Dubai
Views
NatureDesert safari
Dune bashing, camel rides and dinner under the stars.
CultureDubai Creek and the souks
Cross on an abra boat to the gold and spice souks.
HistoryAl Fahidi Historical District
Old wind-tower houses and the city's museum quarter.
NightlifeDubai Fountain
A free show of dancing water and light in front of the Burj Khalifa.
BeachJumeirah Beach
Swim with the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab in view.
About the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is seven emirates on the Arabian Gulf, joined as one country in 1971. In about 50 years, pearl-diving and fishing towns grew into cities of record-breaking towers, man-made islands and giant malls.
- CapitalAbu Dhabi
- MoneyUAE dirham (AED)
- LanguageArabic; English is used everywhere
Economy
Oil made the country rich, but most of the economy now comes from trade, tourism, aviation, property and finance. Dubai's airport is one of the busiest in the world for international travelers, and Emirates and Etihad fly worldwide.
Culture
An Arab, Muslim culture with a very international population, as most residents come from abroad. Hospitality runs deep: Arabic coffee and dates, falconry, camel racing and souks sit alongside world-class restaurants. Dress modestly in mosques and traditional areas.
Places to visit
- Abu DhabiSheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Liwasome of the highest dunes in Arabia
- Ras Al KhaimahJebel Jais, the country's highest mountain
- Sharjahmuseums and old souks
- Fujairahbeaches and diving on the Gulf of Oman
Why the United Arab Emirates is worth it for you
- Sunshine almost guaranteedWinter days are warm and dry, perfect for the beach.
- Safe and spotlessLow crime and very clean cities.
- The perfect stopoverA hub between Europe, Asia and Africa, great for breaking up long trips.
- Shopping festivalsBig sales seasons, and tourists can claim back VAT on purchases.
Travel more of the United Arab Emirates
Places worth adding to your trip, from Dubai or on another visit.
CultureAbu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
NatureJebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
The UAE's highest mountain, with one of the world's longest ziplines.
NatureHatta
Kayaking and mountain biking in the Hajar Mountains.
HistoryAl Ain
The Garden City, with ancient oases and forts.
Eat like a local
- ShawarmaSpit-roasted meat in warm bread.
- Al machboosSpiced rice with meat, an Emirati favorite.
- LuqaimatSweet fried dumplings with date syrup.
The story of Dubai
Dubai was a small fishing and pearl-diving town when the Al Maktoum family settled here in 1833. Oil was found in 1966, the UAE formed in 1971, and the city grew into a global hub in a single lifetime.
The United Arab Emirates through history
- Before 1900s
Pearl diving and sea trade shape life on the coast.
- 1833
The Al Maktoum family settles in Dubai.
- 1966
Oil is discovered off Dubai.
- 1971
Seven emirates form the United Arab Emirates.
- 2010
The Burj Khalifa opens as the world's tallest building.
Good to know
- Best time to go
- November to March is warm and sunny; summer often passes 40°C (104°F).
- Getting around
- The Metro is fast and spotless; taxis are easy to find.
- Language
- Arabic; English is used everywhere
Ready to see Dubai for yourself?
Find flights to DubaiPopular routes
Flights to Dubai
Flights from Dubai
Tips for flying to Dubai
- Al Maktoum International (DWC) also serves Dubai.
- No fixed dates? Leave them blank: the search opens with your route filled in so you can compare nearby days.
- Compare the total price with bags. Some of the lowest fares leave out checked luggage or seat selection.
- You book with the airline or travel agency directly, so check their name and change rules before you pay.
When you land in Dubai
Places to stay, things to do and getting around, from trusted travel brands.
Questions about Dubai
Which airports serve Dubai?
Dubai International (DXB). Search code: DXB.
What currency is used in Dubai?
UAE dirham (AED).
How do I find cheap flights to Dubai?
Enter where you're flying from in the search above. JetSetCheap compares fares from hundreds of airlines and travel agencies, then you book directly with the seller.