When is the best time to fly to Dubai?
Peak season
Sunseekers needing a vitamin D top up should book cheap flights to Dubai for a short break or stopover enroute to their final destination. In terms of beach weather, this desert city has two seasons, hot and hotter. Blue skies and sunshine abide all year round, and the temperature hovers around a balmy 25C in the peak tourist season November to March. But expect to bump elbows on Jumeirah Beach, Dubai’s desirable weather attracts visitors from all over the world during this period. The Christmas holiday period and the short time after it are when prices are at their highest. Flights to Dubai are easy to come by since this is the hub for National Carrier Emirates which has flight routes all over the world, and is a popular stopover for Kiwis travelling to Europe. Book flight tickets and accommodation well in advance and keep an eye out for Emirates flight sales.
Off Season
July and August are uncomfortably hot and humid in Dubai but if you don’t mind hanging out in air conditioned hotels you’re most likely to find the cheapest flights to Dubai during these summer months.
When is the best time to book a flight to Dubai?
The best time to book a flight to Dubai is November/early December before the Christmas/New Year rush. The cooler weather means more people, however, and this is the busiest time for tourism. You can escape the crowds if you visit during summer, June to August, but the weather isn’t optimal for sightseeing unless you go outside very early in the morning or at dusk, and be sure to wear lots of sunscreen and drink lots of water.
How long is the flight to Dubai?
Flights from Auckland to Dubai – 17 hrs
Flights from Wellington to Dubai – 19 hrs 55 mins
Flights from Christchurch to Dubai - 19 hrs 25 mins
Flights from Dunedin to Dubai - 20 hrs
Which airlines operate flights to Dubai?
Emirates is your best bet for cheap flights to Dubai, with a direct, non-stop flight from Auckland every day of the week. Qantas, Thai Airways, Qatar and Cathay Pacific also operate flights to Dubai with one stop-off.
How to get from the airport to the city centre?
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is 4.6km east of Dubai city centre and the airport has good public transport connections. Outside terminal 1, there is a bus stop across the road to the right as you exit customs (approximately 50m away); at terminal 3, there is a bus stop on the second level of the terminal. Taxis and limos are a popular alternative, albeit more expensive, whilst many hotels offer free shuttle transport from the airport, but, in many cases, you will need to arrange this in advance.