London to Dubai flights

Flights from London to Dubai land at Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world's major hubs. From Heathrow or Gatwick, the trip takes about seven hours in the air.

The cheapest London to Dubai ticket booked on eDreams in the last few days cost £160; treat it as a guide, as the final fare depends on your dates.

London's airports for Dubai flights each have a fast rail link from the centre:

• Heathrow: the Heathrow Express from Paddington Station in under 20 minutes, or the Elizabeth line and the Piccadilly line
• Gatwick: the Gatwick Express from London Victoria, taking around 30 minutes, or Thameslink trains
• Stansted: the direct train from Liverpool Street
• London City: on the DLR

Heathrow has several terminals, with free transfers running between them. Dubai flights leave from different terminals depending on the airline, so check your ticket before you head to the airport.

Flights from London land at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International (DWC). Dubai International remains the primary arrival point for most carriers.

At Dubai International, the Dubai Metro runs frequently from the airport into the city. Regular buses serve all three terminals, and a 24-hour shuttle connects the terminals.

Taxis and private hire vehicles wait at designated pick-up points outside each terminal for a direct transfer to the city centre.

If you arrive at Al Maktoum International, the F55 bus takes you to Expo 2020 metro station. The N55 night bus runs to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station.

Entry requirements for Dubai

British citizens travelling to Dubai can obtain a visitor visa on arrival, which is typically valid for 30 days. Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into the UAE.

Carry proof of return or onward travel. Requirements can change, so check the latest FCDO guidance before your departure from London.

Dubai pairs modern engineering with traditional trading roots. These sights show both sides of the city:

• Burj Khalifa: the world's tallest building, with observation decks high above Downtown Dubai
• Mall of the Emirates: home to an indoor ski slope
• Deira souks: the gold and textile markets of the city's older side
• Dubai Creek: cross between Deira and Bur Dubai on a traditional abra boat
• Al Fahidi: the restored historic district of wind towers and courtyard houses

Away from the main strip, you can book a desert safari across the dunes or watch camel racing at Al Marmoom, outside the city. Dubai's districts run from the sand at Jumeirah Beach to the nightlife hubs around the Marina.

The cooler winter months are the most comfortable time to visit Dubai, and the Dubai Shopping Festival brings sales and events to the malls around the new year.