Dubai Holidays 2026 / 2027

Plan Your Dubai Holiday

Helpful Travel Information

Travelling to Dubai? Find top tips for making your holiday to Dubai the best it can be with our handy Dubai Travel Guide.

Flying to Dubai from the UK: Non-stop flights leave various UK airports daily to Dubai.
Flight time from the UK: 6 hours and 45 minutes
Dubai Currency: Dirham
Time difference: GMT +4
Visa for Dubai: A visitor's visa is provided on arrival
Language in Dubai: Arabic
Getting around: Taxis are readily available and are reasonably priced. Getting around Dubai and travelling to and from your hotel should be straightforward and stress-free.
Weather: Wondering when to visit Dubai? Blessed with year-round sunshine, temperatures typically range from 20 degrees centigrade to the mid-40s. November to February is the most popular time to visit Dubai, with temperatures sitting at around 25 to 30 degrees centigrade
Ramadan: In 2025 Ramadan will be between 28th February and 29th March

To find out more about Dubai, head over to our travel blog, The Edit!

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What To Do On A Dubai Holiday

Dubai Attractions

No Dubai holiday is complete without experiencing undoubtedly one of the most breath-taking views on earth. You'll get an incredible view of the city skyline at the very top of the Burj Khalifa, officially the tallest building in the world. There are a number of observation decks, but the highest is by far the most impressive, and this really is one of the best things to do in Dubai for the views alone.

Head back down 160 storeys and into the city to visit the Dubai Mall for the most incredible shopping trip of your life, with a wide range of high-end brand stores and luxury boutiques to choose from.

Head to the centre of downtown Dubai and stop by the Dubai Fountain which features an incredible water dancing show with jet streams bursting 150 metres into the air. Shows take place in the mid-afternoon and at sundown every 30 minutes

Dubai Food & Drink

Wanting to discover the best food and drink in Dubai? While you’ll be able to find everything from American to Japanese inspired cuisine in Dubai, the authentic Arabian dishes are the real star of the show.

Nicknamed the pizza of Dubai, Manousheh is thought to be one of the best street style foods in the city. This warm flatbread is filled with a number of traditional toppings such as salty cheese, fresh zaatar herbs and different meats or vegetables.

Make sure you also sample the authentic falafel and hummus, as the chefs of Dubai have perfected both of these chickpea-based treats. During your stay, you can also enjoy Gahwa, traditional Arabic coffee, which is brewed in a beautiful coffee pot and served in dainty cups.

Dubai Activities

The problem with finding things to do in Dubai is that there's simply too much to choose from! With both a vibrant city and golden desert to explore, any Dubai holiday itinerary won’t be short of adventure. From family-friendly activities in Dubai, to famous weekend brunches in glitzy settings, you’ll find a range of exciting things to do to suit your holiday needs.

Experience the Arabian desert by riding through the dunes on a 4WD vehicle or choose a Dubai safari tour that offers you the chance to ride a camel, sample a traditional Arabian dish and even camp out underneath the unbelievably bright stars.

Dubai city centre itself, on the other hand, is home to an array of theme parks, including IMG Worlds of Adventure, one of the biggest indoor entertainment facilities in the world. Whether you prefer roller coasters or chilled out lazy rivers, you’re guaranteed to have a fun day out.

FAQs

When is the best time of year to visit Dubai?

November to February brings sunny, comfortable days ideal for beaches and sightseeing. Spring and autumn are warm with fewer crowds.

Summer offers the lowest prices, with superb indoor attractions and hotel deals, so it’s great value if you don’t mind the heat. See our When to Visit Dubai guide.

Does Dubai have a nightlife?

Yes. Dubai’s nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftop lounges and fine-dining bars, mainly around the Palm, JBR/Marina and Downtown.

Hotels host late-night venues; licensed bars require ID and are for ages 21+. Many brunches roll into evening parties at weekends.

What are the best activities to do in Dubai?

Take the elevator to the Burj Khalifa observation deck, see the Dubai Fountain, relax on Jumeirah Beach, explore Old Dubai by abra, and hit Aquaventure or Dubai Parks & Resorts with the family.

For desert thrills, try dune bashing, camel rides and stargazing.

How do I prepare for a trip to Dubai?

Book early for school holidays, carry travel insurance, and check your passport has 6+ months’ validity. Pack light clothing, sun protection and modest outfits for mosques and traditional areas. Pre-book top attractions and restaurant reservations in peak season.

What to wear in Dubai?

Resorts, beaches and most malls are relaxed, but smart-casual works well. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting mosques or traditional areas. Bring layers for air-conditioned venues and respectful attire for cultural sites.

Can you drink alcohol in Dubai?

Yes, alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and clubs in Dubai. However, public intoxication is strongly frowned upon and could lead to repercussions. Always drink responsibly and respect the local customs and laws.

Does WhatsApp work in Dubai?

Messaging works as normal. Voice/Video calls over internet apps may be restricted; most hotels provide fast Wi-Fi, and traditional mobile calls are widely available.

Can you drink tap water in Dubai?

Tap water meets safety standards, but many visitors prefer bottled water due to taste and local pipework. Hotels provide complimentary water in rooms.

Is there Uber in Dubai?

Yes. Uber and Careem operate across the city alongside plentiful metered taxis. Rides are reliable, air-conditioned and good value for short hops.

Is it safe to go on holiday in Dubai?

Dubai is known for very low crime and a strong service culture. As with any trip, follow local laws, look after valuables and check current travel advice. Families, solo travellers and couples consistently rate it as a safe destination.