Flight Guide to Dubai (UAE)

Dubai is a city where the impossible becomes reality. Imagine lush green islands in a desert, a 200-foot ski slope inside a mall, a month-long shopping festival attracting millions, the world’s tallest building, and a 7-star hotel with a fleet of Rolls Royce cars. Whether you’re drawn to its extravagance or skeptical of its opulence, Dubai is impossible to ignore.

While visiting, immerse yourself in the city’s grandeur. Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at the iconic Burj Al Arab or take in breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline from the Burj Khalifa observation deck—views you might have missed during your flight’s descent. Food lovers can savor affordable yet diverse cuisines in areas like Karama and Satwa, offering everything from Arabic delicacies to Indian, Lebanese, and Chinese dishes. For adventure seekers, experience a traditional camel ride on a desert safari or test your driving skills with a thrilling 4x4 dune-bashing excursion.

Booking Flights to Dubai
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a major hub for Emirates Airlines, the state-owned carrier with global reach, including direct flights from Toronto. Other airlines like Delta, United, British Airways, and Air Canada (via codeshare agreements with carriers such as Air China and Cathay Pacific) also offer flights to Dubai, often with stops in Europe or East Asia.

When to go and weather
Dubai’s climate combines desert heat with subtropical humidity. Summers (June to September) are scorching, with temperatures reaching 40-45°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March, when the city hosts numerous festivals and events. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so book your flights early to secure the best fares. For milder weather and cheaper last-minute tickets, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of May or October.


Arriving in Dubai
Dubai International Airport (DXB) consists of Terminals 1, 2, 3, and F. Terminals 1 and 2 handle most international and regional flights, while Terminal 3 is exclusively for Emirates Airlines. Terminal F is dedicated to cargo. Passengers with connecting flights can use the 24-hour inter-terminal shuttle bus or the Metro train system, which connects Terminals 1 and 3. First-time travelers should remember to collect their boarding passes from transfer desks before proceeding to their departure gates.

Getting Around Dubai
• Public Transit: For single trips, purchase a Nol Red Ticket for approximately $1 USD. For longer stays, a reusable Nol Card is more economical and can be used on buses, trains, water buses, and paid parking meters. Discounts are available for children under five.

• Bus: Routes 4, 11, 15, 33, and 44 serve Terminal 1, while Route 2 includes Terminal 2. These buses connect to various destinations across Dubai, including metro and water bus stops.

Train: The Dubai Metro’s Red Line links all three passenger terminals to the city, offering a fast and affordable way to travel from the airport.

• Hotel Shuttle: Some hotels provide complimentary shuttle services, while others offer contact details for radio taxis. Confirm this when booking to save time and money.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside each terminal. Fares are metered, with a starting rate of 4-5 USD.

• Car Rental: Companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz operate in the arrivals area of each terminal. Advance bookings are recommended due to high passenger traffic.

Exclusive Services: The airport offers premium services like Marhaba, Ahlan, and Al Majlis, which include meet-and-greet assistance, lounge access, and transport coordination. These can be reserved online, with discounts for family bookings.