The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its advice on 18 June 2026 and no longer advises against non-essential travel to the UAE, including Dubai. For more information click here
Dubai holidays
The founders of finesse.
Set upon miles of glorious golden sand, our hotels in Dubai allow you to luxuriate in five-star glamour, while still reaching the bright lights of the city. The nearby desert is a treasure trove of falconry, sand boarding and dune bashing, perfect for magical adventures on your Dubai holiday.
Dubai’s calling, snag red-hot hotel deals now
Why choose Virgin Atlantic Holidays?
We fly direct to Dubai during our seasonal service
Fly to Dubai International Airport from London Heathrow. 7 hour flight time.
Book year-round with our partner airline, Emirates. Emirates operates multiple daily direct flights between London Heathrow and Dubai, so you can continue to book your Dubai trip with confidence while Virgin Atlantic's seasonal service plans to return to Dubai for the Winter 2027 season.
Pick your perfect month
Treat yourself to a flight upgrade...
Things to do and see in Dubai
Top attractions
Shopping
Events
Local areas
Dubai doesn't do things by halves – and neither should you. From jaw-dropping views at the Burj Khalifa to chasing thrills at Aquaventure Waterpark, the top attractions in Dubai are all about going big, bold, and unforgettable, just like your holiday should be.
Essential information for Dubai
Go big in Dubai
Need more travel tips or holiday help?
For most UK travellers, travel insurance should now cover a holiday to Dubai, but we recommend to check your policy carefully.
Yes, Emirates is continuing to operate its flight schedule as normal. Virgin Atlantic is planning to resume flying from Winter 2027.
Book by 30th June 2026 to be covered by our flexible booking policy, so if your plans need to shift, it's no problem.
Yes. Dubai International Airport is fully operational across all terminals and is welcoming passengers as normal.
Good news! If you're a British citizen jetting off to Dubai for a holiday, you won’t need to worry about applying for a visa in advance. When you land in the UAE (including dazzling Dubai), UK passport holders receive a free visa on arrival, stamped at immigration. This Dubai tourist visa is valid for up to 40 days, giving you plenty of time to explore everything from golden beaches to sky-high shopping malls.
Dubai is 3 or 4 hours ahead of the UK. The time difference is small enough that there’s minimal jet lag, meaning you can hit the ground running - whether that’s beachside brunching, desert adventuring, or diving straight into those duty-free shopping sprees.
A direct flight from London to Dubai takes around 7 hours.
Hit Jumeirah Beach for sun, sea and seriously glam vibes, head to Downtown Dubai for big-name sights like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, and don’t miss the iconic Palm Jumeirah – home to luxe resorts, beach clubs and brag-worthy views. Each spot has its own vibe, but they all serve up that signature Dubai dazzle.
Here’s a bold, bite-sized breakdown of the best things to do in Dubai.
For the thrill-seekers:
Blast across the dunes on a buggy safari, zipline over the Marina, or dive into the record-breaking slides at Aquaventure Waterpark. Dubai does adrenaline with style.
For the culture lovers:
Wander through the Al Fahidi Historical District, sail the Creek on a traditional abra, and explore the future (literally) at the Museum of the Future.
For the shoppers:
Whether it’s designer dreams at Dubai Mall, luxe finds at Mall of the Emirates or treasures in the gold and spice souks – shopping in Dubai is next level.
For the beach bums:
Soak up the sun on Jumeirah Beach, sip something chilled on The Palm, or chill out in a private cabana at a beach club with skyline views.
For the view chasers:
Sky-high selfies? Yes please. Head to the top of the Burj Khalifa to catch a rooftop sunset over Downtown Dubai.
Shopping in Dubai isn’t just a hobby - it’s an art form. Start at the Dubai Mall, where you can browse luxury labels, high-street favourites and even an aquarium (because, why not?). Over at Mall of the Emirates, you’ve got everything from designer boutiques to actual skiing. Fancy something more traditional? Dive into the Gold Souk for glimmering bangles and bold bargains, or wander the Spice Souk where the scent of saffron and cinnamon hits before you even arrive
The currency in Dubai is the UAE dirham (AED). It’s good to have some cash for souks and taxis, but most places happily take cards - especially the ones that get a little spendy.