✈️ Flight time
~14h direct
Dubai has transformed itself from a fishing village to one of the world's most visited cities in less than 50 years. The UAE's commercial capital delivers superlatives at every turn — the world's tallest building, the world's largest mall, the world's fastest roller coasters. But beneath the glitz, Dubai also offers authentic Arabian culture, a world-class food scene, and desert adventures that are genuinely breathtaking.
Top highlights
✓Burj Khalifa — world's tallest building
✓Desert safari with dune bashing and camel rides
✓Dubai Mall and indoor ski slope
✓Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira
✓Palm Jumeirah monorail and Atlantis
✓Dhow cruise dinner on Dubai Creek
Best time to visit
Best season
Oct–Apr
Perfect weather 20–28°C, outdoor activities possible
Hot season
May–Sep
Extremely hot (40°C+) but 50–70% hotel discounts available
Sample flight routes
Prices last checked: July 2026 — see live prices in the planner below for current rates
Emirates
Melbourne direct · ~14h
from AUD $1,200 return
Qantas
via Dubai (codeshare) · ~14h
from AUD $1,100 return
Etihad
via Abu Dhabi · ~15h
from AUD $1,000 return
💡 Prices are indicative and vary by season and booking time. Use our planner to find live prices for your specific dates.
Where to stay
Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain — best location for sightseeing
Dubai Marina
Beach, restaurants, JBR Walk, nightlife — best for leisure
Deira
Old Dubai, souks, budget-friendly, authentic — best for culture
Palm Jumeirah
Luxury resorts, beach, Atlantis — best for splurge
Visa requirements
Last checked: July 2026 — always verify current requirements with the official portal before booking
Example shown for Australian passport holders — Wanderior's planner checks the exact requirements for your own passport automatically.
Duration
30 days, extendable
ℹ️ Australians receive free 30-day visa on arrival at Dubai Airport. Apply online for 60-day visa (AED 250) if staying longer.
Local tips for travellers
💡Download Careem app (local Uber) — cheaper and more reliable than taxis
💡Dress modestly in souks and malls — shoulders and knees covered
💡Alcohol available at licensed venues — pricey but available
💡Book Burj Khalifa At the Top tickets online days ahead — sells out
💡Visit the desert at sunset, not midday — spectacular light and cooler temperatures
💱 Money & currency
UAE Dirham (AED). ATMs everywhere. Cards widely accepted. Excellent exchange rates at Dubai Airport's non-Travelex counters.
🚆 Getting around
Dubai Metro covers main attractions. Careem/Uber reliable and cheap. Taxis plentiful but agree price or use meter.
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