Downtown Dubai
The city's vibrant heart around the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and opera district, with excellent dining, shopping and entertainment.
Destinations · UAE
Dubai holidays for UK travellers
A luxury desert-city escape with world-class shopping, dining and beaches just a seven-hour flight.
Introduction
Why visit Dubai?
Dubai is a dynamic city where traditional Arabian culture meets futuristic ambition. As one of the world's most connected destinations, it offers UK travellers a compelling mix of luxury shopping, world-class dining, incredible beaches and unforgettable desert experiences — all within a seven-hour flight from London.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, a romantic getaway, or a showcase of modern architecture and engineering, Dubai delivers. The city's winter months (November to March) are particularly popular with UK visitors escaping the cooler weather.
Where to stay
Best areas in Dubai
Choose the area that matches your holiday style.
Dubai Marina
A lively waterfront district of canals, high-rise towers and a packed marina promenade, popular with families and nightlife seekers.
Jumeirah Beach Residence
A dense, walkable strip of hotels, cafes and beaches along the Persian Gulf, with easy access to malls and the marina.
Palm Jumeirah
An iconic man-made island with luxury hotels, private beaches and stunning sea views, ideal for couples and luxury travellers.
Jumeirah
A more residential, upscale coastal area with wide beaches, luxury hotels and a relaxed vibe away from the marina crowds.
Deira / Old Dubai
The historic side of the city with traditional souks, the creek and classic dhow cruises, offering a glimpse of old Arabian culture.
The coast
Best beaches in Dubai
Jumeirah Beach
A long, sandy beach lined with luxury hotels and beach clubs, popular with families and water sports enthusiasts.
Kite Beach
A vibrant beach with a long promenade, cafes, and the iconic Burj Al Arab view — great for families and sunset strolls.
La Mer Beach
A trendy beachfront complex with restaurants, art installations and a relaxed atmosphere in the Jumeirah area.
Palm Jumeirah Beach
Private beaches around the Palm with luxury hotel access, calm waters and stunning views of the Dubai skyline.
Madinat Jumeirah Beach
A resort-style beach with gentle waves, beach cabins and views of the Burj Al Arab, perfect for families.
When to go
Dubai weather by season
Spring
March to May brings warm, dry days and clear skies, making it ideal for beach time, sightseeing and desert activities. Temperatures are comfortable before the summer heat.
Summer
June to September is extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Indoor activities, air-conditioned malls and evening beach time are the best options.
Autumn
October to November brings pleasant temperatures and sunny days, making it a great time for beach, sightseeing and outdoor dining.
Winter
December to February offers mild, comfortable weather with daytime temperatures around 24-27°C, making it one of Dubai's most popular seasons for UK travellers.
Holiday styles
Dubai for families, couples, luxury and all-inclusive stays
Families
Dubai offers world-class theme parks, indoor ski slopes, aquarium displays and beaches with gentle waves. Many luxury hotels provide kids' clubs and family activities.
Couples
Palm Jumeirah hotels, sunset desert dune drives and fine dining experiences make Dubai a romantic choice for couples seeking luxury and exclusivity.
Luxury
From the Burj Al Arab to ultra-modern skyline suites, Dubai offers some of the world's most luxurious accommodations, shopping and fine dining experiences.
For winter-specific planning advice, read our Dubai winter sun guide.
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Things to do and getting around
Beyond the beaches, Dubai offers incredible experiences including desert safaris with dune bashing, camel rides and traditional dinners, as well as world-class shopping in the Dubai Mall and traditional souks in Deira. The iconic Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain and Miracle Garden are must-see attractions.
The Dubai Metro provides a convenient, air-conditioned transport option along the main corridors. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, and ride-hailing services are widely available. For flexibility, car hire is useful for exploring beyond the city, but note that driving is on the right side of the road.
Inspiration
Example Dubai deal
Example pricing is for inspiration only and is not a live offer or availability promise.