Roberta Aguirre
Dubai is a popular stopover destination for travellers, offering iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, picturesque beaches, and a vibrant culture. With a long layover in Dubai, leaving the airport is an option, provided you have the correct visa and enough time. Travellers from most countries require a visa to leave Dubai International Airport, and the requirements vary depending on the country of origin. Some nationalities are eligible for a free visa on arrival or can obtain a visa through their airline, such as Emirates, which offers a stopover program called Dubai Connect. Exploring Dubai during a layover provides an opportunity to experience the city's attractions, such as traditional souks, museums, and the famous Dubai Frame.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the airport during a layover | Possible, but depends on the length of the layover and visa requirements |
| Visa requirements | Depends on the country of origin; some need a visa, some get a visa on arrival, and some don't need a visa |
| Baggage | If the layover is less than 24 hours, baggage will be checked through to the final destination and won't be accessible during the layover |
| Exploring the city | Possible, but it's recommended to have a longer layover, and an eSIM for connectivity |
| Hotels | Available within the airport, but for sightseeing, it's better to stay in a hotel in the city |
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What You'll Learn
You may need a visa to leave the airport during a layover in Dubai
If you have a long layover in Dubai, leaving the airport is absolutely fine, as long as you have the right visa. Most travellers need a visa to leave Dubai Airport, but this depends on your country of origin and how long your layover is.
Citizens of GCC countries, the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia usually don't need a visa for short layovers. However, if your layover is longer than eight hours, you will likely need a visa, unless you are from a country that is exempt.
The UAE issues two types of transit visas: one for 48 hours, which is free, and another for 96 hours, which costs AED 50. These visas must be processed and approved before entering the UAE. To avoid any complications, it is recommended that you research the visa requirements for your specific country before arriving in Dubai.
If you are only planning to stay at the airport during your layover, there are still plenty of things to do. Dubai Airport offers duty-free shopping, eateries, and play areas for children. There is also a hotel located inside the airport, providing comfort and necessary facilities for both business and tourist travellers.
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You can leave the airport without your baggage
If you have a long layover in Dubai, you may want to leave the airport and explore the city. Dubai is known for its iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, picture-perfect beaches, and warm weather.
If you have a layover of less than 24 hours, your checked baggage will likely be checked through to your final destination, and you won't have access to it during your layover. This means you can leave the airport without your baggage and explore the city or visit your Dubai Connect hotel. However, if you have a stopover fare, you may need to collect your baggage. It is recommended to check with your airline during check-in to see where your bags are tagged.
To leave the airport during your layover in Dubai, you will need to ensure you have the correct visa. Travellers from most countries will need a visa to leave the airport during a layover, and visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin. Some nationals are required to get an eVisa, while others are granted visas upon arrival or don't need a visa at all. You can use the Emirates tool to find out about your specific visa requirements.
When leaving the airport during your layover, it is important to factor in enough time to get back to the airport, clear immigration and security, and board your onward flight. On average, you should allow around 20 minutes to get off the plane, 30 minutes to collect your luggage and any new boarding passes, and 15 minutes to reach your next departure gate. Additionally, Dubai International Airport has been ranked as the world's second busiest airport, so planning ahead is essential for a smooth transfer experience.
If you decide to leave the airport during your layover in Dubai, you may want to consider purchasing an eSIM to stay connected and easily access maps and other essential information while exploring the city.
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Dubai has iconic landmarks, shopping, beaches and warm weather
If you have a long layover in Dubai, leaving the airport is absolutely fine, as long as you have the right visa. Travellers from most countries will need a visa to leave the airport during a layover. However, some nationals are required to get an eVisa, while others are granted visas upon arrival and some don't need a visa at all.
Dubai has iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, picture-perfect beaches, and warm weather. The city is home to world-class skyscrapers and glamorous hotels, shopping complexes, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai is the Dubai Frame, a 150-metre-tall golden rectangle that beautifully frames the contrasting sides of the city—the modern skyline to the south and the traditional neighbourhoods to the north. Another iconic landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which boasts many world records and offers breathtaking views from the top. The Ain Dubai Wheel is another famous attraction, offering prime views of the JBR Walk, a beautiful mix of modern Dubai architecture and a stunning beachfront overlooking the Arabian Sea.
For shopping, Dubai offers a mix of modern malls and traditional souks, including the Gold and Spice Souks, where you can haggle over textiles and spices. The Global Village complex is another great spot for shopping, culture, and entertainment. If you're looking for high-end hotels, Dubai Marina is a good area to explore, with luxurious resorts and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
Dubai also has beautiful beaches, such as Jumeirah Beach, where you can enjoy beach activities and fine dining. Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island, offers pristine beaches, world-class dining, and shopping, as well as water sports activities. The Dubai Yacht is another must-visit attraction, offering a luxurious setting, state-of-the-art facilities, and breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
So, if you have a long layover in Dubai, you can definitely leave the airport and explore the city's iconic landmarks, enjoy its world-class shopping, relax on its beaches, and experience its warm weather.
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You can book a Dubai stopover tour in advance
If you're stopping over in Dubai, you can leave the airport during your layover, as long as you have the right visa. Travellers from most countries will need a visa to leave the airport. You can check your visa requirements using the Emirates tool, and if you need one, you can get it through the airline.
If you'd rather have a tour organised for you than go it alone, you can book a Dubai stopover tour in advance. You can book a tailor-made tour, or choose from a range of activities, tours, restaurants and hotels in the city, and add them to your own unique interactive itinerary planner. You can book your flights yourself, but remember to include a few extra days in your itinerary for your stay in Dubai to avoid any extra fees for changing your flights later. Once you’ve booked your flights, contact the travel agent at least 48 hours before departure to add your stopover package.
You can turn your Dubai stopover into a mini-holiday and discover the city's best activities and attractions. Dubai is known for its iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, picture-perfect beaches and warm weather. There's no shortage of things to explore in Dubai on a layover, whatever your tastes or your final destination.
One Dubai stopover tour takes you on a comfortable journey through the city. Your friendly driver-guide will greet you at the airport or hotel and take you first to the charming Al Bastakiya Quarter, where narrow alleyways and wind towers reflect the soul of Old Dubai. Then, enjoy a peaceful ride across Dubai Creek aboard a traditional abra boat, soaking in the city’s authentic charm from the water. Next, head to the vibrant Spice and Gold Souks, where you can explore a maze of aromas, colours, and glittering treasures. Afterward, head to the iconic Palm Jumeirah, an engineering marvel that offers stunning views and perfect photo opportunities of Dubai’s luxurious skyline. The tour ends with a stop at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on Earth.
If you're staying overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options in Dubai, from hotels to self-catering apartments, whether you want to stay by the beach, in the city or in the tranquility of the desert.
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Dubai Airport has plenty of entertainment for children
Dubai Airport has plenty to keep children entertained during a layover. The DXB Family Zone in B-Gates is the perfect place for children to blow off steam before a flight, with plenty of seating for the whole family. There's also a play area in the First and Business Class lounges in Dubai International Airport, where kids can let loose while the adults relax.
If you have a long layover in Dubai, you may wish to leave the airport and explore the city with your family, as long as you have the right visa. Dubai is known for its iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, picture-perfect beaches, and warm weather. The Dubai Frame, a 150-metre-tall golden rectangle, is one of the city's most famous landmarks, framing the modern skyline to the south and the traditional neighbourhoods to the north.
For a dose of history and culture, you can visit traditional souks and the Al Shindagha Museum, which showcases the transformation of Dubai from a fishing village to a global metropolis. The museum features interactive exhibits, immersive multimedia, and carefully preserved artefacts that narrate the traditional Emirati way of life, including pearl diving, trade routes, and architectural evolution.
If you'd rather have a ready-made itinerary, you can book a tailor-made Dubai stopover tour in advance. Alternatively, you can stay within the airport and take advantage of the Dubai International Hotel's facilities for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel features open working spaces, soundproof meeting rooms, restaurants, cafes, fitness centres, and spa services.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to leave the airport during a layover in Dubai, but you will need the right visa depending on your country of origin.
If your connection time is less than 24 hours, your luggage may be checked through to your final destination. Check with your airline beforehand and plan accordingly. You can also store your bags at luggage storage services in Terminals 1, 2 and 3.
You can check your visa requirements using the Emirates tool. If you are booking with Emirates or Etihad, you can get a visa through the airline.
