Dubai Airport: Free Tour Availability And Details

Dubai International Airport is the world's fastest-growing and busiest airport. Travellers with a layover of over five hours may want to consider exploring the city. There are plenty of guided tours available, including some organised by Emirates, as well as sights to explore independently. The airport is well-connected to the city centre, with public and private transit options, and most major attractions are located in the same region.

One of the most popular tours is the Dubai Airport Layover Tour, which offers a panoramic city tour of Dubai, covering top attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah. This tour typically lasts 4-5 hours and includes pick-up and drop-off at the airport.

There are also private transit tours available, such as the 3-hour Dubai International Airport Private Transit Tour, which includes a drive along Sheikh Zayed Road and a visit to the Palm Jumeirah.

For those with shorter layovers, the airport itself has plenty of restaurants, shops, and amenities to keep travellers entertained.

Dubai Airport Layover Tour

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the world's fastest-growing and busiest airport. If you have a layover of over five hours, you may want to consider exploring the city centre.

Tour Options

There are several tour options available for those with a layover in Dubai. These include:

• A 3-hour private transit tour, which includes pick-up and drop-off at the airport, a drive along Sheikh Zayed Road, and photo stops at the Burj Al-Arab and Burj Khalifa. This tour costs US$200 per person.
• A 4-5 hour panoramic city tour of Dubai, covering top attractions such as the skyscrapers on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Downtown, Jumeirah Beach, and the Palm Islands. This tour costs US$70 per person.
• A layover and stopover tour, which includes a visit to the spice and gold souks, a ride on a traditional abra boat, and a visit to the Burj Al-Arab and Burj Khalifa. The price of this tour varies depending on group size.

Other Attractions

In addition to these tours, there are several other attractions in Dubai that may be of interest, such as:

• The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, which offers observation decks and a lounge on its top floors.
• The Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed fountains, which offer a light and music show throughout the day and night.
• The Dubai Mall, which features shops, restaurants, ice rinks, movie theatres, and indoor theme parks.

Practical Considerations

When planning a layover tour in Dubai, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

• Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter the UAE and if it needs to be arranged in advance.
• Flight check-in times: Ensure you allow enough time to return to the airport and check in for your next flight.
• Luggage storage: If you have checked luggage, you may need to store it at the airport or another location during your tour.
• Security wait times: Research airport security wait times in advance to factor this into your overall time budget.

Dubai International Airport 3-Hour Private Transit Tour

Make the most of your time in transit at Dubai International Airport with a 3-hour private tour of the city. See the sights of Dubai and enjoy the convenience of pick-up and drop-off at the airport, timed to your flight details.

Tour Itinerary

• Following your pick-up from Dubai International Airport, relax in an air-conditioned coach or minivan as you drive towards New Downtown Dubai.
• Stop at the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Admire the tower as it soars to a height of 2,772 feet (828 meters).
• Drive along the 16-lane Sheikh Zayed Road, taking in the high-rise buildings that have transformed the city's landscape in recent years.
• Listen to a pre-recorded commentary by an architect, who will provide facts about Dubai's skyscrapers and recent developments.
• See the iconic Burj Al-Arab Hotel on its own artificial island.
• Continue to the man-made island of Palm Jumeirah, designed in the shape of a palm tree.
• Discover luxury villas and exclusive hotels with views of the gulf, including the famous Atlantis The Palm Hotel.
• Take in the yacht-filled Dubai Marina and imagine life as an international billionaire.
• Visit the Jumeirah Beach Residence, home to dozens of restaurants and cafes, as well as some of the best beach hotels and resorts in the city.
• Finally, transfer back to the airport in time for your connecting flight.

Tour Details

• Price: From $200 per person
• Availability: Check availability for starting times
• Cancellation Policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Important Information: This tour does not include a guide. You must provide flight numbers and pick-up time, hold a valid visa to enter the UAE, and have a boarding pass for your connecting flight. There is no refund if your flight is delayed.

Half-day Dubai Airport layover tour

If you're looking to make the most of your time in Dubai during a layover, there are several tour options available. Dubai Airport offers short-term baggage storage services at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, so you can explore the city with ease. Here's a guide to help you plan your half-day layover tour:

Transportation

Dubai International Airport is located only three miles outside the city centre, with various transportation options available. You can use public transit options such as buses and the metro, or opt for private transit like taxis.

Tour Options

There are different tour lengths available, depending on your layover duration. Here are some options for a half-day tour:

• Private City Tour: Sun City Dubai Tours & Safari L.L.C offers a private half-day city tour with multilingual guides. This tour includes pick-up and drop-off from any Dubai Airport terminal and covers top attractions such as Palm Island, Bluewaters Island, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and traditional souks.
• Dubai International Airport 3-Hour Private Transit Tour: Provided by Desert Gate Tourism LLC, this tour includes airport pick-up and drop-off. You'll drive along Sheikh Zayed Road, see icons like the Burj Al-Arab and Burj Khalifa, visit Palm Jumeirah, and explore Jumeirah Beach Residence.
• Dubai Airport Layover Tour: This 4-5 hour panoramic city tour of Dubai is led by a professional guide. You'll explore skyscrapers on Sheikh Zayed Road, admire downtown Dubai, visit Jumeirah Beach, and see the Palm Islands.

Attractions

• Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building offers observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors, as well as the world's highest lounge on floors 152-154. Advanced booking is recommended for significant savings.
• Dubai Fountains: Located near the Burj Khalifa, these choreographed fountains are a spectacular light and music show, with water shooting up to 125 meters in the air.
• Dubai Mall: This massive mall features shops, restaurants, ice rinks, movie theatres, an underwater zoo, and indoor theme parks. It's conveniently located near the Dubai Fountains and Burj Khalifa.

Other Considerations

When planning your layover tour, keep the following in mind:

• Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter the UAE and organise it in advance if necessary.
• Flight Check-in Time: Ensure you know the check-in time for your next flight and plan your tour accordingly.
• Luggage Storage: Confirm with your airline if your luggage is checked through or needs to be picked up between flights.
• Security Wait Times: Research Dubai Airport's security wait times and factor that into your tour schedule.

Dubai sightseeing attractions

Dubai is a city of contrasts, with towering skyscrapers and shopping malls with mammoth aquariums and indoor ski slopes, to historic neighbourhoods and traditional souks.

Top Attractions in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building offers breathtaking views from its observation deck on the 124th floor.
• Dubai Fountain: Modelled on the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, this is the world's tallest performing fountain with water displays shooting up to 150 metres.
• Dubai Mall: The city's premier mall offers shopping, dining, entertainment, and access to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium.
• Dubai Aquarium: This top tourist attraction houses 140 species of sea life, with free viewing from the mall and a paid Underwater Zoo experience.
• Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark: Located on Palm Jumeirah, this waterpark features thrilling slides, a lazy river, and marine encounters.
• Dubai Creek: Take a cruise along the creek in a traditional dhow boat to see the city from a different perspective.
• Al Fahidi Quarter (Old Dubai): Wander through the narrow lanes of this historic neighbourhood, home to distinct Arabian architecture and traditional souks.
• Global Village: From October to April, this entertainment park offers cultural experiences from around the world, with pavilions from over 25 countries.
• Madinat Jumeirah: Cruise along the artificial canals of this dining and retail complex, styled to mimic traditional Gulf architecture.
• Jumeirah Beach: A long, white sandy beach with excellent facilities, water sports, and a range of resorts.
• Dubai Museum: Housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, this museum showcases the city's history, with exhibits on traditional Emirati life, pearl fishing, and Bedouin desert culture.
• Dubai Frame: This 150-metre-high picture frame offers panoramic views of old and new Dubai, with galleries exploring the city's history and future.
• La Mer Beach: A relaxed beach backed by palm trees, offering a range of water sports, cafés, and restaurants.
• Motiongate and Legoland: Interconnected theme parks offering fun for all ages, with rides based on Hollywood blockbusters, Bollywood, and Lego.
• Jumeirah Mosque: An example of Islamic architecture, this mosque is considered one of the most beautiful in Dubai, with subtle stonework and two minarets.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Spanning 2,000 square metres, this flower garden features whimsical floral displays, including a flower version of the Burj Khalifa.
• Mall of the Emirates: This mall features an indoor ski slope, a cinema, a family entertainment centre, and a wide range of shopping and dining options.

Tours:

There are various tour options available in Dubai, including:

• Half-day city tours covering both old and modern Dubai, including a boat ride on Dubai Creek and entry to the Dubai Museum.
• Private morning desert safaris, including dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and other traditional activities.
• Dubai Marina yacht tours, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline.
• Hot air balloon rides, offering a bird's-eye view of the city and surrounding desert.

Private city tour of Dubai

Dubai is a city of wonders, with beautiful landscapes and countless adventures. A private city tour of Dubai is the perfect way to explore the city's unique blend of historical and modern attractions. Here is a suggested itinerary for a full day private tour:

Morning

• Burj Khalifa: Start your day by visiting the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. Take in the breathtaking views from the observation deck on the 124th floor, known as "At the Top."
• Dubai Mall: Head to the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, located right next to the Burj Khalifa.
• Dubai Fountain: Just outside the Dubai Mall, you'll find the spectacular Dubai Fountain, with its captivating water, music, and light show.
• Palm Islands: Take a short drive to the man-made wonder of Palm Islands, where you'll find luxurious villas and hotels. Don't miss the iconic Atlantis Palm Hotel, perched on the edge of the Persian Gulf.
• Burj Al Arab: Continue your journey to another iconic landmark, the Burj Al Arab Hotel, known for its unique sail-shaped structure.
• Jumeirah Beach: Admire the white sandy shores of Jumeirah Beach and capture some stunning photos of the Burj Al Arab in the backdrop.

Afternoon

• Dubai Marina: In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Dubai Marina, with its fine dining restaurants and luxurious yachts.
• Sheikh Zayed Road: Drive along the vast 16-lane Sheikh Zayed Road, where you'll find some of the city's most impressive skyscrapers, including the Jumeirah Emirates Towers and the Dubai World Trade Centre.
• Dubai Creek: Cross the Dubai Creek on a traditional "abra" water taxi and discover the historic Al Fahidi Fort and the Dubai Museum.
• Gold and Spice Souks: Wander through the bustling markets of Deira, including the famous Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can shop for souvenirs and experience the local culture.
• Old Dubai: Explore the charming neighbourhoods of Old Dubai, such as Al Bastakiya and Al Fahidi, to get a glimpse of the city's rich history and traditional architecture.

Evening

• Desert Safari: As the sun sets, head out on a thrilling desert safari, which typically includes dune bashing, sandboarding, and a camel ride.
• Bedouin Camp Dinner: End your day with a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, complete with entertainment such as belly dancing, folk music, and henna painting.

Remember to book your tour in advance and confirm the inclusions and itinerary with your chosen tour operator. Enjoy your private city tour of Dubai!

Frequently asked questions