Destination information
Dubai is just one of 7 Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The others such as Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah are quieter, but still have great beaches and resorts offering excellent value for money. We have an extensive range of accommodation available in Oman, and wide range of lavish
Dubai holidays.
Dubai is like no other place on Earth. It is a truly fabulous destination where visitors can indulge in top-quality hotels, great shopping, fine
dining, state-of-the-art spas and of course fantastic beaches. There is however more to Dubai than meets the eye… fascinating Middle
Eastern heritage is waiting to be explored with the historical focal point located at the creek. Exciting activities are also in abundance, a
visit to the desert for some dune bashing is an exhilarating experience and to cool off afterwards head to one of the city’s magnificent
water parks. With huge investment taking place right now in Dubai, holidays here provide a first-hand glimpse into a modern-day success
story and an experience of truly luxurious living. With all this and more, Dubai has definitely arrived… and is waiting for you to.
Fun & games
KidZania
KidZania located in the Dubai Mall, is a one of a kind ‘edutainment’ centre
where children can choose a profession for the day and live like grown ups!
The kid-sized replica of a real city caters for children aged 4-17 years and
has a choice of over 70 professions for them to choose, from surgeons to
police officers or news reporters to fire fighters! Of course they get to wear
the appropriate uniform for their days ‘work’ and even get paid in “Kidzo’s”,
the official currency of KidZania, and there are specific outlets inside where
they are able to spend them.
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. Situated within the
Mall of the Emirates, it is an amazing 22,500sq m covered with a snow all
year round – a great place to escape the heat! Ski Dubai has 5 runs which
vary is gradient and difficulty – including 3 worlds first indoor black run.
There are also some themed restaurants where you can dine with a view of
the slopes and a team of professional Ski & Snowboard Academy instructors
who are on hand to help you really get the most out of your indoor ski
experience!
Aquaventure
Situated within Atlantis, the Palm, Aquaventure is set in 42 acres and is simply
overflowing with fun including Master Blasters, speedslides, rapids, Splashers
children’s area and even a private beach! It is also home to Dolphin bay and the
Lost Chambers. Dolphin Bay offers you the opportunity to explore the fascinating
world of dolphins and enjoy an unforgettable experience with a choice of 3
interactions suitable for a range of ages and swimming activities (please call us
for our latest prices). The Lost Chambers houses over 65,000 marine animals
in over 20 fresh and sea water exhibits and brings the myth of Atlantis to life
through a maze of underground tunnels offering underwater views. Entrance
to Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers is free to Atlantis guests however non
residents can also enjoy this great day out - please call us for our latest prices.
SEGA Republic
SEGA Republic is a high adrenaline indoor theme park and is guaranteed to
produce smiles all round. It has 5 themed zones with 9 thrilling attractions
and over 200 games where you can compete to win great prizes. The park is
split over 2 levels and also houses a exhilarating indoor rollercoaster and
state-of-the-art simulators.
Wild Wadi
Wild Wadi is themed around a popular Arabian Folklore character, Jula, and is a
water park home to over 30 rides and attractions. 12 acres of liquid fun
boast high adrenaline thrills in the form of the ‘Jumeirah Skeirah’, ‘Sumit
Surgh’ and plenty of high powered jets and master blasters. Those looking for
a more chilled experience can relax on the lazy river or simply admire the
breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the Burj Al Arab from the dryness
of a sunbed! Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon provides hours of fun for the children
and the two new rides opened in 2011 – Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj add
even more excitement to this ever popular attraction.
Getting there
Flight Details - Virgin Atlantic flights to Dubai depart daily from London Heathrow.
Flight Supplements - Fri/Sat/Sun £15 per person each way.
Flying Time - Approx 7 hours to Dubai.
Flight Upgrades - Premium Economy available from £159 supplement per person each way on Virgin Atlantic. Upper class available from £595 per person one way on Virgin Atlantic.
Time - GMT +4 hours in Winter and +3 in Summer
Currency - UAE Dirham (Dhs)
Visa Requirements - British citizens do not require a visa.
Language - The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken.
Alcohol - Legal drinking age is 21.
Dubai Flight Arrivals - Virgin Holidays' transfers in Dubai are direct to your chosen hotel. Transfer times may vary due to traffic conditions. The Virgin Atlantic flight to Dubai arrives early in the morning. Hotel check-in times start at 2.00pm. You will be able to store your bags at the hotel and use the hotel facilities until your room becomes available. If you would like to check in on arrival, you will need to pay for an additional night's accommodation.
Religious Periods - The holy month of Ramadan is celebrated between 20th July 2012 - 18th August 2012. During these dates there are restrictions on alcohol, food consumption and entertainment for local Muslims between sunrise and sunset when they must fast. Restrictions within hotels with international guests tend to be more relaxed, however you should be aware that the consumption of alcohol in public areas is prohibited within daylight hours and services maybe reduced in some food outlets. However at nightfall there are many lively traditional celebrations, known as Iftah, where hotels often arrange lavish buffet feasts. Whilst visitors are asked to respect these traditions it is also a great time to see the real Dubai and experience local customs and it should not impact the enjoyment of your stay.
Weather - can be extremely hot in the summer months; average temperature in Aug is around 41 degrees Celsius, however most hotels offer shaded pool and outdoor areas and there are many fantastic attractions which are under cover and full air-conditioned.
Star attractions
If you’re looking for a really special destination where you can indulge your love of top-quality hotels, great shopping, fine dining, world-class golf and state-of-the-art spas, Dubai is for you. Add to this a fascinating Middle Eastern heritage to explore and a range of exciting activities, and you have a destination with just about everything. With year-round sunshine and miles of lovely beaches.