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, Dubai is THE new destination, waiting to be discovered - and you'll discover it in style with Virgin Holidays.
In a nutshell
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. See the section Beyond Dubai.
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 £275 supplement per person each way.
Time - GMT +4 hours
Currency - UAE Dirham (Dh)
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 - During the holy month of Ramadan (01-29 Sep '08), Eid and other religious festivals, there are restrictions on alcohol consumption and entertainment from dawn until dusk when all Muslims must fast. However, public areas come alive at night with feasting and celebration, so it's a great time to experience the culture and tradition of the UAE.
The Changing Face of Dubai - Dubai is emerging as one of the world's leading holiday destinations. Development is ongoing throughout Dubai, so please be aware that there may be some disturbance during your stay. Dubai Festival City is now open and the Dubai Marina project in Jumeirah will be completed during 2008. The Palm Jumeirah is already open with Atlantis, the Palm due to open in Oct '08. The Palm Jebel Ali will open in 2008 and the largest, Palm Deira will open in 2015. The 300 man-made islands making up The World are due to be completed by 2010. Please see our dedicated Dubai, the Emirates & Oman 2008 brochure for more information and a wider choice of hotels, tours and sightseeing options in the Middle East.
Weather and climate
