Finding Cheap Flights to Dubai
To get the best price, book your flight exactly 60 to 90 days before your departure date. Use flexible date searches on Google Flights to identify the cheapest midweek departures and avoid peak travel months like December and January.
- Set up price alerts. Go to Google Flights, enter your departure city and DXB as the destination. Toggle the 'Track prices' switch. You will receive an email notification the moment the price drops significantly.
- Use the 'Explore' feature. If your travel dates are flexible, use the Google Flights Explore map. View the entire calendar for the next six months to find the specific days where airfare is 30% to 50% lower than the average.
- Check budget carriers. While Emirates and flydubai are the main carriers, check Wizz Air and Air Arabia. They often fly into Al Maktoum International (DWC) or Sharjah (SHJ), which can save you $200+ compared to flying directly into DXB.
- Use a VPN and Incognito mode. Clear your cookies or use an Incognito window when searching. Occasionally, VPNing from a lower-income country's server can yield a slightly lower base fare on some airline websites.
- Which airport should I fly into?
- DXB is the main international hub and is connected to the Metro. DWC (Al Maktoum) is further out but cheaper; expect to pay $30-$40 for a taxi from there to downtown.
- Is it cheaper to fly during Ramadan?
- Yes. Airfare and hotel rates often drop significantly during Ramadan, though some daytime restaurant services will be limited.
- Should I book a package deal?
- Rarely. Booking flights and hotels separately almost always yields a cheaper price than bundled 'vacation packages'.