Flights to UAE from UK

Compare cheap fares to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & more — all major airlines compared

Google

Rated 4.9 on Google

Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews
Verified customer reviews
Trusted Booking Support
Your money is fully protected
Best Price Guarantee
Found cheaper? We’ll beat it
Global Airline Network
100+ trusted airlines worldwide

Book Flights to UAE

Enter your travel details and get the best fares from our UAE specialists

Adults (12+ yrs)
1
Children (2-11 yrs)
0
Infants (under 2)
0

UK to UAE Flights: Quick Answers

The essentials for anyone flying from the UK to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah in 2026/27.

Cheapest one-way fare found From £179 (Emirates, London–Dubai)
Main UK departure airport London Heathrow (LHR) — widest choice of airlines
Other UK departure airports Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Bristol
Main UAE arrival airports Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ)
Direct flights available? YES Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Etihad all fly non-stop
London to Dubai flight time Approx. 6 hours 45 minutes – 7 hours
London to Abu Dhabi flight time Approx. 6 hours 45 minutes – 7 hours
Cheapest months to fly June, July, August (UAE summer, lower demand)
Most popular travel months November–March (cooler weather, major events)
UK citizen visa requirement NONE Free 30-day visa on arrival
Big events after September 2026 UAE National Day (2 Dec), Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4–6 Dec), GITEX Global (7–11 Dec), Dubai Shopping Festival (expected mid-Dec–Jan)
Popular airlines on this route Emirates, Etihad, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines

Swipe horizontally to see the full table →

Popular UK to UAE Routes

Direct and connecting flights from major UK airports — London, Manchester, Birmingham & more

Cheap flights London to Dubai UAE

London to Dubai

From £179
Emirates · British Airways · Virgin Atlantic
~7h direct LHR → DXB
Get a Quote
Cheap flights Manchester to Dubai UAE

Manchester to Dubai

From £189
Emirates · Qatar Airways · Etihad
~7h 15m direct MAN → DXB
Get a Quote
Cheap flights Birmingham to Abu Dhabi UAE

Birmingham to Abu Dhabi

From £199
Etihad · Emirates · Turkish Airlines
~7h direct BHX → AUH
Get a Quote
Cheap flights Glasgow to Dubai UAE

Glasgow to Dubai

From £205
Emirates · Qatar Airways · Etihad
~8h direct GLA → DXB
Get a Quote

Average Return Fares to UAE by Month

Based on historical fare data from UK airports to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah combined

United Kingdom to UAE — average economy return fares

Prices updated regularly — indicative figures
Low season (best value)
Shoulder season
Peak season
From £179
Cheapest one-way found
Jun – Aug
Cheapest months to fly
6–10 weeks
Optimal booking window
8+ airlines
Competing on every route
Which Airport?

Dubai vs Abu Dhabi vs Sharjah: Which Should You Fly Into?

Not sure which UAE airport suits your trip? Here's how the three main gateways compare for UK travellers

DXB · Dubai

Dubai International

  • Widest choice of UK airlines and lowest average fares
  • Best for Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Marina & Palm Jumeirah
  • Ideal for shopping trips, nightlife and first-time visitors
  • Direct from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow & Newcastle
Best for: Most UK travellers
AUH · Abu Dhabi

Zayed International

  • Etihad's home hub — direct from Heathrow & Manchester
  • Best for Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Yas Island
  • Ideal for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and business travel
  • Around 90 minutes by road from Dubai — easy to combine both
Best for: Culture, F1 & business
SHJ · Sharjah

Sharjah International

  • Often the lowest fares via Air Arabia connections
  • UAE's cultural capital — museums & heritage sites
  • Around 25 minutes from central Dubai by road
  • Good option for budget-conscious travellers and families
Best for: Budget travellers

When to Book UAE Flights from UK

UAE fares from UK surge sharply around National Day, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, GITEX, Dubai Shopping Festival and school holidays

National Day, F1, GITEX & DSF — the busiest run of dates in the UAE calendar starts this December

Every winter, hundreds of thousands of UK travellers book flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi for cooler weather and a packed events calendar. From UAE National Day on 2 December through the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, GITEX Global and the Dubai Shopping Festival, seats fill rapidly from October onwards and prices can rise by up to 50% in the final 8 weeks before departure. Use the dates below as your booking guide and contact TripNext for a price alert the moment fares reach your target.

The first two weeks of December 2026 are the busiest of the year — book 10–16 weeks ahead for best prices
UAE National Day
2–3 Dec 2026
Book by: Sep 2026
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (F1 season finale)
4–6 Dec 2026
Book by: Sep 2026
GITEX Global 2026
7–11 Dec 2026
Book by: Sep 2026
Dubai Shopping Festival (expected)
Mid-Dec 2026 – mid/late-Jan 2027
Book by: Oct 2026
UK Christmas & New Year
23 Dec 2026 – 2 Jan 2027
Book by: Sep 2026
Ramadan 2027 (expected)
~8 Feb – ~9 Mar 2027
Book by: Dec 2026

Book 10–16 Weeks Ahead for the December Event Run

National Day, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and GITEX all land within a nine-day window in December 2026. Hotels, business class and even Emirates A380 seats sell out fastest during this stretch — book as early as possible.

Fly Mid-Week for Lower Fares

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday departures on the UK-Dubai route can be 15–25% cheaper than Friday and Saturday flights. On a popular short-haul route like London to Dubai, that flexibility can save over £100 per person.

Call Our UAE Specialists

For group bookings of 4 or more passengers, or if you're travelling for an event like GITEX or the Grand Prix, calling TripNext directly often unlocks fares and seat allocations not available online.

2026/27 Events Guide

UAE Events After September 2026: Flights, Tickets & Stays

Travelling for an event? Here's what's coming up and how to plan your UK to UAE trip around it

UAE National Day 2026: Flights & Travel Guide

2–3 Dec 2026

The UAE marks the anniversary of the 1971 union of the seven emirates with fireworks over Dubai Marina and the Corniche, parades and citywide celebrations. It's the unofficial start of the UAE's busiest travel fortnight, landing right before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and GITEX.

UAE National Day flights Dubai December 2026 UK to Dubai National Day
Find Flights for National Day

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026: Flights, Tickets & Hotels

4–6 Dec 2026

Formula 1's season finale returns to Yas Marina Circuit for a twilight race weekend packed with after-race concerts on Yas Island. This is one of the highest-demand weekends of the year for flights and hotels into Abu Dhabi — and Dubai, a short transfer away.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 flights UK to Abu Dhabi F1 Flights to Yas Island
Search Abu Dhabi Flights

GITEX Global 2026 Dubai: Flights & Travel Guide

7–11 Dec 2026

The world's largest tech and AI show moves to its new home at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai for 2026, with the GITEX Scale Summit on 7 December followed by the main expo. Over 200,000 attendees from 180+ countries are expected — book flights and hotels early.

GITEX Dubai 2026 flights UK to GITEX Dubai Dubai tech conference 2026
Book GITEX Flights

Dubai Shopping Festival 2026–27: Flights & Deals

Expected Dec–Jan

Dubai's flagship winter festival brings city-wide discounts, nightly fireworks and drone shows. Official 2026–27 dates have not yet been confirmed — based on last year's 5 December–11 January run, expect a similar mid-December to mid/late-January window.

Dubai Shopping Festival flights DSF 2026-27 dates Dubai shopping holiday
Plan Your DSF Trip
Event dates are based on official organiser announcements and public sources as of August 2026 and may be updated closer to the time (particularly Dubai Shopping Festival, which is confirmed a few months ahead). Always check final ticket and event dates before booking non-refundable travel. Call TripNext on +44 7478 061159 for the latest availability.

Why UK Travellers Choose UAE

Everything you need to know before you fly from the UK to Dubai or Abu Dhabi

The UAE — particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi — has become one of the world's most visited destinations, welcoming over 17 million international tourists annually. UK visitors are the single largest source market, drawn by year-round sunshine, world-class shopping, luxury resorts, theme parks and a remarkable concentration of attractions within a compact area.

From the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE offers extraordinary experiences for families, couples and solo travellers. With direct flights from London taking under 7 hours, it's comfortably within reach for a long weekend, a school holiday or a two-week winter escape.

The UAE is home to a substantial South Asian and broader expat community, with hundreds of thousands of British nationals either living or regularly working in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. UK families visiting relatives benefit from the UAE's generous baggage policies — particularly Emirates at 25–35kg economy — and multiple direct services from regional UK airports including Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle.

For families with children, Dubai is an exceptionally child-friendly destination with world-class theme parks, water parks and indoor entertainment options that make it ideal year-round. Emirates' generous economy allowance and excellent inflight entertainment make it consistently popular for family travel on this route.

Dubai is the Middle East's leading business and financial hub, hosting the offices of thousands of multinational companies across DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre), Dubai Media City and Abu Dhabi Global Market. December 2026 alone brings GITEX Global and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix within a nine-day window, making it one of the busiest business and networking periods of the year.

Emirates Business Class and Etihad Business Studio are widely regarded as the best business class products on the UK-UAE route. For business travellers based in the North or Midlands, Emirates' direct services from Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle provide genuine competition to London Heathrow and avoid the transfer to London entirely.

~7h 30m
London to Dubai direct
35kg
Emirates economy baggage
8+ airlines
Competing on this route
No visa
UK citizens on arrival
Dubai skyline Burj Khalifa flights from UK Dubai Marina UAE

UAE Events & Peak Travel Calendar

Plan your flights around the UAE’s biggest events, festivals and school holiday periods from the UK — September 2026 to end of 2027

Event / Season Dates (2026–27) Key Destination(s) Demand Level Book By
Dubai Home Festival (Home & Furniture Sale) Mid Oct – Early Nov 2026 Dubai (DXB) Moderate 8 weeks ahead
UAE National Day (55th Anniversary) 2 – 3 Dec 2026 Dubai, Abu Dhabi High 10 weeks ahead
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (F1 season finale) 4 – 6 Dec 2026 Abu Dhabi (AUH) — Yas Marina Circuit Peak 14–16 weeks ahead
GITEX Global 2026 7 – 11 Dec 2026 Dubai (DXB) — Expo City Dubai Peak 10–14 weeks ahead
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), expected Mid Dec 2026 – Mid/Late Jan 2027 Dubai (DXB) Peak 10–14 weeks ahead
UK Christmas & New Year Travel 23 Dec 2026 – 2 Jan 2027 Dubai, Abu Dhabi Peak 16+ weeks ahead
Arab Health Exhibition Jan 2027 Dubai (DXB) High 8–10 weeks ahead
UK February Half-Term Mid-Feb 2027 Dubai, Abu Dhabi High 10–14 weeks ahead
Ramadan 2027 (expected, subject to moon sighting) ~8 Feb – ~9 Mar 2027 All UAE Moderate 6–8 weeks ahead
Eid Al-Fitr 2027 (expected) ~9–10 Mar 2027 Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah Peak 12–16 weeks ahead
UK Easter School Holidays Apr 2027 Dubai, Abu Dhabi High 12–14 weeks ahead
Eid Al-Adha 2027 (expected) ~16 May 2027 All UAE Peak 10–14 weeks ahead
UAE Low Season (Best Value) Jun – Aug (annually) All destinations Best Value Book any time

Not sure when to fly? Call +44 20 7550 8212 for expert UAE route advice from our specialists

Call Now for Best Fares

Which Airline is Best for UAE Flights from the UK?

Compare airlines on price, baggage, routing and service quality to choose the right one for your trip

Airline Route Type Economy Baggage From (one-way) Connects Via Best For Rating
Emirates Direct 25–35 kg £179 Direct (DXB) Families, comfort, regional UK airports ★★★★★
British Airways Direct 23 kg £195 Direct (DXB) Avios points, Heathrow lounge ★★★★☆
Virgin Atlantic Direct 23 kg £189 Direct (DXB) In-flight experience, Upper Class ★★★★☆
Etihad Airways Direct 23–30 kg £185 Direct (AUH) Abu Dhabi visits, business class ★★★★☆
Qatar Airways Connecting 23–30 kg £199 Doha (DOH) Business class QSuites, on-time record ★★★★★
Turkish Airlines Connecting 23 kg £169 Istanbul (IST) Lowest fares, budget-conscious ★★★☆☆
Air Arabia / flydubai Connecting 20 kg £155 Various hubs Budget one-way, Sharjah (SHJ) access ★★★☆☆

Prices are indicative. Fares vary by date, class and availability. Baggage allowances are for standard economy class and may differ by fare type. Call +44 20 7550 8212 for live pricing on any of these airlines.

Emirates vs Etihad vs British Airways: Which One Should You Book?

Emirates wins on network and baggage — it's the only airline flying direct to Dubai from six UK airports, with up to 35kg allowance in economy, making it the default choice for most leisure travellers and families. Etihad is the better pick if your final destination is Abu Dhabi, Yas Island or the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with a business class product (Business Studio) that regularly rivals the best in the world. British Airways suits Avios collectors and Heathrow-based travellers who want Club World lounges and a familiar UK carrier, though its 23kg baggage allowance is lower than Emirates. For the lowest fares outright, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul is usually cheaper than all three, at the cost of a longer journey.

Holiday Types

UAE Vacation Deals for Every Traveller

Flight and holiday inspiration for families, couples, luxury seekers and budget travellers

Dubai Family Holidays from the UK

Dubai is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world, with theme parks, water parks and indoor entertainment that work year-round regardless of the heat outside.

  • Emirates' generous 25–35kg baggage suits family luggage
  • IMG Worlds of Adventure, Legoland Dubai & Aquaventure Waterpark
  • Family rooms and kids' clubs across most Dubai resorts
  • Direct flights from regional airports avoid a stressful transfer via London
Dubai family holiday from UK

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Honeymoons from the UK

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi are among the region's most popular honeymoon destinations, combining beach resorts with fine dining and skyline views.

  • Overwater and beachfront suites on Palm Jumeirah
  • Sunset dhow cruises along Dubai Creek and Marina
  • Desert safari dinners under the stars
  • Quieter, culture-led breaks around Louvre Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat beaches
Dubai couples honeymoon holiday from UK

Luxury Dubai & Abu Dhabi Holidays

From Burj Al Arab suites to private beach clubs and Michelin-starred dining, the UAE is one of the world's leading luxury travel destinations, easily reached from the UK in under 7 hours.

  • Emirates & Etihad First Class and business class fares
  • Five-star resorts on Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai and Yas Island
  • VIP desert safaris, private yacht charters and helicopter tours
  • Exclusive shopping experiences during Dubai Shopping Festival
Luxury Dubai holiday from UK

Cheap UAE Holidays from the UK

A UAE holiday doesn't have to be expensive. Flying in the June-August low season, using the Metro instead of taxis and choosing 3-4 star hotels can bring a week in Dubai in well under £900 per person including flights.

  • Fly June–August for the cheapest fares of the year
  • Consider Sharjah or connecting flights via Istanbul for lower fares
  • Free attractions: JBR Beach, Dubai Fountain, Al Fahidi Historic District
  • Dubai Metro connects most major malls and attractions cheaply
Cheap budget Dubai holiday from UK

Flying to UAE as a Group or Family?

Group bookings of 4 or more often unlock fares and seat allocations not available online

Everything a group needs when booking UAE flights from the UK

Whether you’re travelling as a family to Dubai for a holiday, attending a wedding in Abu Dhabi or organising a corporate trip to Dubai for GITEX or a trade show, booking as a group with TripNext means personalised fare negotiation, seat allocation support and dedicated help from booking through to boarding.

  • Group booking discounts for 4+ passengers on the same flight
  • Baggage advice — compare Emirates 35kg vs Etihad 30kg vs British Airways 23kg
  • Best airlines for short-haul comfort with children — especially Emirates A380
  • Dubai vs Abu Dhabi — which airport works better for your itinerary?
  • Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah options for budget-conscious group travellers
  • Multi-city options for groups flying from different UK regional airports
Nov–Mar
Peak UAE travel season from UK
35kg
Emirates economy baggage allowance
4+
Passengers qualify for group rates
~7h
London Heathrow to Dubai direct
Dubai group travel flights from UK

UK Airports with Flights to UAE

Which UK airport should you fly from? Compare all departure airports, airlines and routes to Dubai and Abu Dhabi

UK Airport Code UAE Destinations Airlines Route Type Total Flight Time
London Heathrow LHR Dubai, Abu Dhabi Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, Qatar Airways Direct (DXB/AUH) 6h 45m – 7h 30m
London Gatwick LGW Dubai Emirates, flydubai (connection), Turkish Airlines Direct (DXB)Connecting 7h – 11h
Manchester MAN Dubai, Abu Dhabi Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines Direct (DXB/AUH) 7h 15m – 8h
Birmingham BHX Dubai, Abu Dhabi Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways Direct (DXB/AUH) 7h 30m – 8h 15m
Glasgow GLA Dubai Emirates Direct (DXB) 7h 30m – 8h
Newcastle NCL Dubai Emirates Direct (DXB) 7h 30m – 8h
Edinburgh EDI Dubai Emirates, Qatar Airways Direct (DXB)Connecting 8h – 10h
Bristol BRS Dubai Emirates (via LHR), Qatar Airways (via DOH) Connecting 9h – 12h

Route availability changes seasonally. Call +44 20 7550 8212 for the latest route and schedule information on your preferred departure airport.

Baggage Allowances — UAE Flights from UK

Travelling to the UAE for an extended stay or shopping trip? Here’s what each major airline allows

Best Allowance
Emirates
25–35 kg economy checked
Business class: 40 kg
  • Most generous — ideal for shopping trips and long stays
  • A380 double-deck on most LHR routes
  • Hand luggage: 7 kg
  • Flies direct from 6 UK airports
British Airways
23 kg economy checked
Business class: 32 kg
  • Direct from London Heathrow to Dubai
  • Earn Avios on every flight
  • Hand luggage: 23 kg (Club World)
  • Excellent business class Club World product
Etihad Airways
23–30 kg economy checked
Business class: 40 kg
  • Direct to Abu Dhabi from Heathrow & Manchester
  • Business Studio among the world’s best
  • Hand luggage: 7 kg
  • Great for Yas Island and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Qatar Airways
23–30 kg economy checked
Business class: 40 kg
  • 5-star Skytrax rated airline consistently
  • QSuites business class — world’s best
  • Hand luggage: 7 kg
  • Connects via Doha with short layovers
Virgin Atlantic
23 kg economy checked
Business class: 32 kg
  • Direct from Heathrow to Dubai
  • Excellent Upper Class bed
  • Hand luggage: 10 kg
  • Popular with leisure travellers
Turkish Airlines
23 kg economy checked
Business class: 32 kg
  • Often the lowest fares from UK to UAE
  • Connects via Istanbul with optional stopover
  • Hand luggage: 8 kg
  • Good for budget-conscious travellers
Important: Baggage allowances shown are for standard economy fares. Budget fares on the same airline may have lower limits. Always confirm your exact allowance at time of booking. Call +44 20 7550 8212 for advice.

Visa & Entry Requirements for UK to UAE

Entry requirements differ depending on your purpose of visit — check your category below before you book

Tourist Visit — Visa on Arrival (UK Citizens)

  • UK citizens do not need a pre-arranged visa to visit the UAE for tourism or business visits
  • A free 30-day visa on arrival is granted at Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Sharjah (SHJ) airports
  • Can be extended for an additional 30 days online or at immigration offices in the UAE
  • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
  • Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested
  • Always verify latest requirements at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates

Long-Term Stay, Work & Residency Visas

  • UK citizens wishing to work in the UAE require a work visa sponsored by a UAE employer
  • The UAE Golden Visa offers 5–10 year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and students
  • A Freelance/Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme) allows UK remote workers to live in Dubai for one year
  • Apply for long-term visas via the Federal Authority for Identity (ICP) website at icp.gov.ae
  • UAE residents and Golden Visa holders with British passports still require a valid UK passport for travel

Entry requirements can change. Always verify the latest visa and entry rules on the official UAE government immigration website (icp.gov.ae) and the UK government’s travel advice page (gov.uk) before booking. TripNext does not provide visa advice — the information above is for general guidance only.

Budget Planner

How Much Does a UAE Holiday Cost from the UK?

Indicative per-person costs for a 7-night Dubai trip including return flights — actual costs vary by season and provider

Budget

£700–£900 per person / 7 nights
  • Return flights£180–£250
  • 3-star hotel (7 nights)£250–£350
  • Food & local transport£150–£200
  • Attractions & extras£100–£150

Mid-Range

£1,100–£1,600 per person / 7 nights
  • Return flights£220–£400
  • 4-star hotel (7 nights)£500–£700
  • Food & local transport£250–£350
  • Attractions, desert safari & extras£150–£250

Luxury

£2,200+ per person / 7 nights
  • Return flights (business)£900–£1,800
  • 5-star resort (7 nights)£1,000–£2,000+
  • Fine dining & experiences£400+
  • Private tours & VIP extras£300+
Plan Your Trip

UAE Weather by Month

Average daytime temperatures in Dubai & Abu Dhabi to help you pick the best time to visit

Jan
24°C
Pleasant
Feb
26°C
Pleasant
Mar
29°C
Pleasant
Apr
33°C
Warm
May
37°C
Warm
Jun
40°C
Very Hot
Jul
41°C
Very Hot
Aug
41°C
Very Hot
Sep
38°C
Warm
Oct
34°C
Warm
Nov
29°C
Pleasant
Dec
25°C
Pleasant

Figures are average daytime highs and indicative only. November–March is the most comfortable period for sightseeing; June–August is hottest but cheapest to fly.

Queries Answered for Flights to UAE from UK

The most commonly asked questions about booking UAE flights from the UK, answered clearly

Quick answers: Use the questions below to find exactly what you need. Each answer is written for UK travellers booking UAE flights — covering visas, airlines, baggage, seasons, Dubai vs Abu Dhabi and more.
Multiple airlines offer direct flights from the UK to Dubai. Emirates operates the largest network with daily direct flights from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle and Edinburgh using A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic also fly direct from London Heathrow to Dubai. flydubai operates from various UK airports via a connection. Etihad Airways flies direct from Heathrow and Manchester to Abu Dhabi, and Qatar Airways connects via Doha to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Direct flights from London Heathrow to Dubai International Airport (DXB) take approximately 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours. From Manchester the direct flight is around 7 hours 15 minutes; from Birmingham approximately 7 hours 30 minutes. London to Abu Dhabi direct takes around 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours on Etihad. Connecting flights via Istanbul, Doha or other hubs add between 2 and 5 hours to total journey time.
No. British passport holders do not require a pre-arranged visa for the UAE. UK citizens receive a free visa on arrival at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports valid for 30 days, extendable for an additional 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. You may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation. Always verify the latest entry requirements on the UAE government’s official website (icp.gov.ae) and the UK government’s foreign travel advice page (gov.uk) before booking.
The cheapest months to fly from the UK to the UAE are June, July and August — the UAE’s extreme summer when temperatures exceed 40°C and leisure demand from international visitors drops significantly. Fares are highest from November to March (pleasant winter weather, UAE National Day, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, GITEX and the Dubai Shopping Festival) and around Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Booking 6–10 weeks in advance during off-peak periods secures the lowest fares.
Emirates typically allows 25–35kg checked baggage in economy depending on fare class, making it one of the most generous on this route. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic typically offer 23kg in economy. Etihad offers 23–30kg. Qatar Airways offers 23–30kg depending on fare. Always confirm your exact allowance at time of booking as it varies by fare type. For extended stays in the UAE, Emirates’ generous allowance is a key advantage.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has far more UK flights and airlines competing, making it generally cheaper and better connected for most UK travellers. Dubai is the primary leisure and business hub. Abu Dhabi (AUH) is served mainly by Etihad from the UK and can be cheaper for travellers whose final destination is the capital, Yas Island, or the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Abu Dhabi is also approximately 90 minutes by road from Dubai, so either airport works for exploring both cities. For the widest choice and lowest fares, fly into Dubai.
London Heathrow (LHR) is the primary UK airport for UAE flights with the most airlines including Emirates A380, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flying direct to Dubai. Manchester (MAN), Birmingham (BHX), Glasgow (GLA), Newcastle (NCL) and Edinburgh (EDI) all offer direct Emirates services to Dubai. This means travellers from the North of England, Scotland and the Midlands can access excellent fares without travelling to London first.
Turkish Airlines via Istanbul often offers the lowest economy fares from UK to Dubai. Qatar Airways via Doha and Etihad via Abu Dhabi are also competitively priced and offer strong service quality. Emirates dominates on direct services and despite being a premium carrier, frequently matches or undercuts connecting fares thanks to volume and competition. For pure price comparison, always check connecting options against Emirates’ direct fare — the time saving on a 7-hour route is significant.
At approximately 7 hours, the London to Dubai route is at the short end of long-haul, making business class a more straightforward call than on ultra-long routes. Emirates Business, Etihad Business Studio, Qatar Airways QSuites and British Airways Club World all compete on this route. For business travellers and those wanting to arrive refreshed, business class on this route is very popular. Off-peak return fares in business class can be found from around £900–£1,400 on competitive carriers. Contact TripNext for live business class pricing.

Best Time to Book Flights to UAE

Maximise your savings with our expert timing recommendations for UK to UAE flights

Best Value

Low Season

June – August · UAE Summer

Save up to 45%
High Demand

Peak Season

Nov – Mar · National Day · F1 · GITEX · DSF

Book 10–16 weeks ahead

Optimal Booking Window

Book 6–10 weeks before departure for best rates on UK to UAE routes

Cheapest Days to Fly

Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Mid-week departures save up to 25% compared to weekends

Popular Flight Deals from the UK to UAE

Hand-picked fares from major UK airports with trusted global airlines

EmiratesEconomy

LHR

London

Direct

DXB

Dubai

Emirates

LHR → DXB

from

£179

one-way
British AirwaysEconomy

LHR

London

Direct

DXB

Dubai

British Airways

LHR → DXB

from

£195

one-way
EmiratesEconomy

MAN

Manchester

Direct

DXB

Dubai

Emirates

MAN → DXB

from

£189

one-way
Etihad AirwaysEconomy

LHR

London

Direct

AUH

Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways

LHR → AUH

from

£185

one-way
Qatar AirwaysEconomy

BHX

Birmingham

via DOH

DXB

Dubai

Qatar Airways

BHX → DXB

from

£199

one-way
Turkish AirlinesEconomy

LHR

London

via IST

DXB

Dubai

Turkish Airlines

LHR → DXB

from

£169

one-way

Best Places to Visit in UAE

The UAE is more than just Dubai — explore its incredible diversity of destinations, each reachable from your UK flight into Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah

Flights to Dubai from UK
Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah — the UAE’s iconic global city.
DXB Airport
Flights to Abu Dhabi from UK
Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island — the UAE’s capital.
AUH Airport
Flights to Sharjah from UK
Sharjah
Cultural capital of the UAE — museums, heritage areas and budget-friendly living.
SHJ Airport
Flights to Ras Al Khaimah from UK
Ras Al Khaimah
Jais Mountain, adventure tourism and pristine beaches — UAE’s northern gem.
RKT Airport
Burj Khalifa Dubai UK flights
Dubai Marina
Waterfront dining, luxury yachts and the city’s most glamorous skyline.
DXB Airport
Palm Jumeirah Dubai flights from UK
Palm Jumeirah
Dubai’s iconic man-made island — Atlantis, luxury resorts and world-class beaches.
DXB Airport
Yas Island Abu Dhabi flights from UK
Yas Island
Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Marina Circuit and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
AUH Airport
Fujairah UAE flights from UK
Fujairah
East coast beaches, diving, snorkelling and the historic Fujairah Fort.
FJR Airport
30+ Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything else you need to know about flights, events and travel to the UAE from the UK — matching the schema markup on this page for search and AI assistants

Call TripNext on +44 7478 061159, send a WhatsApp message, or fill in the booking form on this page. Our UAE flight specialists compare fares across Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, Qatar Airways and more — including deals not always visible online.

Yes. Emirates flies direct from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle to Dubai. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic also fly direct from Heathrow, and the flight takes around 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours.

Etihad's direct London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi flight takes around 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours, similar to the Dubai route, with multiple daily departures on many dates.

November to March offers the most comfortable weather (24-30°C) and coincides with most major UAE events. April, May, September and October offer a good weather-to-price balance, while June-August is hottest but cheapest to fly.

A budget week in Dubai can cost from roughly £700-£900 per person including flights, a mid-range trip £1,100-£1,600, and a luxury trip £2,200 or more, depending on season, hotel category and activities. See our full budget breakdown above.

Key events include UAE National Day (2 December 2026), the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-6 December 2026), GITEX Global (7-11 December 2026) and the Dubai Shopping Festival, expected from mid-December 2026 into January 2027.

GITEX Global 2026 runs 7-11 December at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. Book UK to Dubai flights 10-14 weeks ahead, as hotels and business-class seats sell out quickly during this period.

The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 takes place 4-6 December at Yas Marina Circuit, as the F1 season finale, immediately before GITEX Global in Dubai.

Official dates had not been confirmed as of August 2026. Based on the 2025-26 edition (5 December to 11 January), DSF 2026-27 is expected to run from mid-December 2026 into January 2027. Always check the latest confirmed dates before booking non-refundable travel.

UAE National Day falls on 2 December every year, marking the 1971 union of the seven emirates. It is typically celebrated over 2-3 December with fireworks, parades and citywide events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around 8 February 2027, subject to moon sighting, with Eid al-Fitr around 9-10 March 2027. Expect shorter mall and restaurant hours during the day and busier flights around the Eid holiday.

Dubai is the most family-friendly UAE destination thanks to theme parks, water parks and indoor entertainment that work year-round, alongside Emirates' generous baggage allowance for family luggage.

Dubai's Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina are popular for couples and honeymoons, while Abu Dhabi's Louvre and Saadiyat Island beaches suit couples seeking a quieter, culture-led break.

Dubai can be as affordable or as luxurious as you choose. Budget hotels, the Metro and street food keep costs down, while five-star resorts and fine dining push costs up considerably, particularly during peak season.

Direct flights on Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic or Etihad save time and suit families or short breaks. Connecting flights via Istanbul, Doha or other hubs can be cheaper but add 2-5 hours to the journey.

For most travel, 6-10 weeks ahead secures competitive fares. For peak periods like Christmas, the Dubai Shopping Festival, GITEX or the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, book 10-16 weeks ahead as flights and hotels sell out early.

November to March is warm and pleasant (18-30°C), April, May, September and October are hot (30-38°C), and June to August is extremely hot and humid, often exceeding 40°C, which is also when fares are cheapest.

Yes. Air Arabia and other carriers connect UK airports to Sharjah, while Ras Al Khaimah is reachable via a short transfer from Dubai or Sharjah, or via seasonal charter and connecting services.

Yes. Emirates flies direct to Dubai from Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle. Etihad also serves Abu Dhabi direct from Manchester, giving travellers outside London strong options.

Dress modestly in public areas, avoid public displays of affection, note that alcohol is only served in licensed venues, and be aware that Dubai's Metro and taxis make getting around straightforward and affordable.

Yes. Group bookings of 4 or more passengers on the same UAE flight often qualify for negotiated fares and seat allocation support. Call our team on +44 7478 061159 for a tailored group quote.

Emirates is the most popular and widely regarded as the best airline on the UK to Dubai route for most travellers, offering the widest UK network, the most generous economy baggage allowance (up to 35kg) and the A380 on many Heathrow routes.

Emirates allows 25-35kg in economy depending on fare class. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic allow 23kg. Etihad and Qatar Airways allow 23-30kg. Always confirm your exact allowance at booking.

No. UK citizens receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, and the visa can be extended for an additional 30 days.

Flying with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul or Air Arabia/flydubai connections typically offers the lowest fares, especially when booked 6-10 weeks ahead during June-August.

UAE Travel Guides & Tips

Expert advice from our UAE travel specialists — read before you fly

Ready to Book Your Flight to UAE?

Call, WhatsApp or submit the form — our UK-based UAE specialists are ready to find you the best fare to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond, whether it's a holiday, GITEX, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix or a family visit.