Dubai: Worth a Stopover?

When flying with Qantas or Emirates to Europe, the Middle East or Africa, you’ll probably fly via Dubai. Both Qantas and Emirates offer free stopovers in Dubai, and Emirates even offers discounted stopover and holiday packages. So, is it worth breaking up the trip with a few days in the United Arab Emirates? That’s the question being asked by Eija this week.

Planning on traveling MEL-DXB-AMS, August 2018 on EK. Thinking of a Dubai Stopover for a few days. Has anyone done this and if so…Looking for Tips & Tricks or just a Forgetaboutit.

Our members have mixed views. Many have visited Dubai and enjoyed it. But Dubai can get extremely hot during the summer months. This includes August, when Eija will be travelling.

There are numerous attractions in Dubai to keep tourists occupied for a few days. These include the souks, indoor ski slopes, various malls and the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Getting around is relatively easy using the air-conditioned metro. And for a more unique experience, excursions to the desert are also available.

I’d recommend it – there is quite a bit to fill in a few days. There are also trips out in the desert which others have done.

For some inspiration on things to do in Dubai, you may be interested in browsing some of our members’ trip reports. This trip report by RooFlyer and this review written by Pushka provide some useful hints and tips on Dubai (as well as an entertaining read)!

One member recommends stopping over; not so much to see Dubai, but to break up the monotony of the long haul to Europe.

Regardless of the destination, I would personally break up a long trip like that for a few days if I had the opportunity to do so. You’ll feel better when you arrive in AMS.

Others do not recommend stopping over as it will be simply too hot.

August will be exceptionally hot which might curtail some of your activities. And I mean, searingly hot. Every day.

It’s interesting for a short period if you can get out and about. At the time of year mentioned, you won’t go further than the hotel pool.

Have you visited Dubai? Share your recommendations HERE.

Matt Graham

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.