Dubai Layover Guide Things to Do Between Flights

I learned about the delights of a Dubai layover (or stopover) in Dubai involuntarily years ago when my Emirates flight was first delayed and then further delayed. Honestly, and since I had nowhere to be, I did not mind as I could settle into the comforts of a modern hotel room, pop in the shower and enjoy some delightful Levante food before my next overseas long flight.

I’ve always kept an eye out for the opportunity of an airport layover; I had done that in Doha and Istanbul previously. A chance for another layover in Dubai arrived when I flew back from Maldives. The thought of hours spent at the airport in the middle of the night was not enticing to me, so I decided to treat myself to a night at the Boulevard and some mezze.

Dubai Layover with Dubai Connect and Emirates

When you travel on Emirates and have a layover in Dubai, you may qualify for Dubai Connect, which is what their stopover program is called. If your shortest connection time is 8-26 hours in Dubai, you may take advantage of their Dubai Connect offer. This includes a hotel room for free, meals at the hotel, and transportation to and from the hotel in Dubai, as well as your visa for this long layover.

Even if you do not meet the criteria remember that a shortest connection is allowable, however, it must last more than 8 hours, or you may also do your own Dubai layover. Often, when you book with Emirates, you can select different connection times, and they may even automatically give you a 24-hour layover if not more! And, if you’d like to turn your layover into a stopover and you want to stay the entire weekend, you can use multi-city searching and add a few days.

I booked a flight that arrived from the Maldives at 2 pm and scheduled to depart the next morning at 8 am from Dubai. There’s enough time to see some sights, get some food, and have a decent night’s sleep.

If your connection time is less than 24 hours your luggage may be checked through to your final destination. Check with the airline beforehand and plan accordingly. 

Hotels for your Dubai Layover

If you do not qualify for the complimentary Dubai Connect hotel you can always arrange your own accommodation. Unfortunately, and there is no way around that, Dubai hotels are never cheap. When I was there last summer, low season for Dubai, it was still a splurge.

I enjoy both Vida Downtown (currently Hotel Boulevard) and the Manzil (now Heritage Hotel), which are two downtown boutique hotels operated by the same hotel group. Both venues are within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, the Fountain, and the Burj Khalifa. In fact, you might have a room with a view of the Burj Khalifa.

This time I chose to stay at the Boulevard, where I first stayed at Vida Downtown years ago for a press trip. While the location is still fantastic I felt like they were a bit lacking in service and amenities. Or maybe I’m just spoilt by hotels around the $150-$200 per night. That being said, they do have an amazing pool with cabanas, which is definitely a plus when in Dubai during summer.

Since I had just come back from the ultimate beach holiday, I wasn’t seeking a beach hotel, but let’s just say there are a few that you can find in Dubai. Personally, I like staying in downtown Dubai in particular if I only have a couple of days, since most of the major sites will be within walking distance.

Should you stay at a Dubai airport hotel? Probably not unless you must! Yes, there are several nearby hotels but, if you intend to do some sightseeing during your Dubai layover, there is no reason to stay at the airport. The prices will be similar and you’ll be too far away from the sights and beaches.

How to get around Dubai

And yes, it is possible to walk in Dubai, it feels very safe, and even the streets are very clean to walk alone as a woman traveling to Dubai. But it is not a clever idea to walk in Dubai during the summer months. After recently completing the summer in Rajasthan, Dubai was a total sauna. Generally, I do not have any problem with 40 degrees, but it was awful, even in the early evening.

That aside, you can simply use Uber or the metro for longer distance travels. At the airport, you can catch a taxi and pay with your credit card too. The metro was generally well connected, if I’m not mistaken but the nearest station was a pretty good distance from the Boulevard so I didn’t take it this trip.

What to do during a Dubai layover?

Please check your Emirates ticket; chances are, you might receive a discount to some of the coolest attractions in Dubai. But even if not, there is still a lot to do and see. First, let me suggest that you check the weather. I passed on a visit to the Burj Khalifa because the day looked a bit sandstorm-foggy weather. Then, I wandered around the Fountain and visited the Dubai Mall. The Dubai Aquarium, in particular, has an incredible display; I almost cried when I saw the baby hammerhead sharks.

I visited the Dubai Aquarium many years ago and was totally amazed but since then I have become a diver and haven’t stepped foot in an aquarium. I guess it’s up to you but I would say the displays you can see from the mall stretch over two levels so I’d say – don’t bother and just look from the outside.

If you visit Dubai in the summer, you will prefer to be indoors. the Malls are not for you, try the Museum of the Future or check out the AYA Universe.

If the temperatures aren’t too high, you can ride a boat across the Dubai Creek, take a leisurely stroll, or to top it all, you can take a trip to the desert for a dune adventure.

Where to eat in Dubai?

Naturally, you’ll want to eat when in Dubai. But if you’re not interest in a sit-down dinner and want to combine head sightseeing and eating I would suggest you take a food tour in Dubai to explore some of the best local flavors.

On the other hand, there are many possibilities, and when it comes to budget – the options are endless. There are plenty of Michelin-starred establishments, as well as a number of well-known chefs operate eateries in London, like Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay.

There is also sushi, Levante, French, Italian… I suggest that you research and read reviews ahead of time because as mentioned before, eating out is not cheap in Dubai, as with everything else.

Can I do a Dubai layover during Ramadan?

Yes, you may certainly visit Dubai during Ramadan, and it can be pretty interesting to see Iftar and try one of the many yummy Iftar buffet that pop up everywhere. Since Dubai is quite a melting pot, I have no doubt this will be a great experience for anyone fond of food or just about anyone interested in experiencing the ‘real side’ of Islamic culture.

That said, just remember you should not eat, drink, or smoke in public, especially in front of people who are fasting. In many international hotels, you will be able to get food before sunset. It is also appreciated when you dress a little more modestly during Ramadan.

OTHER OPTIONS FOR A LONG LAYOVER IN Dubai

Emirates has a very large terminal at Dubai, so large that it almost feels like its own airport. I wouldn’t say it is as impressive as Singapore’s Changi, but it is still a good airport with shops and places to rest.

The Emirates business class and first class lounges are the best lounges. You also have the option to purchase access to the lounge if you are flying economy class. However, even if you are an Emirates Skywards member, access to the Dubai business class lounge is $150 + tax, while the Emirates first class lounge is $250 + tax.

Although the lounges are pleasant, I do not feel they are worth the $150 especially since you are limit to a 4 hour stay. You would be better off acquiring a lounge pass to the Premium Lounge. I was there during New Year’s Eve and it certainly met my expectations. Alternatively this is one of twelve luxury lounges in the various terminals, you simply purchase right before your arrival and then once you arrive you have to decide which one is the most convenient based on your layover in Dubai.

FAQs

Q1. Do I need a visa to leave Dubai Airport during a layover?

Yes, depending on your nationality, some travelers require a transit visa, while others can enjoy visa-free entry or visa on arrival.

Q2. How many hours do I need for a Dubai layover tour?

At least 6–8 hours are recommend to leave the airport, explore the city, and return comfortably for your next flight.

Q3. What are the best things to do in Dubai on a short layover?

Top options include visiting Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, or a quick desert safari if you have more time.

Q4. Can I book a guided tour during my Dubai layover?

Yes, many operators offer layover tours with airport pickup and drop-off, making it easy to explore quickly.

Q5. Is Dubai Airport good for long layovers if I don’t leave?

Absolutely. Dubai Airport offers lounges, shopping, spas, and even sleeping pods for a comfortable layover stay.