Dubai is a city that has reinvented itself faster than anywhere in the world, and the result is a destination that’s genuinely difficult to categorise. A modern skyline that includes the world’s tallest building, a thriving heritage quarter in the Deira and Bur Dubai souks, desert dunes 45 minutes from the city centre, and the kind of luxury hotel product that sets the global benchmark. From Brisbane, Dubai is a natural stopover for Europe-bound Australians, and increasingly a destination worth visiting on its own.
The Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai
The Burj Khalifa (828 metres) is the world’s tallest building, and the view from the observation deck on floors 124 and 125 is extraordinary. Book tickets online well in advance; gate sales are significantly more expensive and limited in availability. The evening light show on the adjacent Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain, runs after sunset and is free to watch from the Downtown Dubai waterfront.
The Dubai Mall, attached to the Burj Khalifa complex, is one of the world’s largest shopping centres and also contains an indoor aquarium, an ice rink, and a dinosaur skeleton. It’s not just for shopping.
The Souks: Old Dubai
The Gold Souk in Deira is the largest in the world, with over 400 jewellery shops lining covered alleyways. The prices are genuine and the gold is certified; bargaining is expected. The nearby Spice Souk, a 5-minute walk south, sells frankincense, saffron, dried rose petals, and spices in quantities and at prices that make it worth bringing extra luggage space.
The Dubai Creek, separating Deira from Bur Dubai, is crossed by traditional abra (wooden water taxi) for less than AED 2 per person. This 5-minute crossing is one of the authentic experiences in a city that has many constructed ones.
Desert Safari and Beyond the City
The Hatta desert and dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve are accessible on half-day or full-day safari tours from the city. The standard package includes dune bashing in 4WD vehicles (best in the afternoon light), camel rides, sandboarding, and a Bedouin camp dinner with traditional entertainment. It’s packaged firmly for tourists, but the desert landscape itself is genuinely spectacular.
Abu Dhabi, 90 minutes south-west of Dubai by road, is worth a day trip for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s most impressive contemporary mosques and genuinely worth the journey.
Flights, Visa, and Costs
Emirates and Qantas codeshare operate direct Brisbane to Dubai services. The flight takes approximately 14 hours. Australians receive a 90-day visa-free entry to the UAE, though this is subject to current government policy and should be verified at time of booking. Dubai accommodation prices vary enormously: budget to mid-range hotels near the Bur Dubai and Deira area run AUD $120 to $200 per night. The Burj Al Arab and luxury properties on Palm Jumeirah are at a different price tier entirely.
FAQ: Dubai from Australia
Do Australians need a visa for Dubai?
Australian passport holders currently receive visa-free entry to the UAE for up to 90 days. This is subject to current UAE government policy. Verify entry requirements at time of booking.
How long is the flight from Brisbane to Dubai?
Brisbane to Dubai is approximately 14 hours direct on Emirates. This makes it one of Australia’s longer direct international routes and a natural break point for Europe-bound travel.
Is Dubai suitable for families?
Yes. Dubai has excellent theme parks including Dubai Parks and Resorts (featuring LEGOLAND, Motiongate, and Bollywood Parks), safe public spaces, and a culture that is generally family-friendly.
What’s the best time to visit Dubai from Australia?
November to March is the best period: temperatures are 20 to 28 degrees and comfortable for outdoor activities. April to October sees temperatures exceeding 40 degrees and is not recommended for extended outdoor activity.
Is Dubai expensive?
Dubai can be done at various budget levels. Mid-range accommodation in older parts of the city (Bur Dubai, Deira) is AUD $100 to $200 per night. The luxury Palm Jumeirah properties run much higher. Food costs vary significantly between the heritage souks (very affordable) and the upscale mall dining (comparable to Australian restaurant prices).
Book your Dubai stopover or complete Dubai holiday with Sai World Travel. Call 1800 724 967 or visit saiworldtravel.com.au.