Getting to the UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and choosing an airport

How the emirates' airports differ, when low-cost carriers pay off and how not to overpay for a ticket in high season.

The UAE has several international airports. Dubai is served by Dubai International (DXB), one of the busiest in the world, and Al Maktoum (DWC). Abu Dhabi has AUH, Sharjah has SHJ, home to low-cost carriers, and Ras Al Khaimah has RKT. Choose the airport by where you will stay and the travel time: you can get between emirates by taxi, bus or a rented car, and the journey takes from half an hour to a few hours.

Direct flight or connection

From many cities in the region, including Central Asia, there are direct flights to Dubai, Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, and they are usually better on time. Flights with a connection are sometimes cheaper but add hours and the risk of missing the connection. If the legs are bought separately and the first flight is late, the second airline owes you nothing, so allow a time margin or buy a single ticket.

Season and price

The most expensive period is the winter months and holidays; in summer tickets and hotels are noticeably cheaper, but it is very hot. Compare the final price with baggage, which low-cost carriers often charge for. Flexible dates and the low-price calendar help you save.

Before you buy

Entry rules depend on citizenship: check on official government sites whether a visa is needed and whether it can be obtained online. Below is a partner flight card (advertising), and our converter makes it easy to work out the total costs.