Getting to Dubai

Getting to Dubai

Because of its central location, Dubai is the major hub of the United Arab Emirate and is easily accessible from most major cities across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Dubai International Airport is ranked in the list of the world's top 10 airports and can accommodate over 14 million travellers per year. Future development proposes to take this figure up to a staggering 70 million! With ultra modern facilities and even the odd waterfall or two, if you have some time to explore, it’s well worth a look. Dubai airport has three terminals located on opposite sides of the airport, with Terminal 1 handling more international flights, Terminal 2 domestic flights and new Terminal 3 which is for the new Airbus A380’s. Terminal 1 offers every service you could want on arrival from medical facilities, dining, car hire. cash, and hotels. There is, of course, plenty of opportunity for Duty Free shopping if you have time! The city centre is only a short bus or taxi ride away from the airport or there are fleets of limousines for those who prefer a spot of luxury after a long flight. Apart from the ever-growing number of flights into the country, there are other ways to get into the country. If you are visiting neighbouring Oman or Abu Dhabi, it may be worth driving to Dubai. Highways 44 and 66 enter Dubai from Oman, while Highway 11 comes in from Abu Dhabi to the southwest. Traffic is often minimal and with such good roads you’ll be there in no time. Be sure to purchase a road map to avoid any unnecessary detours. Intercity buses, although primarily taking you around the city, also operate across the Emirates. There are mini buses from Abu Dhabi leaving Al-Ain at the Bur Dubai bus station and there are two daily buses leaving from Muscat. Once in Dubai, if you’re one a budget, bussing it around town is by far the cheapest way to travel. They all have air-con making it a much more pleasant way to get around than on foot. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is another way to get to Dubai, depending on where you are. The traditional Arab dhow ships regularly sail to Dubai from all over the region, and although they are slow, they provide unrivalled views of the cityscape as your pull into the harbour. If you aren’t in a hurry then this is definitely the way to travel.