Dubai

Departing from Birmingham Airport

With its central location, getting to Birmingham Airport is convenient however you choose to arrive. If you’re travelling by public transport, you will find bus services running directly to the airport or to Birmingham International train station. There is a free and frequent transport from the station which takes you to the terminal in just minutes.

You’ll find a choice of 7 car parks should you wish to drive to the airport. All car parks are easily accessible from the terminal by foot or via a free courtesy shuttle bus. Be sure to book a car park space online in advance to save up to 70% off!

As one of the largest international airports in Britain, Birmingham Airport is fully equipped with great facilities for you to take advantage of before you fly.

Whether you’ve got some time to kill before your flight or you’re after some last minute essentials, Birmingham Airport has a great selection of shops for you to browse. Enjoy great savings at World Duty Free, head to WHSmith for your plane snacks, and to InMotion for any electrical items. 

A great way to spend your time at the airport is to enjoy a delicious meal at one of our cafés, bars and restaurants. If you’ve got time for a sit-down meal before you fly then head to one of our many restaurants, such as Factory Bar and Kitchen. If you want to grab something to take onboard with you, you’ll find Pret a Manger and Costa. 

Need currency for your trip abroad? It’s easy to pick up currency before your long-haul flight at one of our Travelex stores conveniently located in the Arrivals area of the terminal building and Departures Lounge.  Travelex specialise in 50+ currencies, plus knowledgeable staff can advise you on the most suitable currency.  If you prefer, you can pre-order your currency and get next day collection if you order before 3pm at Birmingham Airport. 

For extra comfort and relaxation, why not book into one of our five airport lounges? Enjoy complimentary food and drinks, unlimited WiFi and great runway views.

Arriving at Dubai Airport

Dubai Airport is located 4.6km east of Dubai city and has three main terminals. Emirates and Qantas flights arrive at Terminal 3 and all other international airlines arrive at Terminal 1. There’s a free 24-hour shuttle bus service should you need to travel between the terminals. Passengers travelling between Terminal 1 and 3 can also use the metro.

You will find taxi ranks at all 3 terminals, with taxis waiting 24 hours a day seven days a week. Beware that you will receive a surcharge on journeys from the airport. A more affordable way to travel to the city centre is via the metro. You will find metro stations in both Terminals 1 and 3 - with just two lines to choose from it makes navigation on the network easy. When boarding the metro, please note the front carriage is reserved as first class and there is also a carriage reserved for women and children only.

You will also find local buses or pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.

What to expect in Dubai

World-class shopping, dining and entertainment attractions, beautiful beaches, mysterious deserts and culturally-rich heritage sites – Dubai is a city that needs to be seen to be believed.

UAE is a Muslim country but it’s not as conservative as you might expect. Dress as you would do in Europe: shorts and skirts are fine, and there’s no need for a burkini or to cover your hair.

Dubai enjoys a sub-tropical climate, split into two seasons. Summer lasts from April – October and brings extremely high temperatures and humidity to the city. June – October can bring temperatures of up to 50°C, which can often feel unbearable. Winter months are slightly cooler and the best time to visit for some winter sun.

Culture in Dubai

Dubai is a Muslim country, where kissing, cuddling, and even holding hands in public are not only frowned upon, but actually illegal. It is not uncommon for naïve foreigners to be arrested for committing indecent acts. Drinking alcohol in public is also prohibited (except at licensed establishments), as is giving someone the middle finger. Committing any of these offenses may see you fined, stripped of your passport, and/or thrown in jail.

It’s not all business and skyscrapers here. Learn Dubai’s rich history in its top-class museums, stroll the narrow streets of charming Old Dubai, and take in the sight and smells at one of the city’s many markets.

Dubai celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, the majority of which are focused on religion. Here, Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life that governs even the smallest of everyday events, from marriages to what to eat and drink. You will find other miscellaneous events though, like the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Dubai International Jazz Festival and even Dubai Rugby Sevens.

Check out our travel guide to Dubai for more great things to do in the city.