Flight From Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Dubai (DXB)

Comprehensive Guide to Flights from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai

Looking to travel from the tropical paradise of Kota Kinabalu to the glittering metropolis of Dubai? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two captivating destinations. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, understanding your flight options, airport details, and travel tips will help ensure a smooth journey from Malaysia to the United Arab Emirates.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

• Flight From Kota Kinabalu to Dubai via Shanghai
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Shanghai (China) → Dubai (UAE)
  • Airlines: Shanghai Airlines, China Eastern
  • Total Flight Duration: 21h 30m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A330
  • Layovers:
    • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai, China layover for 6h 50m
• Flight From Kota Kinabalu to Dubai via Guangzhou
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Guangzhou (China) → Dubai (UAE)
  • Airlines: China Southern
  • Total Flight Duration: 27h 50m
  • Aircraft: Airbus A321neo, Airbus A330
  • Layovers:
    • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), Guangzhou, China layover for 15h 0m (overnight)
• Flight From Kota Kinabalu to Dubai via Kuala Lumpur
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Dubai (UAE)
  • Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Emirates
  • Total Flight Duration: 11h 10m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A380
  • Layovers:
    • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 4h 30m (overnight)

Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.

About Kota Kinabalu International Airport - Kota Kinabalu

Location

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is conveniently located just 7 kilometers (about 4.3 miles) southwest of Kota Kinabalu city center. As the main gateway to the Malaysian state of Sabah and the island of Borneo, this airport serves as a crucial transportation hub for both domestic and international travelers. The airport's proximity to the city center makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike, with a travel time of approximately 15-20 minutes by car from downtown Kota Kinabalu.

Airport Terminal

Kota Kinabalu International Airport features two main terminals:

• Terminal 1: The larger and more modern terminal, handling most international flights and some domestic services. The terminal spans three floors and offers a wide range of amenities for travelers.
• Terminal 2: A smaller terminal primarily serving low-cost carriers and some domestic routes. While more compact than Terminal 1, it still offers essential services for passengers.

Both terminals are equipped with check-in counters, immigration and customs facilities, baggage claim areas, and various passenger services to ensure a comfortable travel experience.

Transport to Airport

Travelers have several options to reach Kota Kinabalu International Airport:

• Taxi: The most convenient option, with fares ranging from RM20-30 from the city center. Taxis are readily available throughout Kota Kinabalu and offer door-to-door service.
• Airport Bus: A more economical option, with buses departing from the city center every hour. The fare is approximately RM5 per person, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers.
• Ride-sharing Services: Apps like Grab are available in Kota Kinabalu and provide a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, often with competitive pricing.
• Hotel Shuttle: Many hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer shuttle services to and from the airport, either complimentary or for a nominal fee. Check with your accommodation for availability.

Facilities

Kota Kinabalu International Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers:

• Shopping: Duty-free shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, fashion items, and travel essentials are available in both terminals.
• Dining: Various food and beverage outlets serving local Malaysian cuisine as well as international fare, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
• Lounges: Premium lounges for business class passengers and members of certain airline loyalty programs, offering comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and business facilities.
• Banking and Currency Exchange: ATMs and currency exchange counters are conveniently located throughout the airport.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi service is available throughout the airport terminals.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer rooms for Muslim travelers.
• Medical Services: First aid facilities and medical assistance are available if needed.
• Special Assistance: Services for passengers with reduced mobility or those requiring special assistance.

About Dubai Intl - Dubai

Location

Dubai Intl is strategically located in Al Garhoud, just 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) southeast of Dubai's city center. As one of the world's busiest international airports, it serves as a major global aviation hub connecting East and West. The airport's central position within Dubai makes it easily accessible from all parts of the city and neighboring emirates. The journey from downtown Dubai to the airport typically takes about 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Airport Terminal

Dubai International Airport comprises three terminals:

• Terminal 1: Used by most international airlines, featuring a concourse (Concourse D) connected to the main terminal building by an automated people mover. This terminal handles a significant portion of the airport's international traffic.
• Terminal 2: Located on the eastern side of the airport, primarily serving regional and low-cost carriers, as well as special flights.
• Terminal 3: One of the world's largest airline terminal buildings, exclusively used by Emirates Airline and its partner Qantas. This enormous terminal is divided into Concourses A, B, and C, with Concourse A being the world's first purpose-built facility for A380 aircraft.

Each terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including efficient check-in areas, immigration and customs services, and extensive baggage handling systems.

Transport From Airport

Dubai offers numerous transportation options for travelers arriving at Dubai International Airport:

• Dubai Metro: The Red Line has stations at Terminals 1 and 3, providing an economical and traffic-free journey into the city. Trains run frequently from early morning until midnight (and later on weekends).
• Taxis: Available 24/7 outside all terminals, Dubai taxis are cream-colored with different colored roofs indicating the operating company. Fares start with a minimum charge of around AED 25, with additional charges based on distance.
• Bus: The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) operates several bus routes connecting the airport to various parts of the city. These are an economical option for budget travelers.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many Dubai hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport for their guests.
• Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies have counters at the airport for travelers who prefer to drive themselves.
• Ride-hailing Services: Apps like Careem are widely used in Dubai and provide convenient door-to-door transportation.

Facilities

Dubai International Airport is renowned for its extensive and luxurious facilities:

• Shopping: Dubai Duty Free is one of the world's largest airport retail operations, offering everything from luxury goods and electronics to confectionery and souvenirs across all terminals.
• Dining: A vast array of dining options ranging from fast food to fine dining, featuring both international chains and local cuisine. The airport is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and food courts.
• Lounges: Multiple premium lounges across all terminals, including the renowned Emirates lounges in Terminal 3, offering gourmet dining, shower facilities, business centers, and relaxation areas.
• Hotels: Several hotels are located within or near the airport, including the Dubai International Hotel within Terminals 1 and 3, offering transit passengers comfortable accommodation without needing to clear immigration.
• Relaxation Areas: Sleep 'n Fly sleep lounges, Zen Gardens, and quiet areas provide spaces for relaxation between flights.
• Entertainment: Gaming zones, children's play areas, and multimedia stations are available throughout the airport.
• Health and Wellness: Spa services, fitness centers, and medical clinics cater to passengers' wellbeing.
• Prayer Rooms: Multiple prayer rooms are available throughout the airport for Muslim travelers.
• Business Services: Business centers offering meeting rooms, internet access, printing, and other office services.
• Special Assistance: Comprehensive services for passengers with reduced mobility, families with children, and other travelers requiring special assistance.

FAQ Kota Kinabalu to Dubai Flight

• Question: What is the flight distance between Kota Kinabalu and Dubai?
  Answer: The direct flight distance between Kota Kinabalu and Dubai is approximately 6,220 kilometers (3,865 miles). However, since there are no direct flights, the actual flying distance will be longer depending on your chosen route and layover destinations.
• Question: How long does it take to fly from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai?
  Answer: Since there are no direct flights, the total journey time varies depending on your chosen route and layover duration. Typically, the fastest connections take around 11-12 hours of total flying time, plus layover time. The total journey time including layovers can range from approximately 11 hours (via Kuala Lumpur) to over 27 hours (via Guangzhou) depending on the routing and connection times.
• Question: What is the best route to fly from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai?
  Answer: The route via Kuala Lumpur is generally considered the most efficient option, with a total journey time of around 11 hours and 10 minutes. This route typically offers a good balance of flight duration, layover time, and frequency of available flights. However, the best route for you may depend on your schedule preferences, budget, and preferred airlines.
• Question: What is the cheapest time to fly from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai?
  Answer: Generally, flights tend to be cheaper during Dubai's summer months (June to August) when temperatures are extremely high. For the best deals, consider booking your flight 2-3 months in advance and being flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week departures (Tuesday and Wednesday) often offer better rates than weekend flights.
• Question: Do I need a visa to travel from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai?
  Answer: Yes, Malaysian citizens need a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates. However, the UAE offers visa-on-arrival for Malaysian passport holders, which allows for a stay of up to 30 days. This visa is free of charge and is issued upon arrival at any UAE port of entry, including Dubai International Airport.
• Question: What is the time difference between Kota Kinabalu and Dubai?
  Answer: Dubai is 4 hours behind Kota Kinabalu. When it's 12:00 PM in Kota Kinabalu, it's 8:00 AM in Dubai. This time difference can affect your flight arrival and departure times, so be sure to account for it when planning your itinerary and any connecting flights.
• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai?
  Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class. Typically, economy class passengers are allowed 20-30kg of checked baggage, while business and first-class passengers may have higher allowances (30-40kg). Carry-on baggage is usually limited to 7-10kg. It's advisable to check the specific baggage policy with your airline when booking through Traveloka, as policies can change and may vary depending on your ticket type.
• Question: What is the best time of year to visit Dubai?
  Answer: The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months from November to April when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This period is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer months (May to October) are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging. However, summer offers better hotel deals and fewer tourists.

Other Ways to Travel From Kota Kinabalu to Dubai

While air travel is the most practical way to journey from Kota Kinabalu to Dubai, for adventurous travelers or those with significant time flexibility, there are alternative routes that combine different modes of transportation. These options are considerably longer and more complex than flying but may appeal to those seeking a unique travel experience:

• Sea and Land Route (Approximately 2-3 weeks)
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu → Singapore (by ferry/ship) → Overland through Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, India, Pakistan, Iran, and UAE
  • Duration: This epic journey would take at least 2-3 weeks, depending on stops and border crossings
  • Considerations: This route involves multiple border crossings, visa requirements, and potential safety concerns in certain regions. It's only suitable for experienced travelers with extensive time and preparation.
• Cruise Ship Partial Route
  • Route: Join a cruise from Kota Kinabalu or nearby ports to destinations like Singapore or India, then continue by air to Dubai
  • Duration: Variable, typically 1-2 weeks for the cruise portion
  • Considerations: Limited cruise options are available, and this would be a seasonal option requiring careful planning and timing.
• Combined Air and Land Route
  • Route: Fly from Kota Kinabalu to a closer destination like Bangkok or Mumbai, then continue overland through multiple countries to reach Dubai
  • Duration: 1-2 weeks depending on the chosen route and stops
  • Considerations: This option reduces total travel time while still allowing for some overland adventure. However, it still requires multiple visas and careful planning.

These alternative routes are not practical for most travelers and are mentioned primarily for completeness. For the vast majority of travelers, flying remains the only reasonable option for traveling between Kota Kinabalu and Dubai due to the significant distance and geographical challenges involved.

Explore Dubai

Dubai, a city of superlatives, offers visitors an incredible blend of ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife, all set against the backdrop of the Arabian Desert. From the world's tallest building to man-made islands and indoor ski slopes, Dubai constantly pushes the boundaries of what's possible in urban development and tourism.

Popular Destinations in Dubai

• Burj Khalifa
  Standing at an impressive 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building and Dubai's most iconic landmark. Visitors can ascend to observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, desert, and Persian Gulf. The building is surrounded by the beautiful Dubai Fountain and is adjacent to The Dubai Mall, creating an impressive downtown complex that's especially spectacular when illuminated at night.
• Palm Jumeirah
  This artificial archipelago in the shape of a palm tree is an engineering marvel visible from space. The Palm is home to luxury hotels, including the iconic Atlantis, The Palm, as well as upscale residences, beach clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore the Palm via monorail, enjoying views of Dubai's skyline and the Arabian Gulf, or relax at one of the many beach clubs and resorts that line the fronds.
• Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain
  As one of the world's largest shopping malls, Dubai Mall houses over 1,200 retail outlets, an indoor theme park, an Olympic-sized ice rink, a massive aquarium, and a virtual reality park. Outside the mall, the Dubai Fountain performs spectacular choreographed water shows set to music several times daily. The evening performances, with the fountain illuminated against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, create an unforgettable spectacle that attracts visitors from around the world.
• Old Dubai & Gold Souk
  For a glimpse of traditional Dubai, the historic districts of Al Fahidi and Deira offer a stark contrast to the city's modern face. Visitors can wander through narrow lanes lined with restored wind-tower houses, cross Dubai Creek on traditional wooden abra boats, and explore the famous Gold Souk, where hundreds of retailers offer gold jewelry at competitive prices. The nearby Spice Souk, with its aromatic displays of exotic spices, dried fruits, and traditional remedies, provides a sensory journey into Arabia's trading history.
• Desert Safari
  No visit to Dubai is complete without experiencing the surrounding Arabian Desert. Desert safaris typically include thrilling dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles, camel rides, sandboarding, and evening entertainment at a desert camp with traditional food, music, and dance performances. For a more luxurious experience, travelers can opt for private desert excursions with gourmet dining under the stars or overnight stays in desert glamping accommodations.

Popular Cuisine in Dubai

• Al Machboos
  This fragrant rice dish is a staple of Emirati cuisine, somewhat similar to biryani but with distinct local flavors. Typically made with basmati rice, meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish), and a blend of spices including turmeric, cumin, and bezar (a local spice mix), Al Machboos is slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly. The dish is often garnished with fried onions and served with a side of yogurt raita, making it a satisfying meal that showcases the authentic flavors of the Emirates.
• Shawarma
  While originally from the Levant region, shawarma has become a Dubai street food institution. Thinly sliced marinated meat (typically chicken, beef, or lamb) is stacked on a vertical rotisserie and slowly roasted. The tender, flavorful meat is then shaved off and wrapped in Arabic flatbread with tahini sauce, garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh vegetables. Available from countless street vendors and restaurants across the city, shawarma makes for a delicious, portable meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
• Camel Meat Dishes
  For the adventurous eater, Dubai offers the opportunity to try camel meat, which has been a part of Bedouin cuisine for centuries. Camel meat is typically slow-cooked to tenderize it and can be found in stews, burgers, and even as camel steaks in some high-end restaurants. With a taste that's often described as a cross between beef and lamb, camel meat is lean, slightly sweet, and considered a delicacy in Emirati culture.
• Arabic Mezze
  A meal of mezze consists of multiple small dishes served as appetizers or collectively as a meal. Popular mezze dishes in Dubai include hummus (chickpea dip), moutabel (eggplant dip), tabbouleh (parsley and bulgur salad), fattoush (bread salad), kibbeh (meat and bulgur wheat croquettes), and sambousek (savory pastries). Mezze is typically served with warm Arabic bread and provides a social dining experience where multiple flavors and textures can be enjoyed together.
• Luqaimat
  These sweet, crunchy dumplings are a beloved Emirati dessert, especially popular during Ramadan. Similar to doughnut holes, luqaimat are small balls of dough, deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and airy inside. They're traditionally drizzled with date syrup (dibs) and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds. Served warm, these sweet treats provide the perfect ending to a meal or a delightful accompaniment to Arabic coffee.

Dubai's culinary scene extends far beyond these traditional offerings, with the city hosting restaurants representing virtually every cuisine in the world, from street food to Michelin-starred establishments. The city's status as a global crossroads is perhaps most evident in its diverse food culture, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.

With its blend of futuristic architecture, luxury experiences, traditional culture, and international influences, Dubai offers visitors a unique and memorable destination that continues to evolve and surprise. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or world-class shopping and dining, this dynamic city has something to offer every traveler making the journey from Kota Kinabalu.