Flights to Dubai International (DXB)

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is where most Malaysians land when they fly to the UAE, and it is one of the busiest international airports anywhere. Its central position means you can be checking in at a hotel in Deira or Downtown soon after clearing immigration. This guide covers what to expect on arrival, how to move between the terminals and the city, and how to look for cheap flights to Dubai without guesswork.

About Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Location

DXB lies in the Al Garhoud area of Dubai, right next to Deira and close to the eastern bank of Dubai Creek. Because the airport sits inside the city rather than on its edge, the drive to the old souks, the Creek and Business Bay is short outside peak traffic hours, and the Burj Khalifa is only a little further.

Terminals

There are three passenger terminals at Dubai International. Terminal 3 is a vast hall with its own concourses, Terminal 1 serves many other international airlines, and Terminal 2 lies across the airfield with a smaller, simpler layout. Terminals 1 and 3 sit close to each other, while Terminal 2 is a separate drive away, so plan extra time if your connection involves a change of terminal. The terminal is always shown on your Traveloka e-ticket.

Getting to and from DXB

The Dubai Metro Red Line has stations at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, making the train an easy and affordable way to reach Deira, Downtown, Al Barsha and Dubai Marina. You will need a Nol card, which can be bought from machines or counters at the station. Official taxis queue outside arrivals, ride-hailing apps work across the city, and many accommodation providers offer a pick-up if you share your flight details in advance.

Direct and Connecting Flights to Dubai International

Nonstop flights link Kuala Lumpur with Dubai International, and one-stop routes via other Asian cities add more choice of timings. To see only nonstop options, turn on the Direct filter in your search results. From Penang, Kota Kinabalu or Kuching, you will usually connect in Kuala Lumpur first, and it is worth leaving a comfortable gap between flights.

DXB is not the only way into Dubai. The Al Maktoum International (DWC) airport in Dubai South can suit travellers bound for Jebel Ali, while Sharjah International (SHJ) is handy for the northern emirates. For a view of every option at once, see the all-airports Dubai page. For most sightseeing trips, though, DXB is the most convenient arrival point.

When to Fly to Dubai (DXB)

Between November and March, Dubai enjoys sunny, mild weather that is ideal for beach days, dhow cruises and evenings outdoors. This is also the city's busiest tourist season, with shopping festivals and major events drawing visitors from around the world. April and October are shoulder months, warm but manageable, while mid-summer temperatures push most activity indoors.

Malaysian travel peaks shape fares on this route too. Seats tend to fill quickly around school holidays, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali, so booking well ahead for those windows is sensible. For flight deals to Dubai, compare the day-of-week chart on this page, try moving your trip by a day or two, and switch on a Price Alert for your chosen dates.

Popular Places Near Dubai International

Deira Gold and Spice Souks

Just minutes from the airport, Deira's covered souks are packed with jewellery shops, spice sacks, dried fruit and perfume stalls. Bargaining is expected, and mornings or evenings are the most comfortable times to browse.

Dubai Creek and the Abra Crossing

The traditional wooden abras ferry passengers across the Creek for a small fare, offering one of the most atmospheric short rides in Dubai. Watch the dhows loading cargo along the wharves on the Deira side.

Dubai Frame

Standing in Zabeel Park, this giant picture-frame structure has a glass-floored bridge at the top. One side looks out over old Dubai and the other over the modern skyline, which neatly sums up the city's story.

Burj Khalifa and the Fountain

A quick Metro ride from DXB brings you to Downtown Dubai. The observation decks of the Burj Khalifa give sweeping views, and the choreographed fountain display on the lake below runs every evening.

Museum of the Future

This striking oval building on Sheikh Zayed Road is covered in Arabic calligraphy. Inside, immersive exhibits explore ideas about space, health and the environment, making it a popular stop for families.

Where to Stay Near Dubai International

If you want to stay close to DXB, Al Garhoud and Deira are the natural choices, with short transfers, lots of eateries and good Metro links. Bur Dubai and Al Karama, across the Creek, are lively and usually good value. Travellers who prefer a modern base often choose Downtown or Business Bay, still within easy reach of the airport, while Dubai Marina and JBR on the coast are further away but ideal for a beach holiday.

Food to Try in Dubai

Harees

A slow-cooked blend of wheat and meat beaten into a smooth, comforting porridge. It is a classic Emirati dish, often served during Ramadan and at family gatherings.

Manakish

Flatbread baked with za'atar and olive oil, cheese or minced meat. It makes a quick breakfast from the bakeries scattered around Deira and Karama.

Grilled Hammour

Hammour is a local grouper, usually grilled or fried and served with rice and spiced sauces. Seafood restaurants near the Creek and the Deira fish market area are good places to try it.

Karak Chai

Strong tea boiled with milk, sugar and cardamom, sold in small cups from roadside cafeterias. It is the everyday drink of Dubai and costs very little.

Book your ticket to Dubai International on Traveloka to compare fares from Malaysia, pay with familiar local methods and manage your booking any time with Easy Reschedule.