Sphinx Airport to Dubai
In this article, I will take you from the wind-swept streets of the ancient Al Fahidi neighbourhood to the cloud-defying peak of the Burj Khalifa. From the sand dunes of desert safaris to the tranquillity of the flamingos at Ras Al Khor, I will introduce you to all the colours of Dubai.
If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to Dubai, from the Burj Al Arab, a symbol of modern architecture, and the Museum of the Future, known as the museum of the future, to the colourful stalls of the Dubai Mall and Spice Souk, from jet-ski enthusiasts to mountain hikers, from culinary delights to suit every taste to beaches where you can enjoy the sun all year round, then you should read this article.
Dubai is a unique metropolis where history and modernity intertwine, blending the endless silence of the desert with the glitz of skyscrapers. This city has a history that spans from its quiet days of fishing and pearl diving in the pre-oil era to its transformation into one of the cornerstones of world tourism and finance. Dubai is not just about luxury hotels and shopping centres. It also has traditional neighbourhoods and markets where you can experience Emirati culture. With surprises around every corner, Dubai is one of those destinations that leaves you wanting to come back for more.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Dubai’s ‘Old City’ area begins with Al Bastakiya, known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in the early 19th century by merchants from the Iranian town of Bastak, this narrow-streeted neighbourhood reflects the trading spirit of the time with its wind towers and workshops. At the heart of the neighbourhood stands Al Fahidi Fort (1787), which now houses the Dubai Museum. This is the city’s oldest civil structure, characterised by its thick mud-brick walls and square courtyard. You can explore the past from the water with abra (water taxi) tours along the Dubai Creek. At the colourful stalls of the Gold and Spice Souks in Deira, you can discover traditional Dubai.
Modern Structures and Magnificent Architecture
Burj Khalifa, at 828 metres tall, is the world’s tallest building. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Dubai from the observation deck on the 148th floor. This engineering marvel is a must-see.
The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab has been a symbol of the ‘seven-star hotel’ legend since it opened in 1999. This hotel redefined the boundaries of luxury.
The Museum of the Future, a symbol of the future, is rising in the city with its stainless steel panels and Arabic calligraphy on its facade. Opened on 22 February 2022, the Museum of the Future features thematic exhibitions dedicated to ‘possible futures’ across five of its seven floors. The visitor journey begins on the fifth floor and descends downward. Each floor showcases various visions of the future, ranging from space to climate change, health to urban living. Exhibition themes include space travel, climate change, mental and physical well-being, sustainable living, and children’s participation in the future.
Shopping and Gastronomy
Dubai Mall houses over 1,200 stores. With a sales area of 350,000 square metres and a huge aquarium, it is one of the largest shopping centres in the world. Nearly 80 million visitors come to this shopping centre every year.
The Gold Souk in Deira awaits gold enthusiasts with over 220 jewellery stalls. Here you can find traditional gold jewellery. At the historic Spice Souk, browsing through exotic spices, nuts, and aromatic oils will be a unique experience for you.
At the restaurants around the canals of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, you can taste over 25 different flavours, from Arabic mezze to Italian cuisine.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Dubai’s endless desert is famous for its 4×4 desert safaris and adrenaline-filled dune bashing tours in the cool morning air. On Dubai’s desert safaris, you will be picked up from your hotel in comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers and arrive at the base of the red sand dunes before sunrise.
This is where the desert safari truly begins. Here, accompanied by experienced drivers, you will enjoy a 20–30-minute adrenaline-filled dune bashing session, navigating through some of the world’s tallest sand dunes.
After the journey, you can opt to join a traditional camel ride. During the 3–4-hour tour, cold water and soft drinks are served free of charge.
At the end of the tour, you will return to Dubai city centre in the morning. Some tours also include customisable options such as quad biking, dune buggy rides and professional sunrise photo breaks.
Dubai has a coastline of over 50 km. The weather is always very hot in this city. You can swim in the sea all year round. You can go jet skiing or paddleboarding at spots such as Kite Beach and JBR Beach. Or you can play beach volleyball with your friends.
If you are looking for an experience surrounded by nature, you can visit Ras Al Khor Bird Sanctuary. Here you can watch flamingos and kayak in the mangrove forests to discover Dubai’s hidden natural beauty.
Dubai Climate
Summers in Dubai (May–September) are very hot and humid. In July–August, daytime temperatures exceed 43°C. During these months, the sea water temperature is around 32–33°C.
The winter season (December–March) is mild. The average daytime temperature is 25°C. At night, temperatures range between 12–15°C. During this season, rainfall occurs in short, heavy showers. The heaviest rainfall occurs in February (35 mm).
My recommendation is to visit Dubai between November and March. During these months, you can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities without being overly affected by the heat.
Why you should visit Dubai?
If you are looking for an easily accessible, safe and cosmopolitan centre from all over the world, Dubai will meet all your expectations. Dubai is a city that stands out not only as a global transport and trade centre but also for its high quality of life.
Dubai International Airport welcomed 92.3 million passengers in 2024, maintaining its position as the world’s busiest airport in terms of international passenger traffic. As the second safest country in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai offers a peaceful environment for both residents and visitors.
It is also at the forefront of healthcare services in the region. The city is home to world-class hospitals such as American Hospital Dubai.
For shopping enthusiasts, there are approximately 96 large-scale shopping centres and the Dubai Shopping Festival, held throughout the year, offering unique opportunities for fashion and entertainment. Catering to gourmet tastes, Dubai has nearly 99 Michelin Guide restaurants. Here, there are places to eat to suit every budget and style.
For those seeking nature-filled alternatives, 4×4 desert safaris in the cool morning air, Hatta’s lakes, and the Ras Al Khor Flamingo Sanctuary offer travellers unforgettable experiences.
This versatile city combines infrastructure, healthcare, shopping, dining, culture, and nature. Dubai is a destination that will exceed all your expectations.
Transportation Options from Sphinx Airport to Dubai
Flydubai operates 10 direct flights per week between Sphinx International Airport (SPX) in Egypt and Dubai International Airport (DXB). The flight duration is approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. Current one-way ticket prices start at 131 USD. Return ticket prices average around 256 USD. The cheapest time to book flights is generally in May. Flexible date searches can help you find the best deals.
Flights from Cairo Airport to Dubai
Alternatively, you can reach Cairo International Airport, located 50 km from Sphinx Airport, and fly to Dubai from there. There are an average of 32–42 direct flights per week from Cairo Airport to Dubai. Emirates and EgyptAir offer the most popular routes with flight durations of 3 hours 25 minutes and 3 hours 35 minutes.
One-way prices start at 119 USD. You can reduce this price even further with early booking and flexible date options.
Emirates operates 14–21 flights per week on the Cairo-Dubai route. The flight duration is 3 hours and 25 minutes.
EgyptAir operates 11–16 flights per week on the Cairo-Dubai route. The flight duration is 3 hours and 35 minutes.
Travelling from Sphinx Airport to Dubai is quick and easy. Grab your passport and embark on this unforgettable journey.