Flight time
The flight from Auckland to United Arab Emirates takes roughly 17 hours nonstop.
From souks to sky-high towers
The seven United Arab Emirates seem to hold every experience you can imagine – and a few you’d never expect.
Wander through Dubai’s glittering souks and mega malls, explore Al Ain’s historic forts and desert oases, or lose yourself in the maze-like streets of old Sharjah – a UNESCO Cultural Capital. Marvel at the grandeur of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, or head out on a 4WD safari across the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter.
Hike the mystical Hajar Mountains, kayak through Ajman’s mangroves, or stretch out on the white sands of Ras Al Khaimah. Prefer the coast? The serenity of Fujairah is pure magic.
Food lovers, get ready – from luxurious Emirati feasts to iconic street eats like shawarma, falafel and sweet luqaimat dumplings, you’ll be eating well all day (and night).
Whether you’re scaling the Burj Khalifa or star-gazing in the desert, every day in the UAE is a collision of adventure, culture and incredible flavour.
Chat to our UAE specialists and start planning your next unforgettable escape.
Best time to go
The best time to visit the UAE is from November to March, when cooler temperatures, blue skies and vibrant events create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, beach days and exploring the stunning desert landscapes.
Time difference
The United Arab Emirates are 8–9 hours behind New Zealand depnding on daylight saving in NZ.
Meet our Dubai specialists
Shelley Rich
House of Travel Mount Maunganui
I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!
I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.
Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.
Many of my clients have become life long friends.
Shelley
Gavin Rasikaran
House of Travel Auckland City
I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.
With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.
When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.
Gavin
Toni Rendell
House of Travel Rotorua
As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the start of my passion for travel.
Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman, an adventure
through Vietnam or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you
to create the perfect holiday.
Having been in the industry for over 30 years, I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.
There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit, beautiful places to stay or changes in travel requirements.
So get in touch and let me help make your travel dreams come true.
Toni
Chris Fifield
House of Travel Christchurch City
Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!
Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey.
"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday."
Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few.
Years in the industry: 37
No. of countries visited: 40+
Favourite place to visit: Western Canada
Next place on the list to visit: Bali
Work, save, travel, repeat.
Why I love travel:
There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.
My travel tips:
- If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come.
- Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice!
- Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll.
- Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us.
- Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
- Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history.
- Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
- Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!
What's in my suitcase:
- Too much - I must do better!
- One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box
Chris
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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