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
Leanne Newton
House of Travel Upper Riccarton
Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel.
It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people.
It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.
Leanne
Chloe McKellar
House of Travel Wellington City
Hi all - please note that I am on maternity leave until September 2026 :)
Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way
into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality
industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also
founded my love for all different types of foods.
After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few
years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have
been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.
I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to
know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that
perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of
comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the
corner, do we!
I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of
time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in
California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and
Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't
been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out
the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods,
and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we
wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to
hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)
Chloe
Nicole Hogan
House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square
I am a cruise specialist who lives and breathes travel, I have a wide range of skills and knowledge.
I love the excitement of sitting down with my clients to share my experiences from around the world and help plan their trip of a lifetime!
Nicole
Charlotte Chalman
House of Travel Invercargill
Travel -it broadens our views, creates lasting memories and allows you to take a break from your ordinary.
During my career, I have hit some ultimate highs- being the only New Zealand finalist in the prestigious Avis Travel Scholarship in 2019, winning the CLIA Rising Star award in 2020, being a finalist for the House of Travel Rookie of the Year in 2020 (not awarded to anyone due to COVID), multiple internal sales awards and of course getting to see some amazing countries through travel adventures.
In recent years, I have taken to much more off the beaten track travel, exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and China and a epic three-week safari through Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa.
Although I did sneak in a wee three-week coach trip in Europe as well-we all need some creature comforts!
I have loved travelling with my family and seeing my teenage girls' minds blown by the experiences they have in different countries- different ways of living, different foods, different cultures, amazing sites (and sights!) and really seeing what is important to other people outside of NZ.
I now work from home but venture into the office regularly to see clients (by appointment only). I do love a good face to face catch up!
I would love to hear what adventures you have planned, whether close to home or somewhere in the weird and wonderful, and love helping pull things together to give you your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call or send me an email to get started on your journey. I look forward to meeting you!
Charlotte
Our Dubai Blogs
Customer holidays snaps
Best. Middle East Holidays. Ever!
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