Flights from Dubai to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka and is a curious mix of modernity and tradition. Its heritage as a colonial port, ruled at times by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British, is obvious in its mix of historic colonial architecture. However, there are also plenty of modern touches, from high rise apartment blocks to western-style shopping malls. Whether you want to visit a Buddhist temple, chill out in the Zoological gardens, or enjoy the thrill rides at the Leisure World amusement park, there is something here for everyone.

Flying to Colombo

1. Which airports serve Dubai to Colombo?

There are regular flights from Dubai Airport to Bandaranaike International Airport, which serves the city of Colombo. Bandaranaike is located about 35 km north of Colombo. The airport is served by a commercial bus service to take you into the city center, or you can grab a taxi.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Dubai to Colombo?

There are three carriers offering flights from Dubai to Colombo, with daily departures and no connections required. You can choose from Emirates, Sri Lankan and Fly Dubai. Emirates and Oman Air also have options for those who are happy to include a layover.

3. How long is the flight?

If you have booked a direct flight from Dubai to Colombo, you can expect the flight to take approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. A layover will typically add 2 hours to this. There is a small time difference to take into consideration. Columbo is 1 hour and 30 minutes ahead of Dubai.

4. Climate changes between Dubai and Colombo

Colombo’s warm temperature tends to be consistent throughout the year, whereas Dubai generally enjoys warm winters, but scorching hot summers. In winter, average temperatures in Colombo will be somewhat warmer than in Dubai, but in summer it can be significantly cooler!

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

Sri Lanka’s currency is the Rupee and it can be acquired at banks and international airports. Well-known credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted as well.

To enter Sri Lanka, you will need a visa. Tourists entering the country for a stay of less than 30 days can apply for a visa online. If you are going to Sri Lanka to work (including volunteer work) you will need to apply for a relevant visa, via a Sri Landan consulate, in advance.

Colombo Information

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka, and is quite densely populated, in contrast to Dubai, which has a smaller population spread over a larger area. Both cities have a distinctly modern feel, but Colombo’s colonial history gives it a mix of tradition and architecture many tourists find fascinating. Attractions include Colombo Fort, The Colombo National Museum, and The Gangarama Vihara Temple. Don’t forget to sample some Kothu Rotti. This traditional Sri Lankan dish can be blended to your taste with a choice of meat, onions, tomatoes, and chilies.