Flights from Dubai to Istanbul, Turkey

As one of the world’s most fascinating cities with a warm climate and close to beaches lapped by clear seas, it is hardly surprising that Istanbul ranks highly on lists of top tourist destinations. Visitors both young and old come keen to discover the plethora of sites across this city that spans two continents, reflecting its varied history from ancient times to modern, as Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans all left their mark. Shopping is also popular in Istanbul, with a visit to the Grand Bazaar featured on many tourists’ lists. With the Mediterranean on one side and the Black Sea on the other, boat trips are popular excursions.

Flying to Istanbul

1. Which airports serve Dubai to Istanbul?

Dubai has two airports, with most departures and arrivals taking place at Dubai International Airport, which is just 5km from the city center. The Dubai metro is the cheapest and quickest way to get from central Dubai, although there is also the option of buses and taxis. Al Maktoum International is Dubai’s second airport and is located 37km from the city center.
Istanbul has two international airports, with a third currently under construction. Ataturk Airport is located on the European side of the city, about 24km from the city center, with buses, metro and taxis available to transport passengers. Sabiha Gökçen Airport is on the Asian or Anatolian side. A shuttle bus service operates to bring passengers on the 40km trip to the center of Istanbul.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Dubai to Istanbul?

There are many flights to Istanbul from Dubai every day. With 28 airlines, including Emirates, Qantas and Turkish Airlines offering flights, you are spoilt for choice.

3. How long is the flight?

Direct flights usually take about 4 hours 30 minutes, with slight variations depending on your airport combination. Dubai is only one hour ahead of Istanbul, so jet lag is unlikely to be a problem on these flights.

4. Climate changes between Dubai and Istanbul

As even the coolest months in Dubai are hot and dry, you may need to be prepared for more temperature variation in Istanbul. While the summers are hot and dry, if you are traveling in the late fall or winter, you may experience cooler, wet weather.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

You will need Turkish lira to make purchases in Istanbul. If you have not already exchanged money, you can do so at the city’s banks or draw money at ATM machines.
You will need a visa for traveling to Istanbul, and you must be clear about the purpose of your visit on your application.

Istanbul Information

After the modern skyline of Dubai, arriving in Istanbul will feel very different, as you step into a city where the ancient and modern sit side by side. Dominating the city is the Hagia Sofia, once the Byzantine church that marked the center of the world, then it became a mosque and is now a museum that is well worth a visit. Other sites include the Ottoman splendor of Topkapi Palace and the subterranean wonder of the Basilica Cistern.