Dubai to Manchester Sun Express

Dubai will lead you into a historical sojourn like no other place in the world. The primary history of this city’s establishment is not that well documented; however, research suggests that this land is close to 4,000 years old. Modern Dubai has evolved from fishing populations, which existed along the coast of the Arabian Gulf during the 1830s. The Dubai Creek was an ancient port of trade, very busy during times of trade between Indus Valley and Mesopotamian civilizations. The historic finds that give us insight into this ancient city lie preserved as artefacts in the archaeological section of the Dubai Museum.

Dubai is the second largest emirate among the seven that exist as the United Arab Emirates. It is located on the southern shore of the Gulf. The city is known to house one of the world’s most curated experiences. A bustling metropolitan steeped in culture and tradition, Dubai is the epitome of the amalgamation of western luxury and mid-western morals. The region is characterized under “desert vegetation” for a reason, for the temperature here remains high all year long. Dubai enjoys a sub-tropical, arid climate. Large populations of expats live here, including Arab, Asians, and European.

How to reach Dubai

By Air – The main airport in Dubai is the Dubai International Airport. All major airlines fly to this airport on a daily basis. Emirates Airlines is the preferable and national carrier that operates flights to Dubai. The Sharjah International Airport is another important node here, although only a few airlines land and take off from there. A taxi ride from the airport to the main city costs about 50 Dirham.

By Bus – Daily buses connect Dubai to the other emirates. The Emirates Express plies on a frequented route from everywhere in the Emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Masafi, and Abu Dhabi.

By Road – One can drive from Oman to Dubai across the international borders without needing a permit or fee upon entering Dubai; however, an exit fee of 3,000 Omani Rial will be charged upon leaving Oman. Make sure you retain the slip as the receipt must be produced during the return trip.

What to do in Dubai

A few decades ago, Dubai was a land of strong winds carrying the desert soil over and about the vast cityscape. It used to be a land of sparsely scattered skyscrapers. Presently, however, it is a widely populated metropolitan, which houses post-modern tall buildings, and within the alleys, retains the charm of the Old Dubai Town. It is the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modernism. Explore the city, which is referred to as one of the most affluent in the world, soaking in the olden culture of the Arabs alongside the buzzing nightlife that’s on offer.

Whether scouring the city’s popular spots, like visiting the traditional establishments, modern architectural marvels, a man-made beach and the best flea markets in all of the Emirates, tourists to Dubai have a many options to choose from:

Burj Khalifa

Dubai Deira Fish Souk

The Dubai Mall

Old Souk

The Dubai Fountain

Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Creek

Naif Souk

Alserkal Art District in Al Quoz

The Grand Mosque

Kite Beach

Dubai Marina

The Desert

Meena Bazaar

Al Fahidi

IMG Worlds of Adventure, indoor theme park

The Dubai Canal

Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai Opera

The Walk at JBR

Dubai Safari

Jumeirah Beach

Marina Beach

Jumeirah Mosque

Many operators offer private safaris across the wildlife and desert attractions in the vicinity. For night safaris, tourists are taken to an area 20 minutes away from downtown Dubai.

Apart from safaris, ATV tours, camel rides in the dunes, and hot air balloon rides are also popular activities most enthusiasts.

Major Airports in and near Dubai

The main airport in Dubai is the Dubai International Airport. This airport connects Dubai to other emirates as well as major international destinations. All international flights to and from Dubai land here.

MakeMyTrip offers a wide range of flights to Dubai. One can easily use the website to book a flight to Dubai or from Dubai, with the major airport being a hub to domestic and international airlines. MakeMyTrip flights to Dubai can be availed at highly discounted rates during festivals and off seasons.

Dubai Address

Manchester, located in the heart of Greater Manchester, England, is a dynamic city known for its rich industrial heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and world-renowned sports clubs. With a population of over 2.6 million, Manchester offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and a lively atmosphere that appeals to visitors from around the globe, especially those traveling from the United States.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Manchester is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer (July to August) is also a popular time, but it tends to be busier with tourists. Winter (December to February) can be cold and damp, but it's a great time to experience festive events and holiday markets. Be sure to check out local festivals such as the Manchester International Festival in July and the Christmas Markets in December.

Getting There

Manchester is easily accessible from the United States with several airlines offering direct flights to Manchester Airport (MAN). Major carriers such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines provide regular services. Flight times from major US cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago typically range from 7 to 10 hours. United States citizens will need a valid passport and may require a visa for stays longer than six months. It's advisable to check the latest travel requirements before planning your trip.

Where to Stay

Manchester offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For luxury stays, consider The Edwardian Manchester or Hotel Gotham, both offering top-notch amenities and central locations. Mid-range options include the Hilton Manchester Deansgate and the stylish Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange. Budget travelers can find comfortable and affordable options at YHA Manchester and Ibis Budget Manchester Centre. Popular areas to stay include the city center, Northern Quarter, and Deansgate, all offering easy access to major attractions and dining options.

Must-See Places & Experiences

• The John Rylands Library – A stunning neo-Gothic building housing rare books and manuscripts
• Manchester Art Gallery – Home to an impressive collection of artworks spanning centuries
• Science and Industry Museum – Explore Manchester's industrial past and scientific advancements
• Old Trafford and Etihad Stadium – Tours and matches at the homes of Manchester United and Manchester City
• Castlefield – A picturesque area with Roman ruins, canals, and charming pubs
• Northern Quarter – Known for its indie shops, street art, and vibrant nightlife
• Day trips – Consider visiting the nearby Peak District or the historic city of Chester

Local Transportation

Manchester Airport is well-connected to the city center via train, tram, and bus services. The train from the airport to Manchester Piccadilly Station takes about 20 minutes. The Metrolink tram system is an efficient way to explore the city, with extensive routes covering key areas. Buses and taxis are also readily available. For those who prefer cycling, the city offers bike rentals and dedicated cycling paths. It's advisable to use contactless payment methods for public transport for convenience.

Food & Dining

Manchester's dining scene is diverse and vibrant, offering a range of cuisines to suit all tastes. Don't miss trying traditional British dishes like fish and chips, a full English breakfast, and Sunday roast. For a taste of local flavors, visit the Curry Mile in Rusholme, known for its array of South Asian restaurants. The Northern Quarter boasts trendy eateries and cafes, while Chinatown offers delicious Asian cuisine. For fine dining, consider The French at The Midland or Mana, Manchester's first Michelin-starred restaurant.

Practical Travel Tips

• Currency: The local currency is the British Pound (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
• Language: English is the official language. Most locals speak with a distinctive Mancunian accent.
• Safety: Manchester is generally safe, but it's always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
• Useful apps: Download the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) app for public transport info and Citymapper for navigation.
• Emergency number: Dial 999 for emergency services.

Manchester Address