If you are visiting Dubai for the first time, or even if you live there, one of the most exciting ways to explore the city is from the sky. A helicopter tour in Dubai offers a breathtaking experience where you can see the city’s most famous landmarks from above. It’s a unique adventure that gives you a completely different view of this modern and fast-growing city.
Whether you’re planning to take the ride yourself or considering it as a gift for someone special, this article will help you understand exactly what to expect from your first helicopter tour in Dubai.
Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Dubai?
Dubai is known for its impressive skyline, luxury buildings, and man-made islands. While walking or driving around the city is great, a helicopter ride gives you a full view of the city’s beauty in one unforgettable trip. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the curved Palm Jumeirah and the sparkling coastline, a helicopter tour in Dubai lets you see it all from a new angle.
This type of tour is perfect for tourists, couples, photographers, or anyone who wants to do something special in Dubai. It’s also one of the best ways to capture stunning photos and videos.
Booking the Tour
Booking a helicopter tour in Dubai is simple. Many tour companies offer packages online, and you can choose the time, duration, and route that best fits your plan. Most tours last between 12 to 25 minutes, but there are longer options available too.
Before booking, make sure to:
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Compare prices and routes from different companies
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Read customer reviews
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Check if the company is licensed and follows safety rules
You will also need to bring an ID, such as a passport or Emirates ID, when checking in for the tour.
Arriving at the Helipad
Most helicopter tours in Dubai begin at one of the city’s helipads, such as the Dubai Police Academy Helipad or Atlantis The Palm. You should arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your flight.
When you arrive:
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You will check in at the reception desk
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Staff will weigh you and assign seats (seating is based on weight for safety reasons)
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You’ll receive a short safety briefing explaining what to do during the flight
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You may be given headphones to wear during the ride so you can hear the pilot
Staff members are usually friendly and happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Flight Experience
Once everything is ready, you’ll be guided to the helicopter. As you lift off, you’ll immediately feel the excitement. The view from the sky is incredible. The helicopter moves smoothly and allows you to look through large windows for clear, wide views.
Some of the landmarks you may see during your helicopter tour in Dubai include:
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Burj Khalifa – The world’s tallest building looks even more impressive from above.
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Burj Al Arab – This sail-shaped luxury hotel stands on its own island and is a popular highlight.
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Palm Jumeirah – The palm-shaped island is one of Dubai’s most famous man-made wonders.
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The World Islands – A group of small artificial islands shaped like a world map.
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Dubai Marina – A beautiful waterfront filled with modern skyscrapers and yachts.
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Atlantis, The Palm – A massive ocean-themed resort located at the top of Palm Jumeirah.
Depending on the route you choose, you may also see the historic Dubai Creek, the desert, and parts of old Dubai.
During the flight, your pilot may point out interesting locations and facts about the city. The ride is usually quiet and smooth, and it feels very safe.
Safety Measures
Safety is a top priority on every helicopter tour in Dubai. All helicopters are regularly checked and maintained. Pilots are trained professionals with many hours of flying experience.
Before you take off, you’ll get a full safety briefing. You’ll also wear a seatbelt throughout the flight. In case of any emergency (which is very rare), pilots are trained to handle the situation carefully.
You won’t be allowed to carry bags or large cameras inside the helicopter. However, mobile phones and small cameras are usually allowed so you can take pictures.
What to Wear and Bring
For your helicopter tour in Dubai, wear comfortable clothes and avoid loose items like scarves or hats that might fly away. Since helicopters are climate-controlled, you don’t need to worry about the weather.
Bring the following:
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Your ID or passport
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Your phone or small camera for photos
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Sunglasses (for better viewing during daytime flights)
It’s also a good idea to avoid heavy meals before the flight, especially if you’ve never flown in a helicopter before.
Cost of the Tour
The price of a helicopter tour in Dubai depends on the tour length and route. Short tours (around 12–15 minutes) may cost between AED 500 to AED 700 per person, while longer tours (25–30 minutes) can go above AED 1,000.
Although it might seem expensive, most people agree that it’s worth every dirham. The views, the experience, and the memories you’ll make are priceless.
Final Thoughts
Taking a helicopter tour in Dubai is one of the most memorable things you can do in the city. It gives you a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s stunning architecture, islands, and coastline in a way that no other experience can offer.