Best helicopter tours in Dubai
Dubai, a hub of man-made marvels, has a culture that fascinates all and an omnipresent luxury that every other place wants to emulate.
The city, which is nothing short of a modern wonderland, is also rich with natural beauty.
A helicopter tour is the best way to capture the remarkable merging of urbanization and the city’s natural beauty.
Helicopter Experience with Sightseeing Options
Heli Tour with Admission to The View at The Palm
Luxury flight over the city
Cost of Dubai helicopter tours
The cost of a Dubai helicopter tour varies widely, catering to different budgets and preferences. The most affordable option starts at approximately US$198 (AED 727) per person, making it a popular choice among visitors.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the Premium Odyssey Helicopter Tour is available, with tickets priced up to $7,999 (AED 29,380) per person.
Several factors influence the price of Dubai helicopter tours, including:
- Airtime: Longer tours typically cost more.
- Season: Prices may vary between peak and off-peak seasons.
- Tour Package: Helicopter rides that are part of a combo tour, such as a helicopter ride combined with a cruise, may have different pricing.
Things to know before booking your tour
Besides a ride in a state-of-the-art helicopter with a cabin with climate control, you also get free inflight narration.
If different passengers request more than two languages on the same flight, the audio commentary defaults to English.
All local taxes and service fees are part of the tour cost.
Depending on the tour you opt for, there may be additional inclusions.
For instance, if you book the 15-minute Helicopter Tour and Desert Safari, a desert safari on a 4WD air-conditioned vehicle is also included.
- Gratuities (which are optional)
- Souvenir photos
- Food and drinks (except in some tours)
However, some tours may include one of the above. For example, the Dubai Helicopter Tour and Dhow Cruise Dinner Marina Combo includes dinner serving international buffet.
The Grand Tour of Dubai, Private Proposal Helicopter Tour, and the Premium Odyssey Tour are non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
For tours with refundable cancellations, you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour date. However, if you cancel within 24 hours of the tour’s start time, a 100% cancellation fee will be applied, and no changes are permitted during this period.
All helicopter tours are subject to weather conditions. If a tour is canceled due to poor weather or an insufficient number of passengers, you will be offered a choice between rescheduling for a different date or receiving a full refund.
Helicopter tour timings
Helicopter tours of Dubai operate every day of the week. The first tours begin as early as 9 am, with available slots running until 5:30 pm.
Although most tours run daily, they can be affected by weather conditions.
Tour operators typically request that participants arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.
Which helicopter tour is best for you?
Air time: 12 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
Air time: 15 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
Ascend into the sky on a helicopter to witness Dubai’s most luxurious and opulent landmarks. This seven-hour tour includes a thrilling desert safari, camel ride, sandboarding, and a chance to gaze at the stunning sunset over the vast skyline. To top it off, enjoy mesmerizing belly dance and tanoura dance performances, adding a touch of tradition to your unforgettable experience.
Air time: 30 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Dubai’s skyline on a 2.5-hour helicopter tour. Soar above iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Emirates Hills, and Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Enjoy aerial views of the World Islands, Blue Waters Marine, Dubai Creek, Ain Dubai, and the Dubai Frame. For added convenience, opt for an upgrade that includes hotel transfers.
Heliports & helicopters
From where do helicopters take off
All Dubai helicopter tours include hotel pickup, so there’s no need to worry about the departure location.
How many people in one helicopter?
Tourist helicopters in Dubai typically have either four or six seats. The type of helicopter you get depends on the tour you choose and the number of passengers booked. Consequently, a minimum of two or sometimes four passengers is needed to confirm the tour.
Note: Before takeoff, the pilot and ground staff will ensure that passengers’ weight is evenly distributed. This may require seating you in the middle, which can slightly impact your view but is essential for safety.
Are the heliports and helicopters accessible?
HeliDubai’s helicopter tour and romantic helicopter tour in Dubai are fully accessible to guests with disabilities.
The aircraft, transportation, and all surfaces are fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for all guests.
Restrictions strictly followed
- Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable aerial rides in Dubai.
- A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, they will be canceled.
- These tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart or back problems or other serious medical conditions.
- Dubai Helicopter Tour from Palm Jumeirah, HeliDubai Helicopter Tour, and Dubai Helicopter Grand Tour do not allow infants on board.
- Tours that allow infants onboard request caregivers to seat them on their lap throughout the flight.
- Most heli flights in Dubai are not wheelchair accessible.
- A valid passport is required.
- No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.
- Check in at least 30 minutes early.
- Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.
- Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Want a specially-curated romantic proposal package?
Embark on a new journey in your love story with this 2-hour romantic helicopter tour in Dubai. Go the extra mile to honor your romance. Arrive in style at the helipad in a luxury chauffeur-driven car. Soar over the breathtaking panorama of Dubai. Touch down to a personalized banner asking “the question” for you.
Cost: US$3,224 (AED 11,842) for two
How about an aerial + marine tour combo?
The 5 to 6-hour combo tour brings together activities that are a match made in heaven. Combine the thrilling aerial vistas of Dubai and a serene dining experience on the waters of the Dubai Marina. Enjoy a Dhow Cruise Dinner serving international buffet. Hotel pickup facility is available for this tour.
Cost (12+ years): US$874 (AED 3,210) per head
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking an aerial tour of Dubai.
The cost of a helicopter tour in Dubai can vary greatly based on several factors, including the tour’s duration, time of day, season, included amenities like hotel transfers and food, additional add-ons, customizations, the tour provider, and the package chosen. Private tours are typically more expensive as they offer a personalized experience, allowing you to have the entire aircraft to yourself.
The Dubai Grand tour, which comes with 30 minutes of airtime, is the longest helicopter tour in UAE.
Early morning and late afternoon are popular times for helicopter tours due to the favorable lighting for photography. However, tours are available throughout the day, and many people also enjoy evening flights to see the city’s lights.
This depends on the helicopter tour company. Some may offer flexibility with their routes, allowing you to request specific landmarks, while others follow a predetermined path.
English is the standard language for all helicopter tours in Dubai. Some companies may also have guides who speak other languages, so it’s best to inquire in advance.
There is generally no specific dress code for a helicopter tour, but it’s recommended to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. For safety reasons, avoid loose items like hats and scarves. Ensure your footwear is comfortable and secure, as you will be climbing in and out of the helicopter.
Passengers are typically advised to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before their scheduled helicopter tours. This allows ample time for check-in, safety briefings, and any last-minute instructions.
Flying by plane is the more affordable option between the two. Helicopters incur higher operating costs per hour, including fuel, maintenance, and pilot expenses. Additionally, with limited seating capacity, the cost is spread among fewer passengers, making helicopter tours more expensive.
Helicopter tours are generally expensive due to a combination of high fixed and variable costs, such as operating expenses, maintenance, fuel, specialized equipment, and hangar fees. Additionally, limited revenue opportunities per flight contribute to the higher prices for these tours.
Most helicopter tours last between 15 and 30 minutes. However, some tours may have additional experiences which extends the duration.
The number of participants on a helicopter tour depends on the size of the helicopter, but most tours can accommodate between four to six passengers.
Helicopter flights come with inherent risks and challenges. However, reputable helicopter companies follow strict safety regulations, including regular maintenance checks, pre-flight safety briefings, and employing well-trained, licensed pilots. Flight delays or reroutes are decided based on weather conditions to ensure safety. Additionally, the total weight of passengers is calculated and distributed to maintain the aircraft’s center of gravity within specified limits.
All pilots operating commercial helicopter tours in Dubai are properly licensed and trained. Most companies provide information about their pilots’ experience to ensure passenger confidence and safety.
Yes, taking photos and videos is usually allowed and encouraged. However, for safety reasons, selfie sticks and large camera equipment may not be permitted.
Most companies provide headphones to all passengers. These serve a dual purpose: reducing the noise from the helicopter’s rotor blades and enabling passengers to hear commentary from the pilot during the tour.
Proposal tours and private helicopter tours often include in-flight refreshments, whereas standard value-for-money tours do not. However, all tours feature onboard narration by the pilot.
Still have more questions? email us at travel@thebettervacation.com
Photo Gallery: Sneak-a-Peak
How much to tip on a heli tour?
Tipping on Dubai helicopter tours is not mandatory, but it is appreciated.
The amount can vary based on the quality of service and your overall satisfaction. A tip of 10-20% of the total tour cost is generally considered appropriate.
If the pilot or staff provided exceptional service and made your experience especially memorable, you might consider tipping more generously.
Uber helicopter in Dubai
Uber, in collaboration with local aviation companies, offers chopper rides in Dubai.
This luxurious mode of transportation is also a convenient way to navigate the city’s traffic while enjoying ravishing aerial views.
Perfect for time efficiency for business travelers and a memorable tourist experience, the service employs experienced and certified pilots to ensure passenger safety. Download Uber
Popular tour companies
HeliDubai
As a premier helicopter service provider in Dubai, Helidubai offers unparalleled aerial experiences that showcase the stunning skyline, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes of the UAE. Whether it’s a scenic tour or corporate travel, the company has a reputation of combining luxury, safety, and unparalleled expertise to create unforgettable moments in the sky. Visit HeliDubai for more details.
Arabia Horizons
With a vision to “lead the UAE Travel & Tourism industry,” Arabia Horizons offers top-of-the-line, diverse and innovative Travel & Tourism services. The Atlantis helicopter tour is its most popular offering. Visit Arabia Horizons for more information.
Sougat Travel & Tourism LLC
Since 2010, Sougat Travel & Tourism LLC is a premier travel agency across UAE, specializing in crafting bespoke adventures tailored to your desires. With a focus on economical and convenient air tours, the company boasts 100k+ individual clients and 40k+ bookings. Visit Sougat Travel & Tourism LLC for more details.
Orient Tours
Established in 1982 in Sharjah, UAE, Orient Tours have emerged as the market leader in offering high quality personalized, flexible and individual services. The company was one of the first tour companies in Dubai to obtain the Dubai Department of Tourism’s License to conduct Overland Tourist Safaris. Visit Orient Tours for more details.
ICL tours and travels
The luxury transport operator ICL tours and travels has a team of experienced and young travel professionals to offer you the best advice on all travel requirements. Visit ICL Tours for more details.
Royal Smart Tourism
Royal Smart Tourism LLC is recognized as one of the premier inbound and outbound travel and tourism companies in the UAE. It is registered under Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and offers interesting helicopter tours over the city. Visit Royal Smart Tourism LLC for more details.
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