How to Plan a Stopover in Dubai on Your Way from East Africa
Flying from East Africa and want to make the most of your journey? A stopover in Dubai is the perfect way to break up your long flight while exploring one of the world’s most exciting destinations. Whether you’re traveling for business, heading to Asia, Europe, or the Americas, Dubai offers a unique opportunity to turn a simple layover into a mini vacation.
At Mandari Travel, we help travelers from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond plan smooth, enjoyable, and affordable stopovers in Dubai. Here’s how you can plan yours with ease.
What is a Stopover?
A stopover is when you stay in a city for over 24 hours (international flights) on your way to your final destination. Dubai is a popular stopover hub due to its location, world-class airport, and visa-friendly policies.
1. Choose an Airline That Supports Stopovers
Several major airlines offer stopover packages in Dubai, especially:
- Emirates
- FlyDubai
- Qatar Airways (if passing through Doha, another great option)
If you’re booking with Emirates, you can add a Dubai stopover for 1 to 3 days at no extra cost for the flight, and even enjoy discounted hotel rates through their Dubai Stopover program.
2. Apply for a Dubai Transit or Tourist Visa
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Dubai tourist visa or transit visa. For East African travelers, such as from Tanzania, Kenya, or Uganda, a visa is required but easy to obtain.
- 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are ideal for short stopovers
- 14-day tourist visas give you more time to explore
Mandari Travel handles fast and reliable visa processing so you won’t have to worry about paperwork delays.
3. Pick the Right Stopover Activities
With just 24 to 72 hours in Dubai, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Here are some must-see attractions for stopover visitors:
- Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall : The tallest building in the world
- Desert Safari : A thrilling half-day experience
- Dubai Marina & JBR Beach : Perfect for walking and dining
- Dubai Frame or Museum of the Future ; Quick but unforgettable
We can tailor your stopover itinerary based on your flight schedule and interests.
4. Choose a Convenient Hotel Near the Airport or City Center
Depending on your layover time, you can book a hotel:
- Near Dubai International Airport (DXB) for short stopovers
- Downtown or near Bur Dubai/Deira for better access to attractions
Mandari Travel will help you find budget or luxury hotels, and arrange airport transfers for maximum convenience.
Let Mandari Travel Handle It All
We make your Dubai stopover stress-free, offering:
- Visa assistance
- Flight booking & rescheduling
- Hotel reservations
- Customized tour options
Email: info@mandaritravel
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
Fill out the form below to request a quote, and let Mandari Travel plan your perfect stopover in Dubai.
