Dubai: Helicopter Tour over Palm Jumeirah & Burj Khalifa

Summary

Helicopter ride above Dubai’s icons with live stories onboard

You’ll fly above Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa on a helicopter tour with live commentary and light refreshments included. Expect close-up views of iconic landmarks, stories from your local pilot, and time to take in the city’s wild contrasts from above — it’s an experience that sticks with you long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

The rotors started up before I was even sure I wanted to do this — you know that weird mix of excitement and “what if my breakfast comes back up?” The glass was cool under my hand as we lifted off, and suddenly Dubai just stretched out below us. Our pilot, Hassan, pointed out the Burj Al Arab almost right away. It’s funny — from the ground it looks like a sail, but from above it’s more like a silver fin slicing through blue water. Someone behind me gasped when we swung past the Palm Jumeirah. I’d seen it on postcards, but seeing all those fronds laid out in real life? It made me wonder how anyone even builds something like that.

We drifted along the shoreline by Jumeirah Beach — I caught a glimpse of people playing volleyball, tiny as ants. The water looked impossibly turquoise from up there. There was this moment when Hassan slowed down so we could stare straight at the Burj Khalifa. Honestly, it felt unreal — like some kind of sci-fi movie set. He told us a story about how fast Dubai has changed in just a few decades; his voice crackled in our headsets but you could hear he was proud. The city felt both huge and small at once.

I tried to take photos but mostly ended up with blurry shots (my hands were shaking a bit — not gonna lie). The commentary was actually useful — not just facts, but little details about old Dubai near the Creek, where you can still spot wooden boats weaving between glass towers. There was this weirdly sweet smell in the air too, maybe from the refreshments they handed out before boarding? Or maybe just nerves. Anyway, landing felt both too soon and kind of a relief. I keep thinking about that feeling of floating above it all — makes you see Dubai differently.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai aerial sightseeing tour

• See Burj Al Arab iconic structure
• View Burj Khalifa from above
• Fly over Palm Jumeirah
• Pass by Port Rashid
• See Jumeirah Beach shoreline
• Fly over Old Dubai at Dubai Creek

Top questions

How long does the Dubai helicopter tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified, but most flights cover major sights like Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, and Jumeirah Beach within 12-25 minutes depending on route.

Is hotel pickup included for the Dubai helicopter tour?

No, hotel pickup isn’t mentioned as included; you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the helipad location.

Are children allowed on the helicopter ride?

Yes, children aged 2 years and older are allowed on board; infants under 2 cannot join.

What landmarks will I see during the flight?

You’ll see Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, Port Rashid, Jumeirah Beach shoreline, and Old Dubai at Dubai Creek.

Is the helicopter tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, wheelchair access is available for this tour.

What happens if there is bad weather?

If weather conditions are poor and your flight is canceled, you can choose another date or get a full refund.

Can I bring my camera on board?

You can bring personal cameras with lenses less than 400mm; footage must be for personal use only.

Is there live commentary during the flight?

Yes, live commentary is provided by your pilot or guide during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes light refreshments before boarding and live commentary throughout your helicopter flight over Dubai’s icons like Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa; wheelchair access is available too so everyone can enjoy these views together.