You and Dubai: A Tale of Two Cities (and a Very Long Flight)
So, you've set your sights on Dubai. Land of towering Burj Khalifas, luxurious souks, and enough gold to blind a dragon (metaphorically, of course). But before you can be saying "Yalla!" (that's Arabic for "Let's go!") and cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road in a shiny sports car, there's a little hurdle to overcome: the flight from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Dubai International Airport (DXB). Buckle up, because this trip is a marathon, not a sprint.
 |
| How Long Is The Flight From Rdu To Dubai |
How Long is This Dang Flight, Anyway?
The short answer: a while. We're talking between 15 and 18 hours, depending on the airline, route, and if they decide to take a scenic detour over the North Pole (hopefully not in June!). That's enough time to:
- Watch every single episode of your favorite show... twice.
- Become a pro at in-flight Sudoku (they don't call it "killer sudoku" for nothing on these long hauls).
- Learn basic Arabic phrases to impress the flight attendants (although, "Shukran" for "thank you" is a good place to start).
- Write a novel (or at least get a decent start on that screenplay you've been meaning to tackle).
Important Note: While movies are great, don't rely solely on the in-flight entertainment system. Download some shows and movies beforehand, just in case you hit turbulence and the screens go dark. Trust us, staring at the back of the seat in front of you for hours is a recipe for boredom-induced meltdown.
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
Conquering the Long Haul: Tips for Taming the Skies
Here are some survival tips to make the most of your RDU-DXB flight:
- Hydrate like a Camel: Airplane cabins are notoriously dehydrating. Drink tons of water and avoid sugary drinks. Think of yourself as a sophisticated water-guzzling machine.
- Move Those Muscles: Sitting for extended periods is no bueno for circulation. Get up and walk around the cabin whenever possible. Sneak in some airplane yoga poses in the galley if you're feeling bold (just be mindful of your fellow passengers).
- Dress for Comfort: Ditch the skinny jeans and wear loose, breathable clothing. Also, airplane slippers are your new best friend.
- Sleep, Glorious Sleep: Try to adjust your sleep schedule to Dubai time before you depart. An eye mask, earplugs, and a comfy neck pillow are your allies in the battle against jet lag.
Pro Tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after you go through security. This will save you money and keep you hydrated throughout the flight.
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
FAQ - Your RDU-DXB Flight Questions Answered
How to pack for a long flight? Pack light, but bring essentials like a change of clothes, comfy socks, and toiletries. Layers are key for adjusting to temperature changes on the plane.
 |
How to beat jet lag? Try to adjust your sleep schedule to Dubai time before you depart. Stay hydrated, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed on the flight, and get some sunlight exposure upon arrival.
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
How to entertain myself on a long flight? Download movies, books, and games beforehand. Pack a deck of cards or a travel journal. Strike up a conversation with your neighbor (if they seem friendly!).
How to survive a long flight with kids? Pack plenty of activities for them, like coloring books, small toys, and travel games. Bring snacks and drinks to keep them happy. Take advantage of the airline's kid-friendly amenities if available.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
How to avoid blood clots on a long flight? Get up and move around the cabin frequently. Stretch your legs and ankles regularly. Wear compression socks if you're at risk for blood clots.
So there you have it, folks. With a little planning and the right attitude, you can conquer the RDU-DXB flight and arrive in Dubai ready to conquer the world (or at least conquer that buffet at your hotel). Just remember, the adventure starts the moment you step on the plane. Now, go forth and explore!
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
