Cheap Flights from Johannesburg to Dubai – Compare Emirates, Qatar & More

Cheap Flights from Johannesburg to Dubai – Compare Airlines & Save Big

Cheap Flights from Johannesburg to Dubai – Compare Airlines & Save Big

Introduction

If you’re searching for cheap flights from Johannesburg to Dubai, you’re not alone. Dubai is one of the most popular destinations for South Africans — whether for shopping, business, or luxury holidays. With direct flights taking just 8 hours, this route is one of the fastest ways to reach the Middle East from South Africa.

But when is the best time to book? Which airlines offer the lowest fares? And what tricks can you use to save money? This guide answers all your questions while linking you to our complete travel resources, such as the Flights from Johannesburg to Dubai guide and Best Time to Visit Dubai.

Airlines Flying from Johannesburg to Dubai

Here are the top carriers to compare:

• Emirates: Direct daily flights from OR Tambo (JNB) to Dubai International (DXB). Best for convenience, but prices are higher during peak season.

• South African Airways (codeshare with Emirates): Seamless booking for local travellers, competitive on luggage allowances.

• Qatar Airways: One-stop in Doha. Often cheaper than Emirates, with excellent in-flight service.

• Etihad Airways: Stopover in Abu Dhabi. Good for flexible fares.

• Turkish Airlines & Lufthansa: Stopovers in Istanbul or Frankfurt, then onward to Dubai. Sometimes cheaper but longer travel time.

Pro Tip: If you’re flexible, compare connecting flights — the same way you’d look for cheap flights to Richards Bay or flights from Cape Town to Nelspruit.

How Much Do Flights Cost?

Prices depend on season, day of the week, and how early you book:

• Low Season (Jun–Aug): R6,800 – R9,500 return (Dubai is very hot in summer, so fares drop).

• Shoulder Season (Apr–May & Sep–Nov): R8,500 – R11,000 return (best balance).

• Peak Season (Dec–Jan): R12,000 – R18,000 return (Christmas, New Year & Dubai Shopping Festival).

Compare with other popular long-haul fares: Flights from Durban to Paris are often 20–30% more expensive due to longer flight times.

Tips for Finding the Cheapest Fares

1. Book Early – Secure flights at least 8–12 weeks before departure.

2. Travel Mid-Week – Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have cheaper fares than Fridays and Sundays.

3. Compare Different Airlines – Don’t just look at Emirates; check Qatar and Turkish Airlines too.

4. Use Stopovers – A one-stop flight via Doha or Abu Dhabi may save you R2,000 or more.

5. Track Prices – Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights to set alerts.

Just like when planning the best time to visit Paris, timing matters for Dubai fares.

Baggage Policies

• Emirates: 30kg checked luggage + 7kg cabin bag.

• Qatar Airways: 25kg checked + 7kg cabin.

• Etihad Airways: 23kg checked (Economy) + 7kg cabin.

If you’re a shopping traveller heading for Dubai Mall or the Gold Souk, Emirates’ 30kg allowance is a huge plus.

Comparing Airports

• Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB): Main departure hub in South Africa, well-connected by road and Gautrain.

• Dubai International (DXB): One of the busiest airports in the world, 15 minutes from Downtown Dubai.

Why Dubai is Worth It

Even if you’re flying for cheap, Dubai delivers world-class attractions:

• Burj Khalifa: World’s tallest building.

• Palm Jumeirah: Iconic man-made island.

• Dubai Mall: Largest mall in the world.

• Desert Safaris: Camel rides, dune bashing, and Arabian evenings.

For timing your holiday, check out our full Best Time to Visit Dubai guide.

Conclusion

Cheap flights from Johannesburg to Dubai are possible with smart planning. By booking early, comparing airlines, and flying in the shoulder season, you can save thousands.

Start planning with our complete guide to Flights from Johannesburg to Dubai, and don’t miss our seasonal breakdown in Best Time to Visit Dubai. With the right timing, your trip to Dubai can be both affordable and unforgettable.

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