Flights from Dubai to Karachi, Pakistan

Karachi in the most populous city in Pakistan, and serves as the country’s main financial and industrial center, attracting plenty of business travelers as well as tourists. It is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, and home to the largest port in the country. Karachi is more cosmopolitan than most Pakistani cities, and has more cultural and religious diversity. The city is home to some of Pakistan’s important cultural institutions, such as the National Academy of Performing Arts and the National Arts Council. The annual Kara Film Festival showcases independent films and documentaries from Pakistan and abroad.

Flying to Karachi

1. Which airports serve Dubai to Karachi?

Dubai Airport, which is only around 3 miles from the city center, offers regular flights to Karachi. All flights land at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, which is located around 6 miles east of the city center. There are buses and taxis to transport you to your destination.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Dubai to Karachi?

You have a choice of three airlines when booking flights to Karachi from Dubai, with daily departures and no connections required. Carriers operating these flights are Emirates, Fly Dubai, and Pakistan International. Thai Airways and Oman Air also offer connecting flights on this route, with layovers in Muscat.

3. How long is the flight?

A direct flight from Dubai to Karachi should take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. Connecting via Muscat could take upwards of 4 hours and 30 minutes. There is a small time zone difference, with Karachi being one hour ahead of Dubai.

4. Climate changes between Karachi and Dubai

You can expect Karachi to be somewhat cooler than Dubai, at any time of year, so pack some layers.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

The currency used in Karachi is the Pakistan rupee, which can be acquired at banks and exchange bureaus in Pakistan, or in your home country. Many shops and hotels accept major credit cards, such as Mastercard and Visa, but they cannot be used everywhere, so always carry sufficient cash as well.

A valid visa is required to enter Pakistan, and these cannot be issued on arrival. They must be obtained in your home country before traveling.

Karachi Information

Karachi is more modern, liberal, and diverse than most Pakistani cities, perhaps as a result of being an international business hub. You are, of course, still in a Muslim country, and appropriate respect should be shown at all times for religious and cultural norms. Attractions to enjoy while in the city include the Mohatta Palace, the Quaid-e-Azam Museum, the Pakistan Air Force Museum, and the Chaukhandi Tombs. Karachi has an enviable position on the coast of the Arabian Sea, and it is worth taking a short excursion outside of the city to spot baby turtles at the aptly named Turtle Beach, or to snorkel the beautiful reef at Churna island. Don’t leave without sampling some of the local cuisine. Typical (and delicious) dishes in this area include Chicken Karahi, Seekh Kebab, and Haleem.