Emirates currently operates the main through-service from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Malta International Airport (MLA), travelling via Larnaca in Cyprus. Current published schedules put the overall Dubai-to-Malta journey at around eight hours, although the exact flight time and schedule can vary depending on your travel date.
If Emirates does not suit your dates, budget or travel plans, you can also compare flights with connections through other international airports. This guide explains the main Dubai-to-Malta flight options, connection choices, Dubai airports and practical transport options after you arrive in Malta.
For a wider overview of routes and travel options, see our guide on how to get to Malta.
Last updated: August 2026
✍️ Written by Albert and Benjamin Magro, Malta locals sharing practical advice based on living on and exploring the islands.
Important: Dubai to Malta is not a nonstop Emirates flight. Emirates operates the route as a through-service via Larnaca, Cyprus, with flight EK109 continuing from Larnaca to Malta. Check the itinerary for your travel date when booking, as schedules can change.
Flight schedules, connection times and fares can change throughout the year, so always check the itinerary for your actual travel dates before booking. Pay particular attention to total journey time, stopover duration, and the connection airport, not just departure and arrival times.
The cheapest Dubai-to-Malta fare is not always the most convenient option. A lower price may involve a longer layover or a much longer overall journey, so compare the fare, total travel time and connection before deciding which flight suits you best.
When comparing flights from the USA to Malta, look beyond the ticket price. Check the total journey time, number of connections, length of each layover and baggage conditions, particularly if different airlines operate separate parts of your journey.
Use the flight comparison tools on this page to check current fares, airlines and connection times for your travel dates before booking.
Besides Emirates, you can compare connecting flights from Dubai to Malta offered through several airline networks. Current booking options include itineraries sold by Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and SWISS, although the airlines and routes available can change based on your travel dates.
When comparing connections, look beyond the ticket price. Check the total journey time, layover length and connection airport, and whether a partner airline operates any sector. It is also worth checking whether you need to change terminals and whether your baggage will be checked through to Malta, as this depends on the itinerary you book.
Airport connections are part of many journeys between Dubai and MaltaThe airport you travel through depends on the airline and itinerary you choose. Current Dubai-to-Malta routes can involve a connection or stop at airports such as:
Available routes can change by season and travel dates, so check the full itinerary before booking.
Connecting flights can form part of a Dubai to Malta journeyDubai has two international airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). For Dubai-to-Malta travel, DXB is the main airport to know because Emirates flights to Malta depart from there. Always check the airport code on your booking, particularly when comparing different connecting itineraries.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main airport for travellers flying from Dubai to Malta and the departure airport for Emirates' through service to Malta via Larnaca.
DXB has three passenger terminals, so always check the terminal shown on your booking, especially if you are travelling on a connecting itinerary involving another airline. Emirates primarily operates from Terminal 3, while other international airlines may use different terminals.
Dubai International Airport (DXB), Dubai's main international gatewayAl Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, is Dubai's second international airport. It is separate from DXB and is not the departure airport for the Emirates Dubai-to-Malta through-service described on this page, so check the airport code carefully when comparing flight itineraries.
DWC is accessible by taxi and public transport. Current Dubai Airports information shows that the F55 bus connects DWC with Expo Metro Station, while the N55 connects with Ibn Battuta bus and metro stations. If an itinerary requires you to change between DWC and DXB, allow plenty of time because you must transfer between two separate airports.
Al Maktoum International AirportOnce you arrive at Malta International Airport, you have several ways to reach your accommodation, including public buses, pre-booked transfers, taxis and car rental. The best option will depend on where you are staying, how much luggage you have and whether you prefer the lowest cost or the most convenient journey.
Public buses leave from the bus terminal outside Malta International Airport and connect the airport with destinations across the island. If you do not have a travel card, you can buy a ticket when you board using cash or contactless payment. Airport Direct services also offer quicker connections to selected destinations.
If you plan to use public transport regularly during your stay, travel cards can be purchased from the Malta Public Transport sales office in the Welcomers’ Hall or from card-dispensing machines at the airport. Check the latest route and timetable for your accommodation before travelling, as services can change.
If you prefer to have your transport organised before you arrive, you can pre-book an airport transfer to your accommodation. This can be particularly convenient after a long journey, as your onward transport is already arranged when you land in Malta.
A taxi can be a convenient option if you have several bags or prefer a direct journey to your accommodation. Official airport taxis are available 24 hours a day, and prepaid tickets at fixed rates can be purchased from the taxi booth in the Welcomers’ Hall after you arrive.
If you plan to explore Malta by car, you can pre-book a rental car and collect it at Malta International Airport. Car-hire companies have desks and collection facilities at Park East, close to the terminal.
After a long journey from Dubai, however, you may prefer not to start driving immediately after landing. If you are unsure, compare the rental options before your trip and consider whether airport collection or picking up a car later during your stay would be more comfortable for you.
How long is the flight from Dubai to Malta?
The Emirates journey from Dubai to Malta currently takes around eight hours, with published schedules showing approximately 8 hours to 8 hours 20 minutes. The service travels via Larnaca in Cyprus, and the exact journey time can vary depending on the timetable for your travel date.
Are there direct flights from Dubai to Malta?
Emirates operates a through-service from Dubai to Malta via Larnaca, Cyprus, on flight EK109. However, it is not a nonstop flight because the aircraft stops in Larnaca before continuing to Malta. Always check the itinerary for your travel date, as schedules can change.
How far is Malta from Dubai?
The straight-line air distance between Dubai International Airport and Malta International Airport is approximately 4,060 kilometres (2,525 miles). The actual air distance will be longer because Dubai-to-Malta itineraries involve a stop or connection.
How much are flights from Dubai to Malta?
There is no single standard fare for Dubai-to-Malta flights. Prices vary based on your travel dates, airline, connections, booking time, and fare conditions. Compare the total journey time and price, as the cheapest option may involve a longer layover or a less convenient connection.
Travelling from somewhere else?
You can also see our guides to flights to Malta from Australia, flights to Malta from New York and flights to Malta from the US. If you are travelling in the opposite direction, see our guide to Malta to Dubai Emirates flights.