If you’ve ever taken a Types of Helicopters or even dreamed about one, you probably remember that moment—the lift-off, the skyline slowly shrinking below, and that breathtaking view of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Atlantis The Palm. But have you ever wondered what kind of aircraft is actually giving you that smooth, safe, and luxurious flight?
Let’s talk about the machines behind the magic — the Types of Helicopters used in Dubai tours, what makes them special, and why choosing the right one can make all the difference to your sky-high adventure.
The Backbone of Every Helicopter Ride Dubai: Safety Meets Style
When you book a helicopter ride Dubai, you’re not just paying for the view; you’re paying for precision engineering and certified aviation safety. Every aircraft operating in Dubai is approved by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) — meaning safety standards are on par with the best in the world.
These tours aren’t just about sightseeing. They’re a blend of luxury tourism, aviation excellence, and personalized experience. And each helicopter Types of Helicopters is chosen carefully depending on the kind of tour — whether it’s a 12-minute helicopter ride Dubai, a private charter, or a corporate group flight.
Meet the Stars of the Sky: Common Helicopters Used in Dubai Tours
Let’s get to the exciting part — the actual helicopters you’ll be flying in.
1. Bell 407 – The Reliable All-Rounder
This one’s a crowd favorite for shared helicopter ride experiences. The Bell 407 is known for its smooth handling and panoramic visibility, making it perfect for helicopter sightseeing Dubai. It’s often used for the best helicopter tour Dubai packages that cover Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah within a quick 12–17 minutes.
- Seats: 5 passengers + 1 pilot
- Best For: Short tours, shared rides, or affordable group experiences
Fun Fact: It’s one of the quietest helicopters in its class — perfect for capturing videos or those Instagram-worthy skyline shots without too much cabin noise.
Discover the beauty of Dubai from above with the 17 Minutes The Palm Helicopter Tour Dubai
2. Eurocopter AS350 – The Tourist Favorite
Now this is the go-to chopper for most luxury helicopter tour Dubai operators. The Eurocopter AS350 (also known as the Airbus H125) has a sleek design, powerful performance, and air-conditioning strong enough to beat even the toughest Dubai helicopter tour summer heat.
- Seats: Up to 6 passengers
- Best For: Couples, families, or small groups
- Experience: Smooth, stable, and exceptionally quiet — ideal for first-time flyers
- Used By: HeliDubai, Falcon Aviation, and Alpha Tours
Whether you’re taking off from Atlantis Helipad or Dubai Police Academy, the AS350 gives you those crisp, stable shots of the Dubai skyline helicopter experience you’ve seen all over social media.
3. AgustaWestland AW109 – The VIP Experience
Now we’re stepping into the luxury zone. The AgustaWestland AW109 is for those booking a private helicopter ride Dubai or a corporate helicopter tour Dubai. Think of it as the Rolls-Royce of helicopters — twin engines, leather interiors, and an unmatched level of comfort.
- Seats: 6 passengers
- Best For: VIPs, business groups, couples celebrating a special occasion
- Bonus: Equipped with advanced navigation tech and higher speed than single-engine helicopters
- Used For: Private charter Dubai or a luxury helicopter tour Dubai
If you’re planning to propose in the sky, celebrate an anniversary, or impress clients — this is your bird.
Different Tours, Different Helicopters — What’s Right for You?
Dubai’s helicopter tours aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a quick breakdown of which helicopter Types of Helicopters fits which experience:
| Tour Type | Recommended Helicopter | Duration | Ideal For |
| 12-minute helicopter ride Dubai | Bell 407 / AS350 | 12 min | First-timers, tourists |
| Luxury private tour | AW109 | 25–40 min | Couples, VIP guests |
| Group helicopter tours Dubai | AS350 / Bell 407 | 17–25 min | Families, corporate teams |
| Corporate helicopter tour Dubai | AW109 | Custom | Business clients |
| Helicopter charter Dubai | AW109 / AS350 | Flexible | Custom routes and timings |
Each aircraft is customized to give you the best version of your Dubai experience — whether you’re flying solo or sharing the cabin with friends.
Helicopter Tour Dubai Departure Points: Where the Sky Journey Begins
Dubai offers several iconic helipads for different Types of Helicopters of tours:
- Heli Dubai – Dubai Police Academy Helipad
- Atlantis The Palm Helipad
- Skydive Dubai Helipad (Dubai Marina)
- Falcon Aviation (Dubai Marina / Atlantis)
Each departure point is strategically chosen to offer quick access to major landmarks, so you spend more time in the sky than in transit.
Helicopter Tour Prices Dubai: What to Expect
Prices vary depending on the tour duration, helicopter type, and exclusivity. A quick guide:
- 12-minute helicopter ride Dubai: AED 650–800 per person
- 17-minute tour: AED 850–1,200
- 25-minute luxury ride: AED 1,200–1,800
- Private helicopter ride Dubai: AED 6,000–9,000 per flight
Operators like Heli Ride Dubai and Falcon Aviation frequently run helicopter tour discounts Dubai and online helicopter booking Dubai deals — especially during the summer.
Read More About : Dubai Helicopter Ride Cost – Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
Helicopter Tour Safety Dubai: What You Should Know
Safety is non-negotiable in Dubai’s aviation sector. Every pilot holds GCAA certification, and all helicopters undergo routine maintenance checks before takeoff.
Here’s the reassurance: whether it’s a shared helicopter ride Dubai or a private charter, your flight follows strict helicopter tour safety Dubai protocols — from weather assessments to pre-flight briefings.
Best Time for Helicopter Ride Dubai: Morning Skies Always Win
While tours operate all year, the best time for helicopter ride Dubai is usually early morning — when the air is cool, visibility is high, and the golden sunlight makes the skyline glow.
In summer, morning helicopter ride slots are in high demand since midday heat can be intense. Winter, on the other hand, offers the clearest skies — perfect for photography enthusiasts and families.
Who Are These Tours For?
You might be surprised at how flexible these tours are:
- Couples: For romantic skyline moments
- Families: Safe and fun for all ages
- Corporate teams: Ideal for incentive events or client entertainment
- Travel influencers: Because nothing beats aerial footage of Dubai Marina at sunset
Whether you’re after a helicopter ride for couples Dubai, a group aerial tour Dubai, or a one-on-one VIP flight, there’s a customized experience for every traveler.
Final Thoughts: Every Flight Tells a Story
A helicopter tour Dubai isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s an experience that defines how you remember this city. The aircraft — whether it’s the Bell 407, Eurocopter AS350, or AgustaWestland AW109 — is as much a part of your memory as the view itself.
From the comforting hum of the engine to the calm voice of your pilot pointing out the Dubai skyline, every detail comes together to create something unforgettable.
And honestly? Once you’ve seen Dubai from above — the shimmering Burj Al Arab, the palm-shaped islands, the desert kissing the horizon — it’s hard to see it the same way again.
FAQs
What is the best helicopter for sightseeing in Dubai?
The Eurocopter AS350 is widely used for sightseeing due to its stability, comfort, and excellent visibility.
Are helicopter tours safe in Dubai?
Absolutely. All operators are licensed under the GCAA, and pilots undergo rigorous certification and regular safety training.
How much does a 12-minute helicopter ride in Dubai cost?
Prices start from AED 650–800 per person, depending on the operator and departure point.
Can families or children join helicopter tours in Dubai?
Yes, most operators allow children above 4 years old. Families often choose the AS350 for group comfort.
What’s the best time of day for a helicopter tour in Dubai?
Morning tours are ideal — cooler temperatures, softer light, and better skyline visibility.