You could bag a completely free night's stay in a five-star hotel in Dubai thanks to an insider travel trick.
While this deal sounds far too good to be true, the new offer through Emirates Airline is straight forward and provides what is says on the tin.
Travellers flying with the airline can receive a complimentary night’s stay in the UAE city - with all their meals included - through the airline’s ‘Dubai Connect’ programme.
Passengers who have a long layover in Dubai that is between eight and 26 hours long qualify for the free hotel stay, no matter which class of cabin they're travelling in.
A free coach service takes passengers from the airport to a hotel, which include the five-star JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai and the five-star Le Meridien Airport Hotel Dubai.
The latter has 15 hectares of manicured gardens' and boasts 'azure outdoor pools', making it a decent place to relax amid a busy flight schedule.
Passengers who apply for the free-stay do have to pay for mini‑bar snacks and spa treatments, so don't go too crazy.
The Dubai Connect programme does cover visa costs so you can venture out of the airport into the city, but you should make sure everything is in order before you travel.
After booking your flight, log into your Emirates account, click on the ‘manage’ section and choose ‘Dubai Connect’, where you can opt in up to 24 hours before your flight.
To qualify for the free stay you have to be booked onto the best connecting flight, so there is no point choosing one significantly later on to bag the hotel break.
TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad, IcelandAir and Iberia also have similar offers, so it's definitely worth checking out if you qualify ahead of a flight.
If you do find yourself with a free stay in Dubai and a few hours to kill, then there's plenty to get stuck into ion a whirlwind tour.
The holiday hotspot is renowned for offering up heaps of glitz and glamour from its iconic skyline (including the world's tallest building) to the awe-inspiring Dubai Mall with over 200 shops, and the countless brilliant restaurants and nightlife spots.
There's also plenty on offer for families, from thrilling theme parks to plenty of attractions and family-friendly beaches to have on your radar.
Dubai's skyline is filled with some pretty impressive skyscrapers but one building that stands out above the rest is the incredible Burj Khalifa.
Measuring more than 828 metres (approximately 2,716ft), it's the world's tallest building. For phenomenal views of the city, head to floor 124, dubbed 'At the Top'.
If you're after some retail therapy, Dubai Mall won't disappoint. With over 200 brands on sale throughout the mall you won't struggle to get your shopping fix, or if you're after some window shopping make sure not to miss out on the souks.
One of the biggest highlights has to be the eye-catching Gold Souk which never fails to floor tourists. It's also home to an ice rink, aquarium, A380 experience, a Kidzania, and even a virtual reality park.
If you're looking to enjoy the city's nightlife and foodie scene, then Dubai Marina is worth having on your radar. Tripadvisor has a great round-up of the Marina's best restaurants if you're after views.
