Previously anyone wanting to visit the south Australian city had to make the traditional stopover in Dubai, before making a second one in Kuala Lumpur.

However, following the decision to introduce a direct, two-times-daily flight from Dubai to Melbourne Brits flying from Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow and Manchester can undertake the flight with only one interruption in the emirate from October 30.

Meanwhile, the airline has launched a special promotion to drive sales to Dubai this summer.

Any customer booking a ticket to the emirate before June 20 and departing the following two months will receive a ticket entitling them to a day-long visit to the Ritz Carlton Hotel.

As well as gaining access to the pool and beach area, the package includes a 30-minute foot massage or aroma massage and a snack.

To qualify for the voucher, economy passengers must travel between June 22 and August 31 while business and first class passengers will only be given the deal if they depart in July or August.

However, the airline added the vouchers are being given out on a first-com-first-served basis, meaning those who leave it too late may end up disappointed.