Planning a summer getaway? If you’re flying out of Dubai in the coming weeks, consider leaving home a little earlier than usual. Emirates has issued a travel advisory ahead of the busy holiday season, warning passengers to expect heavier crowds at Dubai International Airport. To avoid last-minute stress and long queues, the airline has shared several important tips for travellers. Keep reading for everything you need to know before your next flight.
Worried About Jetting Off? Emirates’ Major Travel Insurance Upgrade Covers Conflict Risks & More – Here’s Everything To Know
Arrive Early To Avoid Delays
Emirates is urging passengers to arrive at Dubai International Airport at least three hours before their scheduled departure time. With passenger numbers expected to surge during the summer travel rush, security screening, immigration procedures, and airport processing times could take longer than normal. Travellers should also ensure they reach their boarding gates at least 60 minutes before departure.
The airline has also advised passengers to factor in extra travel time when heading to the airport, as traffic congestion around DXB may increase during peak periods. For those looking to avoid road traffic altogether, the Dubai Metro remains a convenient option for reaching Emirates Terminal 3. Metro services operate from 5 AM to midnight Monday to Thursday, from 5 AM to 1 AM on Fridays, and from 8 AM to midnight on Sundays.
Summer Travel Demand Continues To Rise
Summer is traditionally one of Dubai’s busiest travel seasons! During this season, residents usually take advantage of school holidays and annual leave to travel overseas. The airport experienced record-breaking traffic during the same period last year, welcoming 24.2 million passengers between July and September. It was the busiest quarter in Dubai International Airport’s 65-year history! With similar demand expected this year, travellers are encouraged to prepare in advance and complete as many travel formalities as possible before arriving at the airport.
Use Emirates’ Early Check-In Services
To help passengers save time and avoid queues, Emirates recommends using its range of early check-in options. Travellers can check in online or through the Emirates mobile app, select their preferred seats and complete travel-related requirements before heading to the airport.
Passengers can also:
- Check in and drop off luggage up to 24 hours before departure
- Check in up to 12 hours before departure for US-bound flights
- Use self-service check-in and bag-drop kiosks
- Access Emirates Check-in Ports
- Enrol in Emirates Biometrics through the Emirates app if they are Emirates Skywards members
- Book Home Check-in services, allowing agents to collect baggage directly from their location
City Check-In Facilities Offer Added Convenience
Passengers who prefer to complete airport formalities before arriving at DXB can also use Emirates’ city check-in locations. Emirates City Check-in Ajman operates around the clock, while the Emirates City Check-in and Travel Store at ICD Brookfield Place is currently open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM.
From July 1, operating hours at the ICD Brookfield Place facility will be extended until midnight. It will give travellers even more flexibility before their flight. These services are available from 24 hours up to four hours before departure, with the exception of flights travelling to the United States.
Keep Your Booking Information Updated
Emirates is also reminding passengers to review and update their contact details through the “Manage Your Booking” section before travelling. Doing so ensures travellers receive important flight notifications, schedule changes and other travel updates directly from the airline.
With airports expected to be packed throughout the summer holiday period, a little planning can honestly save you tons of stress and help you avoid missing your flight! Arriving early, checking in ahead of time, and using Emirates’ convenient pre-flight services can help make your journey much smoother. For more travel updates and airport tips, keep refreshing the official Gulf Buzz website!
If You’ve Overstayed In The UAE Due To Regional Uncertainties, UAE Sets July 9 Deadline For Expired Visas – Here’s Who It Applies To
