Emirates Airlines has issued a travel warning
Emirates Airlines has issued a warning to passengers flying from Dubai during the peak summer holidays, warning of longer waiting times at the airport as passenger traffic picks up in the coming weeks.The airline has urged travelers to arrive well before scheduled departure times and take advantage of early check-in options to avoid delays at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Expect large crowds at DXB Airport
With schools closed for the summer and thousands of residents heading abroad for holidays, family visits and seasonal vacations, Emirates expects a significant increase in passenger numbers at Dubai International Airport.This warning comes as Dubai International Airport prepares for another busy travel season.
Last year, Dubai International handled 24.2 million passengers between July and September, representing the busiest quarter in the airport’s 65-year history.
How early should passengers arrive?
Emirates Airlines advised its passengers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure time, while also taking into account potential traffic congestion on the roads leading to the airport.Travelers should be at the boarding gates at least 60 minutes before departure, as security and immigration may take longer than usual during peak travel periods.
The airline also recommends allowing extra travel time when heading to the airport.
Dubai Metro suggested to avoid traffic
To bypass road congestion, Emirates Airlines encouraged passengers to use the Dubai Metro, which provides direct access to Emirates Terminal 3.Metro operating hours are:
- Monday to Thursday and Saturday: from 5 am to midnight
- Friday: 5 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday: 8 am to midnight
Are you planning to use the Dubai Metro to get to the airport?
Check in before arriving at the airport
To reduce waiting times at Dubai International Airport, Emirates encourages passengers to complete as many pre-travel procedures as possible before arrival.Travelers can:
- Check in online or via the Emirates mobile app
- Select seats and complete travel documents in advance
- Baggage drop off 24 hours before departure (12 hours for flights to the US)
- Use self-service kiosks to check in and drop off bags
- Register for UAE biometrics through the app
- Choose at-home check-in services, where luggage is collected from home, hotel or office
Check-in facilities are available in town
Emirates customers can also use check-in facilities in the city located away from the airport.Main options include:
- The travel check-in service in Emirates City Ajman, which operates around the clock
- Emirates City Check-in & Travel Shop at ICD Brookfield Place (DIFC), open daily from 8am to 10pm, with extended hours until midnight from 1 July
These facilities allow passengers to check in and drop off baggage several hours before their flight, helping to reduce the time they spend at the airport.
Biometric gates and smart travel options
The airline also advised passengers to register for the biometric travel route through the Emirates app. The system enables eligible travelers to move through the designated smart gates more quickly.Passengers are also encouraged to update their contact details under the “Manage Booking” section to receive real-time travel notifications and flight updates.
Additional services at DXB
Once inside the airport, Emirates passengers can use the free train that connects Concourse B and Concourse A. Shuttle buses also run between Concourses A and C at regular intervals.First class passengers can request dedicated buggy services, while Dubai Airports also offer free buggies for passengers who require assistance within the terminal.