Emirates is expecting a high volume of departures from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB) this week, with over 30,000 passengers scheduled to travel on June 26.
Similar traffic levels are anticipated through June 30 as summer holidays begin.
Travel time guidelines
To manage the expected crowds, Emirates advises passengers to arrive at the airport three hours before their flight, clear immigration at least 1.5 hours ahead, and be at their boarding gate one hour before departure.
The airline recommends using the Emirates app for managing bookings, checking in online, downloading digital boarding passes, and receiving real-time flight updates. Online and app check-in both open 48 hours before departure.
Early check-in options
Customers flying out of Dubai can drop off their luggage at the airport up to 24 hours in advance, or 12 hours for U.S.-bound flights. Another option is the Emirates City Check‑in and Travel Store at ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, open daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm, where passengers can check in and drop off luggage up to four hours before their flight.
Home check-in is also available in Dubai and Sharjah, where Emirates agents complete the check-in process and collect luggage directly from a customer’s home, hotel, or office. The service must be booked at least 24 hours before departure and is complimentary for First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members.
Getting around the airport
Passengers can use a complimentary train between Concourses A and B in Terminal 3, and a shuttle bus between Concourses A and C operating every 20 minutes around the clock. Emirates also provides buggies on request for First Class travellers. Dubai Airport buggies are available to all passengers, with priority for families, seniors, and People of Determination.
Baggage and safety rules
Travellers are reminded to comply with baggage regulations. Power banks and e-cigarettes must be packed in carry-on bags. Smart bags are permitted in the cabin only if their batteries are removable and the bag fits carry-on limits. Electric incense burners and similar battery-powered devices must also be in hand luggage and secured to avoid accidental activation.
Duty-free shopping and accessibility
Customers can pre-order duty-free items via EmiratesRED.com from 21 days up to 40 hours before departure. Orders are delivered directly to the passenger’s seat. EmiratesRED’s summer catalogue features over 200 products, and pre-orders are eligible for a 10% discount using the code RED10.
Emirates also provides dedicated assistance for People of Determination, including priority lanes, a pre-travel planning guide, and two hours of free airport parking. More information is available on the Accessible Travel section of Emirates.com.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com