Emirates is gearing up for one of its busiest periods for the Unaccompanied Minors Service as children return to Dubai from their summer vacations abroad to start the new school year. In the upcoming week alone, the airline will welcome over 900 young travellers flying solo, utilizing this well-regarded service designed for their comfort and safety.
Over the past five years, Emirates has assisted more than 120,000 children through its Unaccompanied Minors and Young Passenger services. Most of these young travelers are aged 11 years or younger, with the highest number coming from British, Indian, American, Filipino, and French families. Emirates is committed to ensuring that these children have a safe and enjoyable journey from check-in to arrival.
The Unaccompanied Minors Service offers several key features. At Dubai International Airport (DXB), parents can bring their child to the Unaccompanied Minors Lounge, located near the check-in area. Here, children can unwind with video games, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating while enjoying complimentary snacks and drinks. Identification must be provided, and a permission form signed by the guardian.
An Emirates specialist will assist the child from the check-in desk through the airport, helping them with security and boarding procedures. The cabin crew will ensure the child’s comfort and address any special requests, such as meal preferences or seating arrangements, throughout the flight. Onboard, children can enjoy a range of entertainment options, including free Wi-Fi, toys, and an extensive selection of movies and TV shows. For birthdays, parents can arrange a cake in advance, and a Polaroid photo will capture the celebration.
Upon arrival, an Emirates specialist will meet the child at the aircraft door and escort them through the airport until they are reunited with their parent or guardian. The guardian must provide identification to collect the child.
For older children aged 12 to 15, Emirates offers an optional additional support service for a fee of USD 50 per flight segment. This service provides the same level of care and supervision as the Unaccompanied Minors Service.
For children connecting between Emirates flights at DXB, the maximum connection time is 8 hours. Longer connections require Emirates’ approval. During this time, children will be accommodated in the Unaccompanied Minors Lounge and accompanied by a specialist if they need to leave the airport.
To use the Unaccompanied Minors Service, children aged 5 to 11 must travel on an adult fare.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
