Flying through Dubai Airport this weekend? Here’s how to beat the travel rush

Dubai: Dubai International Airport (DXB) is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods of the year, with more than 3.6 million passengers expected to pass through its terminals by April 7. The travel surge is being fuelled by the overlap of the Eid Al Fitr public holidays and school spring breaks, prompting a sharp rise in international departures and arrivals.

As the extended Eid break comes to an end, this weekend, particularly Saturday, 5 April and Sunday, April 6 is forecast to be the peak of the rush, with thousands of travellers returning to Dubai. Whether you are flying out, arriving, or picking someone up, navigating DXB during this period requires extra planning. 

To avoid heavy traffic near the airport, consider using the Dubai Metro. The Red Line connects directly to Terminals 1 and 3 and operates from 5am to midnight on weekdays, with extended hours on Fridays. On Sundays, services begin at 8am.

A nol card is required for travel and can be purchased at any metro station. Fares are affordable and vary by zone. When taking luggage, be aware that only one large suitcase and one small suitcase are allowed per passenger. These must be stored in the dedicated luggage area inside the metro cabins.

While buses are another option, note that the Terminal 1 bus stop has been out of service since February 21. Alternatively, taxis are readily available at all terminals. You can book through ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem, or take a regular RTA taxi. Taxis from the airport have a starting fare of Dh25, with a charge of Dh2.43 per kilometre.

Dubai Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, it can be a little overwhelming, especially during peak periods. To make navigation easier, the airport now offers DXB Express Maps. By scanning a QR code on any flight information screen, you can access real-time directions to your gate, find nearby dining options, and locate airport facilities while on the move.

If you’re dropping someone off, you can use the designated areas on the Departures level. These are strictly for short stops. For pick-ups, you will need to use the airport’s official car parks, which are available at all terminals.

At Terminal 1, premium parking, closer to the terminal, costs Dh40 for up to two hours, while economy parking costs Dh25 for one hour. Terminal 2 offers premium parking at Dh30 per hour and economy at Dh15. Terminal 3 charges up to Dh40 for two hours across all parking levels.

Smart Gates are available at DXB to help eligible travellers move quickly through passport control. These contactless gates can process passengers in seconds.

They are open to UAE nationals and residents, GCC nationals, and visitors eligible for visa on arrival who hold biometric passports. First-time users are automatically registered when passing through immigration.

To use a Smart Gate, simply look into the scanner when the green light appears. You don’t need to scan your passport unless prompted. Just remember to remove hats, glasses, and face masks. Children under 1.2 metres tall, people of determination, and those travelling with large strollers may not be eligible. You can check your eligibility on the official GDRFA Dubai website - www.gdrfad.gov.ae

DXB has three main terminals. Terminal 1 is home to the D Gates and serves a wide range of international airlines. Terminal 2 handles regional and international flights via the F Gates. Terminal 3, used mainly by Emirates, flydubai, United, and Air Canada, includes A, B, and C Gates.

If you’re connecting to another flight, the airport’s internal trains can help you reach distant gates efficiently. From Terminal 1, a train connects to D Gates. In Terminal 3, you can walk between B and C Gates and take a short train to A Gates.

Travellers transiting through DXB on separate tickets and holding a Dubai visa must clear immigration, collect their luggage, and check in again. If you don’t hold a visa and require assistance with baggage transfers, Marhaba Services at the transfer desk can help.

To move quickly through security, Dubai Airports recommends following the tips below:

Laptops, tablets, phones, and other electronic items should be placed in separate trays. You may carry up to 15 mobile phones in their original packaging in your luggage; personal phones are excluded from this limit.

Porter services are available at all terminals, with staff assisting at terminal entrances and baggage belts. Fees start at Dh30, with flat-bed trolleys for families costing Dh100 at Terminal 3.

If you need to store bags, secure facilities are available 24/7 at all terminals. The rate is Dh40 for up to 12 hours at Terminals 1 and 2, and Dh35 at Terminal 3 for standard-size luggage.

For oversized or irregularly shaped baggage, anything longer than 90cm or lacking a flat surface. Guests must check in at their airline’s baggage counter and then proceed to the oversized baggage desk. Make sure to check your airline’s baggage policy to avoid excess baggage fees, and repack if necessary to avoid paying extra.

With heavy traffic expected in and around the airport, it’s strongly recommended that passengers arrive at least three hours before departure. Knowing your terminal, using public transport, and taking advantage of smart services like DXB Maps and Smart Gates can make your journey through Dubai Airport significantly easier.