Winter travel alert: 6 essential tips for a smooth, stress-free journey through UAE airports
Essential travel tips to streamline check-in, use Smart Gates, and avoid traffic
Dubai: The UAE National Day and Winter Break usher in one of the busiest travel periods, especially at major hubs like Dubai International Airport (DXB), Zayed International Airport (AUH), and Sharjah International Airport (SHJ).
Emirates is preparing for one of its busiest months in years, with more than 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals expected throughout December. Here’s how to navigate the travel rush:
1. Prioritise punctuality and online check-in
When thousands are travelling, time is your most precious commodity.
Major airlines like Emirates strongly advise passengers to be at the airport at least three hours before their flight's scheduled departure.
Aim to clear Immigration no later than 90 minutes before departure and ensure you are at your boarding gate an hour before the flight takes off.
To bypass lengthy queues, complete your check-in process on your airline's website or app before you even leave for the airport. This is highly recommended.
2. Travel and transport
Forget road congestion; use these smart transport options to reach DXB or AUH efficiently.
Dubai International (DXB): Opt for the Dubai Metro
Avoid traffic: Roads surrounding DXB are notorious for heavy traffic during peak seasons.
The Dubai Metro's Red Line connects directly to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Dubai Metro operation times (approximate):
Weekdays (Mon-Thu): 5am to 12am
Friday: Extended hours (check RTA for exact times)
Sunday: From 8am
You must purchase a Nol card at any station to ride.
You are permitted one large and one small suitcase per passenger, which must be placed in the designated luggage areas.
RTA Taxis or ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber are available. Note that airport taxis start at a premium fare of Dh25, plus Dh2.43 per kilometre.
Zayed International Airport (AUH): Shuttle bus service
AUH-Dubai Shuttle: If you live in Dubai but fly from AUH, take advantage of the convenient, non-stop 24/7 express shuttle bus.
Route and Cost: The bus departs hourly from the Ibn Battuta Bus Station (near the Metro Red Line) and costs Dh35 per person (one-way).
Air Arabia Passengers: The airline offers free shuttle services between Dubai (Ibn Battuta and Al Shindigha) and Sharjah, as well as to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
3. Pick-up and drop-off protocols
For both drop-offs and pick-ups, knowing the specific rules at DXB and AUH is crucial to avoid fines.
At DXB, dropping off is strictly limited to the designated, quick-stop zones on the Departures level, while all pick-ups must utilise the official airport car parks (with charges varying by terminal and parking zone).
For example, a two-hour stay in Terminal 1's premium parking costs approximately Dh40, whereas economy parking is cheaper.
Similarly, at AUH, you may drop off either at the Departures forecourt or in the car park, but you must only use the Arrivals car park for all pick-ups. Always follow signage and avoid leaving vehicles unattended, as security regulations prohibit waiting outside the arrivals or departures halls.
4. Check-in from home
For ultimate ease, bypass airport queues entirely by using a home check-in and baggage collection service. Bookings must be made at least six hours before your flight.
DXB - Dubz Home Check-In
Airlines Covered: Emirates, flydubai, Kuwait Airways, and Saudia.
(Note: For other airlines, only baggage collection is provided; check-in is not guaranteed.)
Booking: Via the dubz.com website.
Starts from Dh249 for up to four bags. Each additional bag is Dh40.
AUH - Morafiq Home Check-In
Eligibility: Passengers residing or staying in Abu Dhabi only.
Airlines Covered: Egypt Air, Etihad, and Air Arabia.
Booking: Select a package and book via the Morafiq service online.
Cost Structure:
Up to 2 bags: Dh165
Up to 4 bags: Dh220
Up to 6 bags: Dh280
Emirates City check-in perks
Emirates passengers can utilise the Emirates City Check In and Travel Store at DIFC or the Emirates City Check In Ajman (open 24/7).
Timeline: Check in and drop luggage 24 to 4 hours before departure. Free parking included.
Bonus Offer (Dec 15 - Jan 15): Customers checking in here receive 2,500 Skywards Miles each, including children.
5. Speed through immigration with Smart Gates
Save valuable minutes at passport control by using the advanced Smart Gate technology available at both DXB and AUH.
Zayed International Airport (AUH): The 'Smart Travel' initiative uses biometric technology and facial recognition to streamline the process to mere seconds, requiring no physical documents.
Dubai International Airport (DXB): Smart Gates allow eligible, registered passengers to pass through quickly.
Eligibility check: You can verify your eligibility via the 'Inquiry for Smart Gate Registration' service on the GDRFA-Dubai's official website: gdrfad.gov.ae.
6. Pack smartly
A minute saved at the security scanner can make a huge difference during peak travel.
Strict enforcement of baggage allowance is common during busy periods. Weigh your bags at home to avoid last-minute repacking or unexpected excess baggage fees.
All liquids, aerosols, and gels in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100ml each and placed inside one transparent, resealable plastic bag (maximum one litre total).
Laptops, tablets, and large electronic devices must be removed and placed in a separate tray at security screening. Keep them accessible.
Crucially, lithium battery power banks must be carried in your hand luggage only and cannot exceed 100 Watt-hours (Wh). Their use is strictly prohibited on board the aircraft.
The UAE has strict rules on items like narcotics, certain medicines (which require a doctor's prescription and often a Ministry of Health permit), and specific cultural/religious items. Always check the official prohibited items list before packing.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
