As the Eid Al-Adha holiday approaches, Emirates Airlines anticipates a significant surge in passenger traffic at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Peak Travel Alert
Over the next month, more than 2.6 million Emirates passengers are expected to travel, with peak periods forecasted around Saturday, June 15, and Saturday, July 6, coinciding with the start of summer holidays. To ensure a seamless travel experience, Emirates has issued several key recommendations for travelers.
Firstly, the airline advises passengers to plan for potential delays and increased traffic congestion on routes leading to the airport. Due to the heightened number of travelers, immigration lines are expected to be longer, and navigating between concourses might take additional time. Passengers are urged to arrive at the airport three hours before their flight’s departure, although some airports may require up to four hours. It's essential to pass through immigration at least 1.5 hours before departure and to reach the boarding gate one hour before the scheduled departure time.
Transport Options Within the Airport
To expedite the check-in process, Emirates encourages customers to utilize online check-in via Emirates.com or the Emirates app, which opens 48 hours before flight departure. The app allows passengers to obtain digital boarding passes for most destinations and provides notifications about flight updates, meal options, and entertainment selections. Additionally, passengers can pre-order meals in Business Class, book chauffeur services, and choose movies to watch during the flight.
Emirates offers several convenient check-in options to streamline the travel process. For those departing from Dubai, luggage can be dropped off at the airport up to 24 hours before the flight, or 12 hours before flights to the US, without any extra charge. This service allows passengers to proceed directly to immigration on the day of their flight. Moreover, the Emirates City Check-in and Travel Store located at ICD Brookfield Place in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) provides another early check-in option. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., this facility allows luggage drop-off from 24 hours to 4 hours before departure.
For even greater convenience, Emirates offers home check-in services in Dubai and Sharjah. DUBZ agents can handle the check-in process at customers' homes, hotels, or offices, taking care of luggage transport to the airport. This service, which must be booked at least 24 hours before the flight, is complimentary for First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members.
Travelers can also take advantage of Emirates’ transport options within the airport. A train service connects Concourse A and Concourse B in Terminal 3, while a shuttle bus operates between Concourse A and Concourse C every 20 minutes. First Class passengers have access to dedicated Emirates buggies upon request, and Dubai Airport buggies are available for all passengers, with priority given to elderly travelers, families with children, and people of determination.
For those looking to save time on duty-free shopping, Emirates offers a pre-order service through EmiratesRED.com. Passengers can shop for duty-free products from 21 days up to 40 hours before their flight, and cabin crew will deliver the orders directly to their seats.
Emirates is also committed to providing special assistance for people of determination. Dedicated support from trained staff is available, along with a pre-planning guide for those with hidden disabilities. Additional services include two hours of complimentary parking at the airport, access to priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security, and priority boarding.
By following these guidelines and utilizing available services, Emirates passengers can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience during the busy holiday season.