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Dubai International Airport DXB

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Dubai International Airport (DXB) Guide

Welcome to Dubai International Airport, a bustling hub known for its impressive indoor waterfall and as Emirates Airlines' main base. DXB stands as a luxurious gateway to the UAE, offering top-notch amenities.

This concise guide simplifies your DXB journey, covering everything from flight status to shopping. For insights into more airports, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly. Navigate DXB effortlessly!

DXB Airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is the oldest terminal and has 27 gates, while Terminal 2 has 47 gates and is mainly used for low-cost carriers. Terminal 3 is the newest and largest terminal, with 141 gates and is exclusively used by Emirates Airlines.

Major airlines such as British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas Airways operate from Terminal 1, while Terminal 2 is used by flydubai, Wizz Air, and other low-cost airlines. Terminal 3, as mentioned earlier, is solely used by Emirates Airlines.

It's easy to navigate the terminals at DXB as they are all connected by a free shuttle bus service that runs every 20 minutes. The shuttle service operates 24/7, making it convenient for travelers with connecting flights.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates. The map also shows the location of restrooms, lounges, and shops, making it easier for travelers to find their way around the airport.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has three terminals - Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. The terminals are connected by shuttle buses, trains, and walkways. If you are transferring between flights, follow the signs to the transfer desk and they will guide you to the appropriate terminal.

If you prefer to walk between terminals, there are air-conditioned walkways that connect Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your walking speed. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus, which runs every 10 minutes and takes about 15-20 minutes to travel between terminals.

If you need to get to Terminal 2, take the shuttle bus from Terminal 1 or Terminal 3. The shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes and takes approximately 10-15 minutes to travel between terminals. If you have a long layover, you can also take the train between terminals. The train runs every 10 minutes and takes approximately 3-5 minutes to travel between terminals.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At DXB Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated curbside areas outside each terminal. However, there are strict restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles must not be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the airport's short-term parking facilities if they need to wait for their passengers.

For those who do not wish to park, the airport provides cell-phone waiting areas where drivers can wait for their passengers to arrive before proceeding to the curbside pick-up area. These waiting areas are free of charge and are located near each terminal. Drivers are allowed to wait in their vehicles for up to an hour, but they must remain with their vehicles at all times.

Parking Facilities & Options

The airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located near each terminal, including Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Additionally, there are cell phone waiting areas available for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spots located near the entrances of each terminal. There are also wheelchair services available for those in need of assistance getting to and from their vehicle.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near Dubai International Airport. These lots offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Get details about Dubai Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

DXB offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their destination.

Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar. These facilities are located in the arrivals area of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

Taxi services are also available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside each terminal. The fares are metered and vary depending on the destination, with an additional airport surcharge.

Shared ride services are available through companies such as Careem and Uber, with pickup areas located outside each terminal. However, there are restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed, so be sure to check with the provider before booking.

Airport shuttles are available for those traveling to nearby hotels, with pickup areas located outside each terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination and the provider.

For those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is available through the Dubai Metro and public buses. The Dubai Metro has a station located at the airport, with trains running every 10 minutes. Public buses also have stops at the airport, with routes to various locations in Dubai.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're on a layover, an overnight stay, or a business trip, there are a variety of hotels to meet your needs. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options, you'll find a hotel that suits your preferences and budget. The hotels provide convenient access to the airport terminals and offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. For a unique experience, consider the sleep 'n fly Sleep Lounges, or for more traditional accommodations, the Holiday Inn Express, an IHG Hotel, is a great choice. For a touch of luxury, consider staying at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel, Royal Club & Conference Centre. Other options include the Premier Inn, Element Dubai Airport, Aloft Dubai Airport, and the Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan. No matter what your needs are, you're sure to find a hotel that provides the comfort and convenience you desire. To explore more, visit our Dubai Airport Hotels page.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Dubai International Airport offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options across its three terminals. Terminal 3 is the largest and most modern terminal, with the most extensive selection of restaurants and shops.

For a quick bite, head to McDonald's or Subway, both located in Terminal 1. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, try Giraffe, a restaurant that offers international cuisine, located in Terminal 3. Another great option is Le Pain Quotidien, a bakery and cafe with a variety of fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches, located in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

When it comes to shopping, Dubai Airport has something for everyone. For luxury shopping, head to Terminal 3, where you'll find high-end brands like Gucci, Burberry, and Hermes. If you're looking for electronics, visit Sharaf DG, located in Terminal 3. For souvenirs and gifts, check out Dubai Duty-Free, which has several locations throughout the airport.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at DXB can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

DXB Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers each year. To make your travel experience as smooth and comfortable as possible, the airport offers a range of passenger services.

One of the most important services for modern travelers is Wi-Fi access, which is available throughout the airport. You can connect to the airport's free Wi-Fi network by selecting "DXB Free Wi-Fi" from the list of available networks on your device.

If you lose an item during your travels, the airport's Lost and Found office is located in Terminal 3. You can also contact them by phone or email to report a lost item. For families traveling with children, there are dedicated children's play areas located in all three terminals, where kids can burn off some energy before or after a flight.

The airport also offers a range of special-needs services, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. If you require special assistance during your travels, be sure to contact your airline in advance to arrange for any necessary accommodations.

For those in need of banking services, there are several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport. Additionally, medical help is available 24/7 at the airport's medical center, located in Terminal 1, to assist with any emergencies or medical needs.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. At the airport, there are several ways to get flight status information.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also stay informed about their flight status by using their airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer push notifications, text messages, or email alerts for departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Make sure to download your airline's app before your trip and enable notifications to receive updates.

In addition to these methods, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Dubai International Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com. This website provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

By utilizing these resources, air travelers can stay informed and avoid any potential travel disruptions. Safe travels!

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Dubai Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

When flying out of the airport, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and navigating the airport. The busiest times at the airport are typically during the early morning hours and late evening hours, so it is best to avoid those times if possible.

Getting to the Airport

There are several ways to get to Dubai International Airport, including taxi, bus, and metro. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. The Dubai Metro also offers a convenient and affordable option for getting to the airport, with a dedicated station located at Terminal 3. Additionally, several bus routes connect the airport to various parts of the city.

Getting Oriented

When arriving at Dubai Airport, it can be helpful to use the interactive airport maps available on iFly.com. These maps allow you to easily navigate the airport and locate amenities such as restaurants, shops, and lounges. Additionally, the airport offers a complimentary shuttle service between terminals, making it easy to transfer between flights.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at DXB, it is important to arrive early and be prepared for security screening. Make sure to have all necessary documents and liquids in a clear plastic bag for easy inspection. Additionally, be aware of any restrictions on carry-on luggage and pack accordingly. Finally, it is recommended to check the status of your flight before arriving at the airport to ensure that there are no unexpected delays or cancellations.

Airport Facts & Stats

DXB is the busiest airport in the Middle East and one of the top 10 busiest airports in the world. It is located in the United Arab Emirates and serves as a hub for several major airlines, including Emirates and flydubai.

The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 3 is the largest airport terminal in the world and is exclusively used by Emirates.

On average, DXB Airport handles around 240,000 passengers and 1,100 flights per day. It serves over 240 destinations worldwide and is connected to more than 120 airlines.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at the airport are Emirates, flydubai, and IndiGo. These airlines operate flights to various destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

The top 5 destinations served by Dubai International Airport are London, Mumbai, Kuwait City, Bangkok, and Delhi. These destinations are popular among both business and leisure travelers.

In addition to Emirates and flydubai, other airlines that use Dubai Airport as a hub include Air Arabia, flydubai, and Qantas.

Airport History

DXB is the primary international airport serving Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the world's busiest airport by international passenger traffic and the fourth-busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1959 - DXB Airport opens with a single runway and a small terminal building.
  • 1965 - The airport's runway is extended to 3,900 meters to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • 1985 - Terminal 2 is built to handle the growing number of passengers.
  • 1998 - Terminal 1 opens, increasing the airport's capacity to 22 million passengers per year.
  • 2000 - Dubai Duty Free, one of the world's largest airport retailers, is established at the airport.
  • 2008 - The airport's runway is extended to 4,000 meters to accommodate the Airbus A380.
  • 2013 - Concourse A, the world's first purpose-built facility for the Airbus A380, opens.
  • 2014 - the airport becomes the world's busiest airport by international passenger traffic.
  • 2016 - Concourse D opens, increasing the airport's capacity to 90 million passengers per year.
  • 2020 - The airport implements strict health and safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Dubai International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DXB
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +971 4 224 5555
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Dubai International Airport, PO Box 2525, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Dubai International Airport Q&A

The terminals at DXB are connected by shuttle buses, trains, and walkways. Shuttle buses run every 10-20 minutes, 24/7. There are also air-conditioned walkways and a train service that connects the terminals for easy transfer.
DXB offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options across its three terminals. You can find international cuisine, fast food, luxury brands, electronics, and souvenirs. For a detailed guide, plan your visit using this link.
Yes, Dubai International Airport has several hotels ranging from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options. For more information and to book a stay, visit our Dubai Airport Hotels page.
The airport offers several parking lots and garages near each terminal, including handicapped parking and cell phone waiting areas. For more details on parking options and rates, check here.
DXB is served by car rental facilities, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation including the Dubai Metro and buses. For more information, visit the respective links for car rental, taxi services, airport shuttles, and public transportation.
You can check the status of your flight by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS), your airline's mobile app, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.
The airport offers a range of services including free Wi-Fi, lost and found, children's play areas, special-needs services, banking services, and a 24/7 medical center. For lost items, visit the Lost and Found page, and for Wi-Fi access, connect to "DXB Free Wi-Fi" on your device.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport