Advice for passengers departing from Dubai
Emirates is preparing to handle the peak of summer travel at Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. Starting from the weekend of 3-5 July 2026, the company expects a sharp increase in passengers departing from Dubai and invites Travellers to plan in advance every step of the way at the airport.
Traffic on weekends will remain high throughout the summer season. For this reason, the company recommends arriving at the airport at least three hours before departure, passing immigration control an hour and a half before the flight and reaching the boarding gate an hour before take-off.
Dubai Metro to Terminal 3
To avoid possible road traffic delays, Emirates suggests using the Dubai Metro, which connects directly to Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The metro operates Monday through Thursday and Saturdays from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Fridays from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
Online check-in and the Emirates app
Passengers can check in online or via the Emirates app from 48 hours before departure. The app allows you to manage various travel services: digital boarding pass for many destinations, seat selection, flight notifications, in-flight meal information, pre-order hot meal in Business Class, chauffeur-drive service booking and selection of ice entertainment content.
Early baggage drop-off at the airport
Those departing from Dubai can check in and drop off their luggage up to 24 hours before departure, or up to 12 hours before departure for flights to the United States. This way, passengers can go directly to Immigration on the day of travel, reducing waiting times at check-in.
City check-in in DIFC and Ajman
City check-in outside the airport is available. At the Emirates City Check-in and Travel Store at ICD Brookfield Place, in the Dubai International Financial Centre, you can check in and drop off your baggage from 24 hours up to 4 hours before your flight. The service is available every day from 8:00 to 24:00 until August 10. Emirates City Check-in Ajman is also available at the Ajman Central Bus Terminal, which is open 24 hours a day for check-in from 24 hours up to 4 hours before departure.
Home Check-in in Dubai and Sharjah
For those who want to leave with greater comfort, Emirates offers the Home Check-in service in Dubai and Sharjah. Agents complete the process at the passenger's home, hotel or office and transfer the luggage directly to the flight. The service must be booked at least 24 hours in advance and is free of charge for First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members.
Self check-in, bag drop and biometrics
At the airport, Emirates invites passengers to use the self check-in kiosks, bag drops and Emirates Check-in Ports, located near the entrance to the Terminal, to quickly drop off their baggage. Emirates Skywards members can also register for Emirates Biometrics via the app before travel and use facial recognition to navigate certain airport crossings more quickly.
Moving between concourses
Inside Terminal 3, passengers can use the free train between Concourse A and Concourse B. Emirates also offers a 24/7 shuttle bus service between Concourse A and Concourse C, departing every 20 minutes and an average journey time of around 20 minutes.
First Class passengers can request dedicated Emirates buggies, while Dubai Airport Buggies are available free of charge to all Travellers, with priority for seniors, families with children and people with special needs.
Baggage and Restricted Items
Power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage and not in checked baggage. Smart bags are allowed in the cabin if the battery is removable and if they comply with the size and weight limits of hand luggage. E-cigarettes, e-cigarettes, e-pipes, portable electric burners for incense or perfume, and other personal vaporizers with batteries must be individually protected to prevent accidental activation and are only allowed in carry-on baggage.
Pre-order shopping with EmiratesRED
Passengers can also save time by pre-ordering purchases on EmiratesRED.com. The service is available on most flights, from 21 days up to 40 hours before departure. Items are delivered directly to your seat during the flight. The summer catalog includes over 200 products, with brands such as Hermès, Parfums de Marly, Tom Ford, Creed and Jo Malone.
Care for people with special needs
Dedicated support from Emirates and airport staff. The service includes a planning guide for Dubai International Airport, two hours of free parking, and, if needed, priority access to check-in, passport control, security, and boarding.
