Dubai Airport (DXB)

Each of the three terminals at Dubai International Airport has its own car park, with Terminals 1 and 2 offering both Premium and Economy options. Premium parking is typically less than a five-minute walk away from the terminal, while Economy parking is around 10 minutes away. Parking can be booked online in advance, and rates vary based on the car park and length of your stay. 

A number of car rental companies, including AVIS, Budget, Hertz and Thrifty, are available at Dubai International Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

You’ll find clear signage at Dubai International Airport directing you to the official taxi rank at each terminal. Alternatively, you can ask the Guest Experience Ambassadors to arrange a taxi for you. In Dubai, the taxis are cream in colour and the ones with a pink roof have female drivers and are reserved for women and families.  

For the least expensive transport option, you can take the bus. To take the bus, you’ll need to get your hands on a Nol card, which you can purchase in the airport terminals or at metro stations. Some good news for Emirates passengers is that travellers in Economy and Premium Economy Class can take advantage of a free bus service between Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. You'll find the drop-off area in Terminal 3, on the Departures Level near check-in area C, and the pick-up spot on the Arrivals Level opposite Exit 3. 

Both Terminal 1 and 3 are served by the Dubai Metro’s Red Line, which can be accessed directly from the airport. Quick, affordable and frequent, the Red Line runs from 5am to approximately midnight most days, except on Sunday when morning services don't begin until 8am. We'd recommend double-checking the Dubai Metro's timetable before you travel. Like with the bus, you'll need a Nol card to ride the train. 

It’s easy to transfer between terminals at Dubai International Airport. The Metro runs between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 and there is a free 24-hour shuttle service between Terminals 1, 2 and 3. If you’re connecting to another flight, you’ll be automatically transferred as part of your connection. 

A number of domestic and international airlines fly into and out of Dubai International Airport. Major airlines servicing the airport include Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Singapore Airlines and United Airlines. Dubai International Airport is also the Emirates hub, with most of the airline’s services operating out of Terminal 3. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Dubai International Airport at least an hour or two before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are a number of transport options available from Dubai International Airport to the city centre, including taxis, car rental, local buses and the Dubai Metro.  

Yes, there are several airport lounges at Dubai International Airport, including several Emirates Lounges, Marhaba Lounges and the Plaza Premium Lounge. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the airport lounges at Dubai International Airport. 

Yes! Head to the sleep ‘n fly lounges (there are four located throughout the airport) where you can book sleep pods, cabins, shower facilities and workspaces to enjoy some quiet time before or after your flight.  

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Dubai booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. 

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Dubai International Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

There are three terminals at Dubai International Airport. As a general rule, Terminal 1 is home to the majority of international airlines flying out of Dubai. Terminal 2 is where you’ll find most regional and charter flights, as well as low-cost carriers, and Terminal 3 is the hub for major carriers like Emirates, Qantas, Air Canada and United Airlines. Your departure terminal will be listed with your flight information and it’s important to double-check this before making your way to the airport. 

Yes, short-term and long-term parking options are available at Dubai International Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on booking airport parking and the current rates. 

Travelling with the little ones? Baby care rooms are available as well as a dedicated Family Zone in Terminal 3, near the B Gates, where children can have fun and burn off some energy before their flight. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Dubai International Airport? You’re in luck! There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including well-known brands like Aesop, Adidas, Gucci and LEGO®, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check Dubai International Airport’s terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Dubai International Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you're booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!