Dubai International Airport
Airport Information
Dubai International Airport
Dubai International is now one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Since it opened in 1960, passenger numbers have grown at an annual average growth rate of more than 13%. We now serve more than 88.2 million customers annually, connecting more than 240 destinations across six continents on more than 100 airlines.
With traffic is projected to surpass 90 million in 2018, DXB is a dynamic and fast-growing airport that truly connects the world.
DXB’s world-class facilities include the $1.2 billion Concourse D, a state of the art facility serving all international airlines that operate into Terminal 1, Concourse A – the world’s first and largest purpose-built A380 facility that is one of the three Concourses used exclusively by Emirates airline, as well as Terminal 2.
Dubai Airports owns and manages the operation and development of both of Dubai’s airports – Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC).
We deliver a world-class experience to our customers by providing safe, secure and environmentally responsible airports. We work in partnership with airlines and our stakeholders to drive the growth of Dubai.
DXB’s History and Growth
- Dubai has grown from a relatively unknown city with a tiny airport mainly used as a refuelling stop into a globally celebrated destination for tourism, trade, finance and aviation within a matter of decades. DXB’s rise has been nothing short of phenomenal.
- To put DXB’s growth rate into perspective, consider this: DXB reached the major milestone of having served 1 billion passengers by the end of 2018. The airport took 51 years – from September 30, 1960 to December 31, 2011 – to reach the first 500 million passenger but clocked the remaining 500 million in just 7 years.
- Having risen to the top of the list of the world’s busiest international airports in 2014 with passenger traffic exceeding 70 million, DXB has since extended its lead over the competition to further cement its position. DXB topped 88.2 million passengers in 2017 and is expected to welcome some 90 million customers this year.
- DXB currently has capacity for 90 million passengers per annum, which is being increased to more than 118 million by 2023 under a process enhancement project.
- Combined passenger traffic at Dubai’s airports (DXB+DWC) is expected to increase to 120 million by 2025.
Airport Profile
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Security & Customs
The security check is an essential part of modern air travel. It’s vital to ensure everyone’s safety, but we appreciate it can be a bit time-consuming. Likewise the customs check is an essential requirement. Here’s what you can do to help things run smoothly.
Security tips
- Put ‘loose’ items – mobile phone, wallet, watch, keys etc – in your hand baggage.
- Keep a laptop where it can be easily reached: you’ll need to place it in a separate security tray at the scan.
- If your belt has a metal buckle, or your shoes have heels, take them off and put them in a security tray.
- Place liquid containers in a clear, resealable plastic bag, within your hand baggage. Remember each liquid can’t be more than 100ml. Exemptions will be made for: medication, baby milk/foods and special dietary requirements to be used during your trip.
Hand luggage
Make sure you are not carrying any prohibited items as hand luggage. Find out more
Customs
Like all countries, the UAE has rules about what you can and can’t bring with you. Everyone who arrives must pass through Dubai Customs. Some items can result in fines or, in cases such as narcotic drugs, imprisonment. If you are unsure about anything, please declare your goods when you arrive.
Requirements are subject to change and we advise all passengers to visit the Dubai Customs website before they travel. Here are some quick links:
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Baggage Services
We all need to take our stuff, but – let’s be honest – bags can be the most cumbersome part of travelling, especially if you’re travelling in a large group or with children. With this in mind, we offer a range of services to make things easier for you.
Porters
If you’re departing, you’ll find porters by the terminal entrance.
If you’re arriving, you’ll find them by the baggage reclaim carousels.
They will help with your luggage – please pay the fixed cost of AED25 directly to the porter.
For a family-sized trolley the cost is AED70.
Trolleys
Free of charge, trolleys are provided at convenient locations across the airport.
Baggage wrapping
Available at the check-in areas of Terminal 1 and 3. It’s a good idea to weigh your bags before you have them wrapped, thus avoiding unnecessary delays at the check-in counter. The price is:
AED 30 per item at Terminal 1, 2 and DWC
AED 35 per item at Terminal 3Short-term storage
We’d be happy to look after your bags. Terminals 1 and 3 both offer this service, and it’s open 24/7. Sorry, but it’s not available at Terminal 2. Please look on our maps to find this service.
Cost: AED40 for 12 hours or less for standard size luggage; AED50 for 12 hours or less for non-standard size luggage.
Baggage delivery service
Emirates Airlines offers to deliver its passengers’ bags within the UAE.
To book, please visit the baggage counter in the Arrivals hall of Terminal 3, near exit 1.
Up to four bags costs AED 200 or AED250 depending where in the UAE your bags are going. Each additional bag is AED10.
For details contact Emirates on +971 (0) 4 214 4433.
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Relax & Refresh
Dubai International may be the world’s busiest airport, but you’ll have no trouble relaxing. From express massages at Be Relax to a swimming pool at our Health Club, it’s easy to unwind at DXB.
Al Majlis
Looking for a VIP airport experience? From drop-off to take-off, Al Majlis handles every step of the airport process including check in, immigration and baggage clearance. You’ll relax in one of 25 modern lounges, offering the finest in Arabian hospitality and the ultimate in comfort and privacy.5-star hotel
Whether you have an overnight stopover, or just a few hours to refresh and relax, Dubai International Hotel offers the perfect solution. Luxurious and spacious, the wide range of rooms and suites will suit every need.Kids’ activities
Travelling with little ones? Head to DXB’s family zone near Gate B26 to B32 in Terminal 3. You’ll find a range of fun family facilities including a huge trampoline park, BOUNCE, featuring its own basketball court. The nearby park area includes comfortable seating for adults, as well as a playground for kids, which is free to use. All this is surrounded by fantastic food and retail options, including Nutella Café, Hard Rock Café and the gigantic sweet shop Candylicious.Health Club
A swimming pool in an airport may sound unusual, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at the G-Force Health Club in DXB’s very own hotel. You can also relax in the jacuzzi, sauna or steam room, or pass the time with a game of billiards.Spa facilities
Destress with a soothing massage at one of our many spa facilities at DXB. You can also glam up for your holiday with a manicure, pedicure or facial. Whether you need an express service or an indulgent experience, our spas will ensure you’re fully pampered.Lounges
Kick back and enjoy the executive lifestyle in our array of luxurious lounges. Some lounges are for specific airlines, while others are open to those travelling First or Business Class. All passengers can pay to access the Marhaba Lounge.
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Other Services
Wi-Fi
Thanks to a major upgrade, you can now enjoy unlimited, free, high-speed Wi-Fi, across all areas of DXB and DWC. To get connected, just follow these three simple steps: 1. Select “DXB Free WiFi” or “DWC Free WiFi” from the network list 2. Open your web browser 3. Click “Get online now”Currency exchange
Just as you’d expect from a major airport connecting all corners of the globe, DXB has several exchange bureaus in all terminals, so you can get the right currency for your destination. What’s more, you can even reserve today’s rate and collect as you come through the airport!Business centre
For those with some serious work to do, a business centre can be found in the Dubai International Hotel. It’s complete with meeting rooms, secretarial service, photocopying, Internet, lamination and binding, faxing, and conference facilities.Baby care rooms
Travelling with your baby? Our dedicated baby care rooms will help you attend to them in privacy. Head to our Information Zones, or just ask our ‘May I Help You’ staff to find one closest to you.Baggage storage
We’d be happy to look after your bags. Terminals 1 and 3 both offer this service, and it’s open 24/7. Sorry, but it’s not available at Terminal 2. Please look on our maps to find this service. Cost: AED25 for 12 hours or less for standard size luggage ) (maximum dimensions of 21 x 24 x 11 inches); AED30 for 12 hours or less for non-standard size luggage (larger than 21 x 24 x 11 inches): Valuables: AED 30 for 12 hours or less.Prayer rooms
We provide Muslim prayer rooms and ablution rooms throughout the airport, and in our car park areas. Please follow the signs.Smoking lounges
Sorry, but smoking in public areas is not allowed. The good news is there are comfortable, well-ventilated smoking lounges in all our terminals. To find them, just follow the signs. Locations include: Terminal 1: Gate D12, Upper level. Terminal 2: Near the departure area. Terminal 3: Gates A2, A23, B7, B27, C9, C23.Car rental
If you’re looking for a set of wheels when you arrive at your destination, then you’ll be pleased to know we have handpicked a selection of the best car rental companies for quality, reliability and value. Book ahead to get exclusive deals at even lower prices!Showers
Feeling groggy? Refresh yourself with complimentary shower facilities located in Terminal 3 between gates B13 and B19. Be Relax customers can also make use of shower facilities at the spa near Gate A1, Terminal 3Special assistance
We pride ourselves on making our airports and services accessible to passengers with restricted mobility and special needs. All you need to do is to inform your airline in advance.
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Airport News
Emirates Welcomes Air Canada to Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport
Contact
Department of Civil Aviation
P.O. Box 2525
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
- +971 4 224 55 55
