If you’re flying out of Dubai over the next few weeks and usually arrive at the airport two hours before your flight, this may be the summer to change that habit. Emirates has issued a travel advisory asking passengers to reach the airport at least three hours before departure as holiday travel picks up across the city.
Emirates Travel Advisory Says To Arrive At The Airport 3 Hrs Earlier
The airline says travellers should prepare for longer waits at security, immigration and even on the roads leading to the airport.
For many people, summer means school holidays, family trips and overdue getaways. Which also means airports get busy. Very busy.
The Airport Is About To Get A Lot More Crowded
Dubai is heading into one of its biggest travel periods of the year and Emirates expects passenger numbers to rise sharply across its network. As a result, queues are likely to move more slowly than usual, especially during peak departure times.
The airline is asking travellers to arrive three hours before take-off and make sure they are at their boarding gate at least an hour before departure. Also, anyone travelling during weekends or late evenings may want to allow even more time than usual.
Also Read: Emirates Named World’s Best Airline Again, Clinching Three Prestigious Travel Awards
The Metro Could Save You Some Headaches
Getting to the airport can sometimes take almost as long as getting through it.
To avoid traffic around Terminal 3, Emirates is encouraging passengers to use the Dubai Metro where possible. The service starts from 5 am on weekdays and Saturdays, while Friday trains continue running until 1 am. On Sundays, services begin at 8 am.
For travellers carrying lighter luggage, it could end up being the easier option.
There Are Ways To Skip Some Of The Queues
Emirates says passengers should make use of its digital services before leaving home. Online check-in and the Emirates app allow travellers to choose seats and complete much of the process before arriving at the airport. Bags can also be dropped off early, up to 24 hours before departure in most cases and 12 hours before flights heading to the United States.
There are also self-service kiosks and bag drop counters for those who prefer to avoid traditional check-in desks.
Also Read: Emirates To Inspect A380 Fleet After Wing Crack Concerns Trigger Safety Checks
Some Travellers Don’t Need To Queue At All
Possibly the most convenient option is Emirates’ Home Check-in service in Dubai. An agent comes to your home, completes the check-in process and collects your luggage before you even leave for the airport. City check-in facilities are also available in locations such as Ajman and DIFC for travellers who want to get things sorted before arriving at the terminal.
One final thing. Emirates is asking passengers to make sure their phone number and email address are updated in their booking details so important flight updates don’t get missed.
Cover Image Courtesy: Emirates/Website
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FAQs
Can I drop off my luggage early?
Yes. Most passengers can drop bags 24 hours before departure, while US flights allow baggage drop 12 hours before take-off.