DXB gears up for holiday rush

Dubai International (DXB) is gearing up for a significant influx of travellers coinciding with the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays.

The world's busiest international airport is expected to welcome an estimated 3.5 million passengers between June 20 and July 3, with the average total daily traffic reaching 252,000.

Saturday, June 24, is forecast to be exceptionally busy, with nearly 100,000 passengers departing across DXB.

The arrival peak at the end of the holiday period is anticipated to be even busier, with daily traffic expected to surpass a record-breaking 305,000 passengers on July 2.

"Teams across DXB, representing terminal operations, guest experience, control authorities including Dubai Police, airlines, ground handling, baggage operations, car parks, and multiple commercial and service partners, are all working in perfect sync to maintain the high quality of service that international travellers have to come to expect of Dubai," said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports.

Here are some guidelines issued by DXB to help passengers beat the holiday rush:

• Passengers flying Emirates can use the airline’s convenient home, early and self-service check-in facilities as well as a city check-in option at ICD Brookfield Place in the DIFC area in Dubai and the dedicated facility in Ajman.
• Flydubai passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before the departure time of their flight.
• Passengers flying all other airlines should arrive at DXB no earlier than 3 hours before the scheduled departure time of their flights. DXB recommends using online check-in where available to save time.
• For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process.
• Passengers should be aware of the latest travel regulations for destinations they are travelling to, and to be prepared with all the necessary travel documents before reaching the airport.
• Weighing luggage at home, assembling documents in advance, and being prepared for security checks helps minimises stress at the airport.
• Spare batteries and power banks are considered a safety hazard and are prohibited to be carried in or as checked-in luggage. Passengers must properly pack batteries and power banks and carry them their hand luggage only.
• Travellers can use Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport’s Terminals 1 and 3. Metro operating times are generally extended during Eid holidays.
• Access to the arrivals’ forecourts in both Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised airport vehicles only. Those visiting the airport to pick-up guests are advised to use DXB’s designated car parks or valet services to receive their guests in comfort. 
• Once at the airport, travellers can enjoy DXB’s facilities – including restaurants, duty free shopping, hotel, and exclusive lounge access – before their flight.