Planning to fly during the summer with Emirates? Here’s what you need to know…

If you’re travelling with Emirates this summer, it may be worth heading to the airport earlier than usual. The airline has released updated travel advice ahead of one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with large numbers of passengers expected to pass through Dubai International Airport (DXB) during the school holidays.

To help travellers avoid unnecessary delays, Emirates is encouraging passengers to plan ahead, use early check-in services where possible and allow extra time before their flight.

Arrive at the airport early

Emirates recommends arriving at Dubai International Airport at least three hours before your scheduled departure. During the busy summer period, security and immigration queues may take longer than normal, so giving yourself extra time is advised.

Passengers should also make sure they are at their boarding gate at least one hour before departure.

Beat the queues with early check-in

There are several ways to check in before reaching the airport, helping you spend less time waiting at Terminal 3.

Travellers can check in online or through the Emirates app, choose their seats and manage their booking in advance.

Checked baggage can also be dropped off between 24 hours and four hours before departure, while passengers travelling to the US can check in up to 12 hours before their flight.

Those who are members of Emirates Skywards can register for the airline’s biometric system through the app, allowing faster movement through eligible airport touchpoints.

Also read: Flying Emirates this summer? You can get a free five-star hotel stay in Dubai

Use city check-in services

If you’d rather avoid carrying luggage to the airport, Emirates also offers city check-in options.

Passengers can check in and drop their bags at the City Check-in and Travel Store at ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC. From Tuesday July 1, the facility will extend its opening hours from 8am until midnight during the busy travel season.

Travellers in the Northern Emirates can also make use of the Emirates City Check-in facility in Ajman, which operates around the clock.

Home check-in is also available

For even greater convenience, passengers can book Emirates’ Home Check-in service, allowing bags to be collected from their home, hotel or office before they travel.

The service is complimentary for eligible First Class passengers and Emirates Skywards Platinum members, while other travellers can book it for an additional fee.

Consider taking the Dubai Metro

With heavier traffic expected around DXB, Emirates is also recommending that passengers consider using the Dubai Metro to reach Terminal 3.

The Metro operates:

  • Monday to Thursday and Saturday: 5am to midnight
  • Friday: 5am to 1am
  • Sunday: 8am to midnight

Double-check restricted items

Before heading to the airport, Emirates also advises passengers to review the latest baggage rules and prohibited items, including the airline’s updated guidance on power banks and other restricted electronics.

Keep your contact details updated

Finally, Emirates is encouraging travellers to check that their contact information is up to date under Manage Your Booking, ensuring they’ll receive any important travel updates before departure.