I have passed through Dubai Airport more times than I can count, on long-haul flights where it served as a connection and on trips to Dubai itself. Terminal 3 is the Emirates hub, and it functions like a small city – you can shop, eat, shower, sleep in a pod, and never feel like you are in an airport. The metro connection to the city is excellent value if you are not weighed down with luggage. On my last layover, I had eight hours between flights; the Marhaba lounge and a wander through duty-free made it almost enjoyable. Almost.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the world’s busiest airport for international passengers. Located 4km from Dubai city center, it serves as the main hub for Emirates and flydubai, connecting to 240+ destinations through nearly 100 airlines.
Terminals
Terminal 1: Over 60 international airlines. Concourse D. 20+ million annual capacity.
Terminal 2: Mostly regional airlines and flydubai. Concourses A, B, C. Currently expanding to double capacity.
Terminal 3: Emirates only. The world’s largest airport terminal with 60 million annual capacity.
An internal train connects all terminals. Allow 15-20 minutes for inter-terminal transfers.
Transport to Dubai
Metro (Cheapest)
The Red Line connects Terminals 1 and 3 to the city. Takes 20-30 minutes to central Dubai. Uses Nol card (contactless smart card available at stations).
- Single journey: AED 4-8.50 depending on zone
- Minimum Nol card balance: AED 7.50
Taxi
Available outside all terminal arrivals. Metered with AED 25 starting fare.
- City center: AED 80-100
- Jumeirah: AED 100-130
- Dubai Marina: AED 150-180
Bus
Routes connect to major neighborhoods. Cheaper than taxi but slower. Departs from dedicated stands at each terminal.
Private Transfer
Pre-booked services available from AED 200+. Useful for groups or those wanting door-to-door service.
Facilities
WiFi: Free unlimited high-speed throughout airport.
Currency exchange: Multiple bureaux and ATMs in all terminals. ATMs often have better rates than exchange counters.
Lounges:
- Emirates Business/First Class lounges (Terminal 3)
- Marhaba Lounges (all terminals, pay access)
- Plaza Premium (pay access)
- Al Majlis VIP (premium service with BMW transfers)
Sleep options:
- Dubai International Hotel (in-terminal)
- sleep ‘n fly pods
- SnoozeCube sleeping pods
Other services:
- 24-hour restaurants and cafes
- Duty-free shopping (alcohol available)
- Showers and spa services
- Prayer rooms
- Baby care rooms
- Smoking rooms
- Luggage storage
Visa Requirements
Visa-free (up to 30 days):
- US citizens
- UK citizens
- EU citizens
- Most Western passport holders
Passport must have 6+ months validity. Visa stamped on arrival.
E-Visa available: For nationalities requiring visas, apply through airlines or UAE government portal before travel.
5-year multiple entry tourist visa: Available to all nationalities meeting criteria (bank balance of $4,000+, health insurance, proof of accommodation).
Hotels Near DXB
In-Terminal:
- Dubai International Hotel (direct access)
Luxury:
- Le Meridien Dubai (5-star, conference facilities)
- Park Hyatt Dubai (waterfront, infinity pool)
- Jumeirah Creekside
Mid-Range:
- Aloft Dubai Airport
- Millennium Airport Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Festival City
- Pullman Dubai Creek
Budget:
- Premier Inn Dubai International Airport
- Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport
- ibis Styles Dubai Airport
Most hotels offer airport shuttle service.
Tips
- Long layovers: Terminal 3 has the most facilities including gaming lounges and spa services
- Transfer between terminals: Use the free inter-terminal train
- Nol card: Get one at the metro station if staying in Dubai – works on metro, buses, and trams
- Alcohol: Duty-free is the only place to buy alcohol in Dubai without a license
Related
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Dubai Airport to the city center?
The Dubai Metro Red Line is the cheapest option, connecting Terminals 1 and 3 to central Dubai in 20-30 minutes for AED 4-8.50. Taxis are available outside all terminals with a starting fare of AED 25, costing AED 80-100 to the city center. You can also use buses or pre-book private transfers from AED 200+.
Which terminal does Emirates use at Dubai Airport?
Emirates operates exclusively from Terminal 3, the world’s largest airport terminal with a 60 million annual passenger capacity. Terminal 3 features extensive shopping, dining, lounges, and spa services specifically designed for Emirates passengers.
Do I need a visa to transit through Dubai Airport?
US, UK, EU, and most Western passport holders receive a visa-free stamp on arrival for up to 30 days. Your passport must have 6+ months validity. For other nationalities, e-visas are available through airlines or the UAE government portal before travel.
Are there hotels inside Dubai Airport?
Yes, the Dubai International Hotel is located in-terminal with direct access, perfect for layovers or early flights. Outside the airport, numerous hotels offer shuttle services, including luxury options like Le Meridien Dubai and Park Hyatt Dubai, mid-range choices like Aloft Dubai Airport, and budget hotels like Premier Inn and Holiday Inn Express.
How do I transfer between terminals at Dubai Airport?
A free internal train connects all terminals at Dubai Airport. Allow 15-20 minutes for inter-terminal transfers. Terminal 3 has the most facilities including gaming lounges and spa services, making it ideal for long layovers.
What facilities are available for long layovers at Dubai Airport?
Dubai Airport offers free unlimited WiFi, 24-hour restaurants, extensive duty-free shopping, multiple lounges (Emirates, Marhaba, Plaza Premium), sleep pods (sleep ‘n fly and SnoozeCube), showers, spa services, prayer rooms, and luggage storage. Terminal 3 has the most comprehensive facilities.
