Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has issued an important update for travellers preparing to fly during the busy new year travel period. The announcement affects millions of passengers expected to pass through Dubai as global travel demand surges at the start of the year.
The airline has warned of exceptionally high passenger volumes at Dubai International Airport, commonly known as DXB, and is urging customers to plan carefully to avoid unnecessary stress or delays. With Dubai acting as a major global transit hub, even small disruptions can quickly ripple through the airport during peak periods.
Emirates says it is preparing for a significant travel peak and has released a series of practical recommendations designed to help passengers move through the airport as smoothly as possible. From arriving earlier than usual to taking advantage of biometric technology and off-airport check-in services, the airline is encouraging travellers to rethink how they approach their journey.
Why the new year travel period matters so much
The first week of the new year is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods for Emirates. Holidaymakers return home, business travellers resume work schedules, and connecting passengers move through Dubai en route to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
As Emirates operates exclusively from Terminal 3 at DXB, the concentration of passengers can be intense during peak travel days. The airline has stressed that congestion is not limited to security or immigration alone, but can also affect check-in counters, baggage handling, lounges, and boarding gates.
By issuing this update early, Emirates aims to help passengers take control of their journey rather than reacting to queues and last-minute announcements at the airport.
Arrive earlier than usual to avoid delays
One of the strongest recommendations from Emirates is to arrive at DXB at least four hours before departure. While this may seem excessive to some frequent flyers, the airline says it reflects realistic waiting times during periods of exceptionally high demand.
Passengers are also advised to clear immigration no later than one and a half hours before departure and to be at their designated boarding gate at least one hour before the scheduled departure time. Late arrivals at the gate could result in missed flights, even if passengers have already cleared security.
This advice is particularly important for families, elderly travellers, and those unfamiliar with the airport layout, as walking distances within Terminal 3 can be significant.
Use biometric smart gates for faster processing
Emirates is strongly encouraging passengers to register for biometric smart gates at DXB. Using the airline’s official app, travellers can check in up to two days before departure and complete biometric registration in just a few minutes.
Once registered, passengers can move through immigration and boarding processes using facial recognition technology, significantly reducing waiting times. The airline says this option is especially valuable during peak travel periods when traditional queues can stretch for long distances.
For many passengers, this small step before arriving at the airport can make a noticeable difference to the overall travel experience.
Check in luggage before arriving at the airport
To further reduce pressure at DXB, Emirates is reminding travellers about its off-airport luggage drop options. Passengers can check in and drop their bags between four and 24 hours before departure at the Emirates City Check-In and Travel Store located at Dubai International Financial Centre.
Early baggage drop is also available at Ajman Central Bus Terminal, offering flexibility for travellers who want to avoid airport crowds entirely until closer to departure time.
By arriving at the airport without luggage, passengers can move directly to security and immigration, saving time and reducing stress during peak hours.
Arrange home or hotel baggage collection
Another option highlighted by Emirates is home or hotel baggage collection. Passengers can arrange for luggage to be collected up to 24 hours before departure, freeing them from transporting heavy bags to the airport.
This service is complimentary for Emirates First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members. For other travellers, similar services are available through airport partners, offering a convenient alternative for families or those travelling with multiple bags.
Emirates says these services help reduce congestion at check-in areas while also improving comfort for passengers before they even arrive at DXB.
Pay close attention to restricted items
Emirates has also reminded travellers to carefully review its list of restricted and prohibited items before heading to the airport. Of particular importance are updated rules surrounding power banks and electronic devices.
Carrying restricted items in hand luggage or checked baggage can lead to delays at security checkpoints and, in some cases, confiscation of items. Emirates warns that even unintentional mistakes can slow own the boarding process for everyone.
The airline encourages passengers to double-check their bags at home to avoid unnecessary disruptions on the day of travel.
Getting around DXB more easily
Once inside DXB, Emirates passengers have access to several complimentary transport options designed to reduce walking time and ease connections. A free airport train connects Concourse B and Concourse A, while a shuttle bus service operates between Concourse A and Concourse C at regular intervals.
First Class passengers can request dedicated buggies, and airport buggies are also available free of charge for all travellers, subject to availability. Emirates says making use of these services can help passengers stay relaxed and on schedule, especially when navigating long distances within Terminal 3.
A smoother start to the new year
Emirates’ latest update is ultimately about preparation. By arriving earlier, using technology, checking in luggage ahead of time, and understanding airport rules, passengers can significantly reduce the stress often associated with peak travel periods.
As millions of travellers pass through DXB during the new year rush, Emirates believes these simple but effective measures will help ensure journeys begin and end on a positive note. For anyone flying with the airline, planning ahead may be the most valuable travel tip of all.
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