Dubai Airport Mini Guide
Tell me About the Airport
Dubai International Airport is the largest airport and a major hub in the UAE. It is located in the district of Al Garhoud 4km south of the city centre. It is famous for its shopping facilities as it has the largest duty free shopping area in the world!
How can I get There?
Over 130 airlines fly into Dubai International Airport, so you can get there from almost anywhere! Approximately 5,600 flights operate every week to 220 destinations. Emirates Airline operates almost all of its flights from Terminal 3, creating 60% of all traffic at the airport.
Is it Easy to get to the City?
Very easy! Taxis wait for you outside the arrivals area and there are even special taxis just for women. You can also get to the city using the Metro red line or get a local bus into Deira. To drive is easy too, take the D89 to Deira Corniche and the heart of the city. Some hotels have their own shuttle service, so it is worth checking if you are staying in Dubai. Travelling further afield is also an option, you can take a coach service to
Abu Dhabi or Al Ain, Emirates offers this service 3 or 4 times a day.
What is at the Airport for me?
The airport is spacious and airy but it is also easy to get lost! Luckily there are always plenty of staff around to guide you and there are information desks in Terminal 1 and 3, if you need information about the airport or the city. For all your money needs, currency exchange booths and banks are situated in all terminals. You will also find plenty of ATMs if you run out of money in duty free.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport should you need to check on your emails or use one of the internet kiosks available in departures. There are business centres also, if you wish to continue working or you can book into one of the many lounges at the airport. If you are travelling Business or First Class you will have access to designated airline lounges. Should you have hired a car, you will find the car rental kiosks in arrivals at all 3 terminals.
Shopping Heaven?
Absolutely! Head for concourse 2 where you will find the largest shopping area run by Dubai Duty Free. You can buy pretty much anything there! Browse the designer brands or stock up on the latest gadgets, take home a souvenir or just buy a book for your journey. The spend per passenger is the highest in the world there and the most popular items are liquor and perfume, closely followed by watches.
What if I am Hungry?
At the airport you won’t go hungry – there are over 25 outlets in Terminal 1 alone! You can go to a coffee shop for a quick snack or visit the food court for a choice of international flavours. Try Mongolian barbeque at Tansu Kitchen or Indian fare at Jashan. There are also Lebanese and French outlets in the food court. Visit the Safar Restaurant for a la carte or buffet style meals or relax in the Irish Village with pub food and a beer.
Anything Else you can Tell me?
G Force Health Club is on-site should you wish to swim, use the gym or have a massage.
What if I Need Extra Help?
If you have reduced mobility, there are information desks to advise you and dedicated lounges for you to relax before your flight. Electric carts will take you to and from the concourse.
Can I Stay at the Airport?
Of course. The 5 star Dubai International Terminal Hotel has 341 rooms and is located inside the terminal building. It has its own health centre and pool, everything else you may need can be found in the main airport concourse. Within 2 km of the airport you will find another 6 hotels including Le Meridien and Holiday Inn Express.