Emirates has announced that December will be one of its busiest travel periods, with more than 2.3 million departures and over 2.5 million arrivals expected throughout the month. With peak tourist season underway, a packed events calendar, and schools closed for most of December following recent KHDA adjustments, the airline is urging customers to plan ahead for a smoother travel experience.
The airline advises travellers to anticipate heavier traffic en route to the airport, fuller car parks, and a busier terminal overall. Emirates is encouraging passengers to prepare early, arrive on time, and take advantage of its various services designed to minimise wait times at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Customers are reminded to adhere to recommended timelines by arriving at the airport three hours before departure, clearing immigration at least 90 minutes before, and getting to their boarding gate an hour before takeoff. Emirates suggests using the time saved to enjoy airport attractions, lounges, dining, shopping, and relaxation areas.
The airline is also emphasising the convenience of the Emirates App, which allows passengers to check in 48 hours in advance, get a digital boarding pass, review their flight details, pre-order Business Class meals, plan their inflight entertainment, and register for biometric access at DXB to move quickly through airport touchpoints.
Travellers can save even more time by checking in and dropping off luggage ahead of their flight at the Emirates City Check-In & Travel Store in DIFC, where customers checking in between 15 December and 15 January will earn 2,500 Skywards Miles each—including children. A family of four could collect 10,000 miles during this period. Passengers can also use the 24-hour Emirates City Check-In in Ajman or drop off luggage at the airport the night before departure at no cost. A convenient Home Check-In service is also available in Dubai and Sharjah, allowing Emirates agents to complete check-in at customers’ homes, hotels, or offices and take their bags directly to the airport.
Emirates is reminding travellers to ensure their baggage complies with safety requirements, especially new restrictions related to power banks, smart bags, and e-cigarettes. Power banks must be under 100Wh, kept in the cabin, and stored in a seat pocket or under-seat bag. Smart bags are allowed only if the battery is removable and powered off, while e-cigarettes must be protected against accidental activation.
Passengers can save time by pre-ordering festive shopping on EmiratesRED.com, where products from brands like Hermès, Cartier, Tom Ford, Creed, and Jo Malone can be delivered directly to their aircraft seat. Customers can shop up to 40 hours before their flight and use the code RED10 for a 10% discount.
Emirates is also highlighting its new Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub on Emirates.com, which offers an easy guide to booking special assistance, navigating Dubai Airport maps, accessing sensory guides, using the Be My Eyes support app, securing a Sanad tourist card, and learning about services for wheelchair users, families, children, unaccompanied minors, and medical travellers.
To move easily around the airport, travellers can make use of the complimentary train connecting concourses, the 24/7 shuttle bus service between Concourse A and C, or the various buggy services—available to First Class customers on request and to all passengers through Dubai Airport’s free buggy taxis, with priority for the elderly, families, and People of Determination.
Emirates assures travellers that with early planning and the use of its many service options, they can enjoy a smoother, more seamless travel experience during the busy festive season.
