Dubai Airport Guide: Arrivals, Transport and Departures

Dubai International (DXB) is one of the world’s busiest airports for international passengers, but it’s well signposted and close to the city. Knowing your terminal, how arrivals work and the best way into town makes the first hour of your trip much smoother.

The terminals

Airline allocations change, so check your booking. Terminals 1 and 3 are linked airside, while Terminal 2 sits on the other side of the runways. Some flights also use Al Maktoum International (DWC) in Dubai South, much further from the centre, so confirm which airport you are flying into before arranging transfers.

Arriving in Dubai

1. Immigration. Follow signs for arrivals. Eligible passengers can use smart gates; everyone else queues at staffed counters. If you need a visa, make sure it’s approved before you fly; see our UAE tourist visa guide.
2. Baggage. Screens show your carousel. Trolleys are free.
3. Customs. Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare, and the red channel if you do.
4. Arrivals hall. Here you’ll find currency exchange, SIM and eSIM counters, car hire desks and duty free, which is available on arrival at DXB.

Customs rules to know

• Medicines: carry prescriptions, and check whether your medication is controlled before you travel. Our guide to UAE laws for tourists explains the approval process.
• Cash: amounts over AED 60,000, or the equivalent in other currencies, must be declared.
• Allowances: limits apply to tobacco and alcohol for adult travellers; check the current figures on the Dubai Customs website.
• Prohibited and restricted items: narcotics are banned outright, including CBD products and vapes containing cannabis extracts. Some other goods, such as drones and certain medicines, need approval.

Getting into the city

Dubai Metro

The Red Line stops at Terminals 1 and 3 and runs to Deira, Downtown, Dubai Marina and beyond. It’s cheap, air-conditioned and often faster than a taxi at rush hour. Buy a Nol card at the station and follow the luggage limits, which allow roughly one large and one small bag per person. Our Dubai Metro guide covers fares and rules.

Taxis

Official taxis wait outside arrivals at every terminal. They’re metered and accept cards; a higher starting fare applies for airport pickups. Journeys to Deira or Bur Dubai take 15 to 25 minutes, and to Dubai Marina around 30 to 45 minutes outside peak times.

Ride-hailing and transfers

Ride-hailing apps operate at the airport with designated pickup points, and many hotels offer transfers. Pre-booked transfers are worth it late at night or with lots of luggage.

Buses

RTA buses link the terminals with parts of the city. They are the cheapest option but the slowest with luggage.

Not sure where to stay? Our guide to the best areas in Dubai compares journey times.

Departing from Dubai

• Arrive early. Aim for about three hours before international flights, more at peak times such as holidays and weekends.
• Check in online and use bag drop where available. Emirates also offers some city and home check-in services; check what applies to your ticket.
• Check the terminal again. Taxi drivers need to know whether you want Terminal 1, 2 or 3.
• Claim your VAT refund first. Tourists can reclaim VAT on purchases from participating shops, above a minimum spend. Ask for a tax-free tag at the till, keep your receipts, and validate them at the refund kiosks before you check in your bags. A processing fee is deducted.
• Allow time for security and walking. Gates in the larger concourses can be a long walk, or a short train ride, from security.

Connecting flights

If you’re transferring at DXB without leaving the airport, follow the signs for flight connections rather than arrivals. You’ll pass through a transfer security check, so keep liquids within the cabin limits even if you bought them before your first flight. Connections between Terminals 1 and 3 stay airside, while a connection involving Terminal 2 usually means a bus transfer, so allow extra time. Check your gate on the screens as soon as you arrive, because gates can be announced late and some are a long walk away.

Inside the airport

• Wi-Fi: free throughout the terminals.
• Rest: lounges, sleep pods and an airside hotel help on long connections; our Dubai layover guide explains when it’s worth leaving the airport.
• Food and shopping: plenty of choice around the clock, with duty free on both arrival and departure.
• Assistance: passengers with reduced mobility can request help through their airline before travel.

Frequently asked questions

Which terminal does Emirates use?

Emirates flights use Terminal 3 at DXB. Your booking will confirm the terminal.

How do I get from Dubai airport to the city?

The Red Line metro from Terminals 1 and 3 is cheapest and avoids traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing are easier with luggage or late at night.

How early should I arrive for a flight from Dubai?

About three hours before an international departure, and earlier during holiday peaks.