Estimated reading time: 14 minutes
Discover everything you need to know about Dubai International Airport (DXB) with our all-inclusive guide, providing you with essential information.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) serves as the primary airport for Dubai and the main hub for the United Arab Emirates. Located in Al Garhoud, approximately 14 km from the iconic Burj Khalifa and 32 km from Palm Jumeirah, DXB is one of the world’s largest and busiest airports.
It connects to 262 destinations across 104 countries through 102 international airlines. DXB ranks second globally in terms of passenger traffic, excels in Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 operations, and serves as the home base for Emirates Airlines and the major low-cost carrier, flydubai. It plays a crucial role in Dubai’s economy and the Middle East’s aviation sector.
In the future, DXB is anticipated to close entirely, with all operations moving to Al Maktoum International (DWC) within the next decade.
Navigate this bustling airport effortlessly with the help of the Dubai Airport map and our convenient guide, designed to help you make the most of your time at DXB.
Table of Contents
- How to get to Dubai International Airport
- Where is Dubai International Airport
- Parking Options at Dubai International Airport
- Dubai International Airport Terminals Overview
- Airlines at Dubai International Airport
- Dubai International Airport Lounges
- Restaurants at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Shopping at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Hotels Near Dubai International Airport
- Dubai International Airport Amenities
- The Best Way to Get to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
How to get to Dubai International Airport
- Metro: The Dubai Metro is an efficient, and affordable way to get to the airport. The Red Line runs directly to Terminals 1 and 3 of DXB. You can purchase a Nol card, a reloadable travel card, at any metro station. Passengers are allowed up to two pieces of luggage, one of which can be hand luggage.
- Bus: Buses arrive and depart from stands opposite Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It’s essential to check schedules and routes in advance to ensure timely travel. Please note that you need to have a Nol card, as cash payments are not accepted.
- Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.
Where is Dubai International Airport
Location: 5 km (3 miles) southwest of Dubai
- Terminal 1 and 3: Located in Garhoud.
- Terminal 2: Situated on Al Quds Street.
Phone: +971 4 224 5555
Parking Options at Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport caters to a variety of parking needs. Each of the three terminals offers both short-term and long-term parking options, providing safe and convenient services tailored to all travelers.
Terminal 1
- Premium Car Park A: Ideal for short stays (up to 5 hours), this car park is located just 2-3 minutes from the terminal entrance, providing quick and easy access.
- Economy Car Park B: Perfect for long-term parking, this lot is situated 7-9 minutes from Terminal 1. A complimentary shuttle bus connects Car Park B to the terminal 24 hours a day, with a 20-minute frequency.
Terminal 2
- Premium Car Park A: Best for short visits, this lot is a 3-5 minute walk from the terminal.
- Economy Car Park B: Suitable for long-term parking, this lot is about 10-12 minutes from Terminal 2. A free shuttle bus service runs between Car Park B and the terminal.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 features a multi-level parking facility spanning three floors, with the T3 Parking Lot located just 2-3 minutes from the terminal entrance, providing close and convenient parking.
Accessibility
For travelers with special needs, the first two hours of parking are free in all DXB parking lots. Additionally, wheelchairs and electric trolleys are available upon request.
Valet Services
For an enhanced parking experience, consider the airport’s valet services at Terminals 1 and 3. Simply park your car at the terminal entrance, hand over your keys to the professional staff, and retrieve your car from the same location upon your return.
Dubai International Airport Parking Rates
The cost of parking at DXB varies depending on the facility. Short-term parking options closer to the terminals are more expensive, starting from AED 5 (USD 1.36) for 5 minutes, while the more remote long-stay car parks are more economical, potentially as low as AED 25 per hour (USD 6.81). All parking lots are equipped with automated payment machines, allowing drivers to pay by cash or credit card.
Pick-up Zones at DXB Airport
There are no designated pick-up zones directly in front of the terminals at DXB. Only authorized vehicles are permitted in these areas. To pick up passengers, use the premium car park facilities at Terminals 1 and 2, the parking lot at Terminal 3, or take advantage of the valet services.
Dubai International Airport Terminals Overview
DXB functions like a bustling aviation hub with its three expansive terminal buildings.
- Terminal 1: This is the oldest and one of the largest terminals, catering to a wide range of international flights. It features Concourse D with numerous gates.
- Terminal 2: Serving as the hub for Flydubai, Terminal 2 primarily handles domestic and charter flights, with some international routes.
- Terminal 3: Known as one of the largest single-terminal buildings globally, Terminal 3 is almost exclusively dedicated to Emirates Airlines, along with some Qantas flights.
Terminals 1 and 3 are conveniently situated next to each other, making transfers between these two terminals quick and easy. Terminal 2, while slightly further away, remains accessible within a short drive. Alternatively, you can take the airport’s free shuttle.
Airlines at Dubai International Airport
Terminal 1
- Aeroflot
- Air Algerie
- Air Baltic
- Air Blue
- Air Canada
- Air China
- Air France
- Air India
- Air Peace
- Air Sial
- Arkia
- Azerbaijan Airlines
- Belavia
- Biman Bangladesh Airlines
- British Airways
- Cathay Pacific
- Cebu Pacific Air
- China Eastern Airlines
- China Southern Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- EgyptAir
- El Al-Israel Airlines
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Finnair
- Fly a Deal Airlines
- Fly Bagdat Airlines
- Flynas
- Go First
- Gulf Air
- IndiGo
- Jazeera Airways
- Jet Airways
- Iran Air
- Israir
- KLM
- Kenya Airways
- Korean Air
- Kuwait Airways
- Libyan Airlines
- LOT Polish Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Luxair
- Mahan Air
- Malaysia Airlines
- Middle East Airlines
- Norwegian Air Shuttle
- Oman Air
- Pakistan International Airlines
- Philippines Airlines
- Royal Brunei Airlines
- Royal Air Maroc
- Royal Jordanian
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- Serene Air
- Siberia Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- Sichuan Airlines
- Smartwings
- Spice Jet
- SriLankan Airlines
- SunExpress
- Syrian Arab Airlines
- Swiss
- TAAG
- Tarom
- Thai Airways
- Tunis Air
- Turkish Airlines
- Uganda Airlines
- Ukraine International Airlines
- United Airlines
- United Bangla Airlines
- Ural Airlines
- Uzbekistan Airways
- Virgin Atlantic Airways
- Vistara
- Yemenia – Yemen Airways
Terminal 2
- Air India Express
- Ariana Afghan Airlines
- Azimuth Airlines
- Badr Airlines
- Caspian Airlines
- Daallo Airlines
- Eritrean Airlines
- Fits Aviation
- Flydubai
- Himalaya Airlines
- Iraqi Airways
- Iran Aseman Airlines
- Kam Air
- Karun Airlines
- Kish Air
- Myanmar Airlines
- Nepal Airlines
- Pegasus Airlines
- Qeshm Air
- Rossiya Airlines
- Rwand Air Express
- Salam Air
- Somon Air
- Taban Air
- Taimyr Airlines (NordStar)
- Tarco Air
- Transavia Airlines
- Travel Service (Smartwings)
- Turkmenistan Airlines
- UR Airlines
- UTAir
- Wizz Air
Terminal 3
- Emirates
- Qantas
- Flydubai
Dubai International Airport Lounges
Marhaba Lounge
Available in Terminals 1, 2, and 3, the Marhaba Lounge offers hot and cold cuisine, a variety of beverages, massage chairs, and rejuvenating showers. The lounge also features a business center with complimentary Wi-Fi and an exclusive Meet & Assist service for speedy clearance through arrivals or departures.
Location:
- T1: Arrivals – Exit area
- T2: Departures
- T3: Arrivals
Access: Lounge passes can be purchased by any traveler regardless of airline or class of service.
Price: From AED 200 (USD 54)
Ahlan Business Class Lounge (T1, T3)
Ideal for Business Class travelers and cardholders of approved programs, this spacious lounge offers comfort and convenience with high-speed internet, quiet areas, and a wide range of food and beverages.
Location:
- T1: Concourse D, Upper Level
- T3: Concourse B
Access: Lounge passes can be purchased by any traveler regardless of airline or class of service. The lounge is also accessible to passengers departing from Terminal 2 and 3.
Price: From AED 200 (USD 54) per person, children under 1 year old are admitted free with an adult.
Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 Lounges
Ahlan First Class Lounge
Perfect for First Class passengers without a dedicated airline lounge, this lounge provides a variety of food and beverages, shower facilities, luggage storage, high-speed internet, flight information screens, and quiet rooms.
Location: Concourse D, Upper Level
Access: Lounge passes can be purchased by any traveler regardless of airline or class of service. This lounge is only accessible to passengers departing from Terminal 1, Concourse D.
Price: From AED 250 (USD 68) per person, children under 1 year old are admitted free with an adult.
Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 Lounges
Plaza Premium Lounge
With stylish Arabic-inspired decor, this lounge features comfortable seating, private family suites, smoking rooms, shower rooms, relaxation spots, an ‘Aerobar,’ and live cooking stations. Family suites include a butler service and a kids’ play area.
Location: Concourse A
Access: PPL Pass is currently only available for purchase online at Plaza Premium Lounge’s official website.
Price: From AED 220 (USD 59)
Al Majlis Lounge
Accessible to all flight classes, Al Majlis ensures a smooth and elegant airport experience with easy check-in, immigration, and baggage clearance. It offers a customized catering menu, a dedicated Dubai Duty-Free outlet, VIP parking, and drop-off services.
Location: The lounge operates from the annex of Terminal 3 next to Exit 4, with dedicated immigration and police screening areas.
Access: Online reservation is the preferred and most convenient method to make a reservation.
Price: AED 2500 (USD 680) per adult, AED 500 (USD 136) per child.
Emirates Lounges
Emirates airline’s seven lounges at Dubai Airport can be found in Terminal 3 across Concourses A, B, and C. These lounges are divided into Emirates Lounges, Emirates First Class Lounges, and Emirates Business Class Lounges.
A selection of food and beverages is always available, including a full bar service and a large buffet featuring fresh, healthy, and wholesome food. The lounges provide a comfortable and luxurious seating area, professional reception staff, a wide selection of international newspapers and magazines, shower facilities, and a fully equipped business center with independent workstations and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Access:
- Free Access: Available for First Class passengers and Business Class Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus travelers.
- Paid Access: Economy Class and Business Class Special ticket holders can enter for AED 550 (USD 150).
- Additional Eligibility: Passengers on Qantas flights (with an EK flight code) are also eligible.
Price: From for AED 550 (USD 150)
Restaurants at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Whatever culinary delight you’re craving, you’ll find it at Dubai International Airport. From quick bites to gourmet meals, the variety here is sure to satisfy every palate. Below is just a tantalizing sample of the diverse dining options waiting for you at DXB.
Terminal 1
- Marrybrown: Enjoy a variety of meals including fried chicken, burgers, seafood, and more.
- Pret A Manger: Fresh, natural ingredients in soups, sandwiches, salads, pastries, and organic coffee.
- Masale The Taste of India: Authentic Indian cuisine with flavors from North to South India.
- The Draft House: A vintage-themed sports bar with 18 screens and a selection of dishes and craft brews.
- The Noodle House: Affordable South East Asian favorites in a vibrant setting.
Terminal 2
- Subway: Customize your sandwich with a variety of breads, fillings, and sauces.
- Jones The Grocer: Healthy deli items including coffees, sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made fresh daily.
Terminal 3
- O’Briens: Fresh sandwiches and coffee in a relaxed Irish café.
- The Daily DXB: Street food classics from around the world, including pizzas, poke bowls, and noodles.
- The Sports Shack: A casual sports bar with large screens, a video games console, and a pool table.
- O’Regan’s: Stylish Irish bar with global food and beverage offerings and airport views.
- Veranda Café: European and Asian fusion dishes with breakfast bowls, sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
- Giraffe: International flavors with a family-friendly menu.
- Cho Gao: Asian-inspired dishes including Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian cuisine.
- Bottega: Italian comfort dishes like risotto balls and fresh sourdough.
- Hard Rock Café: Grab-and-go food, live entertainment, and music memorabilia.
- Paul: French bakery with croissants, sandwiches, soups, cakes, pastries, and hot beverages.
- Sky Bar: Multicultural dishes with panoramic views of the airstrip.
Shopping at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
With Dubai being a shopping paradise, get ready to indulge in a retail adventure at Dubai International Airport! Whether you’re hunting for luxury treasures, grabbing last-minute essentials, or snagging duty-free delights, DXB has it all. Here’s a glimpse of what you can find:
Dubai Duty Free
Available across all three terminals, Dubai Duty Free is the go-to spot for a wide range of products including perfumes, books, chocolates, electronics, tobacco, and liquor. It’s also the best spot to buy gold jewelry, gold bars, and coins at Dubai International Airport. Additionally, Dubai Duty Free serves as the main shopping outlet in Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport.
Terminal 1
- Tiffany & Co: High-end jewelry and silver items, perfect for special gifts or a personal treat.
- Burberry: British luxury fashion including trench coats, leather accessories, and footwear.
- Le Clos: Hand-curated fine wines and luxury spirits, featuring rare and vintage selections.
- Spinneys: Supermarket chain offering groceries, fresh produce, in-store bakeries, and delicatessen items.
Terminal 3
- Gucci: Modern, Italian-crafted leather goods, apparel, and accessories for both men and women.
- Chanel: French luxury brand offering fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry, and the latest fashion accessories.
- Hermes: High-end apparel, handbags, scarves, and other luxury accessories.
- Salvatore Ferragamo: Italian luxury goods specializing in footwear and leather items.
- Jo Malone: Known for unique fragrance combinations and elegant scent concepts.
- LEGO: Interactive and fun store with a range of LEGO sets and accessories, perfect for kids and adults alike.
- The Macallan Boutique: A must-visit for lovers of luxury single malt whisky, featuring rare bottles and airport exclusives.
- Victoria’s Secret Pink: Essentials, sleepwear, and swimwear from the famous Victoria’s Secret brand.
- Bath & Body Works: Fragrances, candles, shower gels, body lotions, and creams, including exclusive collections.
- Carrefour Market: Hypermarket offering a wide range of groceries and essentials for all your needs.
Hotels Near Dubai International Airport
sleep ‘n fly
Location: Terminals 1 and 3
Though not a hotel, sleep ‘n fly offers a unique accommodation concept with single and family-friendly pods and cabins for naps or overnight stays. Each unit is equipped with a daybed, fold-down table, power sockets, USB chargers, and a baggage compartment. You can rent these by the hour, providing a flexible option for travelers. Shower facilities are also available for guests.
Dubai International Hotel
Location: Terminal 3
For those needing rest after a late-night arrival or before an early morning flight, Dubai International Hotel offers a convenient haven. Located within Terminal 3, it provides various rooms and suites, all featuring complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and mini bars. The hotel boasts a globally-inspired buffet, a bar, and an impressive indoor pool. Guests can also relax in the health club, which includes steam rooms, a sauna, and a jacuzzi. Business travelers will appreciate the conference rooms and secretarial services.
Note that this is a transit hotel, so guests cannot leave the airport or access checked luggage.
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel, Royal Club & Conference Centre
Location: Airport Rd – Garhoud – Dubai (4 min by car)
Free Shuttle: Yes
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre, located just minutes from the airport, offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern, chic designs. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and ergonomic workstations. The hotel has 18 on-site restaurants and a spa lounge offering various treatments. With complimentary shuttle services to Dubai Mall, La Mer beach, and the airport, it’s an excellent choice for both relaxation and business.
Premier Inn Dubai International Airport
Location: 52B Street – Garhoud – Dubai (5 min by car)
Free Shuttle: Yes
Premier Inn Dubai International Airport is perfect for both business and leisure travelers. It features comfortable Hypnos beds, a rooftop pool, and a state-of-the-art gym. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean dishes at Nuevo, a British pub vibe at Mr. Toad’s Pub & Kitchen, and 24-hour coffee service at Costa Coffee. The hotel also offers quick check-in/out services, spacious family rooms, a business center, meeting rooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Dubai International Airport Amenities
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: Enjoy unlimited, free, high-speed Wi-Fi across all areas of DXB, thanks to a major upgrade.
- Power Sockets and USB Connectors: Conveniently located throughout the airport for easy device charging.
Financial Services
- Currency Exchange: DXB offers several exchange bureaus in all terminals, allowing you to get the right currency for your destination.
- ATMs: Available throughout all terminals, accepting major inter-bank, international Visa, Eurocard/Mastercard, and American Express cards.
- VAT Refunds: If you’re a tourist aged 18 or above, you can claim a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) for goods purchased in Dubai. To do this, you’ll need a receipt with a ‘Tax Free Tag,’ which is issued when you shop using your passport. Before checking in for your flight, validate your purchase at one of the Planet Payment kiosks located in the Departures areas of all three DXB terminals. You’ll receive 87% of the VAT paid, minus an administration fee of AED 4.80 per tax-free form.
Comfort and Convenience
- Smoking Lounges: Comfortable, well-ventilated smoking lounges are available in all terminals.
- Terminal 1: Gate D12, Upper level
- Terminal 2: Near the departure area
- Terminal 3: Gates A2, A23, B7, B27, C9, C23
- Baby Care Rooms: Equipped with a water basin, changing table, chair, power outlets, and other amenities for baby care, available across all three terminals.
- Showers: Refresh with complimentary showers in Terminal 3 between gates B13 and B19. Be Relax spa customers can use showers near Gate A1, Terminal 3, and Sleep ’n Fly customers have access at Sleep Lounges in Concourse B (Terminal 3) and Concourse D (Terminal 1).
Business and Work
- Business Centre: Located at the Dubai International Hotel, offering meeting rooms, secretarial services, photocopying, Internet, lamination and binding, faxing, and conference facilities.
Special Services
- Special Assistance: Services for passengers with restricted mobility and special needs are available. Just inform your airline in advance.
- Home Check-in Services: Check-in from your home or hotel. Passengers flying from Terminal 1 or 2 can use DUBZ powered by dnata, while those traveling from Terminal 3 can use Emirates’ home check-in service.
- Fast-Track Facilities: At DXB Terminal 3, speed through passport control using enhanced Smart Gates with a new contactless process. Simply look at the green light—no need to scan a document.
Health and Safety
- Emergency & Medical: Medical facilities and response teams are available 24/7. Guest Experience Ambassadors can direct you to the nearest Medical Centre. Pharmacies are open 24/7 for regular medicine needs.
Refreshments
- Water Filling Stations: Water fountains are available in the departure areas of all terminals, providing easy access to drinking water.
The Best Way to Get to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
For reliable transportation to and from Dubai International Airport (DXB), consider booking a Blacklane car service in Dubai. With Blacklane, you can eliminate the stress of finding parking, navigating through traffic, and coordinating transportation. Our secured VIP lanes at Dubai Airport in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 ensure you can be in the car in less than 60 seconds.
Whether you have a full day of shopping, running errands, or sightseeing, our pre-booked rides will get you to your destination and back comfortably and in style. Additionally, our on-demand Chauffeur Hailing Service provides immediate pickups in Dubai, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable chauffeured ride within minutes. Also, you have the option to request a female chauffeur for a more personalized experience. With complimentary Wi-Fi in every vehicle, you can stay connected on the go.
If you’re planning to explore more of the UAE and want to travel to Abu Dhabi, our City-to-City rides are the perfect choice. Experience the convenience and peace of mind of traveling with Blacklane for all your transportation needs.
Ellie Smith
Ellie is an avid traveler, writer, and adventurer, with a passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences through storytelling. Working for global chauffeur company Blacklane and having lived in cities like Dubai and Berlin, she has gained valuable first-hand experience in uncovering hidden gems worldwide.
