Dubai’s Emirates warns of airport rush with thousands expected to travel during Eid

Dubai airline Emirates has urged passengers to arrive early at the airport due to heavy traffic during the Eid holiday period.

The busiest time for departures in Terminal 3 will be on Friday, May 31, with over 80,000 passengers travelling abroad, a statement said.

Peak travel is expected to continue until Monday, June 3, with over 309,000 Emirates passengers travelling from Dubai during this period of time.

Public sector workers in the UAE have been given time off from Sunday, June 2 until Saturday, June 8 for Eid Al Fitr, while private sector workers will have holidays from Monday, June 3 until Thursday or Friday (3rd of Shawwal).

Schools in Dubai have also been closed from Sunday, June 2.

Read: Eid Al Fitr holidays announced for Dubai schools

UAE announces Eid Al Fitr holiday dates for public and private sectors

With expected traffic congestion around Terminal 3, and road works continuing to cause traffic delays around main airport highways and roads during this time – Emirates encouraged passengers to plan their travel time accordingly.

The carrier also urged passengers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight departure to avoid any delays.

Passengers can physically check in at the airport 24 hours before flight departure and those who check in less than 60 minutes prior to their scheduled flight departure will not be accepted for travel, the airline said.

Online check-in is also available from 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure.

Emirates also offers car park check-in facilities which can be used to check in and drop off luggage.

Those heading to Terminal 3 can drop their luggage at one of the 46 dedicated bag drop counters in economy class or separate counters in first class and business class from six hours to 90 minutes prior to departure.

Families travelling with small children can use dedicated family counters in Check in Zone 2.

After checking in, passengers are also advised to make sure they get to their boarding gate on time.

Gates open 90 minutes before departure, boarding starts 45 minutes before each flight and gates close 20 minutes before departure.

“If passengers report late Emirates will not be able to accept them for travel,” the airline said, adding “check-in and gate closure timings will be strictly followed to ensure flights depart on schedule.”