Dubai’s Emirates warns of peak travel at the start of the New Year

Dubai airline Emirates has urged passengers traveling via the Dubai airport to arrive early to ensure they don’t miss the flight.

The airline said it expects another busy period with outbound travel after New Year’s celebrations and inbound traffic for the Dubai Shopping Festival. The busiest days anticipated are January 1-4, 2020.

Emirates urged passengers to arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before their flight departs, and factor in extra time to arrive to the airport in case of road traffic.

Passengers can check-in from 24 hours to six hours before departure at the car park check-in area.

They can also check-in online and then use the baggage drop facilities. Those checking in online are required to check in their luggage no later than 90 minutes prior to departure.

Passengers holding a mobile pass and travelling with carry-on bags only, can proceed directly to passport control and security clearance.

Eligible visitors (nationals of countries eligible for visa on arrival) and UAE residents (Emirates ID card holders) can use the smart gates to avoid queuing at passport control, both while arriving and on departure.

After checking in and clearing immigration and security, 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.

“Check-in and gate closure timings will be strictly followed to ensure flights depart on schedule,” the airline said.

It also urged passengers to use the Dubai Metro.

The RTA will operate the Dubai Metro for extended periods on certain days during the peak travel period and passengers are allowed to carry two pieces of check-in baggage onboard during departure and on arrival.

The extended period is as follows:

Dec 31- Jan 1:

Red line (between Rashidiya and DMCC stations): 24 hrs
Green line (all stations): 24 hrs

Jan 2-3:

Red line (between Rashidiya and DMCC stations): 5am- 3.30am
Green line (all stations): 5.30am – 3.30am