Emirates expects over 180,000 travellers to pass through Dubai airport from Jan 1-5

Dubai airline Emirates said it anticipates more than 180,000 travellers to pass through Terminal 3 between January 1-5.

Roughly the same number of travellers were expected to arrive into Dubai from December 31 until just after New Year’s Day, the airline said in a statement.

The busiest day in the first week of 2019 is expected on Wednesday, January 2.

“With road works happening around the main airport highways and roads during this time, Emirates urges passengers to build in extra time for their journeys to avoid potential delays,” the statement said.

Passengers have been advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight departures.

They can physically check in at the airport 24 hours before flight departure, and no later than two hours prior to departure.

Those who check in less than 60 minutes prior to their scheduled flight departure will not be accepted for travel, the airline said.

Travellers can also check in online from 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure.

Emirates also offers car park check-in facilities in Dubai with 16 check-in counters located in Zone C. Those heading to Terminal 3 can also drop their luggage at one of the 46 dedicated bag drop counters for economy class or separate counters for first and business class.

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

After checking in, the airline also advised passengers to ensure 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 stressed.

“Check-in and gate closure timings will be strictly followed to ensure flights depart on schedule. These time checks will ensure minimal flight delays out of Dubai.”