Emirates has issued a travel advisory for all passengers flying out of Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 3 between Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21, due to a significant surge in passenger traffic.

With over 300,000 travellers expected to depart during this period, passengers are urged to arrive early, check in online, and keep all travel documents ready to avoid delays.

🚨 Anticipated Congestion at DXB Terminal 3

Dubai International Airport, already one of the busiest airports in the world, is gearing up for an exceptionally crowded weekend. Emirates anticipates Terminal 3 will experience increased congestion across check-in, security, and boarding areas.

📊 DXB: A Global Travel Hub

  • 2024 Passenger Volume: 92,331,506

  • Growth vs. 2023: +6.1%

  • Growth vs. 2019: +6.9%

  • Global Rank: #2

  • Strength: A major transit point linking East and West via Emirates’ expansive global network

🕒 Avoid Delays: Check In Early

To ease your airport experience, Emirates encourages travellers to:

✅ Check In Online (Recommended)

  • Available via the Emirates App or emirates.com

  • Opens 48 hours before departure

  • Receive a digital boarding pass instantly

✅ Check In at the Airport

  • Counters open 24 hours before flight

  • For US-bound flights, counters open 12 hours before departure

✅ Drop Bags Early

  • Emirates offers a night-before baggage drop option at DXB to help you beat the crowds

🏙️ Convenient Off-Site Check-In Options

To further reduce airport stress, Emirates offers alternative check-in spots across the UAE:

  • 📍 City Check-In, ICD Brookfield Place (DIFC): Open 24/7; check in up to 4 hours before flight (Excludes US-bound flights)

  • 📍 Ajman Central Bus Terminal: Check in from 24 to 4 hours before departure

  • 🧳 Night-before drop-off at DXB: Perfect for early morning flights

🛂 Biometric Smart Gates & Timing Guidelines

DXB’s biometric smart gates help speed up immigration for UAE residents with registered biometrics. Still, Emirates advises all travellers to strictly follow these timelines:

Procedure Minimum Time Before Departure
Passport Control & Security 90 minutes
Boarding (Economy/Premium) 60 minutes
Boarding (First/Business) 45 minutes
Final Gate Closure 20 minutes

Note: Boarding gates close 20 minutes before departure — no exceptions, even if you’re already checked in.

💡 Top Tips for a Smooth Terminal 3 Experience

  • Use Smart Gates if you’re a UAE resident with registered biometrics

  • Download the Emirates App for real-time updates and gate notifications

  • Pack Smart to breeze through security checkpoints

  • Book Transport Early — roads around DXB may be busier than usual

  • Arrive Early & Relax — enjoy DXB’s lounges, shopping, and dining options

🧳 Final Boarding Call

With a record number of passengers expected at DXB Terminal 3 this weekend, planning ahead is essential. Emirates is working with airport authorities to manage the flow, but the best way to ensure a smooth journey is to check in early, travel light, and arrive well ahead of time.

Safe travels! 🌍✈️