DXB Airport Live Departures
Checking in at Dubai Airport
There are two different ways to check in for your flight from Dubai International Airport (DXB): online with the specific airline you’re flying with usually around 24 to 48 hours before your flight, or directly at the check-in desks in Dubai Airport Departures. There are three different terminals, so it’s important to check with your airline which terminal your flight departs from. Alternatively, you can use our quick and easy Dubai Airport Live Departures Tracker above.
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 Departures: The check-in desks are located on Level 2 of Terminal 1.
Dubai Airport Terminal 2 Departures: The check-in desks are located on Level 3 of Terminal 2.
Dubai Airport Terminal 3 Departures: The check-in desks are located on Level 3 of Terminal 3.
When to arrive at Dubai Airport?
For exact arrival times and check-in desk time for your flight, it’s advisable to contact your airline and see their specific rules. However, there is a general guide for when to arrive at Dubai Airport Departures. For international flights, you should arrive at your correct terminal at least 3 hours before your flight. For domestic flights around the United Arab Emirates, you can arrive 2 hours before your flight.
What’s next?
If you need to check any of your bags, you can do so during the check-in process at the desks in Dubai Airport Departures. To ensure a smooth process, we advise checking your airline’s weight and size baggage policies before arriving at the airport. If you’re travelling only with carry-on luggage, you can head straight to security.
Before you enter the security check area, you will meet a member of staff who will ask to see your ID and boarding pass, so be sure to have these on hand. Once at the front of the security queue, you will be asked to place all your personal belongings, including phones, wallets, keys and money in the bins provided, and place them on the conveyor belt for scanning. Depending on your type of footwear, they may also ask you to remove your shoes and place them on the belt. Any liquids must be under 100 ml and will need to be held in one transparent bag. You can then proceed to walk through the body scanner and collect your personal belongings on the other side.
Depending on the time of year and the terminal you’re travelling through, the security process can take 10 to 30 minutes.
*There is an option to fast-track your security process in departures at Dubai Airport by booking with Fast Track Dubai online or at the airport.
What to do in Departures at Dubai Airport?
There are countless fun and relaxing ways to spend your time in Dubai International Airport Departures. You can enjoy a spot of shopping at the 24-hour Duty-Free, dine in one of their gourmet restaurants, or grab a quick bite from one of the many grab-and-go dining options. For a moment of pure relaxation, Dubai Airport Terminal 3 Departures and Terminal 1 Departures have dedicated spas. There are also 14 different premium and luxury lounges, smoking rooms, prayer rooms, dedicated hotels, spacious bathrooms and baby changing facilities available through all three terminals. Free unlimited Wi-Fi is also available throughout Dubai Airport, so you can stay connected before your flight.
*Explore more things to do and discover all of the modern amenities offered in our complete Dubai Airport Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to arrive at Dubai Airport?
Although you should check the exact recommended arrival time with your airline, the general rule is that you should arrive at Dubai International Airport Departures at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight.