Emirates highlights extra busy December with over 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals

Emirates has announced that December 2025 will be one of its busiest travel months ever, with more than 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals expected through Dubai International Airport (DXB). The surge is driven by peak tourist season, school holidays, and major local events.

Travel Surge Highlights
- Peak Season Traffic: Families and tourists flocking to Dubai for holidays and events.
- School Closures: KHDA calendar changes mean schools are closed for most of December, boosting demand.
- Airport Congestion: Emirates warns of busier car parks, longer queues, and crowded terminals.

Emirates’ Top 5 Tips for Smooth Travel
1. Arrive Early
- At DXB: 3 hours before departure
- Immigration: 1.5 hours before departure
- Boarding Gate: 1 hour before departure

2. Use the Emirates App
- Online check-in 48 hours before flight
- Digital boarding passes
- Register for biometric smart gates and lounge access

3. City Check-In Options
- DIFC Emirates City Check-In & Travel Store (with free parking and bonus Skywards Miles)
- Ajman Central Bus Terminal check-in available 24/7

4. Early Bag Drop or Home Check-In
- Drop bags at DXB the day before departure (free service)
- Home check-in available in Dubai & Sharjah (complimentary for First Class and Platinum Skywards members)

5. Pack Smart
- Only one power bank under 100 Wh allowed in cabin baggage
- Smart bags permitted if battery is removable
- E-cigarettes and similar devices must be carried in hand luggage

Extra Perks
- Festive Shopping: Pre-order gifts via EmiratesRED.com for delivery onboard.
- Accessibility Hub: New inclusive travel services for passengers with special needs.
- Airport Transport: Complimentary train, shuttle buses, and buggy taxis to ease movement across terminals.

This December, Emirates is clearly preparing for record-breaking passenger flows while offering innovative services to keep travel smooth and enjoyable.