Summer travel peak starts this weekend: Top tips from Emirates

It's summer holiday season, and Emirates is preparing for busy departures from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB). Starting this weekend, 3–5 July, Emirates anticipates high volumes of departures and recommends customers plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey. Weekend travel is expected to remain consistently busy throughout the summer holiday period.

Travel Timing
- Arrive early: 3 hours before departure.
- Immigration: Clear 1.5 hours before departure.
- Boarding gate: Be there 1 hour before departure.

Getting to the Airport
- Dubai Metro: Direct access to Terminal 3, with extended hours on Fridays.
- Allow extra time: Traffic and parking can be heavy during peak weekends.

Check-in Options
- Online/App check-in: Available 48 hours before departure.
- Early bag drop: Up to 24 hours before departure (12 hours for US flights).
- City Check-in: DIFC (Brookfield Place) and Ajman bus terminal offer check-in and bag drop.
- Home Check-in: Agents handle check-in and baggage from your home, hotel, or office (complimentary for First Class and Platinum Skywards).

At the Airport
- Self-service kiosks & bag drop pods: Quick and efficient.
- Biometric check-in: Skywards members can register for facial recognition.
- Transport inside DXB: Free train between Concourse A & B, shuttle bus between A & C, and buggy services for First Class and priority passengers.

Packing & Shopping
- Restricted items: Power banks only in hand baggage; smart bags allowed if battery removable/off.
- E-cigarettes: Carry-on only, batteries protected.
- Pre-order shopping: Use EmiratesRED.com for inflight delivery, with 10% discount using code RED10.

Accessibility
- People of Determination: Dedicated support, priority lanes, complimentary parking, and pre-planning guides available.

In short, Emirates is urging travelers to plan ahead, use digital and remote check-in options, and take advantage of transport and shopping services to make the journey smoother.