Are you planning to travel this festive season? Emirates has announced that passenger numbers departing Dubai in December are significantly higher than last year. The airline has advised customers to plan their journeys carefully to avoid delays during peak travel times.
The busiest days for departures are expected to be December 12–15, December 20–22, and December 27–29, with over 88,000 passengers leaving Dubai International Airport (DXB) on some days. This marks a 20% increase compared to 2023 when daily departures peaked at 75,000.
To ensure a seamless travel experience, Emirates recommends arriving at the airport three hours before departure. Passengers can use online check-in via the Emirates app or website starting 48 hours before their flight. Additionally, they can drop off baggage at the airport for free up to 24 hours before departure—or 12 hours before flights to the US.
Premium services such as complimentary home check-in are available for First Class passengers and Skywards Platinum Members. Travellers starting their journey from Ajman can utilize the 24-hour City Check-in facility at the Ajman Central Bus Terminal up to four hours before departure.
For passengers with disabilities, trained staff are available to provide tailored support, including pre-arranged assistance for those with hidden disabilities. Other amenities include two hours of complimentary airport parking and dedicated priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security, and boarding.
As passenger numbers rise this festive season, Emirates emphasizes the importance of planning and using available services to enjoy a smooth travel experience.