Dubai airport Eid rush: Over 160,000 travellers in Terminal 3 this weekend

Dubai airline Emirates has warned those travelling during this weekend to arrive early at the Dubai International Airport as it expects high passenger traffic on its flights.

Over 160,000 travellers will be passing through Emirates Terminal 3 between Thursday and Saturday, with high passenger loads from Dubai also expected on September 11 and 12, the airline said in a statement.

In total, Emirates is expecting more than 250,000 passengers to travel during the upcoming Eid Al Adha period, with close to 90,000 people on its flights on Friday.

This year, the top destinations are Karachi, Mumbai, London Heathrow, Amman and Beirut.

Emirates said it has designated special areas for families consisting of 10 economy class check-in counters in Terminal 3, Area 2.

The airline also urged passengers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before flight departure, and plan extra time to get to the airport.

Online check-in is available 48 hours before flight departures while check-in counters in Dubai open six hours before flight departure.

The airline also operates check-in facilities at the car park terminal. Passengers can check in and drop their luggage at the car park check-in facilities from 24 hours to six hours prior to departure.

Self service kiosks and baggage drop facilities are also available to all passengers.

Customers holding an e-boarding pass and travelling with carry-on bags only can proceed directly to passport control and security clearance, Emirates said.

Those travelling to the US, Canada and the UK must charge their electronic devices before getting to the airport, the airline added.

Key time checks for Emirates passengers:

Online check-in is available from 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure

Emirates check-in counters in Dubai are open six hours before flight departure

Check in no later than 90 minutes prior to departure, regardless of class of travel

Passengers who have checked in online are also required to check in their luggage 90 minutes before flight departure

Passengers are advised to go through security checks no later than 60 minutes before flight departure

Boarding on all flights begins 45 minutes prior to departure, and gates in all concourses close 20 minutes prior to departure