Returning to Dubai Airport on Aug 26-27? Tips to clear passport control quickly

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has issued a ‘peak travel dates’ alert as UAE residents return to the country after their summer vacations.

The airport authority has issued a statement that DXB is gearing up to welcome 3.3 million travellers over the next two weeks. The Dubai Airport which caters to travellers across the globe, owing to its central location, and world-class facilities is the world’s biggest international airport.

Key travel dates

DXB airport authorities have said that average daily traffic is at 258,000 guests with August 26 and 27 expected to be the busiest. These dates could see a culminated traffic of over “half a million guests”, as per its release.

Dubai Airports said it is working closely with airlines, customs control authorities, and commercial and service partners to ensure a seamless airport journey for guests.

Here are DXB’s tips for arriving guests:

Travellers between the ages of 4 and 12 can use dedicated passport control counters to independently stamp their passports upon arrival at Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

For those travelling with families, travellers over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process.

Outside Dubai Airport

The road through the airport could get busy during peak times. If possible, use the Dubai Metro, which has stations at DXB Terminals 1 and 3.

DXB offers a range of other transportation choices — hail an Uber, Careem, RTA Taxi, or rent a car.

Those picking up guests should use DXB’s designated car parks or valet services to receive their guests in comfort. Access to the Arrivals’ forecourts in Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised airport vehicles only.

Dubai Customs steps up readiness

Dubai Customs said it has stepped up its readiness to ensure the smooth movement of homecoming passengers during the post-summer vacation period.

The authority said it had increased the number of customs inspectors working on shifts at different airport checkpoints. The agency said it had deployed 840 inspectors to manage the return rush.

It has also urged travellers to use its ‘iDeclare app’ which was released under the initiative of ‘smart customs systems’ to help accelerate the flow of travellers coming into the country.