Dubai-based airline Emirates has urged passengers travelling during the Eid Al Adha holidays to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure as it prepares for a sharp rise in passenger traffic over the festive period.
The carrier said travellers departing from Dubai International Airport should also ensure they reach boarding gates at least 60 minutes before scheduled departures due to expected congestion at security, immigration and boarding areas.
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, warned that airport processing times could take longer than usual during the busy travel period and advised residents to use public transport, including the Dubai Metro, to avoid heavy traffic around the airport.
The Eid travel surge comes after UAE authorities announced a four-day paid holiday for private sector workers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said the break will run from May 26 to May 29, while federal government employees will receive an extended holiday beginning May 25.
The airline said demand for travel has continued to recover across its global network following recent regional disruptions linked to conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which had led to airspace closures and operational challenges across the Middle East.
As of May 6, Emirates was operating flights to 137 destinations in 72 countries spanning Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australasia.
To ease congestion at terminals, the airline encouraged passengers to use its digital and remote check-in services before arriving at the airport.
Travellers can check in online or through the Emirates mobile application and select seats in advance. Passengers are also able to drop off baggage 24 hours before departure, or 12 hours before flights bound for the United States.
The airline said self-service kiosks and bag-drop facilities are available for most destinations except US flights. Emirates Skywards members can also use biometric services linked to facial recognition technology after registering through the airline’s app.
The carrier highlighted its home check-in service, which allows staff to complete check-in procedures and collect luggage directly from passengers’ homes or hotels. First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members are eligible for complimentary home check-in.
Emirates noted that passengers travelling to the United States or those requiring special assistance must complete check-in procedures in person at the airport.
Dubai International Airport is expected to experience one of its busiest holiday travel periods of the year as residents take advantage of the extended Eid break for regional and international trips.
