Dubai Airport Guide
Your step-by-step guide from landing to metro connection at Dubai International Airport
3 Terminals
T1, T2 & T3 Connected
Metro Connected
Red Line Direct Access
24/7 Operations
One of world's busiest
- 1
Disembark & Follow Signs
Exit the aircraft and follow "Arrivals" and "Passport Control" signs. Terminals are well-signposted in English and Arabic.
⏱ 5-10 minutes - 2
Immigration & Passport Control
Queue at immigration counters. GCC nationals and UAE residents use e-gates. Tourists use regular counters.
⏱ 15-45 minutesHave visa ready - 3
Collect Baggage
Check screens for your flight number and carousel. Trolleys are free. Report missing baggage to airline desk immediately.
⏱ 20-40 minutes - 4
Customs Declaration
Pass through customs. Use green channel if nothing to declare, red channel if declaring goods. Random checks may occur.
⏱ 5-15 minutes Exit to Arrivals Hall
Welcome to Dubai! Follow signs to metro, taxis, or meet & greet area.
Total: 45-110 minutes
Terminal 1 & Terminal 3
Follow signs to "Metro" or "Train". Take the free shuttle bus from arrivals to the metro station.
Terminal 2
No direct metro connection. Take free shuttle to GGICO metro station, or taxi to your destination.
Airport Metro Stations
Terminal 1 Station
Serves Terminal 1
Terminal 3 Station
Serves Terminal 3
Metro Ticket Information
- Buy Nol Card at ticket machines in metro station
- Airport is in Zone T1/T3 - fares from AED 6-8.50
- Metro hours: Mon-Sat 5 AM-midnight (Fri till 1 AM), Sun 8 AM-midnight
Taxi
Available 24/7 outside all terminals. Metered and reliable.
Airport fare: AED 25 flag + ~AED 2.14/km | To Downtown: ~AED 60-80
Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber and Careem operate at DXB. Pick up from designated areas.
Similar to taxi prices | Cashless payment option
Bus
RTA buses connect airport to various city locations.
Routes: C1, 11, 33, 44 | Cost: AED 5-7.50 | Less frequent at night
Hotel Shuttle
Many hotels offer free or paid airport transfers. Check with your hotel.
Book in advance | Confirm pickup point before arrival
Flying to Dubai World Central (DWC)?
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is located ~60km from downtown, used mainly by some budget airlines. No metro connection - taxi (~AED 150-200 to downtown) or book hotel transfer in advance.
- Free WiFi: Available throughout the airport with unlimited usage
- Currency Exchange: Multiple exchange counters available, but rates are better in the city
- Peak Times: Expect longer queues between 11 PM - 3 AM (peak arrival time)
- SIM Cards: Available at airport shops. Buy before immigration for immediate connectivity