Dubai International Airport (DXB) is not only the busiest airport serving international travelers but also a destination. Millions of people pass through Dubai every year, and part of the experience is to have a layover. What is the good news? There are excellent facilities in DXB that help you to pass your time between flights with ease. Duty-free shopping, spa sessions, swimming—there is a lot to do without going out of the terminal, even during a layover.
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7 Things To Do Inside Dubai International Airport (DXB) During A Long Layover
1. Shop at Dubai Duty Free
Everyone cannot leave DXB without visiting the duty-free shop in the airport. One can only find everything, including perfumes and cosmetics, electronics, luxury fashion, and even gold jewelry, and the shopping experience here is incomparable. Products are usually cheaper than retail, and it is good to go there to get gifts or souvenirs or to buy something as a treat.
2. Relax in Airport Lounges
You cannot indulge in business-class travel to enjoy the lounge benefits. There are pay lounges like Marhaba and Plaza Premium, which provide comfortable lounges, buffet-style meals, beverage services, and Wi-Fi, as well as shower facilities. Most lounges will accommodate walk-ins and day passes or credit card membership plans, so all travelers should be able to utilize them.
3. Indulge in Global Cuisine
Are you hungry if you have a layover? Every appetite is catered to in DXB. Whether McDonald’s and Shake Shack or gourmet Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian restaurants, there is a place to cater to every taste palette. Indian visitors will be able to find their favorite comfort food at Taste of India and Desi Lunch Box, but also won’t be left disappointed with fine dining.
4. Book a Nap Pod or Capsule Room
With the needs of your body in mind, DXB will take good care of you. Sleep Symbol Hotel provides sleep pods with a unique lounge-like experience at Terminal 1, and Sleep Symbol Hotel features futuristic pods, capsule rooms, and cabins where visitors can rent rooms on an hourly basis in Terminal 3. Longer breaks can be done at the Dubai International Hotel, which is inside the terminal and provides all the rooms without leaving the airport territory.
5. Refresh at a Spa
Breathe easy with a spa session before your subsequent flight. The wellness centers at DXB provide services such as a fast-paced alternative to foot reflexology and manicures, as well as deep-body massage and facials. This is one of the best ways to recharge after hours of travelling in the air.
6. Stay Connected and Entertained
DXB has free, unlimited Wi-Fi, charging stations, and quiet working areas. Play zones and kids’ areas enable families to have fun in the airport, and art installations provide a cultural flair. If you want to spend time relaxing, then you can watch your favorite shows as you await your boarding call.
7. Take a Swim at the Dubai International Hotel
The gym facility at the Dubai International Hotel (Terminal 3) is one of the relative secrets of DXB. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, a Jacuzzi, and a sauna. You do not need to stay at the hotel to take advantage of and enjoy these facilities at a small fee, just after you have had a long flight.
Also Read: How to Spot Fake Job Offers in Dubai and Stay Safe
Tips for Layover Travellers
- Minimum connection time: A bare transfer should be booked with at least 90 minutes, but allow 3-6 hours to visit the airport facilities.
- Transit visa: The UAE has a free 48-hour transit visa (apply through your airline). Others are also allowed a visa on arrival for some nationalities.
- Getting around: DXB has three terminals, all with connections via the free shuttle buses and inter-terminal train, allowing you to transfer rapidly.