Emirates: Summer is here, and with it comes the peak travel season. For families heading out on adventures, navigating a bustling airport can feel daunting. But fear not! Emirates, a world-renowned airline, has revealed its top summer travel hacks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Emirates Beating the Crowds: Planning is Key
Emirates emphasizes the importance of factoring in extra time during peak travel periods, especially for families flying out of DXB. Here’s a breakdown of their recommended timings:
- Arrive at the Airport: Aim to reach DXB 3 hours before your flight departure.
- Immigration Clearance: Allocate 1.5 hours for immigration processing.
- Boarding Gate: Ensure you reach your boarding gate 1 hour before departure.
Making Check-In a Breeze
For families with young children, streamlining the check-in process can significantly ease stress. Emirates offers several convenient options:
- Emirates Home Check-In (Business & First Class): This complimentary service allows check-in at your residence, with agents handling the paperwork and collecting luggage for your flight.
- Online Check-In: Utilize the Emirates app or website to check in online for a faster experience.
- Early Luggage Drop-Off: Avoid last-minute baggage hassles by dropping off your luggage at the airport up to 24 hours before your flight.
- DXB Check-In Store: Located at ICD Brookfield Place, this facility allows you to conveniently drop off luggage 24 hours before your flight, saving valuable time at the airport.
Turning DXB into a Fun Stopover
Emirates understands the importance of keeping little ones entertained during travel. Here’s how DXB can be a fun stopover for your family:
- Free Ice-Cream Treats: Grab a delicious free ice cream for the kids from Emirates’ carts stationed around Terminal 3. They operate between 12 pm and 6 pm, Fridays through Sundays.
- Free Strollers and Airport Buggies: Feeling the weight of your little one? Take advantage of complimentary strollers offered by Emirates. Need to navigate the airport quickly? Utilize the free airport buggies.
- Kids Play Areas: Let the kids burn off some pre-flight energy at the play areas in the First and Business Class Lounges (Concourse A & B). Arcade games and fun activities await!
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Lounges also offer mother and baby care rooms, baby changing facilities, and designated feeding areas for added convenience.
- Hidden Disabilities Support: Traveling with children with autism or other hidden disabilities? Emirates provides valuable information and resources to prepare your child for the airport experience.
Fun on Board: Keeping Kids Entertained
Once you’ve conquered DXB, the real adventure begins! The airline offers a variety of in-flight perks specifically designed to keep young flyers happy:
- Onboard Entertainment: A selection of toys and giveaways is available, alongside a magazine packed with puzzles, activities, and jokes.
- Free Wi-Fi Messaging (Skysurfers Loyalty Program): Keep kids connected with friends and family through free Wi-Fi messaging. Simply sign them up for the Emirates Skysurfers loyalty program.
- Polaroid Photo Fun: Don’t forget to capture a memento of your smooth airport experience! Ask the friendly cabin crew for a fun polaroid photo.
By following these helpful tips and utilizing family-friendly services, your summer travel experience at DXB can be smooth, enjoyable, and full of happy memories for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your passports, and get ready for a fantastic summer adventure, with Emirates taking care of the rest!