Things to do at Dubai International Airport during a layover
Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. But plenty of activities keep you occupied even if you have a long stopover. There are many things to do at Dubai International Airport during a layover or transit. Here are the details.
ACTIVITIES AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
As one of the busiest airports in the world, Dubai International Airport offers transit passengers a wide range of activities. There’s lots to do at the airport, from gourmet restaurants to duty-free shops and children’s play areas. If you’re thinking about how to spend time during a layover, here’s a look at all the activities you can enjoy.
EAT AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
With many popular restaurants at Dubai Airport, you can count dining as one of the best things to do. About 50 cafes and restaurants in Dubai International Airport serve various cuisines.
Here’s a look at some of the popular options.
- Want to try delicious pasta? Stop by the Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck.
- Whether you seek a healthy pre-flight meal or a quick and flavourful bite, Veranda Café promises a culinary experience that elevates your airport layover.
- Craving authentic Indian cuisine? Head to Desi Lunch Box at Terminal 3 for Indian fast food packed meals.
- Craving for dim sum? The Noodle House can be your best bet.
- And if you’ve got children with you, take them to the M&M confectionery store at Terminal 3.
- Another popular airport dining choice is Pret A Manger at Terminals 1 and 3. It is famous for sustainably sourced and freshly prepared gourmet food.
- DXB Airport also features global fast food chains, including McDonald’s, KFC, Subway and more.
GAME OVER BOREDOM: PLAY AT DUBAI’S GAME SPACE
Wondering what fun things to do in Dubai Airport? Transform your layover into an exhilarating gaming experience at Dubai Airport’s Game Space, the region’s first airport gaming lounge. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a curious novice, Game Space caters to all skill levels with a comprehensive selection of PlayStation and PC games for solo and multiplayer enjoyment.
Conveniently located in Terminal 3 and open 24/7, Game Space is one of the best things to do at Dubai Airport Terminal 3 for travellers of all preferences. So, next time you have a wait at DXB, transform it into an unforgettable gaming experience!
SHOP AT THE DUTY-FREE SHOPS
Shopping is one of the most popular activities at Dubai International Airport during a layover. The airport has plenty of duty-free shops that are open 24/7. You can buy timepieces, bags, designer sunglasses and watches from top luxury brands, such as Gucci, Hermes and Chanel, in Terminal 3. You can also check out other luxury stores at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport.
DXB caters to your every whim, including your olfactory desires. Within the terminal, explore an extensive selection of perfumes, from iconic brands like Burberry to Jo Malone, renowned for their distinctive and unforgettable scents.
For some fine jewellery, china and silver, head to Tiffany & Co at T1. Spinney’s (T1) and Carrefour (T1) are where you can get groceries and fresh produce. If you want to give something as a souvenir to your friends and family, you can also pick up some local goods, such as chocolates or dry fruits. To get your hands on the finest wine collection, visit Le Clos, The Macallan Boutique or Dubai Duty Free.
UNWIND AT THE PREMIUM LOUNGES
You don’t have to travel business class to reap the benefits of Dubai International Airport lounges. The lounges have everything to offer, from dedicated baristas to fresh juice bars. Unwinding at these private lounges is one of the best things to do at Dubai Airport during a layover.
You can use Marhaba’s airport lounges at all three terminals to relax and unwind. The airport lounges have Wi-Fi, television, newspapers and magazines and a flight information monitor, so you can relax, browse the internet, read a newspaper and get timely information about the flight.
Upgrade your travel experience, even in economy! Plaza Premium Lounge invites you to unwind in plush comfort. Located conveniently near Gate A2 at Terminal 3 (Level 4), the Plaza Premium Lounge caters to every traveller’s needs. Enjoy privacy in our Family Suite, freshen up in shower facilities, or let the kids unwind in the dedicated play area.
You can relax at the Emirates lounge and be at ease, catch up on the latest news and savour the global flavours. And when it’s time to fly, you can board your flight directly from their Concourse A Lounges.
Ahlan First Class Lounge, Unaccompanied Minor’s Lounge and Al Majlis are also spaces for relaxation and refreshment. If you plan on catching up on some pending work, head to Their Patio, which offers a co-working space.
PLACES TO SLEEP AT THE DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The Sleep ‘n Fly lounge at Dubai International Airport, available in all terminals, is the best place to take a power nap. It has igloo-styled sleep pods and bigger double cabins where you can lie down. There are pull-out beds for kids. So, little ones can catch up on the much-needed ZZZs instead of tiring you further when you are already exhausted.
You can also check in at the Dubai International Hotel when you reach your destination to avoid jet lag. It is an ideal place to relax and offers many rooms and suites to cater to all your needs.
COMFORT YOURSELF AT A SPA
If you want to engage in something innovative and extravagant, a relaxing massage is always a blessing or that all-important facial before the long-haul flight at the Dubai airport spas.
A spa visit is one of the best activities to do during transit at Dubai airport. You can head to Be Relax at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, which offers various health and beauty services. Other options include XpresSpa and Timeless Spa. Both spas are based in Terminal 3.
FAQS ABOUT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT THINGS TO DO
ARE THERE ANY HOTELS NEAR DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Yes, there are. Suppose your transit time stretches for several hours. In this case, you can book one of the hotels near the Dubai International Airport, such as Holiday Inn Express, Millennium Airport Hotel and Jumeirah Creekside Hotel.
CAN I LEAVE DUBAI AIRPORT DURING THE LAYOVER?
This depends on your nationality and the type of visa you have. If you have the required visa, you can leave the airport and go sightseeing, especially if you have a long overlay. You don’t need a visa to transition through the airport.
IS WI-FI AT DUBAI AIRPORT FREE?
Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport can have free unlimited Wi-Fi access. For your convenience, we’ve prepared a helpful guide outlining the simple steps to connect to the free Wi-Fi at Dubai Airport.
CAN I RENT A CAR AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Yes, you can find many car rental companies at Dubai Airport.
And that’s our guide for things to do at Dubai International Airport on a layover. We hope this answers all your questions. Please check the list of prohibited items in checked baggage at Dubai Airport for a pleasant experience.
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