Dubai Airport Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

In terms of international passengers, Dubai is the busiest airport in the world with over 88 million people having passed through its terminals in 2017. In terms of floor space, the airport's Terminal 3 is the largest building in the world.

The thing about this airport is that it tends to be used as a transport hub by passengers on long-haul flights. Sixty-three percent of those people landing in Dubai are catching connecting flights to a more distant destination. There is so much to see and do in this city that it makes sense to devote a day or two to its exploration, even if you are just passing through.

Contrast four-wheel-drive desert safaris and camel riding adventures with luxury shopping or a visit to the arty Alserkal Avenue. With its forty warehouses crammed with art galleries, dance studios, and artisanal cafes there is something here for all artistic tastes. Whether you choose a quick day excursion or breaking your journey for several days, it makes sense to drop your luggage at one of the many luggage storage services near Dubai Airport so that you can explore unencumbered and make the most of this opportunity.

Dubai Airport bag policy

Policy at the airport has changed recently to speed up service. Bags of over 90 x 75 x 60 centimeters will need to be checked in at the oversized baggage counters. Passengers may carry two bags of less than 32 kilograms each, and not larger than the dimensions mentioned above. New rules demand that any luggage must have at least one flat face.

The normal international rules regarding liquids and gels are applied when boarding. These products should be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag and should be in containers of less than 100 millilitres.

Dubai Airport Food Policy

As with most international airports, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from and you will not be disappointed with the wide variety of different cuisines on offer. Here you will find quick snacks as well as high-end dining facilities. As far as carrying your own cooked food is concerned, this is not only banned in the airport but in Dubai itself.

Dubai Airport camera policy

For the average western traveler, some of the camera policies in Dubai are much more prohibitive than those that we are used to back home. In the airport itself, it is strictly prohibited to take photographs or videos for security reasons.

Whilst out and about in Dubai, don't take any photos of government buildings or aircraft. People here are much more protective of their privacy and so taking photos of people without their permission is frowned upon. This includes catching them in your shots as you pose for that all-important selfie. In general, as long as you are sensitive to the cultural desire for privacy, you will be fine.

Dubai Airport rules

Bear in mind that you have entered a different culture with very different ways of seeing things. Don't assume that what may be regarded as merely a minor misdemeanor in other countries will be taken so lightly in Dubai.

• No weapons or anything could possibly be construed as one, such as a hammer
• No narcotics including hashish, poppy seeds, paan leaves, or betel nuts
• No Israeli goods or items bearing an Israeli logo
• No electronic hookah or e-cigarettes
• No homemade food

Dubai Airport lockers

Storage lockers in the airport can be difficult to find. Fortunately, there are several locker rental facilities near the airport and these really will help to make your exploration of this unique city far more enjoyable. Some will allow you to book your bags in advance using the internet or mobile phone. This means you are assured of a locker when you get there. Some of the best facilities include free insurance for that little extra peace of mind.

With the city just 4.5 kilometers away from the airport, even on a short stopover, a visit becomes viable. Instead of sitting for hours in a transit lounge, why not drop your bags and explore this exotic new world?