Airport or Mall? - Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 3

Dubai is one of the busiest airports in the world, and therefore people don't expect it to be a very pleasant experience. In fact, I've passed through Dubai International Airport on more than a few occasions and I have never once had a bad experience. Sure, it is busy and quite expensive, but what do you expect when it handles, on average, 60,000 - if not, more, passengers daily?

Before I go any further, I must confess that I have only ever transited through the airport, so I cannot speak for the check-in experience just yet. Although I've always wanted to visit Dubai, I've not yet had the chance. I have only also flown Emirates through Dubai, no other airline so I can only speak for the Emirates Transit experience. However, I do wish to fly in to Dubai on an international/regional airline so I can compare the terminal 3 experience to the other 2 terminals.

Let's dive in to see an honest review and guide to transiting through Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Layout

Dubai Airport consists of 3 terminals, namely 1, 2 and 3.

Terminal 1 houses international airlines (not Emirates) that service DXB, such as KLM, British Airways, South African Airways and many others. These flights will have 'D-Gates' stated throughout the airport departures boards.

Terminal 2 is the home of regional flights throughout the Middle East, and other international routes as well (again, not Emirates). Airlines such as FlyDubai, RwandAir and Afghan Airlines use terminal 2. These flights will have 'F-Gates' stated throughout the airport departures boards.

Terminal 3 is the undisputed home of Emirates and Qantas. It spans across 3 concourses. Concourses 1, 2 and 3 are also known as the A, B and C Gates, and used only by the two aforementioned airlines.

Transit - Terminal 3

After stepping off the aircraft, there is always a minimum 10-minute walk to the security checkpoint. Transiting through Dubai is quite simple, albeit, very spread out, so if you are unable to walk long distances for whatever reason, or unsure about it, it is best to contact your airline to organise ground assistance (a little car through the airport). The reason I say it is a simple process, is because 3/4 of passengers transit through, leaving only a small percentage who are actually stamped in to Dubai. This means that overtime, the airport has adapted to this trend, now making it almost impossible to get lost between your arrival and departure gate.

Regardless of which concourse you arrive, at you'll go through the security checkpoint of that particular concourse. Therefore, is it critical to ensure you check the departures board for your onwards flight. If your flight pulls in at concourse A and your next flight is from concourse C, you'll need to get yourself there in time for your flight, but I'll touch on the 'how-to' later on.

After passing through the sometimes chock-full security checkpoint, you'll walk past a massive departures board, and don't worry, you can't miss it. If you can't see it for some reason, just look for a herd of people crowding around one area. It is likely there. Anyhow, walking away from security, you'll head up the escalators to the main section of the concourse.

Once properly airside again, you will be able to catch the SkyTrain to your relevant concourse, if necessary, but if you're lucky enough to have an onward flight in the same place, then awesome! If not, then not to worry, it's only a short ride on the SkyTrain and you'll be at your gate in no time at all. All Terminal 3 concourses are generally the same layout to give passengers a more streamlined experience. It also helps passengers know what to expect when they are transiting through the different gates.

If you have more than a 4 hour transit during daylight, it also might be a great idea to quickly explore Dubai. You can leave the airport, grab a cab or the Dubai metro and head right in to the heart of the city. Explore Old Dubai first, as it is closer to the airport, and then head down to the Dubai Marina. Getting out and about will also allow you to grab some fresh air in between a long time cooped up in a metal tube.

A Shoppers and Food-Lovers Haven

Shopping

There is certainly no shortage of shopping throughout terminal 3 at DXB. From countless Duty Free outlets comprising of clothing, booze, cosmetics, chocolate, electronics, whatever you can name, they've got it. Duty Free at Dubai Airport is on the pricey side compared to other hubs (not naming names), and in my experience, it only really presents better value for alcohol.

What do I mean? Well, let's take the chocolate and sweets outlet as an example. A basic block of Milka Chocolate in mainland Europe supermarkets is around 2 - 3 Euros. At Duty Free Dubai, you're paying at least 5 euros for the same block. Then there is the technology section...I'm not sure who would be willing to shell-out the money for a new smartphone or expensive headphones during transit aside from those who have been unlucky and broken something on their previous flight. Unfortunately, Milka only produce chocolate, so we'll take a decent pair of Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones for this example. If I remember correctly, the new Bose Quietcomfort 35 II Wireless Headphones cost nearly 1,450 AED, which equates to around 395 USD. These can be picked up online for 225 USD. From there, it is quite a simple equation, really.

Apart from Duty Free, there are also a heap of outlets such as Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Ferrari, and many others. As you can imagine, they definitely aren't any cheaper than normal. For passengers who are susceptible to air sickness, or if you simply forgot to pack some pain-killers, there are a plethora of pharmacies as well.

Nevertheless, browsing Duty Free and other merchants whilst you wait for your flight is a great way to pass time and see what is on offer at the world's largest collection of Duty Free. My final point about DXB Duty Free is that it is not all in one section, rather there are different sections spread out across the whole concourse, so if you can't find something, don't stress, just keep exploring!

Dining

There are also countless eateries and cafes to help you pass time. From the tradition chain cafes such as Starbucks to Costa Coffee, to independent juice bars and small restaurants, there is something for all ages and budgets here. Obviously, being an airport, you have to expect higher prices, but the question here is - how much are you willing to pay?

Sure, you can pay to use a lounge such as the Marhaba Lounge (see below), which is pretty decent value as in includes just about everything you'll need during your stopover. Or, you can be like me, and pay a ridiculous amount for a coffee and muffin at Treehouse Juicery, just next to the SkyTrain in concourse B, but don't be like me...be smart! If you read my trip report of my flight from Amsterdam to Perth, you'll see how much it cost. For those who want a more traditionally western meal, the fan-favourites of McDonalds, Burger King and the likes are present too, not sure why they are so busy even at 3 and 4am, but anyway.

There a global cuisine scene booming in the airport as well, which are certainly cheaper than paying the entrance fee to the Emirates lounges. As you walk through Duty Free, you'll see many cafes and restaurants all trying to make a good buck, so if you're hungry, pop in and check out the menu.

Sleeping Arrangements

As Dubai Airport is a 24-hour operation, there are a wide range of sleeping options available, should you have a lengthy transit, or just want to get some proper shut-eye between flights. As you walk through the terminal, you'll notice the black half-reclined seats that are perfect for a power nap. You have to be quick, though, because they fill up very quickly. If these seats are full, you'll see many people sprawled out over airside seating, taking up no less than 3-4 seats. Unfortunately, unless you want to be 'that person' and wake them up, there isn't much you can do, other than trying to find somewhere else.

If you prefer a private and more comfortable rest, DXB also has you covered.

Dubai International Hotel

Perfect for an overnighter or a few hours. The Dubai International Hotel is located in Terminal 3 and can be accessed from all 3 concourses via elevator. The signs to the hotel from the main deck are a little tricky to find at first, but once you find it, head on up and check out the facilities.

I've not yet had a chance to stay here as all of my connections have been within 2 hours, so I cannot say much more than this. However, it is a viable option if you have more than 6 hours in transit and want or need to stay only minutes away from your gate. Prices are somewhat steep, at around 150 - 200 USD, but from the looks of things, the services and facilities match the price-tag, not to mention the accessibility factor to the airport. I can't wait to stay here one day and share with you my experience!

Sleep 'n Fly

This futuristic pod-style accommodation is the budget-friendly option, and are present in every terminal at DXB - 1, 2 and 3. You pay by the hour and a stay can range anywhere from 1 hour to a full overnighter. This is an experience which is slowly taking over the airport accommodation scene due to the cost and accessibility, because you pay for what you use. So if you have a quick 4 hour stopover, you pay for 3 hours, rest for 3 hours in peace and quiet, and then head to your flight.

If you're looking for something unique and cheap that fits the categories of a hotel and lounge, you've found your match. Starting at a very low 30 USD per hour, or 81 USD for 5 hours, it is a great way to get some rest at the fraction of the price for a hotel.

Note there is a 2 hour minimum at Sleep 'n Fly.

Airport Lounges

Airport lounges at Dubai Terminal 3 are plentiful. If you don't need any shut-eye and need a place to get some work done in peace and quiet, then you'll likely end up at one of these lounges. They can be accessed via many points within each concourse, and consist of pay-per-use, prepaid access or complimentary access.

I have not used any of these lounges before, so all I can provide is the information regarding price and locations, but stay tuned for my lounge reviews!

Marhaba Lounge - Concourse A, B and C

The Marhaba Lounge is the main lounge found throughout DXB and you can either pay on the spot, or use a prepaid lounge pass to gain access. The cost of this lounge, regardless of which one you choose, is 45 USD for 4 hours, which is inclusive of food, drink, alcohol, restrooms, showers and Wi-Fi.

Emirates Lounges

Emirates have a dedicated First and Business class lounge. Located across all 3 concourses in terminal 3, these lounges offer premium passengers a bespoke and unparalleled experience.

First class passengers can indulge in global cuisine, complimentary high speed Wi-Fi, a cigar bar, direct boarding, a quiet napping area and a Le Clos Wine Cellar, as well as business centre and even a in-lounge Duty Free boutique! Business class passengers also receive gourmet dining, including a health hub, complimentary high speed Wi-Fi, a business centre and direct boarding in the concourse A lounge.

You can also gain access to the Emirates business and first class lounge if you are travelling in Economy. You'll just need cough up between 150 - 300 USD. For a short 2 - 3 hour stopover, is it worth it? Maybe if budget means nothing and you would like a nice, refined place to spend a few hours resting or doing some work, other than that, I am not so sure.

If you are an Emirates Skywards Silver member and above, you can also have complimentary access to the business class lounge.

Final Thoughts

Dubai International Airport is a hub of the world. People travel from and to all corners of the globe from here, and while it is very busy most of the time, it has adapted over the last 10 years to ensure a seamless and comfortable passenger experience. In my opinion, they have done this very well. There are plenty of options to suit all budgets, whether you want a bite to eat, a bed to sleep in, a coffee in hand, or a lovely perfume, DXB has you covered.

One thing you will need to remember when travelling through Dubai Airport, is to expect higher than usual prices and lots of people, just so there are no false pretences, allowing you to enjoy your transit as much as possible.

Let me know your thoughts of DXB if you have transited through! I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences here!