Dubai · airport guide
Dubai Airport guide
Dubai International Airport has Terminals 1, 2 and 3 (Emirates, Concourses A, B and C). The quickest way from DXB to downtown Dubai is the Dubai Metro Red Line (about 25 minutes, about AED 5–8 ($1.50–$2.25)).
Verified Oct 17, 2026By Steven MoHow we check Report a correction
Dubai Metro Red Line, about AED 5–8 ($1.50–$2.25)
about AED 50–80 ($14–$22)
Same terminal, no passport control
Layover you need to visit the city
Quick answer
The quickest way from DXB to downtown Dubai is the Dubai Metro Red Line (about 25 minutes, about AED 5–8 ($1.50–$2.25)). Connecting here, allow at least 1 h 15 min for a connection in the same terminal. Airlines here include Emirates, flydubai and United.
- Terminals
- Terminals 1, 2 and 3 (Emirates, Concourses A, B and C)
- Taxi
- 15–30 min, about AED 50–80 ($14–$22)
- Connecting
- At least 1 h 15 min for a connection in the same terminal
- Lounges
- Emirates lounges (Concourses A, B and C); Marhaba and Ahlan lounges
- Hotel
- Dubai International Hotel, airside in Terminals 1 and 3
Getting from DXB to downtown Dubai
Fares are one way and approximate; check the operator before you travel.
- Dubai Metro Red Lineto Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mallabout 25 minabout AED 5–8 ($1.50–$2.25)
- Taxi or rideshare15–30 minabout AED 50–80 ($14–$22)
Inside DXB
Terminals and connections
Emirates connections stay within Terminal 3, where a train links Concourse A with Concourses B and C. Transfers to Terminal 1 use airside buses.
How long a layover you need at DXBLounges
- •Emirates lounges (Concourses A, B and C)
- •Marhaba and Ahlan lounges
Sleep, showers and hotels
- •Dubai International Hotel, airside in Terminals 1 and 3
Plugs and power
Outlets in the United Arab Emirates are Type G at 230 V. Which adapter to pack
DXB tips
- •Most Emirates connections never leave Terminal 3.
Can you leave DXB on a layover?
With at least 4 h between flights, yes. Here's where the time goes.
- Off the plane, through passport control and out45 min
- To downtown Dubai and back, the fastest way30 min
- Time in town worth the trip1 h
- Back through security and passport control to your gate1 h 30 min
- Layover you need4 h
U.S. citizens get a free visa on arrival for short stays.
Keep your bags checked through and carry your boarding pass for the next flight. On a long layover, a hotel day room or lounge can be a better use of the time than a rushed trip into town.
Airlines at DXB
Major airlines that fly from DXB (not a complete list). Check the bag rules before you pack.
- Emirates Carry-on 55 × 38 × 20 cm Bag fees
- flydubai Carry-on 55 × 38 × 20 cm
- United Airlines Carry-on 22 × 14 × 9 in Bag fees
DXB airport FAQ
The quickest option is the Dubai Metro Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall: about 25 minutes for about AED 5–8 ($1.50–$2.25). A taxi takes 15–30 min (about AED 50–80 ($14–$22)).
Sources
Last verified Oct 17, 2026. Fares, lounges, airlines and parking change; check with the operator or airport before you travel.
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