Things You Can Do During a Transit at Dubai Airport

Traveloka Team
15 Jan 2023 - 4 min read

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is without a doubt one of the world's most important transportation hubs. It serves over 70 million international travelers annually and links 260 destinations in the West and East.

With so many shops, restaurants, and other facilities, you do not need to worry about passing the time during a stopover at Dubai Airport. Of course, you can always sleep during your layover in Dubai. But with DXB's world-class facilities and the heart of Dubai just 5 kilometers (3 miles) away, there are plenty of other fun things to do in the area.

Here are some suggestions for passing the time at Dubai International Airport!

Eat A Plenty

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @lifestylememory

There are literally hundreds of restaurants to choose from, so you'll definitely be able to find something delicious. Indulge in a slow, sit-down lunch or go on a self-guided, multi-restaurant journey throughout the globe. You can order food from the Middle East, India, Thailand, Italy, Ireland, Texas, Mexico, and Japan.

Over 135 eateries provide a wide selection of cuisines at Dubai International Airport. Here’s our quick recommendation.

First stop: Do you want to sample some tasty pasta? Visit the Wolfgang Puck restaurant.
Do you have a serious desire for dim sum? Noodle House is available to meet your needs.
Next, Giraffe World Kitchen is the place to go if you're in the mood for some authentic Turkish pide. Halloumi and Feta Pide is a blend of halloumi, baba ganoush, and Turkish peppers, while Smoky Chicken Pide is grilled chicken on a bed of tomato sauce.
Last but not least, when you're craving the freshest seafood in Dubai, stop into Caviar House & Prunier's Seafood Bar. It is located at Terminal 3, Gate B 27. Moreover, you may also have beef ribs and steaks at Jack's Bar and Grill, located in Terminal 3, Gate A. So, it’s among the best things to do at terminal 3.

Visit Dubai

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @diana.grytsku

DXB is a short drive from the heart of Dubai. So, if you get a 5-plus hour Dubai stopover, sightseeing may be the most rewarding use of your time. There are a few ways you can go sightseeing from Dubai Airport:

Book A Tour

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @dianagrytsku

The first option is to take a Dubai city transit tour. Tours can help you enjoy Dubai in such a breeze, especially because you do not need to plan everything by yourself.

Numerous tour companies operate in the city, offering half-day and full-day excursions within and around the region. A lot of city tours offer a stop at the Burj Khalifa along with other iconic attractions.

Travel Alone

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @andreas

Take on the challenge of solo travel! Connecting T1 as well as T3 at the airports to the downtown area, the Dubai Metro features two lines.

If you want a birds-eye perspective of the city's immense architecture, upgrade to Gold Class and sit in the front carriage. You can also use other easily accessible transportation options, including buses and taxis.

There's a lot to see and do in the downtown area. As a tourist destination, Dubai is home to several "first in the world" and "biggest in the world" attractions. So, take a look at some of the best destinations you can get to:

1. Burj Khalifa

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Shutterstock

While in Dubai, the tallest structure in the world, the Burj Khalifa, should be your top priority. Here are a few tricks to maximize your visit: you can get there quickly by cab and avoid the long line by purchasing your tickets online.

The vistas from that height are breathtaking. Even if you don't want to travel to the top, you can still see the futuristic architecture, shop at the stores, and take pictures of the flowing fountains below.

The name of the place

Burj Khalifa

Location

Burj Park

Opening hours

24 hours

Ticket Price

Start from AED 149

2. The Dubai Mall

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @4045

Next stop: The world-famous Dubai Mall, which has more than 1,200 stores, can be reached in only a few minutes on foot from the Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Mall is indeed a must-see even if shopping isn't your thing. In addition to several theaters and a breathtaking indoor waterfall, the complex features an ice rink as well as a massive aquarium.

The name of the place

Dubai Mall

Location

Downtown Dubai

Opening hours

10AM - 12AM

Ticket Price

Free of charge

3. Jumeirah Beach

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @standret

Last, take a cab to Jumeirah Beach to take a selfie using the Burj al Arab hotel as a backdrop. You do not want to miss it since it is the only seven-star hotel in the world. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, likewise famous for its wave-like architecture, is not far away.

The name of the place

Jumeirah Beach

Location

Jumeirah District

Opening hours

24 hours

Ticket Price

Free of charge

Unwind at Airport Lounge

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @senivpetro

If you do not fancy sightseeing much, treat your stopover as though you were a First Class passenger! Passengers of any airline and service class are welcome at many Dubai airport lounges.

The cost of admission would vary depending on whether there was free food and drink, a calmer and more comfortable atmosphere, faster Internet connections, and in some cases, even showers. You can save money by reserving a lounge membership in advance or purchasing an online admission card.

Catch Some Sleep

Transit at Dubai Airport

Source: Freepik @yanalya

Every terminal at DXB has a "sleep 'n' fly" lounge where you can catch some breath. Sleeping quarters range from igloo-shaped pods to larger double rooms, so passengers may get some shut-eye in comfort.

If you're traveling with children, you can put them to sleep on one of the pull-out beds. Moreover, SnoozeCubes—private, soundproof cubicles that include a bed and television—are available for reservation at Terminal 1.

There are many more things to do at DXB such as relaxing at Zen Garden Dubai Airport or taking good care of yourself in the spa. To make it fun, download Traveloka, your lifestyle super app, and get more ideas on how to spend your transit at Dubai Airport. Have a blast!

Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe