If you’ve lived in Dubai long enough, you know that when the rain hits, the city’s rhythm changes instantly. This weekend, that change is hitting right at the peak of the winter travel rush. As we head into one of the busiest periods of the year for Dubai International Airport (DXB), the weather has taken on a role of its own.
Dubai’s flagship carriers, Emirates and flydubai, have issued an urgent Dubai travel advice for all passengers flying out on Thursday, December 18, and Friday, December 19. With a forecast of heavy rainfall, thunder, lightning, and winds reaching up to 65km/h, the message is simple: give yourself more time.
While the sight of rain in the desert can be beautiful, it brings significant challenges for those trying to catch a flight. From reduced visibility on the E11 and E311 to water accumulation on airport access roads, the journey to the terminal is expected to be much longer than usual.
The 4-Hour Rule: Why Emirates and flydubai are Sounding the Alarm
Both airlines are now strongly recommending that passengers arrive at the airport at least four hours before their scheduled departure. Under normal circumstances, two or three hours might suffice, but with an average of 300,000 people expected to pass through DXB daily this December, the combination of holiday crowds and “unstable weather” is a recipe for potential delays.
Emirates has specifically noted that road conditions could be tricky. For those who usually rely on a taxi or a private car, the airline suggests considering the Dubai Metro. The Metro remains one of the most reliable ways to bypass road congestion during a downpour, as it connects directly to Terminals 1 and 3.
Special Update for Premium Travelers
If you are traveling in First or Business Class with a confirmed Emirates Chauffeur Drive booking, keep an eye on your phone. The airline has announced that pick-up times for Thursday and Friday have been moved up. Chauffeur services will now arrive one hour earlier than scheduled to help you avoid the gridlock.
It’s a smart move by the airline, but it also highlights the severity of the expected traffic. Even with a dedicated driver, the roads are unpredictable when the “orange alert” is active.
Navigating Terminal 2 with flydubai
For those flying out of Terminal 2 with flydubai, the advice is equally firm. Check-in for flydubai flights closes exactly 60 minutes before departure, and there is very little room for flexibility during these peak weather events.
To save yourself the stress of standing in long queues while the clock ticks down, the airline recommends using the self-service kiosks in Terminal 2. You can print your own baggage tags and head straight to the dedicated bag-drop desks. Also, if you’re coming from the Northern Emirates, don’t forget that flydubai offers a City Check-in service in Sharjah, which could save you a massive headache at the main terminal.
Staying Updated in Real-Time
In the digital age, your best friend during a storm is a fully updated “Manage Your Booking” page. Both airlines are urging travelers to ensure their local contact numbers and emails are correct.
If there is a flight rescheduling or a gate change—which happens frequently when lightning delays ground handling operations—you want that SMS to hit your phone immediately. Check your flight status before leaving for the airport to see if the airline has changed your departure time.
Safety First: A Note to Residents
While the focus is on travel, the Dubai Police have also sent out a general safety alert to all residents. They recommend avoiding beaches, valleys, and areas prone to flash flooding until midday Friday. For many of us, a rainy day in Dubai means heading out for a “karak and rain” drive, but authorities are asking everyone to stay home unless travel is necessary—like catching that long-awaited holiday flight.
Dubai built its reputation on efficiency; even during the rain, DXB works around the clock to keep the world moving. By following this Dubai travel advice, arriving early, and staying patient, you can ensure your holiday starts on the right note, despite what’s happening in the skies.
Read More: Dubai Flights Resume as Airports Return to Full Capacity
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