*Last updated on: 25 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Dubai International Airport

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a fact of life for the foreseeable future - and it has led to some changes in the way we travel. Thankfully the best airports in the world are taking extra precautions to ensure that passengers and others visiting their terminals are kept safe during both the departure and arrivals process. One of the leaders in going that extra mile to ensure the highest levels of safety and hygiene is Dubai International Airport. Here are some of the COVID-19 safety measures at Dubai International Airport that have been instituted to ensure that passengers enjoy a world-class airport experience, while at the same time remaining healthy.

Before reaching your terminal

Dubai International Airport has provided passengers with the option of enjoying a chauffeur-driven experience on their way to the airport. For example, Emirates offer chauffeur service to travellers, including transport to and from Dubai International Airport. Chauffeurs will be wearing gloves and masks to ensure the safety of passengers, and passengers are themselves requested to wear masks during the trip. Both gloves and masks will be made available. A hand sanitiser is also available in-car and each vehicle is sanitized after each trip to ensure the highest possible hygiene standards.

The check-in experience at Dubai International Airport

Those checking in for flights at Dubai International Airport are required to wear masks. It is important to note that only those travelling will be granted access to the airport (unless they require assistance due to physical limitations). The check-in process is simplified due to the fact that the airport has state-of-the-art thermal scanners that operate in a similar manner to metal detectors, reducing the need for personal contact. Each traveller will be supplied with a personal hygiene kit consisting of gloves, antibacterial wipes, a face mask and hand sanitiser. Masks are to be worn at all times in the airport (this rule is also applicable to those who are transitting through Dubai International to connecting flights) - and masks are to be worn aboard all flights on the national carrier. As an added hygiene measure each check-in counter is now fitted with antimicrobial screens. Floors are clearly marked to make social distancing easier. All staff at check-in will be wearing PPE protection and floor markers to assist passengers in maintaining social distancing are prominently displayed.

Emirates Airport Lounges

Dubai International Airport is well known for the quality of its Emirates Lounges. These are now also compliant with global best practice when it comes to COVID-19 hygiene standards. Business Class, First Class, and qualifying Emirates Skywards passengers will enjoy the peace of mind provided by the airport's increased focus on hygiene standards and focus on reducing person-to-person contact. Entrance areas now have social distancing floor markings and lounges have restricted guest numbers. Spacing between tables and chairs has been increased and are more regularly sanitised, as are the touchpoints in washrooms. Food and beverage orders can be placed via a contactless menu by scanning a QR code with a smart device, however, the buffet service is still available.

COVID-19 Updates at Dubai International Airport

Regular updates on the requirements for entry into Dubai for passengers arriving or departing Dubai International. Recent updates include guidelines regarding the necessity for residents and non-residents to undergo COVID-19 PCR testing. Such testing is dependant on the country of origin of the flight. Those arriving at Dubai International are strongly urged to check this information prior to flying into Dubai. Currently, a negative PCR test that has been taken no later than 72 hours before departure is required. Those departing Dubai may be required to undergo testing in terms of the regulations governing their destination countries. The website contains valuable information on approved labs for these testing. PCR testing is not available at the airport so passengers are encouraged to visit one of the many testing facilities in Dubai in order to obtain the relevant documentation clearing them for outgoing flights. Further information on testing requirements and sites can be found on the Dubai Airport website.

Duty-free and dining at Dubai International Airport

Dubai International Airport duty-free remains open and still offers an incredible selection of products from some of the world's leading brands. Other stand-alone retail options such as outlets like Boots, Bath & Body Works, pharmacies, Carolina Herrera and Chanel offer more choice. All dining outlets and restaurants in Terminal 3 remain open. International-style dining options offer great choice, and a number of food stalls are ideal for a quick bite. Well-known international fast food operations, such as Burger King, offer the comfort of familiarity even when travellers are far from home. An impressive number of coffee/cafe outlets round off the offering.

Getting to Dubai

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