Emirates Urges Early Airport Arrival Ahead of January Travel Surge
Emirates has issued a travel advisory ahead of a sharp rise in passenger traffic expected between 2 and 5 January 2026. The airline says departure roads, airport car parks and terminals at Dubai International Airport are likely to face heavy pressure during this period. Travellers are advised to allow extra time for every stage of the journey, including transport to the airport and security checks, as post-holiday demand remains high.
What Emirates Recommends During the Peak Period
To reduce congestion inside terminals, Emirates is encouraging customers to complete key steps before reaching the airport. Several off-site and at-home options remain available in Dubai and nearby emirates:
- City Check-In at DIFC (open daily until 15 January)
- 24-hour City Check-In in Ajman
- Home Check-In services in Dubai and Sharjah
Getting to DXB and Preparing Documents
The airline also advises passengers to plan how they reach Dubai International Airport, particularly during peak road traffic hours. Key guidance includes:
- Use the Dubai Metro for direct access to Terminal 3
- Complete online check-in before travelling to the airport
- Choose seats in advance where possible
- Check passports, visas and other travel documents ahead of time
- Arriving at the airport four hours before departure is advised
Early January remains a busy period for both long-haul and regional travel, covering winter getaways and return journeys after the holiday break. Easier access to the airport can make onward connections across Asia, Europe and Africa less time-consuming. Spending less time at check-in may also allow more flexibility for transfers, lounge visits and late schedule changes during a week that is typically crowded across the network.
The advisory comes as major airports handle heavy traffic after the holiday break, with flight schedules running at full capacity. Off-site check-in options and public transport are being promoted to ease pressure on terminals during one of the year’s busiest weeks. Services are due to run as planned, while airport operations shift their focus to keeping passenger flows moving as early January volumes climb.