06 January 2009 03:10 GMT
AirAsia Indonesia starts flights to Singapore
London City goes 'silent' this month
Easyjet to open more routes from Geneva
Keep flying wise! Sign up for our free e-newsletter The Transiter, which delivers the latest airport travel tips, news and feedback straight to your inbox every month
Arriving and departing
Checking in
- There are five check-in zones divided up according to airlines and sometimes by destinations too, so check the electronic boards carefully or ask someone to help.
- Some airlines have self-service check-in, so look in the specific zone to see if your airline offers this.
- A dedicated check-in zone is available for First and Business Class passengers on Emirates.
- The 'Tony Salon' hairdressers – which offers pre-flight trims and cuts 24 hours a day.
- If you’re coming in and out of Dubai regularly, then it’s worth signing up for the E-gate service. For a fee of Dhs 200 ($55), travellers are issued an electronic card that replaces the need for a passport stamp and allows you to skip the passport control queue on both exit and entry. The card lasts two years and is applicable to those nationalities who do not require a pre-arranged visa on arrival in Dubai. See our Visas section for more details.
Checking in at Terminal 2
Terminal 2, a fraction of the size of Terminal 1, is located about 5 minutes’ taxi ride from the main terminal on the other side of the airport complex. It’s used mainly for charter travel and short flights to Iran or other parts of the Middle East, but occasionally takes overflow traffic from Terminal 1 during busy periods.
Facilities within Terminal 2 include a smaller Duty Free outlet, as well as prayer rooms, eating and drinking facilities and a Marhaba Services office for those travellers who have booked a meet-and-greet service. Passengers transiting between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 should ask at the information desks to locate a shuttle bus between the two terminals.
One useful tip regarding transport: when leaving Terminal 2 after landing, it can sometimes be difficult to find a taxi. To avoid getting stranded when you touch down, it’s a good idea to book one before you travel – try the major companies like Dubai Taxi (+971 4 208 0808) or National Taxi (+971 4 336 6611). Fares into the city and beyond are roughly comparable to those from Terminal 1.
Comments, feedback, tips or advice?
Post it using the box below.