Exploring Dubai Airport: Things To Do And See

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's most important transport hubs, connecting 260 destinations and serving more than 70 million international passengers. The airport offers a wide range of entertainment and amenities to keep travellers occupied during their layovers. From zen gardens and sleeping pods to high-end shopping and dining, there's something for everyone at DXB. The airport is also just a few minutes away from the Dubai city centre, making it a great place to start your vacation early.

Relax in the Zen Gardens

If you're looking for a quiet place to relax and unwind in Dubai Airport, the Zen Gardens in Terminal 3 is the perfect spot. Located between gates B7 and B27, this indoor oasis offers a peaceful retreat for passengers seeking a moment of calm before their flight.

The Zen Gardens feature a fish pond, lush trees, shrubs, bushes, and palm trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Benches are scattered throughout the garden, inviting you to take a seat, relax, and listen to the soothing sounds of trickling water. It's the perfect spot to catch up on some reading or simply unwind amidst nature.

For those travelling with children, the Zen Gardens also provide a play area to keep the little ones occupied while you enjoy some downtime. The peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of the garden offer a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of airport life.

Unfortunately, recent visitors have reported that the Zen Gardens may no longer be accessible, as it has been allegedly replaced by an Adidas store. However, if you do have the chance to visit, it is a great place to relax and meditate during your layover or before boarding your flight.

Eat and drink in the airport lounges

Dubai International Airport has a range of lounges with food and drink offerings. If you're flying Business or First Class, you'll be granted access to Dubai Airport's exclusive lounges. However, if you're flying Economy, you can still access lounges for a fee. Here are some of the lounges you can visit:

Ahlan Business Class Lounge

The Ahlan Business Class Lounge is perfect for those who want to experience Business Class luxury before boarding their flight. It offers a wide selection of food and drinks, along with a children's play area and express spa treatments. This lounge is located in Terminal 1, Concourse D, and prices start from Dhs200 per person for a four-hour stay.

Marhaba Lounges

Marhaba Lounges can be found in Terminals 1, 2, and 3, offering stylish and exclusive spaces to relax before your flight. These lounges feature international cuisine, including hot and cold beverages, and comfortable seating. You can also pay extra for access to a sleeping room. Prices start from Dhs194 for a two-hour pass.

Al Majlis Lounge

For a VIP experience, the Al Majlis Lounge in Terminal 3 offers luxurious amenities and services. In addition to food and drinks, this lounge provides a dedicated Dubai Duty-Free outlet, separate immigration, customs, and security checks, and transportation to the departure gate in a BMW Series 7 vehicle. The price is Dhs2500 per adult and Dhs50 per child.

Cadiz-Ahlan Lounge @ B

If you prefer à la carte dining, the Cadiz-Ahlan Lounge @ B in Terminal 3 serves international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This lounge also offers digital copies of international newspapers and magazines, and massage chairs. Prices start from Dhs200 for a four-hour stay.

Plaza Premium Lounge

The Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 3 caters to all types of travellers, offering a stylish space with an array of food options. You can also pay extra for a private sleeping room and shower facilities. Prices start from Dhs180 for a three-hour stay.

The Gallery by Dubai International Hotel

Located in Terminal 3, Concourse B, The Gallery by Dubai International Hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere with a buffet, massage chairs, and shower facilities. Children under 2 years old are admitted free with an adult. Prices start from Dhs200 for a four-hour stay.

In addition to these lounges, Dubai International Airport also has sleep 'n fly pods available in Terminal 3 for a quick nap between flights.

Shop in the duty-free stores

Dubai Duty-Free offers a wide range of products, from high-end designer brands to local goods, making it a shopper's paradise. With endless duty-free areas and international boutiques, you can easily spend hours exploring the options. Here's a detailed guide to make the most of your shopping experience at Dubai Airport:

Fashion and Accessories:

Dubai Duty-Free offers an extensive collection of fashion and accessories from renowned designers. You'll find luxury brands such as Gucci, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Bulgari, and Marc Jacobs, as well as high-street favourites like H&M. The French fashion house's sleek boutique, located in Terminal 3, houses luxury goods, fragrances, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, footwear, and eyewear. If you're looking for athletic and lifestyle apparel, Adidas in Terminal 3 has you covered. You can also step into the Burberry outlet for some luxury shopping.

Electronics:

For gadget lovers, Dubai Duty-Free's Electronics section is a haven. You can find innovative haircare technologies at the Dyson pop-up in Terminal 3, Concourse A. Additionally, you're likely to find cameras and phones at prices lower than those in the malls.

Beauty and Cosmetics:

Dubai Duty-Free offers an extensive selection of beauty products and cosmetics. You can find everything from fragrances to skincare and makeup. Aesop, located in Terminal 3, provides a sensory experience with personalised skincare consultations and renowned formulations. Le Clos, in Terminals 1 and 3, offers fine wines, luxury spirits, and limited-edition specialities from around the world.

Food and Drink:

Dubai Duty-Free caters to a range of culinary tastes. Indulge in gourmet chocolate boxes, French caviar, or explore the Middle East's beloved candy store, Candylicious. If you're looking for last-minute gifts, Bath & Body Works offers fine fragrance mists, shower gels, body lotions, and creams. You can also stock up on travel essentials at Boots or satisfy your sweet tooth at Carrefour, conveniently located within the airport.

Souvenirs and Gifts:

Dubai Duty-Free has an array of souvenirs and traditional gifts to bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Pick up local goods such as dry fruits or chocolates, or try your luck by purchasing raffle tickets for a chance to win cash, gold, or luxury cars.

Unwind at the spa

Dubai International Airport is a great place to unwind and relax at the spa during a layover. The airport is home to several spas offering a range of treatments, from massages and aromatherapy to haircuts and manicures.

One popular option is the Timeless Spa, located in the First Class and Business Class Lounges, as well as the Dubai International Airport Hotel. Here, you can choose from a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, and hair styling. The spa offers a soothing ambiance to help you unwind and recharge before your flight.

Another option is the XpresSpa, located at Departure Gate B. They offer a range of treatments such as facials, manicures, reflexology, and massages. If you're looking for a quick fix, the Be Relax spa, located in Terminal 3 Concourses A, B, and D, offers express manicures, pedicures, and massages.

For a more luxurious experience, the 24/7 Timeless Spa at the Dubai International Airport Hotel is a great option. Here, you can truly unwind and relax with indulgent treatments in a tranquil setting.

Dubai International Airport also has a Health Club located near the Dubai International Hotel, accessible from Terminals 1 and 3. The club offers a swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, gym, and shower facilities for a fee. It's the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate during a long layover.

Explore the city

With the city centre just 5 kilometres away from the airport, Dubai's top attractions are easily accessible. The Dubai Metro has two lines servicing Terminals 1 and 3, connecting with the city centre. Alternatively, taxis and buses are readily available.

Once in the city centre, there is plenty to explore. Dubai is known for its attractions, which are often described as "the largest of its kind" or "the first in the world". A visit to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, takes about 1 hour. The Dubai Mall is also impressive, with over 1,000 shops, skating rinks, interactive arcades, playing areas, and countless restaurants. Even if you're not a shopper, it's a must-see. With a little more time, head to Old Dubai to see the traditional souks and marketplaces that sell a variety of local goods.

Many tour operators offer half- or full-day excursions in and around the city. City highlight tours stop by the Burj Khalifa and other top attractions.

Frequently asked questions