Top things to do at Dubai International Airport

Dine and unwind

The world’s leading designers have found a home at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Skip the mall and indulge in some retail therapy before your flight at Dubai Duty Free across all terminals. Choose from the latest Chanel handbags, iconic Tiffany & Co. rings, shoes from Jimmy Choo and plenty more. There are also some unique experiences, such as the Guerlain pop-up in Terminal 3, Concourse B and C, where you can customise your bottle of perfume.

Take a break from shopping to unwind with a meal. DXB has more than 100 food outlets so you can embark on a culinary journey around the world, or simply dine on your favourite flavours in eateries at every terminal. Try Giraffe’s katsu chicken noodles in Terminal 1, sink your teeth into a sandwich at The Hangar in Terminal 3 or indulge in Hard Rock Cafe’s famous Original Legendary Burger, also in Terminal 3.

Access premium lounges

The lounges offer everything from fresh juice bars and dedicated baristas to in-lounge Duty Free boutiques for a more exclusive shopping experience. Sit back, enjoy great food and relax in the executive surroundings, 24 hours a day.

If you’d like to stay on top of work, the lounges also offer a range of business services, while the free airport Wi-Fi network is fast, reliable and accessible across all terminals, with speeds of up to 100mbps. 

One of the highlights is the Plaza Premium Lounge located in Terminal 3, where you can enjoy live cooking stations and a butler service at the family suites.

Book in some me time

While long-haul flights can often take a toll, DXB has just the remedy. Whether you’re looking for a stress-busting massage, relaxing shoulder rub or simply a quick mani/pedi before you board your flight, there’s a beauty haven for you. Choose from Be Relax, XpresSpa and Timeless Spa for a refreshing experience before your flight.

A swimming pool in an airport might sound unlikely, but that’s exactly what DXB offers. The Dubai International Hotel has a fantastic pool that’s open to all passengers, not just hotel guests. It’s the perfect pick-me-up in between connecting flights. If you’d prefer to work out, the hotel’s health club also features a modern gym, and you can even unwind in the jacuzzi and steam room afterwards. 

DXB also has a dedicated Kids Zone at Terminal 3, featuring interactive games, family-friendly entertainment and restaurants, giving children (and their parents) some much-needed downtime. 

Get some shut eye

Designed with comfort in mind, the sleep 'n' fly lounges at DXB’s Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are the perfect places for a power nap. With igloo-styled sleep pods to choose from, as well as bigger double cabins with pull-out beds for kids, you can get some well-deserved rest and relaxation before your flight.

Terminal 3 is also home to the Dubai International Hotel, conveniently located after security in Concourses A, B, and C. Complete with orthopaedic mattresses, 24-hour room service and its own spa, the hotel has everything you need to wind down and catch up on sleep.   

Still got a couple of hours left before your flight while on a short layover? Use the airport’s speedy Wi-Fi – available to all passengers – to stream your favourite shows or catch up with friends on social media.

Want to enjoy a stopover in Dubai? Discover everything you need to know for your short trip – choose from the city's newest hotels and plan your itinerary with this guide.