As the festive season approaches, Dubai’s airports are gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has outlined a detailed plan to handle the expected surge in passenger numbers, ensuring that travel remains smooth and stress-free.

Growing Passenger Numbers

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has already seen impressive growth in 2024. From January to June alone, over 44.9 million passengers passed through its terminals, an 8% increase compared to last year. With the holiday season in full swing, these numbers are expected to rise even further, potentially setting new records.

How GDRFA is Managing the Holiday Rush

To keep things running efficiently during this busy time, GDRFA has implemented several key measures:

• Extra Staff on Duty: More personnel have been added at immigration counters to speed up processing times and reduce long lines.
• Smart Gate Technology: Passengers with registered biometrics can use Smart Gates for faster immigration clearance, cutting down waiting time significantly.
• Collaboration with Airlines: GDRFA is working closely with airlines and other partners to ensure flight schedules and passenger traffic are managed seamlessly.

Travel Tips for Holiday Passengers

If you’re planning to travel this festive season, here are some tips to make your experience as hassle-free as possible:

1. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time by reaching the airport at least three hours before your flight.
2. Check In Online: Using online check-in can save you time and reduce the stress of standing in long queues.

Stay Updated: Keep an eye on your flight status and double-check that your contact information is up-to-date with your airline to receive any updates.