Dubai International Airport (DXB) – Complete 2026 Travel & Transit Guide
Kapil Saini
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21-Feb-2026
Dubai International Airport, widely known as DXB, is the main airport of Dubai and one of the busiest international aviation hubs in the world. Connecting travelers to more than 200 global destinations across six continents, it serves as the primary gateway for tourists, business visitors, and transit passengers entering the UAE. Due to its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, DXB plays a crucial role in global air connectivity and long-haul travel routes.
If you are planning to land at Dubai International Airport, understanding its terminals, immigration procedures, and transit visa rules in advance can save valuable time and help you avoid entry-related complications. Proper preparation ensures a smooth arrival experience, especially during peak travel seasons.
For better planning, it’s always advisable to review a complete Dubai travel guide before departure so you know what to expect upon arrival.
What Is the Real Name of Dubai International Airport?
The official name is Dubai International Airport, and its internationally recognized IATA airport code is DXB. This code is used worldwide for flight bookings, baggage tags, boarding passes, and airline systems. Whenever you search for flights to Dubai or check your ticket details, you will see “DXB” mentioned instead of the full airport name.
Why Is Dubai Called DXB?
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“DXB” is the official airport code.
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It avoids duplication with other global airport codes.
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It is used in all international flight bookings.
Many travelers mistakenly search for Dubai airport DBX, but the correct airport code is DXB.
How Many International Airports Are in Dubai?
Dubai currently operates two major airports:
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Dubai International Airport (DXB) – The main passenger airport handling the majority of international traffic.
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Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) – Located in Dubai South and primarily used for cargo and selected passenger flights.
Among these, DXB remains the busiest and most important airport for international arrivals. Before departure, ensure your visa type matches your travel purpose. If unsure, explore different Dubai visit visa options suitable for tourism, business, or short-term stays.
Dubai International Airport Terminals Explained
Dubai International Airport operates through three terminals.
Dubai International Airport Terminal 1
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Handles major international airlines
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Includes Concourse D
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Immigration counters available
Dubai International Airport Terminal 2
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Serves regional and low-cost carriers
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Separate check-in area
Dubai International Airport Terminal 3
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Dedicated mainly to Emirates Airlines
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One of the largest airport terminals globally
If you have a layover, confirm your terminal in advance using this Dubai stopover guide.
Dubai International Airport Immigration Process
The Dubai International Airport immigration system is highly digitized and efficient.
Step-by-Step Immigration Process:
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Passport verification
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Biometric scan
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Visa validation
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Entry stamp
Passengers must meet Dubai visit visa requirements before arrival.
Many entry issues occur due to incomplete documentation. Review common reasons for Dubai visit visa rejection to avoid delays.
Dubai International Airport Transit Visa – Who Needs It?
If you are transiting via Dubai International Airport (DXB) and plan to exit the airport during your layover, you may require a Dubai international airport transit visa.
You May Need a Transit Visa If:
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Layover exceeds airline transit allowance
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You want to explore Dubai
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You are switching terminals and exiting
You can apply online for a Dubai transit visa or check the short-term option like 48 hours Dubai transit visa.
Dubai International Airport Duty Free & Facilities
Dubai International Airport Duty Free is globally known for luxury shopping.
Facilities include:
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Airport hotel
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VIP lounges
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Currency exchange
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Food courts
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Premium brand outlets
If you plan sightseeing after landing at Dubai International Airport DXB, explore the best places to visit in Dubai in advance.
Flights to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Popular routes include:
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Delhi to Dubai International Airport
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Chennai to DXB
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London to Dubai airport DXB
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Mumbai to Dubai
When applying for a visa, you may require a confirmed flight ticket for Dubai visit visa.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa Before Landing at DXB
If your nationality requires pre-approval, applying before traveling to Dubai International Airport is strongly recommended.
Simple Online Visa Process:
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Choose visa category
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Upload passport & documents
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Make secure payment
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Receive visa via email
You can check this complete guide to Dubai visit visa for clarity.
For faster processing and reduced rejection risk, consider applying via a trusted Dubai visa application portal to avoid immigration issues at DXB.
Final Verdict
Dubai International Airport (DXB) stands as a major global aviation hub connecting continents and millions of travelers each year. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or transit, proper preparation is essential.
Before booking your flight to Dubai airport DXB, confirm your visa eligibility, review immigration requirements, and apply in advance. A well-prepared traveler experiences faster clearance, fewer complications, and a stress-free arrival in Dubai.
- Dubai Travel Guide
- Dubai Airport UAE
- Transit Visa Dubai Immigration
- Dubai Tourism 2026
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