Table of contents
Quick answer
Terminal 3 is Emirates' terminal, Terminal 1 serves most other international airlines, and Terminal 2 handles flydubai and a number of regional carriers. Terminals 1 and 3 have Metro stations and share one site; Terminal 2 is on the other side of the airfield. Check your ticket for the terminal, and give it to your driver when you book a transfer.
1Which airlines use which terminal at DXB?
| Terminal | Main airlines | Metro |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Main airlinesMost international airlines outside Emirates | MetroYes (Red Line) |
| Terminal 2 | Main airlinesflydubai and several regional airlines | MetroNo |
| Terminal 3 | Main airlinesEmirates | MetroYes (Red Line) |
Airlines move occasionally. Your booking confirmation shows the terminal for your flight.
2Where do drivers and taxis pick you up?
Pre-booked drivers usually wait in the arrivals hall with a name sign, or give you a meeting point by message after you land. Taxis use the signed ranks outside arrivals. Uber and Careem have their own marked pick-up areas, usually in the car park or a designated lane.
Tell your transfer company the terminal and flight number. A driver at the wrong terminal is the most common reason for a long wait.
3How do you move between terminals?
Terminals 1 and 3 are close and connected, and the Metro links them in one stop. Terminal 2 is on the far side of the airport: an airport shuttle bus runs between the terminals for connecting passengers, and a taxi takes around 15–20 minutes in traffic. Allow plenty of time if your connection involves Terminal 2.
4What transport runs from each terminal?
- Terminals 1 and 3: Metro Red Line, taxis, buses, ride-hailing and pre-booked transfers.
- Terminal 2: taxis, buses, ride-hailing and pre-booked transfers; no Metro.
- All terminals: car rental desks, some in the terminal and some a short shuttle away.
Emirates passengers at Terminal 3 arrive at one of the world's busiest halls. If you have a transfer booked, message the driver when you reach baggage claim, not when you land.
5What about Dubai's other airport, DWC?
Al Maktoum International (DWC) in Dubai South is a separate airport about 45–60 minutes from Downtown. Some low-cost and charter flights use it. It has no Metro, so plan a taxi or transfer — and never assume 'Dubai airport' on a ticket means DXB.
6What you will find in arrivals
- SIM cards and eSIM plans from the UAE operators.
- ATMs and currency exchange.
- Car rental desks, or directions to their shuttle.
- Taxi ranks, ride-hailing pick-up areas and the Metro at Terminals 1 and 3.
- Cafés and meeting points where drivers wait.
7Tips for connecting flights
- Check whether your connection changes terminal — especially to or from Terminal 2.
- Allow extra time if you must collect and re-check bags.
- Follow the transfer signs rather than the exit if you are not leaving the airport.
Booked a transfer on a connecting ticket? Give the driver your final arrival flight, not the first leg.
Frequently asked questions
Which terminal is Emirates at Dubai Airport?
Terminal 3.
Which terminal is flydubai?
Mainly Terminal 2, though some flydubai flights use Terminal 3. Check your booking.
How far is Terminal 2 from Terminal 3?
They are on opposite sides of the airfield — around 15–20 minutes by road, or longer on the shuttle.
Does Terminal 2 have a Metro station?
No. Only Terminals 1 and 3 do.
What is Concourse D at Dubai Airport?
Concourse D is part of Terminal 1 and is used by many international airlines. It is linked to the main Terminal 1 building by a short automated train, so allow a few extra minutes to reach passport control or your gate.
How do I find out which terminal my flight uses?
Check your ticket or the airline's app — the terminal is usually shown on the booking, and Dubai Airports lists airlines by terminal. If you are unsure, give your driver the airline and flight number.
Is Dubai Airport open 24 hours?
Yes. DXB operates around the clock, and taxis, transfers and ride-hailing run through the night. The Metro does not — it stops around midnight and restarts in the morning.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
