Dubai International Airport Terminal 1, UAE: Complete Traveller’s Guide 2025
Few airports in the world can match the global scale and connectivity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) — a hub that welcomes millions of travelers each year. Among its three major terminals, Dubai Airport Terminal 1 stands as a gateway for over 50 international airlines, linking the UAE to every corner of the world.
Whether you’re landing in Dubai for business, embarking on a new journey, or waiting for a connecting flight, Terminal 1 offers an impressive range of shopping, dining, and relaxation experiences — all designed to make travel smoother, faster, and more enjoyable.
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 at a Glance
Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 is the main base for most international airlines, excluding Emirates and flydubai. It handles up to 30 million passengers annually, supported by world-class facilities, duty-free outlets, and efficient passenger services.
This terminal connects directly to Concourse D, home to luxury retail, premium lounges, and a vibrant food scene. For travelers, this means easy navigation between boarding gates, restaurants, and amenities — even during tight layovers.
Location: Where Is Dubai Airport Terminal 1?
Terminal 1 is situated within the Dubai International Airport complex in Al Garhoud, along Airport Road (D89).
The terminal is accessible via:
- Dubai Metro Red Line – direct access through Airport Terminal 1 Metro Station
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber
- Airport shuttle buses connecting all three terminals
If you’re driving, follow signs to Car Park A (Premium) or Car Park B (Economy) — both within a few minutes’ walk of the terminal entrance.
For navigation, travelers can use Google Maps or RTA route planner for precise directions.
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 Arrivals
Arriving passengers at Terminal 1 experience a streamlined and welcoming environment. The Arrivals Hall is equipped with immigration counters, currency exchange services, SIM card kiosks (Etisalat, Du, Virgin Mobile), and car rental desks from global providers like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Thrifty.
For those being picked up, Car Park B (Economy) is the most convenient, located just a 7–9 minute walk from the arrivals area. Flight information displays and ground staff ensure you can quickly find your way, even during peak hours.
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 Departures
Departures at Terminal 1 offer a seamless pre-flight experience. From self-check-in counters to smart baggage systems and biometric e-gates, DXB makes sure travelers move efficiently through the process.
Once you’ve cleared security, you’ll step into a lively concourse filled with luxury shopping, dining options, and lounges. Many passengers take advantage of the Marhaba Lounge or Plaza Premium Lounge for a quiet retreat before takeoff.
Dining at Dubai Airport Terminal 1
Traveling through Terminal 1 means you’re spoiled for culinary choice. The dining scene reflects Dubai’s global diversity — from Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine to international fast-food brands and artisan cafés.
Popular Restaurants
- The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck – California-inspired dishes by a celebrity chef
- The Noodle House – authentic Asian flavors
- Giraffe – family-friendly menu with global comfort food
- Masale: The Taste of India – traditional curries and biryanis
- Marrybrown, KFC, and McDonald’s – for quick, familiar bites
Cafés & Treats
If coffee is your pre-flight ritual, Terminal 1 won’t disappoint. Popular cafés include:
- Starbucks
- Costa Coffee
- Krispy Kreme
- Brioche Dorée
- O’Briens
You’ll find these across the departure halls and near gate waiting areas.
Shopping at Terminal 1: Dubai Duty-Free and Beyond
Dubai is synonymous with shopping — and DXB Terminal 1 captures that spirit perfectly. The Dubai Duty Free zone spans luxury fashion, electronics, perfumes, and travel essentials, offering both international and local brands.
Retail Highlights
- Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Burberry, and Chanel – luxury fashion and accessories
- Le Clos – fine wines and premium spirits
- Boots and Spinneys – travel health and daily essentials
- Gifts from Dubai – souvenirs and local specialties like dates and chocolates
Shopping at DXB is duty-free for all departing passengers, with prices often better than city malls.
Lounges and Relaxation
Terminal 1 offers several premium lounges for every type of traveler:
- Marhaba Lounge – excellent for all passengers, with buffet dining and showers
- Ahlan First & Business Class Lounges – top-tier comfort and gourmet food
- SkyTeam Lounge – open to SkyTeam alliance travelers
- Plaza Premium Lounge – pay-per-use access for any traveler
- sleep ’n fly Sleep Pods & Showers – ideal for layovers and long transits
- Be Relax Spa – massages, nail care, and relaxation treatments
Family travelers can also use kids’ play areas and unaccompanied minor lounges, ensuring everyone enjoys a stress-free journey.
Services & Amenities
From banking to medical care, Terminal 1 ensures travelers have everything they need within minutes:
- Currency Exchange: Al Ansari, Travelex
- Banking Services
- Telecom Providers: Etisalat, Du, Virgin Mobile
- Car Rentals: Avis, Budget, Hertz, Dollar, Europcar, Thrifty, and Yelo
- Travel & Tourism Desks: Dubai Tourism, One&Only Resorts, KitMyTrip
- Medical Assistance: Saudi German Hospital DXB branch
- Baggage Wrapping & Passenger Assistance: Dnata, Demoshield
Hotel Inside Dubai Airport Terminal 1
For those with long layovers or early flights, Dubai International Airport Hotel is directly accessible from Terminals 1 and 3. It features over 250 soundproof rooms, executive suites, and leisure facilities including a pool, gym, and spa.
📞 Contact: +971 4 224 5555
If you prefer nearby hotels, consider:
- Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Dubai
- Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport
- Ibis Styles Dubai Airport
Each offers free shuttle services to and from the terminal.
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 Parking
Terminal 1 Parking has two main zones:
| Duration | Car Park A (Premium) | Car Park B (Economy) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 min | AED 5 | — |
| 30 min | AED 30 | AED 25 |
| 2 hrs | AED 40 | AED 30 |
| 1 day | AED 125 | AED 85 |
Premium Parking (A) is ideal for quick drop-offs, while Economy (B) suits long-stay travelers.
Airlines Operating from Dubai Airport Terminal 1
Terminal 1 serves more than 50 international carriers, including:
- Air France
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Oman Air
- Turkish Airlines
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- IndiGo
- Air India
- Gulf Air
Flights operate primarily from Concourse D, easily reachable via the underground shuttle.
Getting to Terminal 1 via Metro
The Airport Terminal 1 Metro Station (Arabic: المطار- مبنى رقم 1) on the Dubai Metro Red Line connects directly to the terminal entrance. It opened in 2010 and remains one of the most convenient ways to reach DXB, avoiding traffic delays.
The station is also connected to multiple RTA bus routes and taxi ranks, ensuring smooth last-mile connectivity.
Key Takeaways
- Terminal 1 handles most international airlines at DXB.
- Direct access via Metro Red Line and Airport Road (D89).
- Offers 17 retail outlets, 14 restaurants, and 7 lounges.
- Connects to Concourse D for boarding and transfers.
- Can handle up to 30 million passengers annually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What hotels are near Dubai Airport Terminal 1?
Popular nearby options include Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan, Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport, and Ibis Styles Dubai Airport — all within a 5-minute drive with free shuttles.
How can I check flight status for Terminal 1?
Visit the official DXB Flight Status Portal or use the display screens throughout the terminal to view arrivals and departures in real time.
What’s the difference between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3?
Terminal 1 serves non-Emirates and non-flydubai airlines, while Terminal 3 is exclusively for Emirates and flydubai passengers.
How early should I arrive for a flight from Terminal 1?
Check-in usually opens 3 hours before departure and closes 60 minutes before takeoff. Aim to arrive early to enjoy shopping or lounge facilities stress-free.
What’s the best way to get to Terminal 1 from downtown Dubai?
The Dubai Metro Red Line is the fastest and most affordable option, offering direct access to the terminal. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services are available 24/7.
Final Thoughts
Dubai Airport Terminal 1 isn’t just a transit hub — it’s a microcosm of Dubai’s innovation, hospitality, and world-class service. From gourmet dining and luxury shopping to efficient passenger facilities, it perfectly embodies the city’s ambition to make travel an experience, not just a necessity.
Whether you’re landing in Dubai for the first time or departing after an unforgettable stay, Terminal 1 at DXB ensures every journey begins and ends with excellence.
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