WHAT TO DO IN DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Crowned as the world’s busiest airport by international traffic, Dubai International Airport (DXB) continues to break records. In November 2024 alone, it welcomed around 92.3 million passengers—a 6% increase from the previous year. Nicknamed the “Airport of the World,” DXB connects the East and West like no other hub. To meet the needs of its growing and diverse crowd, the airport has transformed into more than just a transit point—it’s now a destination in itself. In addition, Dubai International is categorized as a “silent airport”, with no announcements it ensures an undisturbed experience, but adding an extra responsibility upon travelers’ shoulders to keep a keen eye on their flight updates.

With a wide range of shopping, dining, entertainment, and wellness experiences, navigating through DXB’s endless corridors can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this quick guide to help you make the most of your time, whether you’re here for a short stop or a longer layover.

What to do in Terminal 1

Serving airlines like Air France, British Airways, Delta, Air India, and Egypt Air, Terminal 1 is a hub for international connections. It’s filled with a mix of food and wellness options that cater to every taste and travel need.

• The Daily DXB: We highly commend this trendy food court housing five eateries under one roof. Offering a casual experience with the food classics from Hawaii, Italy, Hong Kong, and the Southern USA. It offers options whether you’re craving wood-fired pizza, a healthy poke bowl, spicy noodles, or rice.

• Dubai International Hotel & G-Force Health Club: Located airside and accessible from both Terminals 1 and 3, this hotel offers comfortable and high-end rooms for layovers and access to the G-Force Health Club. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, relax in the jacuzzi and sauna, or get a workout in the fully equipped gym. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can still access the facilities for a fee.

• Be Relax Spa (Near Gate D9): Need a quick recharge? Choose from 15 to 60-minute chair massages, high-tech loungers, or if you have more time, indulge in a full-body massage. In addition to a full-body massage, enjoy a complimentary sound healing add-on for extra dose of relaxation.

What to do in Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is the smallest of the three and mainly serves regional and budget airlines, handling around 10 million passengers annually. While it offers fewer amenities than Terminals 1 and 3, it still caters well to travelers’ essential needs.

• Family Areas: Parents traveling with young children will appreciate the baby care rooms for privacy and comfort. There’s also a dedicated play area where kids can burn off some energy.
• Marhaba Lounge: Located in all the terminal in Dubai International Airport, passengers can access the Marhaba Lounge for a fee. It’s a cozy space to relax, snack, and recharge.
•  Jones the Grocer: Craving something fresh? This popular venue offers a refined yet accessible menu of healthy meals, sandwiches, and beverages—all freshly prepared.

What to do in Terminal 3

Exclusively serving Emirates and FlyDubai flights, Terminal 3 is the airport’s largest terminal and a paradise for families, foodies, and wellness seekers.

• Family Zone (B25): Let the kids burn off some energy in this vibrant playground area while you relax nearby. The space often hosts events during special occasions throughout the year, like the International Wellness Day in August. When Dubai International Airport and Be Relax joined forces to offer passengers free yoga and sound healing sessions. Have a look at our last event!
• Game Space: Located near the Family Zone, this is the first airport gaming lounge in the region. With the latest PCs and consoles, solo and multiplayer gaming is available for all style of gamers. Believe it or not the lounge operates 24/7—and yes, you can order food while you play!

• Treehouse Juicery: We highly recommend Treehouse for a light and healthy snack before your flight. Great for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

• Comptoir Libanais: Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Lebanese cuisine in a colorful, sit-down setting, adding some Middle-Eastern authenticity to your layover.

• Be Relax Spa (Gates A & B): With six locations throughout Terminal 3, it’s easy to find your moment of calm and a quick dose of wellness in any of our locations. Looking for the full wellness experience? Head to the newest spa near Gate A1 for private jungle- themed treatment rooms offering sound healing add-ons, and luxury shower facilities for both men and women.

Whether you’re in Dubai International Airport for two hours or twelve, there’s no shortage of things to do. From gaming lounges and kids’ play zones to spa retreats and world-class dining, DXB offers something for every kind of traveler. Don’t forget to follow Be Relax on social media and check out our spa locations worldwide to plan your next wellness escape, wherever your journey takes you!