15 Best Things to do in Dubai Airport While on Transit!

Things to do in Dubai Airport

If you are looking for things to do in Dubai Airport ahead of your Dubai trip, you will be surprised to know that this busy airport brings enough engaging activities at your disposal. So, now you no more need to dread the waiting hours between your connecting flights as there are plenty of things to do at the airport.

Whether you wish to shop trendy outfits from its duty-free stores or spend some time amidst natural surroundings, Dubai International airport has enough provisions to make your wishes come true. You can also avail the of top-notch massage services at its spa centre and relax your muscles ahead of your flight.

The airport has a special kid zone for travelers who are accompanied by their kids. In addition to using these extravagant services, you can surf the internet for as long as you want with their free internet. If you still feel daunted by long transit hours, especially when gearing up for an exciting Dubai trip, here is a rundown of all the things to do near Dubai airport for turning a mundane flight journey into an exciting one.

Here are some of the Best Things to do at Dubai Airport:

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Things To Do At Dubai Airport

01

Enjoy Meals at Cafes of Airport

  • At Dubai Airport, there are more than a hundred cafes and restaurants where you may try a wide range of flavors and cuisine.

  • From lasagna to spaghetti, you’ll be treated with the best Italian food at Carluccios and Wolfgang Puck. 

  • One can also taste the best beef ribs and steaks at Jack's Bar and Grill. 

  • For people who love Sesame Tofu and Shanghai noodles, also dim sums, the Noodle House will fill your tummies. 

  • If you’re in the mood for some fast foods, both vegetarian and non-veg, Burger King, Starbucks, Shake Shack, and McDonald's are just a few options available.

  • Hard Rock Cafe and Nutella Cafe are the famous ones which are open at night too, and dining here is one of the best things to do in Dubai Airport during a Dubai family trip.

Price: The approximate cost for food and beverages at Dubai International airport is AED 100 for two people.

Timings: Open for 24 hours

Recommended Read: Popular Elegant Cafes in Dubai
02

Relax at the Airport Lounge

  • Dubai International Airport boasts various lounges, Marhaba Lounge, International First-Class Lounge, and Business Class Lounge are just some of the prominent ones.

  • Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines, and a flight information monitor are available in the airport lounges, allowing you to relax and get up-to-date flight information. 

  • Everything is available in the lounges, from fresh juice bars to baristas and eateries. 

  • Relaxing in one of these private lounges during a layover is one of the best things to do in Dubai Airport. 

Price: USD 100-USD200

Timings: The lounges remain open for 24 hours a day
03

Shop at Duty-Free Shops of Airport

  • There are plenty of duty-free shops in Emirates Terminal 3 which are open 24 hours a day, and shopping here is one of the amazing things to do in Dubai Airport. 

  • Apple, La Mer, Dior, and Armani are among the top luxury brands worth visiting and shopping at.

  • Apart from Terminal 3, duty free shops like WHSmith are located at Dubai Airport's other terminals too.

  • You can also pick up perfumes, spices, handicrafts and dry fruits, to offer as a gift to your friends and family members

Timings: The duty-free shops remain open throughout the day

Also Read: Best Places for Shopping in Dubai
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04

Visit Indoor Gardens at Terminal 3

  • Within terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport lies a beautiful Zen Garden, which can be a perfect place to relax in the middle of natural surroundings.

  • This section of the airport is the most attractive, with lush green trees and a fish pond.

  • If you're looking for a great place to read a book or catch up on some work, this is the place.

  • A play area for youngsters is also available in the Zen Garden to keep them occupied.

  • The beautiful backgrounds add up significantly, and clicking Instagram able pictures here is one of the best things to do in Dubai Airport. 

Timings: The garden remains open to visitors throughout the day

You May Also Like: Best Tourist Places to Visit in Dubai
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05

Take a Session at the Spa

  • During your stop or layover, getting lavish massages and facials is one of the most relaxing things to do in Dubai Airport. 

  • There are many spas offering body scrubs, de-stress massages, Japanese body treatments, and facials.

  • Various treatments ranging from 45-minute to a two-hour traditional massage will rejuvenate your body and soul completely.

  • In case you want to get rid of jet lag, a 90-minute Hawaiian Lomi is one of the best options. .

Price: The spa services are available in different packages whose price range varies from AED 350 to AED 2900.

Timings: The spa remains open 24 hours a day

Must Read: Best Dubai Spa for Massage
06

Enjoy free Wifi

  • Use the spare time you get between two connecting flights to enjoy the various things to do in Dubai Airport, specifically as a time to explore the internet with free Wi-Fi. 

  • Enjoy the free Wi-Fi services for watching your favorite episode, a movie, listening to music, or scrolling through social media. 

  • Connect to your friends in the layover and let them know an update on your tour.

  • In case you are not carrying a charged laptop or a phone with you at the time, you can use the free internet at one of the pay-to-use internet kiosks. 

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07

Take a Nap at Rest Zones

  • Travelers who are feeling too tired or stiff after the flights can relax and catch a nap at one of the many recliner seats lined up at the airport.

  • One of the most relaxing things to do in Dubai Airport, nap zones provide comfort and refreshment in between long flights.  

  • The travelers will find two rows of comfortable recliners to rest during their layover or flight delays at the Airport. 

  • Dubai airport even offers the service of renting rooms, if the traveler wishes to sleep in a quiet and calm environment.


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08

Fun for All Ages in Kids Zone at Terminal 3

  • The Kids Zone is the perfect spot to spend the layovers if you are traveling with friends, family, and kids. 

  • The kid's zone is inspired by an Arabian desert and has a floor structured like dunes for kids to play at. 

  • The Kids Zone is near the food outlets, so that one can enjoy a creative time and grab a bite along with it. 

  • Kids can get imaginative in the creative play equipment and interactive game zone, while the adults can relax and watch them. 

  • There is even a climbing area for kids to get in touch with their adventurous sides in one of the many things to do in Dubai Airport.

Timings: The kid zone can be visited at any time of the day.

Also Read: Best Activities in Dubai for Kids

Also, Checkout and Book: Kidzania in Dubai

Things To Do Near Dubai Airport

09

The Dubai Mall

  • Explore the ultimate shopping destination, entertainment center, and grand infrastructure of the Dubai Mall while looking for things to do near Dubai airport. 

  • While looking for activities to do during layovers, travelers can shop around the world-class Dubai Mall. 

  • Treat yourself to the delectable flavors served at the Cheesecake Factory, Katsuya by Starck, Peppermill, and many others. 

  • Let the kids enjoy a fun and entertaining time at KidZania, an imaginative and creative experience for the little ones. 

  • Skating lovers can spend their time at the amazing Ice rink of the Dubai Mall, which will surely keep them enchanted.

Timings: The mall starts at 10:00 AM and remains open till 12:00 AM.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 14 Km

Suggested Read: Best Things to do in Dubai Mall

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10

Visit Burj Khalifa


  • Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building showcasing stunning architecture.

  • From the 124th and 125th floors of the Burj Khalifa's, visitors may take in the exceptional panorama views of Dubai. 

  • The restaurant and bar Atmosphere, located on the 122nd floor, is an excellent choice for a memorable meal, perfect for couples on a honeymoon trip to Dubai.

  • Burj Khalifa is home to a plethora of things to do near Dubai airport, including a three-course set menu lunch at the Burj Club. 

  • The Dubai Mall, the synchronized musical Dubai Fountain, and some other tourist attractions can be found at the base of the Burj Khalifa. 

Timings: The building remains open to visitors throughout the day.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 14.6 Km

Price: The ticket price for entering Burj Khalifa is AED 210 for adults and AED 100 for kids.

Also Read: Things to Do in Burj Khalifa
11

See the Beautiful Dubai Fountains

  • Nestled right below the majestic Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is a beautiful synchronization of lights, music and water.

  • Reaching the height of 125 meters, the Dubai Fountain is a must-visit in the list of things to do near Dubai airport and is often included in curated group tour packages.

  • For a more perfect experience, people can take a boat ride on the Burj Lake and catch the Music and Light show of Dubai Fountain. 

  • Guests can enjoy a delectable meal from one of the many amazing restaurants and cafes surrounding the Fountain. 

Timings: The fountain can be visited at any time of the day. However, if you want to enjoy the music and light show, pay a visit between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 10 Km

Price: No entry fee

Also, Checkout and Book: 
Dubai Fountain Lake Ride Tickets
12

Dinner at Dubai Creek

  • Nestled in the heart of Dubai, the Dubai Creek offers travelers plenty of things to do near Dubai airport including the Dhow cruise, a popular experience often featured in a 3 days trip to Dubai.

  • The creek also has a wide range of other activities and entertainment shows like the dance and music Tanura shows. 

  • While waiting with your partner in between flights, you can enjoy a romantic dinner at the waterfront of Dubai Creek. 

  • Visitors with long layovers can also book a royal cruise to explore the beautiful backdrop of Dubai. 

Timings: One can visit here between 10:30 AM and 7:30 PM.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 4 Km

Price: AED 63 per person

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Dubai Creek

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13

Visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

  • Make the best of your layover time by visiting the Dubai Aquarium, a fascinating and unique attraction in Dubai Mall. 

  • Nestled on the third floor of the mall, this amazing entertainment and educational place has the largest collection of tiger sharks in addition to around 140 marine species. 

  • If you're on a 4 days Dubai trip, exploring this aquarium is a great way to experience marine life up close.

  • Explore the three different sections of the place, namely the underwater zoo, aquarium tank, and aquarium tunnel. 

  • While visiting the Aquarium guests can choose to take shark dives, snorkeling in a cage and swim with the marine creatures among the many things to do near Dubai airport. 

  • The aquarium also houses King Croc and Arabian Toads among some peculiar marine species. 

Timings: The underwater zoo remains open to visitors between 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 10 Km

Price: The standard entry fee for the Dubai Aquarium & underwater zoo is AED 55.

Also, Checkout and Book: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Tickets
                                             Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium Combo
14

Visit Dubai Dolphinarium

  • Nestled in the creek park, the Dubai Dolphinarium is one of the most stunning places to enjoy in Dubai and is home to amazing marine creature. 

  • The aquarium is home to exotic parrots and fur seals in addition to the bottlenose dolphins. 

  • Some very entertaining things to do near Dubai Airport include the Dolphin & Seal Show, Creek Park Bird Show, and Swimming with Dolphins at the aquarium, making it a perfect stop during a 5 days Dubai package.

  • Don't forget to take part in some of the other activities like the Mirror Maze or the 5D cinematic experience. 

Timings: You can visit here at any time between 10:00 AM and 7:30 PM.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 6.2 Km

Price: The entry fee for the Dolphinarium is AED 5.27 for adults and AED 2.64 for kids.

Also, Checkout and Book Dubai Dolphin Show Dubai Tickets

Read More: Best Amusement Parks in Dubai
15

Visit Burj Al Arab

  • The luxurious suits of the Burj Al Arab hotel are a great way to relax, refresh and enjoy your long layovers at the airport. 

  • Burj Al Arab offers so many options for things to do near Dubai airport, even if it's just exploring the stunning building whose interiors are embellished with 24-carat gold.

  • If your 6 days Dubai tour itinerary includes a touch of luxury, dining at restaurants like Al Iwan and Sky View Bar inside Burj Al Arab is a must.

  • Around Burj Al Arab, one can also visit the Wild Wadi Water park, a fun and thrilling spot to enjoy with the entire family.

Timings: The property can be visited at any time of the day. Visit Burj Al Arab.

Distance from Dubai International Airport: 21 Km

Price: The price for a standard room in Burj Al Arab is AED 6146 per night.

Also, Checkout: Breakfast At Burj Al Arab In Dubai
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People Also Ask About Dubai

  1. Are there rental and transfer facilities in Dubai?

  2. Does Thrillophilia offer a 15 days Dubai tour that includes attractions like Burj Khalifa and Atlantis?

    The Burj Khalifa (124th and 125th stories), Atlantis Aquaventure, the Museum of the Future, Global Village, and other major attractions are all included in the 15-day Dubai travel package that Thrillophilia offers.  The package offers a full Dubai experience, including amusement parks, dhow cruises, desert safaris, sightseeing, and luxurious accommodations.
  3. Are there Dubai vacation packages on Thrillophilia for travelers from India’s major cities?

    Yes, Thrillophilia offers a wide range of Dubai tour packages from major metropolitan cities across India, allowing travelers to experience the luxury, culture, and adventure of the UAE with convenience and comfort. Whether you're departing from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai, Thrillophilia ensures smooth international travel experiences with curated itineraries, visa assistance, and guided excursions. Here are some of our most popular Dubai tour packages from Indian metro cities:

    Dubai vacation packages from Delhi – Fly from the capital and experience iconic attractions like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Desert Safari, and Dhow Cruise. Packages often include flights, hotels, daily breakfast, and sightseeing.

    Dubai vacation packages from Mumbai – Explore the charm of old Dubai and the extravagance of modern marvels like Atlantis Aquaventure, Miracle Garden, and luxury shopping in Dubai Mall. Packages include airport transfers and visa support.

    Dubai vacation packages from Bangalore – Perfect for first-time international travelers, these packages offer everything from guided city tours and Marina Dhow Cruise to cultural experiences in Al Fahidi and day trips to Abu Dhabi.

    Dubai vacation packages from Hyderabad – Enjoy curated Dubai holidays including Ferrari World access, Global Village, and desert camping, ideal for family vacations and group tours.

    Dubai vacation packages from Chennai – Travel from the south with ease and enjoy a balanced itinerary covering Dubai’s top theme parks, beaches, shopping centers, and culinary trails.

    Each package comes with comfortable stays, airport transfers, guided tours, optional flight inclusion, visa assistance, and flexible itineraries to suit couples, families, honeymooners, and group travelers. With Thrillophilia’s Dubai tour packages, exploring the Emirates from your city has never been easier or more seamless.
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23 January 2021
Excellent
Amazing experience I enjoyed Burj Khalifa and underwater zoo alot. Thanks Thrillophilia for advance tickets booking options.
Excellent
"it was a great experience. I was bit apprehensive, when I booked through thrillophilia. but, they really organized it well. I booked a VIP package (costing 3800 per person). they arranged for private pick up in Nissan Petrol. They took us to camp, which is little far but better than Al Avir. \n\nLocal operator Mr. Danyal is a nice person. He took a great care of us. \n\nwe were provided land cruiser for dune bashing. then quad bike for 20-25 mins. after that, we did horse ride and camel ride. although camel ride and horse ride were namesake only. they would allow for 2 mins only and if you want to take a longer ride, you need to pay extra. so I skipped it. \n\nCamp had good performances like belly dance, Tanura show, Fire show and Jumba. Food was served on the table. Food quality was average.\n\nalthough, In the camp, they would try to get you money through multiple activities like sand art, Premium fruit salad, premium desserts, handbags, photo printouts, photo with eagle etc. And one needs to hard bargain. like I paid 20 dhiram for photos, they started with 150 dhiram."
02 March 2020
Excellent
Awesome experience with a very close view of such big fishes. Underwater zoo is also very big and needs atleast 2 hours to complete. Super package deal. Please go for it.
aniketsdixit Burj Khalifa Tickets
Excellent
"It was perfect site seeing experience managed by Thrillophilia. Special mention for lowest prices for tickets of Burz Khalifa."
"both the tours were really amazing.\nDubai city tour was nice, learned a lot about their history.\ndesert Safari was awesome but the food was ok ok .\nthe shows were awesome only if the food and drinks were organized well it would have been more fun"
Excellent
Amazing journey with fast service and great host
25 February 2021
Very Good
Park is fine. Shopping inside is much expensive. Swimming costumes were more than expected price.
"Good Service.. Every tour was perfectly planeed"
10 February 2021
Sandeep Madisetty Dubai Dolphinarium Tickets
Excellent
A definite watch. This is awesome. Thanks to thrillophilia for a very quick service. This is the cheapest price I found across various sites and I'm amazed with that.
04 February 2021
Excellent
Just loved the experience. the dune bashing was amazing and we were well informed in time about everything.

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