Dubai Airport Layover Guide | Things To Do At Dubai International Airport During Transit

Sunday, 13 April 2025

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest airports in the world, welcoming millions of passengers every year. Whether you have a short transit or a long layover, DXB ensures that travellers are never bored. The airport has three major terminals — Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 — all offering a range of facilities to keep you entertained, relaxed, and refreshed. If you’re wondering how to spend your layover time at Dubai Airport, here’s a complete guide covering things to do at all terminals.

Table of Contents

• Dining at Dubai International Airport
• Play at Game Space – Terminal 3
• Shop at Duty-Free Stores in All Terminals
• Relax at Airport Lounges
• Sleeping Options at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Relax & Rejuvenate at the Airport Spa – DXB
• Frequently asked questions

Activities at Dubai International Airport Terminals 1, 2 & 3

Dubai Airport provides excellent facilities and services in all its terminals, making your stopover a memorable experience. From dining and shopping to relaxing at luxurious lounges or spas, there’s plenty to explore.

1. Dining at Dubai International Airport

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a world-class dining experience to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, healthy meal, or gourmet dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets conveniently located across all three terminals.

Popular Dining Options at DXB:

• Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck: Located in Terminal 3, this stylish eatery is perfect for those craving freshly prepared pasta, gourmet dishes, and a relaxing dining atmosphere.
• Veranda Café: Ideal for health-conscious travellers, Veranda Café offers a range of light meals, fresh juices, and nutritious options — a perfect pre-flight meal spot.
• Desi Lunch Box – Terminal 3: A favourite for fans of Indian cuisine, Desi Lunch Box serves authentic Indian fast food packed with flavours and spices.
• The Noodle House: A go-to destination for Asian food lovers, offering delicious dim sum, noodles, and street-style dishes.
• Pret A Manger – Terminals 1 & 3: Well-known for its fresh, organic, and ready-to-go gourmet meals, sandwiches, and healthy snacks.

Quick Bites & Fast Food Outlets

For those looking for familiar fast-food favourites, Dubai Airport has several international chains available in all terminals, including:

• McDonald’s
• KFC
• Subway

These are perfect for grabbing a quick bite during your layover.

Sweet Treat for Kids:

Don’t forget to visit the M&M’s Confectionery Store at Terminal 3 — a colourful wonderland of chocolates and candies that’s sure to delight children (and adults too!).

2. Play at Game Space – Terminal 3

Looking for exciting ways to pass time during your layover at Dubai International Airport (DXB)? Head to Game Space at Terminal 3 — the region’s first-ever airport gaming lounge, designed for travellers of all ages to relax, unwind, and have fun.

What Makes Game Space Special?

Game Space is a modern gaming zone equipped with the latest technology, offering an immersive experience for both casual players and hardcore gaming enthusiasts.

Key Features of Game Space at DXB:

• PlayStation & PC Gaming Zones : Enjoy access to popular PlayStation titles and high-performance gaming PCs loaded with trending and classic games.
• Solo & Multiplayer Gaming : Whether you prefer playing solo or challenging friends and fellow travellers, Game Space caters to both experiences.
• Open 24/7 : No matter what time your layover is, Game Space is always open, providing non-stop entertainment around the clock.
• Perfect for All Skill Levels : From beginners trying their first game to experienced gamers looking for a challenge — Game Space welcomes everyone.

Why Visit Game Space?

• A fun alternative to waiting at the boarding gate
• Relax, refresh your mind, and pass time with ease
• Great for solo travellers, groups, or families with teens

3. Shop at Duty-Free Stores in All Terminals

Shopping at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is an experience in itself! With world-class duty-free outlets spread across all terminals, DXB is truly a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for luxury items, souvenirs, or last-minute travel essentials, Dubai Duty-Free has it all.

What Can You Buy at Dubai Duty-Free?

Explore a wide range of premium international brands and local favourites while enjoying tax-free prices.

Popular Items to Shop:

• Luxury Watches & Designer Bags :
  Find iconic brands like: Gucci, Hermes, Chanel, Rolex, Omega
• Perfumes & Fragrances :
  Treat yourself or a loved one with exotic scents from: Burberry, Jo Malone, Dior, Armani
• Fine Jewellery :
  Visit Tiffany & Co. at Terminal 1 for elegant jewellery pieces perfect for gifting.
• Chocolates & Dry Fruits :
  Grab sweet treats and local specialities — perfect souvenirs to take home.
• Fresh Groceries & Essentials :
  Forgot to pack something? Shop from Spinney’s or Carrefour in Terminal 1 for fresh groceries and daily essentials.
• Premium Wine & Spirits
  Explore fine wine collections and rare spirits at Le Clos and The Macallan Boutique.

Why Shop at DXB Duty-Free?

• Exclusive travel retail collections
• Tax-free savings on luxury brands
• Perfect for last-minute gifts & souvenirs
• Convenient locations in all terminals

4. Relax at Airport Lounges

Turn your layover at Dubai International Airport (DXB) into a relaxing and luxurious experience by accessing one of the many premium lounges available across all terminals. The best part? You don’t have to be flying first or business class — many lounges offer paid entry for all passengers!

Top Airport Lounges at DXB:

• Marhaba Lounge (Terminals 1, 2 & 3) — Spacious, comfortable, and perfect for travellers looking for peace and privacy.
• Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 3 – Near Gate A2) — Ideal for solo travellers or families, offering a cosy space with excellent dining options.
• Emirates Lounge (Terminal 3, Concourse A) — Exclusive to Emirates passengers, this lounge offers 5-star service, premium dining, and shower facilities.
• Ahlan First Class Lounge (Terminal 1) — A luxury space with personalised services, ideal for those seeking a premium pre-flight experience.
• Al Majlis Lounge (Terminal 1) — Designed for VIP travellers who prefer privacy and luxury combined.
• Unaccompanied Minor’s Lounge (Terminal 1) — A safe and friendly space for kids travelling alone to relax and play.
• Their Patio (Co-working Lounge – Terminal 3) — Perfect for business travellers, offering workstations, high-speed internet, and charging stations.

Facilities Available at Most Lounges:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Gourmet food & beverages
• Refreshments & dedicated baristas
• Flight information screens
• Comfortable seating areas
• Magazines & newspapers
• Shower facilities in select lounges

Why Visit These Lounges?

• Escape the crowds
• Refresh, relax, or catch up on work
• Enjoy premium services & comfort before your flight

5. Sleeping Options at Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Feeling jet-lagged or have a long layover? Dubai Airport offers several comfortable sleep options designed to help you recharge and relax without leaving the airport.

Best Places to Sleep at Dubai Airport:

• Sleep ‘n Fly Lounge (Available in Terminals 1, 2 & 3) :
  A unique sleep lounge offering flexible, pay-per-hour sleeping pods and cabins — perfect for short naps or overnight stays.

Facilities & Features:

• Igloo-style sleep pods for solo travellers
• Double cabins ideal for couples or families
• Pull-out beds for kids
• Private, soundproof sleeping zones
• Access to showers in selected lounges

Dubai International Hotel (Located inside Terminal 3)

For those looking for a proper hotel stay within the airport, this luxury transit hotel is the ultimate choice.

Facilities Include:

• Spacious rooms & suites
• 24/7 room service
• Spa & fitness centre
• Business services
• No need for immigration clearance — perfect for transit passengers

Why Choose Sleeping Facilities at DXB?

• No need to leave the airport
• Flexible booking hours
• Perfect for solo travellers, families, or business guests
• Great option for early morning or late-night flights
• Avoids the hassle of jet lag during long-haul journeys

Pro Tip:

Book your sleep pod or hotel room in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, for guaranteed availability!

6. Relax & Rejuvenate at the Airport Spa – DXB

Turn your layover into a mini-vacation! Dubai International Airport offers world-class spa facilities where you can relax, refresh, and rejuvenate before your next flight.

Best Airport Spas at DXB:

• Be Relax Spa (Located in Terminal 1 & Terminal 3)Perfect for quick relaxation treatments between flights.

Services Include:

• Neck & shoulder massages
• Foot reflexology
• Aromatherapy treatments
• Express facials
• Manicure & pedicure
• XpresSpa (Located in Terminal 3, Concourse A & B)
  A premium wellness spa offering relaxing treatments for tired travellers.

Services Include:

• Deep tissue massages
• Stress-relief neck & back therapy
• Beauty & grooming services
• Luxury skincare treatments

Timeless Spa (Located inside Dubai International Hotel, Terminal 3)

A luxury spa for those seeking complete rejuvenation.

Services Include:

• Signature full-body massages
• Aromatherapy rituals
• Hydrating facials
• Hot stone therapy
• Sauna & steam rooms (exclusive for hotel guests)

Why Visit a Spa at Dubai Airport?

• Relieves travel stress & fatigue
• Boosts circulation during long layovers
• Enhances your in-flight comfort
• Perfect for business travellers & frequent flyers

Pro Tip:

Book your spa treatment online or upon arrival to avoid waiting, especially during peak travel hours.

A layover at Dubai International Airport doesn’t have to be boring. With world-class dining, shopping, gaming, lounges, sleep pods, and spa facilities available across all three terminals — DXB ensures your transit experience is as comfortable and exciting as possible.