Dubai International Airport is located approximately 10 km northeast of central Dubai. It is the largest aviation hub in the Middle East, serving flights to over 100 countries and regions worldwide. In 2024, the airport handled more than 90 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports globally.
The airport has three terminals—T1, T2, and T3—serving different airlines. Terminal 3 (divided into Concourses A, B, and C) is primarily used by Emirates. Terminal 2 serves flydubai and some Middle Eastern/South Asian carriers. Terminal 1 handles other international airlines such as Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Sichuan Airlines, and Hainan Airlines. Transfers between terminals are done via airport shuttle buses and may take a long time; passengers and their luggage are subject to security checks. Each terminal includes duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, medical stations, and airport police offices. Terminal 3 also has an in-airport hotel. For more details, visit www.dubaiairports.ae.
Chinese citizens transiting through Dubai International Airport to return to China or proceed to a third country should allow ample time. Additionally, check in advance whether your luggage is tagged to the final destination. If not, you may need to enter the country to retrieve it and recheck it. If entry is inconvenient, paid services are available at airport transfer counters.
Chinese nationals arriving in Dubai by land or sea can take the metro, public bus, or taxi to the airport for return flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure.
Currently, Dubai International Airport operates over 130 weekly flights to major cities in China. Airlines serving these routes include Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates. Destinations are as follows:
- Air China: Beijing, Chongqing, Hangzhou
- China Southern Airlines: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Wuhan
- China Eastern Airlines: Shanghai, Qingdao, Kunming, Xi’an
- Sichuan Airlines: Chengdu, Yinchuan
- Hainan Airlines: Haikou
- Cathay Pacific: Hong Kong
- Emirates: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Taipei
Due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, travelers are advised to stay updated on regional developments and flight schedules, plan trips prudently, and stay safe. The Chinese Consulate General in Dubai is ready to assist Chinese citizens transiting through Dubai, either returning home or heading to a third country. Contact details:
- Consular Protection Hotline (Duty): +971-4-3947588
- MFA Global Consular Hotline (24/7): +86-10-12308, +86-10-65612308
- Document Inquiry (Consulate): +971-4-3952208
- Email: zhengjiandb@gmail.com
Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai
June 25, 2025
