As the summer vacation approaches, UAE airports experience long queues at airline check-in counters. Families heading off for their holidays can reduce these lines by about 25% by using online check-in or alternative locations, according to a senior airline executive. Most alternative check-in methods are free of charge.
Streamlining Check-In Procedures
Maryam Al Tamimi, VP (Passenger Services) at Emirates, said online check-in and self-service baggage drop kiosks significantly speed up the process. “If passengers check-in online and then report to the airport, their transaction at the self-service baggage drop kiosks would be much quicker,” she said. Emirates expects to fly 2.6 million passengers from Dubai International Airport (DXB) during the peak travel rush, with the busiest day predicted to be Saturday, July 6.
“During peak travel periods, queueing time could be about 20 minutes on average, however, we want our customers to wait no more than 15. It is very easy to check in online or on the app, and then use self-service kiosks to drop (their) baggage,” added Al Tamimi.
Four Ways to Skip the Queues
- Online and App Check-In: Nearly 50% of passengers use this method, which opens 48 hours before flight departure.
- Early Luggage Drop-Off: Passengers can drop their luggage at the airport the day before for free. Those departing from Dubai can check in early and drop off bags 24 hours before departure, or 12 hours before departure if flying to the US.
- City Check-In Facilities: At Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), passengers can drop off luggage as early as 24 hours and up to four hours before a flight. Emirates also has a 24-hour city check-in facility at Ajman Central Bus Terminal.
- Home Check-In: Agents complete the check-in process at the customer’s home, hotel, or office and take the bags onto the flight. This service is free for first-class passengers and Platinum Skywards members.
“All Emirates check-in options are open to every customer, including families with children and people of determination. The only exception is customers travelling to the US. Due to US regulations, those customers must come to the airport check-in areas to present their documents in person,” said Al Tamimi.
Etihad Airways Options
Etihad Airways is preparing for one of its busiest summers, expecting around five million travelers at Zayed International Airport between June and September. The airline offers a home check-in service starting at Dh220 for up to four bags, allowing passengers to skip the airport queues.
Passengers using online check-in can drop their luggage at automated self-service bag drops at the terminal. Etihad has also introduced offsite check-in and bag-drop facilities, offering 2,000 guest miles for passengers using these services from June 10 to August 15. These sites include Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (open 24-hours), The Fountains – YAS Mall, Mussafah, and Al Ain.
