13 Fun Things To Do In Dubai Airport While Waiting For Your Flight

Dubai International Airport is not just a transit hub but an experience in itself. With over 80 million passengers visiting every year, the airport offers an array of activities, attractions, and amenities to keep travelers occupied while waiting for their connecting flights. From world-class shopping to tranquil spas and luxurious lounges, there's something for everyone to enjoy here. In this article, we have compiled 13 fun things to do in Dubai Airport that will make your layover unforgettable. So, gear up and prepare to make the most out of your time in this bustling airport.

Go Duty-Free Shopping

Dubai International Airport is not only known for its impressive architectural design and state-of-the-art facilities; it is also renowned for its excellent duty-free shopping opportunities. Whether you are travelling for leisure or for business, you will find an array of retail stores selling products ranging from luxury goods to souvenirs.

One of the perks of shopping in Dubai airport is that it offers tax-free shopping, hence duty-free. This means that you can purchase goods at a lower price since you are not paying any tax. Whether it's perfume, chocolates, clothing or electronics, you are sure to find an item that fits your taste and needs.

One of the most popular places to shop in the airport is the Dubai Duty-Free, which is located in the departure and arrival areas of the airport. The Dubai Duty-Free offers an extensive selection of products from top brands such as Chanel, Dior, and Armani. There are also sections dedicated to local products such as spices, scarves and souvenir items. Moreover, the Dubai Duty-Free offers a pre-order service, which allows you to browse their catalogue of products online before you travel, and then conveniently pick up your pre-ordered items at the airport.

If you are looking for something specific, you can also check out the various specialty shops at Terminal 3, which offer a variety of items such as electronics, jewelry, watches, and even cigars. For example, the electronics store Sharaf DG offers a variety of gadgets from smartphones to laptops.

Aside from shopping, the airport also offers a variety of services to make your experience more enjoyable. In addition to the vast array of restaurants and cafes, there are also relaxation areas, spas, and even prayer rooms to cater to the diverse needs of travelers.

Overall, Dubai International Airport's duty-free shopping is a must-visit for any traveler. With its vast selection of products, tax-free shopping, and excellent service, it's no wonder that it is regarded as one of the best airports in the world. So, next time you pass through the airport, make sure to allocate some time for shopping and indulging in the beautiful offerings of the Dubai International Airport.

Check Out the Art Exhibitions

Located in the heart of Dubai, Dubai International Airport has become a vibrant hub for travelers from around the world. It is known for its countless amenities, luxurious lounges, and excellent services. But, what most people don't know is that Dubai International Airport is a hub of art exhibitions. So, if you are passing through the airport or waiting for your connecting flight, make sure to check out the art galleries.

The Dubai International Airport art program was established in 2008 to enrich the experience of travelers. Since then, the airport has become the world's leading airport destination for arts and culture. The program showcases different artworks ranging from local, international, and emerging artists.

One of the most iconic art programs of Dubai Airport is the World of Banksy. This exhibition features Banksy, a famous anonymous street artist whose works are recognized globally. The exhibit displays over 120 Banksy's limited edition prints, canvases, and photographs. Not only does the exhibit attract street art enthusiasts, but it also brings together people with different backgrounds and interests.

If you are interested in Islamic art and culture, the Islamic Museum boasts an extensive collection of Islamic art and culture. The museum houses a collection of over 500 artifacts, including calligraphy, ceramics, metalwork, textiles, and manuscripts. The museum's collection displays the diversity of Islamic art throughout time and history.

Another exhibition you shouldn't miss is the "Free Fall" by Renee Paulo. It is a colorful and eye-catching sculpture installation that features thousands of titanium-plated butterflies that appear to be in constant motion. The sculpture represents a "free fall" in life, where everything seems to be in movement, a physical and emotional transition.

In conclusion, Dubai International Airport's art program is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport while immersing yourself in beautiful artwork. Whether you are an art enthusiast or just a casual visitor, you will surely appreciate the diverse and impressive artwork showcased in Dubai Airport. Be sure to plan ahead and take some time to explore the world of art at Dubai International Airport.

Visit the Zen Gardens

Dubai Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and has a lot to offer to its travelers. One of the unique features of the airport is the Zen Gardens. If you are on a layover or have some spare time before your flight, then you should definitely visit this tranquil place.

Located in Terminal 3, the Zen Gardens are an indoor oasis designed to offer passengers a calming and relaxing environment. As soon as you step into the gardens, you will feel a sense of peace and serenity that will help you forget about the hustle and bustle of the airport.

The gardens feature a beautiful pond with fish, waterfalls, and greenery. The sound of water cascading down the rocks and the chirping of the birds in the aviary will take you to another world. The garden is also equipped with comfortable seating where you can sit and enjoy the scenery while sipping on a cup of coffee from the nearby café.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a walk around the gardens on the specially designed paths. The walking path is lined with pebbles, creating a unique sensory experience as you feel the stones beneath your feet. This is a great way to exercise your feet after a long flight and also enjoy nature indoors.

Apart from being a peaceful sanctuary, the Zen Gardens also have an environmental purpose. The garden features 6,000 square feet of living walls that help purify the air around the airport and provide a space for various species of plants to grow.

Overall, the Zen Gardens offer a unique and refreshing experience at the Dubai Airport. Whether you're looking to meditate, relax, or just take a break from the busy airport, the gardens have something to offer everyone. Be sure to visit this tranquil place and experience the beauty and serenity that it has to offer.

Play Video Games at the Gaming Zone

Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and it always aims to provide an exceptional experience to its passengers. Apart from the fantastic facilities and services, the airport also has a gaming zone for passengers to pass their time.

The gaming zone is located in Terminal 3 and is open 24-hours a day. It is a highly popular spot among young travelers and those who are traveling with their families. The area is well-equipped with a variety of gaming consoles, including Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. Passengers can relax on comfortable seats and choose from a vast selection of games to play alone or with others.

The Gaming Zone also hosts a dedicated racing simulator, which allows passengers to experience the thrill of driving at high speeds on some of the world's most famous tracks. The simulator is equipped with full-motion technology that adds an extra layer of realism to the experience.

Suppose you are traveling with your kids and need to keep them entertained during the long wait for your flight. In that case, the Gaming Zone is the perfect place to do so. It's a safe and fun environment where children can enjoy games and activities while you take a break. Not only does it make the airport experience more enjoyable for the kids, but you can also relax and unwind at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants.

In addition to gaming, the Gaming Zone also offers free Wi-Fi, charging points, and comfortable seating. It's not just a place to play games, but also an excellent spot to catch up on your work or stay connected with your loved ones.

In conclusion, the Gaming Zone at the Dubai airport is an excellent addition, providing entertainment and amenities to passengers. It's perfect for those who are looking to pass their time in between flights, travel delays, or layovers. If you are traveling to or through Dubai International Airport, be sure to visit the Gaming Zone to experience it for yourself.

Get a Massage at the Spa

Dubai airport is known to be one of the busiest airports in the world, but that doesn't mean you can't relax while you wait for your flight. In fact, the airport offers an excellent spa to give you a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the airport. The spa at Dubai airport is located in Terminal 3 and is open 24 hours a day for the convenience of travelers.

Whether you've been travelling for hours or need to unwind before a long flight, getting a massage at the spa can be a great option. The skilled therapists at the spa offer a wide range of massages to help you relax and rejuvenate.

The spa offers different types of massages, ranging from head, neck and shoulder massages to full-body treatments. Some of the popular massages include traditional Thai, hot stone, and deep tissue. If you're on a long-haul flight, a massage can help to reduce the risk of developing blood clots and other travel-related ailments.

In addition to massages, the spa also offers other relaxing treatments such as facials, body wraps, and foot massages. If you're feeling stressed or tense, a session at the spa can be an excellent way to release the tension and relax.

Apart from the excellent treatments, the spa at Dubai airport also offers a tranquil environment where you can unwind. The spa features dim lighting, soothing music, and comfortable chairs that transport you to a peaceful oasis. The spa also has private rooms, where you can have your treatment in total privacy.

Overall, getting a massage at the spa at Dubai airport can be an excellent way to relax and unwind before your flight. It's a great opportunity to pamper yourself and indulge in some self-care, while also getting some much-needed rest and relaxation. So, the next time you're at the airport, consider heading to the spa for a rejuvenating experience.

Watch a Movie at the Cinema

Dubai International Airport is known for its luxurious and state-of-the-art facilities. One of these facilities is the movie theatre located within the airport. This facility adds to the long list of amenities that offer travelers a chance to unwind, relax and enjoy their time while waiting for their flights.

When you hear the word cinema, what comes to mind? A comfortable chair, big screen, and popcorn, right? Well, imagine having all of that in an airport, what a treat! The Dubai International Airport cinema offers just that. The cinema situated inside DXB, started playing movies for travelers in 2001.

The movie theatre is conveniently located in the transit area of the airport. The theatre has two screens playing movies throughout the day. The movies at the airport are free to watch and usually run for two hours. It has a total of 88 seats, providing a comfortable and cozy experience for travelers.

The Dubai International Airport cinema shows a variety of movies from different genres, including dramas, action, thrillers, romantic comedies and much more. The movie timing is such that it ensures that no matter what time of the day or night you arrive at the airport, you will have a movie playing.

Watching movies at the airport cinema is particularly fascinating for travelers who are experiencing a layover of several hours. Instead of sitting around, feeling bored, one can venture out and watch a movie to pass the time. This is an enjoyable and convenient amenity for travelers of all ages. Also, it helps to reduce some of the stress that air travel can often cause.

In conclusion, the DXB cinema is an exceptional facility for travelers to take advantage of when in the airport. Watching a movie is an ideal way to kill time during transit, and the Dubai International Airport cinema provides an excellent platform to do so. With comfortable seating and an outstanding selection of movies, one can watch a film while waiting for their next flight. The airport cinema adds yet another level of luxury to the already top-of-the-line airport experience in Dubai.

Take a Dip in the Pool

Dubai International Airport is a hub of luxury and modern facilities and is one of the busiest airports in the world. If you're heading to Dubai, you're sure to experience top-notch amenities at this airport including a one of a kind swimming pool experience.

Yes, that's right, Dubai Airport boasts of a swimming pool that you can take a dip in before your flight. The swimming pool is located in Terminal 3, at the Dubai International Hotel. The hotel is located near gates A1-A24, with access available to both passengers and airport visitors for a fee.

The swimming pool is an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of the airport. Its setting is made even more impressive with a breath-taking view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building in the Dubai skyline. You can enjoy swimming or lounging in a comfortable deck chair and sipping on a refreshing drink. You can put aside the noise, chaos and stress of an airport and relax before boarding your flight or after a long journey.

The pool is open and operational 24/7, with lifeguards available around the clock to ensure the safety of every swimmer. The facilities are spacious and well-maintained, with showers and changing rooms on the pool deck.

The cost to use the pool starts from about $22 for two hours per adult, with additional charges for poolside service and food and beverage options. Children are also allowed with age restrictions, and there are family packages available.

In conclusion, taking a dip in the swimming pool at Dubai International Airport is a unique experience every traveler should try. It's an excellent way to enjoy a relaxing experience, refresh and recharge before heading off on your journey. Plan accordingly and make sure to spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sun at the beautiful swimming pool in the heart of the bustling airport.

Explore the Virtual Reality Park

Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. It is not just a place for travelers to catch flights, but also a hub for entertainment and leisure activities. One such activity that has taken Dubai airport by storm is the Virtual Reality Park.

The Virtual Reality Park at Dubai Airport is an exciting entertainment venue that uses cutting-edge technology to offer a unique and thrilling experience to visitors. It is located in Terminal 1, Concourse D, covering an area of more than 7,000 square feet. As you step into the Virtual Reality Park, you are transported to a world of immersive gaming and simulation.

The park offers a variety of attractions and experiences, including virtual reality games, interactive rides, and 4D cinemas. The games range from action-packed adventures to sports, puzzles, and more. You can experience the thrill of skydiving, ride on a virtual rollercoaster, or explore mysterious caves, all without leaving the airport.

One of the most popular attractions at the park is the VR Maze, where you can navigate your way through a complex labyrinth using only your wits, instincts, and VR headset. The park also features a VR Lab, where you can create your own virtual reality content.

Apart from the games and rides, the Virtual Reality Park also has a dedicated area for younger children, featuring a range of fun and educational games that cater to their interests and abilities. The park also offers a comfortable lounge area where visitors can relax, refresh, and recharge.

The Virtual Reality Park is not just a place for entertainment, but also an opportunity to experience the latest in technological innovation. The use of VR and other immersive technologies is rapidly evolving, and the park is a showcase of the potential of these technologies in various fields, from gaming and entertainment to education and training.

Overall, the Virtual Reality Park at Dubai Airport is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the latest in entertainment and technology. Whether you are waiting for your flight, or have a few hours to spare, the park offers a unique and exciting experience that you can’t find anywhere else. So, why not strap on a VR headset and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Virtual Reality Park?

Enjoy Delicious Food at Various Restaurants

Dubai Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, catering to millions of domestic and international passengers every year. From luxury shopping to exciting attractions, this airport has something for everyone. And when it comes to food, Dubai Airport doesn't disappoint either. With numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, passengers can enjoy delicious meals while waiting for their flights.

Whether you are looking for a quick snack or a full-course meal, the airport has plenty of options to choose from. From fast food joints like McDonald's, KFC, and Subway to fine dining restaurants like Le Pain Quotidien and Carluccio's, you won't have to compromise on taste, no matter what your budget is. You can also indulge in some delicious Arabic cuisine at restaurants like Al Fanar and Dubai's famous 'Shawarma' at Al Mallah.

For travelers who are health-conscious, Dubai airport has many options to choose from too. Besides fresh salads and sandwiches from Costa Coffee and Starbucks, you can also choose from a variety of lighter options and smoothies at restaurants like Jamba Juice and Sumo Sushi & Bento. They also have a wide selection of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options that cater to different dietary needs.

If you are looking for a unique dining experience, head to the Concourse D where you can find the Food Village. This food court offers an array of global food options featuring Indian, Italian, Chinese, and Arabic cuisines, to name a few. You can also take advantage of the indoor outdoor garden space which provides a relaxing setting to stay for a long layover.

Lastly, passengers can enjoy a luxurious dining experience at the Emirates Business and First Class Lounge. In here, they provide buffets of high-quality meals and world’s famous cuisines, signature cocktails, fine wines, and champagne. It also includes an exclusive barista feature offering a selection of premium teas and coffees.

In conclusion, Dubai Airport is a perfect destination for food lovers. Whether you are looking for fast food, international cuisine, or healthy options, there is plenty of variety available. Next time you are traveling through this airport, make sure you leave enough time to try some of the amazing eating options.

Admire the Emirates A380 Plane Display

Dubai Airport is known for its impressive world-class facilities, and the Emirates A380 Plane Display is no exception. The Emirates airline has an extensive fleet of A380 planes, and Dubai Airport ensures that visitors can witness these beautiful birds up close and personal.

The Emirates A380 Plane Display is located in Concourse A of Terminal 3, where travelers can see the awe-inspiring view of this impressive aircraft. With its aerodynamic curves and modern design, the Emirates A380 is a marvel of engineering. With a wingspan of 80 meters and a length of 72.7 meters, the Emirates A380 is the largest passenger plane in the world.

Visitors can take pictures of the aircraft as they walk alongside it through the terminal building. The Emirates A380 Plane Display is also an excellent opportunity for plane enthusiasts to study the plane's various features and specifications.

For the ultimate experience, the Emirates A380 offers luxury onboard amenities, including first-class suites, lie-flat beds, and a shower spa. The A380 also has a staggering seating capacity of up to 853 passengers, making it a true engineering feat.

In addition to the Emirates A380 Plane Display, Dubai Airport offers many other attractions, including unique dining options, exclusive shopping experiences, and a complimentary transit tour for passengers. The airport is also home to the world's largest duty-free shopping area, located in Terminal 3, which spans over 26,000 square meters.

Dubai Airport is the busiest airport in the world, welcoming millions of visitors each year. The Emirates A380 Plane Display is just one of the many attractions that make this airport stand out. With its state-of-the-art facilities, world-class amenities, and unique experiences, Dubai Airport truly embodies the essence of modern luxury air travel.

In conclusion, the Emirates A380 Plane Display at Dubai Airport is an attraction that every traveler should experience. It is an excellent opportunity to see one of the world's most impressive aircraft up close and appreciate the engineering technology behind it. Whether you are a plane enthusiast or not, this display is sure to impress and create lasting memories.

Get a Henna Tattoo

Dubai Airport is no ordinary airport. It is the third busiest airport in the world and the largest in the Middle East, serving millions of passengers every year. Amidst all the chaos and hustle-bustle, it is not uncommon to experience a little boredom or wanderlust. However, if you are looking for a unique way to spend your time at the airport and leave with something exciting and memorable, you can get a henna tattoo!

Henna tattoos have been a part of Middle Eastern culture for centuries and are a popular form of temporary body art. These tattoos are made out of a paste created from the crushed leaves of the henna plant, which gives a staining effect when applied to the skin. The paste is then used to create intricate and beautiful designs, which can last for several weeks.

Dubai Airport offers several henna tattoo parlors, mostly located in the main terminal area. These parlors are staffed by skilled henna artists who can create custom designs for you or let you choose from a pre-existing selection. The artists use natural henna paste, free of any chemicals or dyes, making it a safe and non-toxic way to get creative.

Getting a henna tattoo at Dubai Airport is an easy process; all you have to do is find a parlor and select the design you want. The artist will then apply the paste to your skin, and within minutes, you'll have a beautiful piece of artwork that you can rock for days. The process is painless, and the results are unique and artistic.

Getting a henna tattoo at Dubai Airport is also a great way to experience a part of Middle Eastern culture and show off your adventurous side. You can choose from traditional designs or go for something completely out of the box. If you are traveling with family or friends, you can even get matching tattoos, adding a fun and creative twist to your trip.

In conclusion, getting a henna tattoo at Dubai Airport is an excellent way to pass the time and take home a unique souvenir. Dubai Airport has several parlors, so you don't have to worry about finding one. The process is straightforward, safe, and painless, making it perfect for first-timers. So the next time you find yourself at Dubai Airport, be sure to check out the henna tattoo parlors and let your creative side shine.

Take a Selfie at the Dubai Fountain

Dubai airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and welcomes millions of travelers every year. While there, you might want to take a selfie at one of the most famous landmarks in Dubai - the Dubai Fountain. This article will tell you all about the Dubai Fountain, why it's so popular, and how you can take the perfect selfie there.

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, the Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system. It features more than 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors, all of which are synchronized to music. The fountain shoots water up to 500 feet in the air, making it an impressive sight to behold.

The Dubai Fountain is open every day from 6 pm to 11 pm. During this time, the fountain puts on a spectacular show every 30 minutes. This show is free to watch and lasts for about 5 minutes. Visitors can watch the show from several vantage points around the fountain, including the waterfront promenade and the Dubai Mall.

If you want to take a selfie at the Dubai Fountain, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, try to arrive at the fountain early so you can find the best spot to take your selfie. The best spots are usually near the waterfront promenade, although you can also take a selfie from the Dubai Mall.

Next, wait for the show to start. Once the music starts playing, get your camera ready. As the water shoots up in the air, take your selfie and capture the beauty of the fountain in the background.

If you're looking to take a more unique selfie, try visiting the Dubai Fountain at night. The fountain's lights and colors are more vibrant after dark, making for a more impressive backdrop for your selfie.

In conclusion, the Dubai Fountain is a must-visit landmark in Dubai, and taking a selfie there is a great way to capture your experience. Make sure to arrive early, find the best spot, and capture the beauty of the fountain in the background. With these tips, you'll be sure to take the perfect selfie at the Dubai Fountain.

Try Indoor Skydiving at ifly Dubai

Characteristic	Description
Name	iFly Dubai
Type	Adventure sports in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 915
Address	Third Floor, Play Nation Area, City Centre Mirdif، Ghoroob, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road - United Arab Emirates
Phone	+971 4 231 6292
Hours	Friday - 12 PM–12 AM Saturday - 12–11 PM Sunday - 12–10 PM Monday - 12–10 PM Tuesday - 12–10 PM Wednesday - 12–10 PM Thursday - 12–10 PM
Profiles

Dubai Airport is known for its world-class facilities and services that cater to the needs of its passengers during layovers or transit times. One of the exciting activities that you can try at the airport is indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai.

IFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center that offers a thrilling experience of bodyflight without the need to jump out of a plane. The facility features a vertical wind tunnel that simulates the freefall experience of skydiving. It's a perfect activity for thrill-seekers, adrenaline junkies, and anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.

To try indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai, you need to book a session at the center. The activity is suitable for individuals of all ages and abilities, with trained instructors guiding you through the entire experience. Before the flight, you will receive a safety briefing and instruction on body positions and hand signals.

Then, you will put on a flight suit, helmet, and goggles before entering the vertical wind tunnel. The tunnel creates a powerful updraft of wind that lifts you off the ground and gives you the sensation of freefalling. The experience is exhilarating as you soar through the air, feeling like you're flying.

Each session lasts for around two hours, including training and flight time. You can also choose from different packages that include varying amounts of flight time. There's also a family package for parents and children to enjoy indoor skydiving together.

Aside from the exciting experience, iFly Dubai is also a great place to capture memorable moments. The facility has professional photographers and videographers who can capture your flight in high-definition photos and videos.

Overall, indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai is an exciting and unique experience that you should try during your layover or transit time at Dubai Airport. It's safe, fun, and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect activity for individuals, families, and groups. So book your session now and get ready to experience the thrill of indoor skydiving.

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