Returning residents and international travellers passing through Dubai International Airport (DXB) this August will experience a heightened level of traditional Arabian hospitality. Dubai Airports has introduced a series of 'Dubai Welcome' experiences designed to ease journeys and offer thoughtful care during one of the peak travel periods of the year.
The seasonal activations span Terminal 3, transforming key touchpoints, including baggage reclaim, arrivals, and transit areas, into interactive spaces. The project coincides with the late-August return rush as families head back to the UAE ahead of the new school term.
For UAE residents landing in Terminal 3 after their summer holidays, the initiative offers several family-focused features. Younger travellers are greeted by official mascots from Dubai Police and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the baggage reclaim and arrivals areas.
To support airport efficiency during the seasonal peak, the GDRFA has simultaneously reinforced its operations across DXB, adding technical teams, boosting Smart Gate capacity, and deploying additional staff to streamline passport control for residents and visitors alike.
Families and friends awaiting incoming passengers can assemble custom banners at a dedicated "Make Your Welcome Home Sign" station set up in the arrivals area, using stickers and Dubai-themed embellishments.
The hospitality continues beyond the baggage hall. Passengers taking a Dubai Taxi from Terminal 3 receive complimentary cold towels, refreshments, and artisanal snacks provided through partnerships with local brands, including Mirzam, Emirati District, Emirates Flight Catering, and oneDXB partners.
The airport experience has also been tailored for international transfer passengers stopping over in Dubai. Regional music is performed live near the transfer areas to showcase local culture, while pop-up stations distribute complimentary beverages and refreshments. Passengers can sample offerings from regional brands such as Project Chaiwala, Mirzam, Emirati District, and Garrett Popcorn.
Near Gate B28, travellers can visit an interactive installation titled "I Heart DXB". Visitors can upload a digital selfie that contributes to a real-time, shared mosaic of Dubai displayed in the national colours of the UAE flag. Guests can also leave handwritten messages of appreciation on a dedicated wall and collect limited-edition DXB pins and stickers.
The seasonal activations run through 30 August 2026 across Terminal 3. They build on recent infrastructure improvements at DXB, such as the recently opened climate-controlled ride-hailing waiting lounge for Uber and Careem passengers in Terminal 3, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of passenger care.