Beat the Airport Rush: Travel Advisory Inside!

Winter Rush at UAE Airports: Arrive Three Hours Early at Sharjah Airport

As the winter break and year-end long weekend approach, passenger traffic at the United Arab Emirates airports is significantly increasing once again. Sharjah Airport has officially advised travelers to arrive at least three hours before their flight departure, particularly during the last days of the year when travel enthusiasm is more intense than usual.

Four-Day Weekend in the Emirates

Wednesday, January 1, 2026, is a public holiday throughout the UAE. The following day, Friday, January 2, is already considered a weekend day in Sharjah, so residents in some emirates can expect a four-day weekend. This is an excellent opportunity for those planning domestic or international travel at the end of the year, but simultaneously, airports should prepare for enormous traffic.

Sharjah Airport Prepared

On December 28, Sharjah International Airport announced that it is prepared to welcome passengers with enhanced services and staff in light of the increased traffic. According to the airport's statement, travelers flying with Air Arabia should consider using the city check-in service, which allows them to complete check-in procedures in advance in the city center. As a result, at the airport, they only need to clear passport control, significantly reducing waiting times.

Automated Services and New Lounge

In recent months, Sharjah Airport has undergone several upgrades. Travelers have access to self-service check-in kiosks, quick baggage drop-off points, and smart entry gates that facilitate faster passage through security and passport control. For those seeking extra comfort, the Hala premium service is available, offering personalized assistance throughout the travel experience.

Additionally, the new Al Diyafah Lounge recently opened, located right next to the departure hall entrance. This premium lounge offers high-quality hospitality, comfortable seating, and exclusive services, allowing travelers to prepare for boarding in a relaxed environment.

Increased Staff Presence and Smoother Processing

The airport management highlighted that they have increased staffing levels in key areas, so more staff members assist travelers at information points, during security checks, and in baggage claim zones. This not only accelerates processes but also positively influences the overall passenger experience during the busy period.

Dubai Airport Also Anticipates Crowding

It's not just Sharjah that's preparing with increased attention for the year's end. The Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, has also issued a warning for the holiday period. Forecasts predict that from the end of December until the first days of January, more than 10 million passengers will pass through the Dubai airport. This is not only important for international passenger traffic, as locals also enjoy traveling at this time, even for short distances.

Flexible Work Arrangements in the Public Sector

As part of the long weekend, Friday, January 2, will be a remote work day for federal government employees in the UAE. This measure also contributes to easing the burden on airports, as many people start their journeys on Thursday to fully utilize the time allocated for rest. The government's flexibility and foresight significantly contribute to the country's transportation infrastructure functioning smoothly during the holidays.

Everyone Is Advised to Exercise Caution

Whether traveling from Sharjah, Dubai, or other emirates, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. The recommended three-hour arrival time is not an exaggeration, as parking spaces fill up quickly, queues can be long, and the services under peak load—no matter how well-organized—may require extra time.

Online check-in, using mobile boarding passes, and early baggage drop-off are all options to speed up the process. For those particularly sensitive to waiting in line or stressful travel situations, premium services like Hala or using special lounges are recommended.

Summary

The year-end period in the Emirates is not just about fireworks, fairs, and family celebrations, but also an intense travel peak season. Sharjah Airport, like the Dubai airport, employs every measure to ensure travelers reach their destinations smoothly. Passenger cooperation is also needed: thinking ahead, arriving on time, and utilizing the available technological and convenience services can make year-end travel much more enjoyable. The key is to arrive three hours early, be well-informed, and enjoy the carefully organized airport environment—whether in Sharjah or Dubai.

(Source of the article based on Sharjah Airport's statement.)