Folks,

I realize Emirates will put you up in a hotel off airport at no charge if you have a long layover in Dubai although we chose to stay in the airport and I'm glad we did. Upon arrival we were met by a rep from the International Hotel who whisked us through security, walked us to the hotel and assisted with check-in. Hotel staff were very helpful and the rooms were very nice. They were not fancy but ticked all the boxes. On the return we also overnighted at the International. This time our arrival gate was very near the hotel and we were less than 15 minutes from deplaning to checking into the hotel.

Given our experience I just think unless you are on a very tight budget that staying in the airport, avoiding leaving the airport, and then returning in the morning will save a couple hours at least that you could be sleeping. Plus its less hassle.

Everybody we encountered in the airport was friendly and very helpful. People seemed interested in having you there which was refreshing.

Mark

Good to know, thank you!

quote:

Originally posted by MARK H. YOUNG:
...
Given our experience I just think unless you are on a very tight budget that staying in the airport, avoiding leaving the airport, and then returning in the morning will save a couple hours at least that you could be sleeping. Plus its less hassle.

Everybody we encountered in the airport was friendly and very helpful. People seemed interested in having you there which was refreshing.

Mark

Actually, not that bad. It took me about 15-20 minutes to go through the customs and get to the hotel as it is literally a 5 minute drive and Emirates provides the limo. In the morning almost the same except customs is automated on the way into the airport. More options for dinner outside the airport as well. I would recommend Prim68 as one of the best steakhouses in the world if you have the time and budget, beautiful night view of Dubai as well. I plan on eating there again with my girlfriend next July.

You have security to deal with for the international hotel too. So, that time is not a savings.

tanks,

What are you speaking about as far as security at the International. We got off the plane, went through security in about 30 seconds and went to the hotel.

Mark

quote:

Originally posted by MARK H. YOUNG:
tanks,

What are you speaking about as far as security at the International. We got off the plane, went through security in about 30 seconds and went to the hotel.

Mark

Well, still need to take belts off etc., but to be honest overseas they have the sensors dialed up so it picks up my titanium hip so I get wanded every time.

They'd have fun with me then.

Knee, both shoulders and a box of
screws in my back.

Surely they didn't hassle yu over that..

George

I had to take my belt off in every European airport this month.

quote:

Well, still need to take belts off etc., but to be honest overseas they have the sensors dialed up so it picks up my titanium hip so I get wanded every time.

I have a spine fusion and the odd time I get pulled over I just show them the scar and let them decide .... has always worked.