The world’s second-busiest airport is also one of the best

The airport

Dubai International Airport, UAE, code DXB

The flight

Emirates Airways flight EK412 from Dubai to Sydney, departing at 10.15am.

The arrival

Despite its size and status as the world’s second-busiest airport (just pipped for top place by Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson in the US, according to OAG, the UK-based global travel data provider), the arrival process to DXB is efficient with surprisingly few glitches.

Terminal 3 was purpose-built to handle Airbus A380 superjumbos.

Terminal 3 services Emirates flights only (and some FlyDubai) in three concourses, and has a separate departures drop-off for first and business passengers. I’m flying premium economy, so hop out at the general departures area. The terminal is purpose-built for the Boeing 777 and Airbus A380, with an efficient sky-train ferrying passengers to Concourse A and B to board the big mama of all aircraft.

The look

A cool aesthetic.

From the outside, the elongated chrome terminal is almost serpentine, with curved edges and a diamond pattern running along its body. Inspired by a sand viper? We’re not sure. Inside, the rounded structure is cool with a refreshing aesthetic of glass, chrome and steel, extensive natural light, high ceilings and a multi-level water feature.

Check-in

It’s not clear where to check-in on arrival and the TV monitors seem to be more for decoration. Most people, including myself, ask one of the many Emirates staff members for assistance. I’m politely directed to desk 6, the dedicated check-in desk for premium economy, where an endearing trainee staff member checks me in within a matter of minutes.

Security

My passport has an e-chip, so I use the automated customs line and head straight to security. It’s a quick process and staff are friendly and instructional without being pushy.

Food + drink

If you were to find yourself living in an airport terminal a la Tom Hanks in The Terminal (based on a true story), this would be the place to do it. There’s a multitude of restaurants and fast food chains, from US cult burger slingers Shake Shack to pan-Asian Cho Gao and Jones the Grocer Express. And yes, you can slam a beer or two at licensed venues, including Bottega and Jack’s Bar & Grill. Fill up your reusable bottle at the water fountain near gate A24 in Concourse A.

Retail therapy

There’s an abundance of shopping options.

With more than a whopping 10,700 square metres of retail space and facilities, you can overdose on duty free here. You’ll find every cosmetics brand under the sun at Dubai Duty Free, including Kiehls and La Mer, as well as luxury fashion bags at Dior and Louis Vuitton. While its shops are of a certain calibre, they’re not particularly novel. However, there are some quirky souvenirs to be found, such as Bateel dates and Al Nassma camel milk chocolate.

Passing time

Qualifying passengers can saunter straight into Emirates first and business class lounges, while Emirates also offers paid access to its business lounge for an eye-popping $US175 ($269). Marhaba Lounge is less pricey, with two-hour visits from $US50 ($77). Pop in for express pampering at Be Relax spa or freshen up at the shower facilities between B13 and B19 in Concourse B. If you have a long layover, you can also store your luggage for up to 12 hours for AED35 ($15) in the arrivals hall.

The verdict

Whether you’re arriving in Dubai, or just transiting through, this airport is consistently hassle-free, and remains one of the world’s best.

Our rating out of five

★★★★½

The writer flew at her own expense and with the assistance of Emirates.