In my previous blog, I told you how my friends and I planned to visit Dubai in summer — which actually turned out to be a great idea. This post isn’t about that; this one’s about my immigration experience at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Since Dubai was my fifth country, I wasn’t totally new to international immigration. But my first four countries were in Southeast Asia, so I was a bit nervous about Dubai — like a lot of people online. I’d also heard stories, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.
We flew Emirates (not to brag, but sometimes it’s quite economical — you get special offers when you use the boarding pass). Anyway, back to immigration.
When we landed at DXB I followed the signs to Passport Control and, weirdly, reached the immigration area pretty quickly. There were two ladies directing people — one of them was guiding passengers toward the smart-gates.
If you don’t know, smart-gates are automated: you scan your passport, they do a face scan, and you’re through. But smart-gates only work if the system already has your data — first-time visitors usually can’t use them.
I told one of the staff I needed to go to the manual counter, but she still pointed us toward the smart-gates. Of course it didn’t work for first-time arrivals, so we were redirected to the manual immigration line. It was a little chaotic and odd, but not a big deal.
I waited in the manual line for around 2 minutes before it was my turn. The officer didn’t ask me any questions — no “What’s the purpose of your visit?” or “Where will you stay?” Nothing like that. She just did the usual: took my photo, took fingerprints, checked my eVisa in a few places, and then stamped my passport. She did ask me to remove my glasses for the photo, and that was it. No small talk, no grilling — stamp done, and I was in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
One surprising perk: the immigration officer actually handed me a free du SIM card right there. It was active for 24 hours with a bit of free internet. I don’t know if this is always available or a limited-time thing, so don’t quote me on it — but it happened at DXB, at the immigration counter itself.
After immigration, I grabbed my bags at baggage claim, cleared customs (no one checked my luggage), and exited the airport. Outside, you’ll find taxi stands, currency exchange, and SIM recharge kiosks — everything you need.
Quick FAQ (based on my experience)
What happens at Dubai immigration?
They take your biometrics (fingerprints) and photo, check your Dubai (UAE) eVisa, stamp your passport — and you’re done.
How strict is Dubai immigration?
In my case, it was very chill. No questions were asked — just the biometric check and stamp.
What documents are required?
They didn’t ask me for anything beyond my eVisa. Still, it’s smart to have your return flight, hotel booking, and proof of funds available — they can ask.
Is an eVisa accepted at the airport?
Yes — I showed the eVisa on my phone and it was fine, but I also recommend carrying a printed copy just in case.
How long does immigration take?
The actual immigration process took me 2–3 minutes. Waiting time in the line can vary.
Do you need 3,000 AED to enter Dubai?
You don’t need to carry exactly 3,000 AED in cash, but be prepared to prove you can afford your stay if asked — a bank statement or card limit works. In my experience, they didn’t ask for this.
Travel Tip: Always keep your eVisa, return flight and hotel booking ready on your phone — and have a printed copy as backup.
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