Travelling through Dubai airport? Soon, check in your luggage from anywhere in UAE
You could soon be checking in your baggage from anywhere in the city to travel from Dubai Airport (DXB). That is because DXB wants to make sure that at least 25 per cent of luggage is checked in from outside the airport facility.
'We handled 24 million bags this quarter, so we're going to exceed 100 million bags in Dubai this year,' said Ciaran O'Sullivan, DVP Airline Services UAE Airport Operations at Dnata. 'If we could have 20 per cent of them, that is one in five bags, to be checked in off-site here in Dubai, the impact on customer service experience at the airport would be tenfold.'
Ciaran was speaking during a panel discussion at The Airport Show, which began in Dubai on Tuesday. He added that the airport was hoping to scale their partnership with the company Dubz — which allows travellers to check in and receive their boarding pass from a home or a hotel — to achieve this.
'They satisfy thousands of customers a year but we need to get scale so that we can bring the unit price down,' he said. 'By working with the RTA, the metro system, Dubai Airport, holiday companies, hotels and the masses, we can do a lot.'
Launched in 2016, Dubz provides a baggage collection and delivery service that can be booked online at any time. After being selected the winner of an aviation and travel incubator program co-founded by the Emirates Group, GE, and Dubai Tourism, the company was acquired by Dnata.
Passenger perception
According to John Dyett, Vice President of Baggage Service Delivery at DXB, ensuring proper handling of baggage is of utmost importance for the airport. 'Baggage handling often defines a passenger's perception of an airport,' he said. 'We need to think what steps can airports take to minimise mishandling while enhancing speed and predictability?'
He added that the airport handles approximately 250,000 bags every day, going up to 300,000 on busy days in the first quarter of this year.
Several airports in the world have been using AI to ensure timely delivery of baggage, Dr Heba Kurdi, research affiliate of Artificial Intelligence at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), added. 'There are already some airports who are utilising semi-smart sorting systems for their baggage,' she said. 'We also have AI-powered simulation and digital twins that help airports to do and test operations before, like having them in real-life scenarios.'
Another expert at the event, Amel Chadli, president of Gulf Countries, Schneider Electric, called the vision of Dubai Airport 'forward thinking' and something that will improve the experience of passengers.
'Dubai Airport's push for off-terminal baggage check-in is a forward-thinking move that can ease terminal congestion, boost operational efficiency, and elevate the passenger journey,' she said. 'Across the international airports we support, we've seen that smart automation, energy-efficient systems, and advanced distribution management are key to streamlining ground handling and enabling a seamless travel experience."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Eid Al Adha 2025: Luxury staycations in the UAE
In spite of the rising temperatures, Eid Al Adha, the final holiday before the summer break begins, is going to be a boon for hotels offering staycations as people opt for luxury stays around the country before their travels abroad. Kostas Nikolaidis, senior account manager at CoStar, a global provider of real estate data, analytics, and news, told KT LUXE: 'Current occupancy data indicates strong uplift and booking demand between June 6 and June 10. Dubai occupancy on the books versus the same days last year is 7 per cent higher, with the peak days of June 6 and June 7 already 37.3 per cent and 38.9 per cent booked. Similarly, Abu Dhabi occupancy on the books level is trending 4 per cent higher than last year with Saturday peaking at 33.2 per cent.' He said that demand for accommodation will continue to ramp up as the dates approach. 'Domestic staycations are expected to be one of the main demand drivers coupled with a good share of international visitors primarily from neighbouring GCC countries.' Meerah Ketait, head of retail and leisure at dnata, said that while the majority of bookings this Eid Al Adha are for outbound travel, staycations account for around 8 per cent of total holiday bookings. 'While international travel dominates the Eid period, the local holiday market holds steady as a compelling option for those looking to unwind closer to home,' she said. For one thing, the UAE's travel and leisure sector has adapted to accommodate even the hottest moments. 'Despite the summer heat, many [travellers] are drawn to the UAE's luxury resorts and indoor experiences that are well-equipped to offer a cool and relaxing environment,' she added. 'Beachfront hotels in Dubai, along with escapes to Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Abu Dhabi, continue to attract demand thanks to their all-inclusive packages, shaded pools, wellness offerings, and kids' activities, all designed to help guests beat the heat while enjoying a memorable break.' Have family or friends coming over for the holidays, or just looking for a sweet summer sojourn? KT LUXE rounds up some of the most luxurious offerings across the Emirates. Whether you are into urban escapes, desert landscapes, or island retreats, we've got you covered. W Mina Seyahi, Dubai The luxurious beachfront destination is offering special Eid deals that are perfect for romantic getaways or family fun alike with half board packages at special rates. 'Occupancy is expected to reach 100 per cent during Eid, underscoring the growing popularity of local staycationers as families choose to remain in the UAE to avoid travel hassles, enjoy familiar comforts, and make the most of exclusive Eid offers,' said cluster director of market strategy, Gustavo Pereira. A staycation at Mina Seyahi gives families a beach retreat while being just minutes from the city's attractions. Half board packages include daily breakfast and dinner at a handpicked selection of Dubai's best dining destinations, plus access to pools, the beach, and the much-loved Jungle Bay waterpark. From Dh1,669 per night. Use discount code D60 at Anantara World Islands, Dubai This plush hideaway offers guests the chance to feel like they're escaping to a luxurious tropical island, while being just a short boat trip back to Dubai's mainland. Luxurious villas, which go up to a massive 471sqm (for the four-bedroom Beach Pool Villa), are reminiscent of Thailand, offering guests private pools, expansive social settings, and luxurious finishings. Sonia Sammut, the resort manager, said: 'Eid is a time for connection, reflection, and celebration — and we've created the perfect sanctuary for all of that at Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort. What makes our resort truly special for Eid is the balance it offers. You're just a short boat ride away from the heart of Dubai, yet you can retreat to the island for peace, privacy, and meaningful moments with loved ones. There's something truly magical about waking up to the sound of the sea, enjoying breakfast with uninterrupted views of the Dubai skyline, and ending the day with a family dinner under the stars.' From Dh1,910 per night. UAE and GCC residents get up to 35 per cent off on the staycation package. Ritz Carlton Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah This spot is an Emirates favourite, allowing guests to get up close to Ras Al Khaimah's breathtaking nature and wildlife. Luxurious villas offer families a home away from home, where they can enjoy views of the rolling sand dunes, lounge next to private pools, and just generally relax and unwind. This Eid, the property is offering an Eid Rainforest Serenity Retreat, with an escape to a private Pool Villa, indoor rainforest access, villa breakfast, and a rejuvenating 60-minute spa session for two. From Dh2,800 per night. The package is valid for stays between June 1 and 9 The Lana by Dorchester Collection, Dubai This summer, The Lana is offering a guaranteed double room upgrade at the time of booking, plus daily breakfast by chef Jean Imbert or a Middle Eastern selection — served in-room or at Riviera. Indulge in exclusive experiences, from arriving in style with a Rolls-Royce transfer to unwinding at the region's first Dior Spa, or savouring the elegant afternoon tea overlooking the Dubai skyline. 'Eid is the perfect time to take a break without going far — and The Lana offers just the kind of refined escape many are looking for. We're seeing more guests from across the UAE join us for a staycation that blends the best of both worlds: the excitement of the city and the calm of a luxury retreat,' said general manager Richard Alexander. 'With beautifully designed rooms, thoughtful service, and access to some of Dubai's most sophisticated dining and leisure experiences, The Lana makes even a few days in the city feel truly special.' From Dh1,500 per night. Offer valid from June 1 to September 20. Al Maya Island, Abu Dhabi Al Maya Island Resort, a serene oasis nestled off the natural island of Al Maya in Abu Dhabi, is just a short boat ride from the city. A haven for those seeking a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, it offers an island hideaway in ultimate luxury. Guests can enjoy beach activities with complimentary kayak and stand-up paddle boards, perfect for exploring the island waters. Families can enjoy beach activities, including beach volleyball and football. Guests can also explore the island on two wheels with the free bike hire. From Dh3,145 (for one-bedroom villas). Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai Guests can enjoy a special Eid discount with up to 20 per cent savings on the Jumeirah Flexible Rate at one of Dubai's most iconic destinations. Offers are on a bed and breakfast with two children aged 11 and below staying free. All guests at the architectural landmark that has put Dubai on the global tourism map enjoy signature butler service, access to SAL Beach Club, Jumeirah's private beach, and Summersalt Beach Club as well as free access to Wild Wadi Waterpark. From Dh3,700 per night. Park Hyatt, Dubai With the Eid Staycation Offer, guests at Park Hyatt Dubai can enjoy a staycation in the heart of old Dubai, just minutes away from some of the city's main attractions. The waterfront retreat on Dubai Creek is offering bed and breakfast with free room upgrades over the break along with 20 per cent savings at Park Hyatt Dubai's exclusive restaurants, welcome beverages at the scenic NOÉPE, two-hour early check-in, and two-hour late check-out. From Dh1,275 per night (for the Park Suite) Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai One of the emirate's most glamorous spots, this beach resort is, according to the Michelin guide, 'as lavish as they come'. In addition to the hotel's private beach, signature spa and pool, there is Michelin-starred dining at Tasca by José Avillez. The Royal Penthouse is one of the city's most luxurious, spanning 850sqm and located on the rooftop. Offering a huge terrace and plunge pool, it is an urban escape within easy reach of all the city's best attractions and nightlife.
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
Travelling through Dubai airport? Soon, check in your luggage from anywhere in UAE
You could soon be checking in your baggage from anywhere in the city to travel from Dubai Airport (DXB). That is because DXB wants to make sure that at least 25 per cent of luggage is checked in from outside the airport facility. 'We handled 24 million bags this quarter, so we're going to exceed 100 million bags in Dubai this year,' said Ciaran O'Sullivan, DVP Airline Services UAE Airport Operations at Dnata. 'If we could have 20 per cent of them, that is one in five bags, to be checked in off-site here in Dubai, the impact on customer service experience at the airport would be tenfold.' Ciaran was speaking during a panel discussion at The Airport Show, which began in Dubai on Tuesday. He added that the airport was hoping to scale their partnership with the company Dubz — which allows travellers to check in and receive their boarding pass from a home or a hotel — to achieve this. 'They satisfy thousands of customers a year but we need to get scale so that we can bring the unit price down,' he said. 'By working with the RTA, the metro system, Dubai Airport, holiday companies, hotels and the masses, we can do a lot.' Launched in 2016, Dubz provides a baggage collection and delivery service that can be booked online at any time. After being selected the winner of an aviation and travel incubator program co-founded by the Emirates Group, GE, and Dubai Tourism, the company was acquired by Dnata. Passenger perception According to John Dyett, Vice President of Baggage Service Delivery at DXB, ensuring proper handling of baggage is of utmost importance for the airport. 'Baggage handling often defines a passenger's perception of an airport,' he said. 'We need to think what steps can airports take to minimise mishandling while enhancing speed and predictability?' He added that the airport handles approximately 250,000 bags every day, going up to 300,000 on busy days in the first quarter of this year. Several airports in the world have been using AI to ensure timely delivery of baggage, Dr Heba Kurdi, research affiliate of Artificial Intelligence at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), added. 'There are already some airports who are utilising semi-smart sorting systems for their baggage,' she said. 'We also have AI-powered simulation and digital twins that help airports to do and test operations before, like having them in real-life scenarios.' Another expert at the event, Amel Chadli, president of Gulf Countries, Schneider Electric, called the vision of Dubai Airport 'forward thinking' and something that will improve the experience of passengers. 'Dubai Airport's push for off-terminal baggage check-in is a forward-thinking move that can ease terminal congestion, boost operational efficiency, and elevate the passenger journey,' she said. 'Across the international airports we support, we've seen that smart automation, energy-efficient systems, and advanced distribution management are key to streamlining ground handling and enabling a seamless travel experience."
Tourism Breaking News
19-05-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
marhaba adds Check-In Anywhere, Land & Leave to deliver end-to-end travel services
Post Views: 23 marhaba has integrated services from DUBZ, the baggage technology and logistics company, into its expanding service portfolio. The move creates one of the most comprehensive airport service offerings in the world – enabling passengers flying from Dubai to check in and hand off their luggage remotely, fast-track through immigration, and relax in a lounge, all while experiencing marhaba's signature hospitality in one seamless booking. As part of the integration, marhaba now offers three signature DUBZ services under its own umbrella: • Check-In Anywhere allows passengers to check in from the comforts of their home, hotel or office – where certified check-in agents will issue boarding passes and collect luggage, which is securely delivered to the airport • Land and Leave enables arriving passengers to skip baggage claim entirely, with their luggage delivered to their doorstep within hours of landing • Baggage Storage and Delivery offers travellers flexible short-term or extended baggage storage options, as well as secure same-day delivery across the UAE – ideal for transit passengers, early checkouts or those looking to experience the city baggage-free Check-In Anywhere and Land and Leave are now bookable directly via with Baggage Storage and Delivery offered at designated service points in Dubai. Combined with its core offerings – including Meet & Greet and lounge access – these services position marhaba as one of the few global providers delivering a fully integrated hospitality journey that extends well beyond the airport terminal. The announcement follows a significant uptick in demand for smarter airport experiences. According to IATA's most recent Global Passenger Survey, speed and convenience at airports remain a top priority among travellers around the world – some 70% of respondents said they would prefer checking in their luggage in advance to avoid long queues. Since dnata acquired a majority stake in DUBZ in 2018, the service has seen consistent year-on-year growth – particularly among families, business travellers and premium passengers. In 2024 alone, DUBZ served over 70,000 passengers through its off-airport check-in, Land and Leave, and baggage storage and delivery services – marking a 15% growth compared to the previous year. 'We're seeing a fundamental shift in how people want to travel,' said Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata. 'Whether it's a family trying to simplify their departure or a business traveller looking to save time, the demand for seamless airport experiences has never been higher. With this integration, we're anticipating those needs and going beyond them. It's about removing friction and giving people back time and peace of mind.' The move also comes as Dubai International (DXB) airport continues to scale new passenger records, with more than 92 million travellers passing through in 2024 – a figure projected to rise even further in the year ahead. As a response, airports worldwide are accelerating investments in off-airport processing technologies to streamline operations and enhance journeys. Since launching in 1991, marhaba has served millions of customers across key international hubs, including Dubai. By bundling off-site check-in, meet & greet, fast-track clearance and other services, the company positions itself as a one-stop solution in the airport hospitality services market.
