jlsw7

Hi, my family of 4 are flying MEL-DXB-LHR on Qantas in F. My wife and daughter are on the through service with a 2 hour layover in DXB. My son and I are on the same flight to DXB, but have a 20 hour layover before carrying on to LHR. Is it possible for us all to arrive in DXB, clear security as transit passengers, have a meal together in the F lounge and then for my son and I to leave the airport for a few hours?

Flaneurs

I can't think of any reason why you would not be able to do this as long as you have the ability to get a Dubai visa. You certainly could do all of this if you were flying EK. It shouldn't be an issue getting through security or into the lounge. Long transits seem to be very common at DXB IME. I am sure the rest of the group here will chime in if I am missing something. Otherwise, enjoy your flights, the meal together and Dubai!

offtothehills

I wouldn't see why not, esp if no hold luggage to collect. Could be wrong, no doubt will soon find out.

shuly

The question is how to go landside from the lounge. In IST, for example, this is quite tricky.

Shuly

jlsw7

Yes, this is what I am asking about. We don't need a visa or to collect bags.

skywardhunter

You need to go back down to transit security and go through it in reverse to get to immigration.

jlsw7

thanks

Stephenk82

I've done it before. As stated above, you just need to go back to transit security (any of them - although I always find it easier to get to the central one in concourse B as it is then closest to immigration), and although there is no obvious 'way out' just approach one of the people metal detectors in use and indicate to the security guy you want out. It has never been a problem and you are sent through (setting off all the alarms).

Then you just continue to 'arrivals/baggage reclaim' as if you had just landed, and go through immigration.

Your onward boarding pass will get you back in when you wish.

FYI - there's a decent secure 'left luggage' area if you wanted to leave some of your carry-on at the airport to go and explore Dubai. After you walk past the baggage reclaim and exit customs, turn left and walk on a bit. Just don't forget to get a ticket from the machine as soon as you get there to be served in order.

Depending on time of day arrival, I'd recommend getting the metro through to the Burj Khalifa station, good views most of the way, and plenty to do in Dubai Mall.

Have fun

jlsw7

Thanks - I think my son will probably want to go to Atlantis waterpark (and so do I )