Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports Roll Out Festive Welcome-Back Perks as Residents Return for New School Year

Residents flying back to the UAE after the summer holidays are being greeted with free refreshments, live entertainment, giveaways, and cultural experiences as the country prepares for the start of the new school year on Monday, August 31.

More than 1.27 million pupils are due to return to more than 1,180 public and private schools across the country, prompting authorities to prepare for increased traffic as the summer break comes to an end. At Dubai International Airport, a series of experiences are running across Terminal 3 throughout August for residents returning home, tourists arriving in the city, and passengers transferring through DXB.

Younger passengers are being greeted by mascots from Dubai Police and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, while a local musician is performing live in the Arrivals area. Families and friends waiting for passengers can also make personalised signs at the Make Your Welcome Home Sign station, using stickers and Dubai-inspired decorations. Meanwhile, passengers leaving the airport by Dubai Taxi are being offered complimentary refreshments, cold towels, and treats.

Transit passengers can also watch live performances inspired by sounds from the region, while refreshments and treats are being distributed at transfer desks. Michelle Lee, vice president of brand and communications at Dubai Airports, stated that DXB aims to reflect the energy, warmth, and diversity of Dubai for everyone arriving or traveling through.

All travellers can participate in the I Heart DXB interactive installation near Gate B28 by uploading a selfie to create a shared portrait of Dubai in UAE flag colors, alongside a wall for handwritten messages. Limited-edition stickers and pins are also available.

In Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi Airports, and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have joined forces for the Welcome Back to Abu Dhabi campaign at Zayed International Airport. Families arriving at the airport receive specially designed "cultural boarding passes" with information on local attractions. Children and senior citizens are offered free access to select museums in Saadiyat Cultural District, alongside QR codes for curated itineraries and special campaign giveaways.

Authorities across the country have implemented measures to manage traffic, including additional police patrols, enhanced security guard training by Dubai Police, increased bus routes by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, and flexible working hours for federal government employees on the first day of school.