Dubai International's Terminal 2 undergoes major refurbishment

Currently serving more than 25 scheduled airlines, the extended facility will increase capacity from three to some five million passengers a year.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented:

"Terminal 2 has seen tremendous growth over the past decade of its operation, due to its popularity as a convenient and flexible gateway for customers travelling into and out of Dubai."

Griffiths added, "This make-over has given a fantastic boost to the facility, a new lease of life and a freshness that's sure to give us a thumbs-up in terms of customer satisfaction and comfort."

The terminal building now boasts a bold red façade, with clearly defined entrances for Arrivals and Departures and a wide drop-off area running between the terminal and the extensive covered car parking beyond.

Queuing time has speeded up for departing passengers with the extension of the Check-in area where counters have increased from 22 to 36.

The Boarding section has been transformed into a spacious and comfortable seating area, lit by natural light, with a Marhaba Lounge and children's play area opening shortly. The new open boarding gates allow several flights to board simultaneously, considerably improving both passenger and aircraft movement.

Passengers can choose from a range of dining options, including the Hatam Iranian Restaurant, McDonald's, Costa Coffee, Baskin Robbins Ice-cream and Tropicana Juice bar. The Dubai Duty Free shopping area covers 1,400 square metres in Departures and 50 square metres in Arrivals and carries a wide range of international brands.

The 3, 437 square metre extension includes a larger Arrivals hall where the finishing touches are being put to new counters for car rental and currency exchange outlets.

For transiting passengers, a shuttle service runs between the terminals, with a journey time of 20 minutes approximately to Terminal 1 and 30 minutes to Terminal 3.

"Terminal 2's location at the north side of the airfield at Dubai International helps to give the impression of an 'airport within an airport', with its main road access, generous covered car parking and user-friendly terminal," added Mr Griffiths. "I am confident that the revitalised décor and comfortable surroundings, along with the extended facilities will encourage more airlines to use Terminal 2."