โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Sharjah International Airport operates as a major regional hub through three interconnected terminals, with Air Arabia as the primary low-cost carrier base serving an extensive network across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and Central Asia. Terminal 1 handles most international flights and features modern immigration and security facilities designed for high passenger turnover typical of budget carrier operations. Terminal 2 serves regional flights and some charter operations, while Terminal 3 focuses on cargo operations with some passenger services. Walking distances between gates are moderate (8-15 minutes), with frequent shuttle bus services connecting remote stands during peak evening departure waves.
The airport offers practical amenities including duty-free shopping with Middle Eastern specialties and electronics, diverse dining options featuring local Emirati, Indian, and international cuisine, prayer facilities, family areas, and basic lounge services suitable for budget travelers. Air Arabia maintains its own lounge facility for premium passengers. The terminals provide efficient check-in with self-service kiosks, modern security screening, and streamlined immigration processes designed to handle the high-volume, quick-turnaround operations typical of low-cost carriers. Ground transportation includes bus services to Dubai, Sharjah, and other UAE cities, taxi services, and ride-sharing options. Recent 2024-2025 improvements include enhanced baggage handling systems, expanded retail areas, improved passenger wifi, and modernized air conditioning to better handle the UAE's demanding climate conditions.
๐ Connection Tips
Peak evening waves; allow extra time.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Dubai International Airport operates three terminals with Terminal 3 being the world's largest airport terminal at 1.7 million mยฒ built exclusively for Emirates at a cost of US$4.5 billion. Terminal 1 houses international airlines on Concourse D, while Terminal 2 operates independently on the opposite side requiring landside transfers and visa processing for connections. Terminals 1 and 3 share a common transit area allowing free airside movement between them, though distances are substantial with 20-45 minutes needed for terminal transfers and up to 30 minutes between Terminal 3's three concourses.
Terminal 3's three concourses each serve specific functions: Concourse A (opened 2013) is the world's first purpose-built A380 facility featuring multi-level boarding directly from first and business class lounges, Concourse B offers 32 gates including 26 air bridges across 10 floors, and Concourse C provides 50 gates with integrated hotel facilities. Walking times within Terminal 3 range from 5-20 minutes to gates, with an inter-concourse shuttle train connecting Concourse A while B and C are walkable to each other. Security wait times average 13 minutes, and Emirates passengers benefit from express services reducing connection times by up to 20 minutes.
Terminal 3 houses the world's largest first-class lounge spanning 9,000 mยฒ with direct A380 boarding, plus 14 total lounges including Emirates First and Business facilities in each concourse. The 26,000 mยฒ duty-free complex offers the only legal alcohol purchases in Dubai alongside luxury shopping. Unique amenities include the 5-star Dubai International Hotel inside Terminal 3 with hourly bookings, Timeless Spa with complimentary 15-minute treatments, Zen Gardens, free showers near gates A1-A24 and B13-B19, and dedicated children's areas near gates B27 and B7 with interactive play zones and entertainment screens.
๐ Connection Tips
DXB is a major international hub. Terminal 2 transfers require visa and re-check-in. Emirates passengers can use the free shuttle between terminals.
โ Back to Sharjah International Airport