Arriving in Dubai Like a VIP: Fast Track, Meet & Greet, Al Majlis and Private Terminals
The first hour in Dubai sets the tone for the whole trip. After a long flight, the difference between queuing at immigration with tired children and being met at the aircraft door is huge. Dubai has more arrival options than most cities. Here is what each one is, what it costs, and who it suits.
Last updated: 8 November 2026
Your options, from free to VIP
- Smart Gates (free). UAE residents and many eligible travellers can use the automated Smart Gates. If you travel light and on your own, this is often fastest, and it costs nothing.
- Marhaba Fast Track (from about AED 105 per person). Marhaba is the official meet-and-assist service at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum (DWC). A September 2026 guide reported basic Fast Track from about AED 105 per person. It is a small-group service for up to five travellers, not a personal escort. Confirm the current price and availability for your flight before booking.
- Marhaba Silver, Gold and Family. A Marhaba agent meets you at the gate or first point of the terminal and takes you through priority immigration. Gold is one-to-one, with a porter at baggage reclaim, and Family packages cover up to four people. Book at least 24 hours ahead.
- Marhaba Elite (from about USD 300 per person). Private arrival lounges in Terminals 1 and 3, before immigration, where you rest while formalities are handled. Marhaba lists Elite from USD 300.20; check the price for your travel date.
- Al Majlis VIP service. The top tier for commercial flights. An agent meets you at the aircraft, a luxury car transfers you to the VIP facility, and you wait in a private lounge while your passport and luggage are handled. Dubai Airports describes the service and booking options; request a current quote before booking.
- Private jet terminals. Private-flight handling depends on the airport and your operator. This Dubai VIP terminal guide describes executive facilities at DXB and DWC. At Al Maktoum (DWC), the Jetex VIP Terminal serves private aviation. Confirm the exact terminal and meeting point with your flight operator.
Which one should you book?
| Your situation | Arrival option |
|---|---|
| Resident, travelling light | Smart Gates |
| Want faster formalities only | Marhaba Fast Track |
| Family with children and luggage | Marhaba Family or Gold |
| Business leader, privacy matters | Marhaba Elite or Al Majlis |
| Public figure, total privacy | Al Majlis or a private terminal |
The part most people forget: after the airport
Fast immigration means little if the car isn't waiting. Plan the whole chain: chauffeur at the right exit, a second car for luggage when the family travels with many bags, the villa or hotel suite cooled and stocked, and SIM cards or eSIMs ready. Prices change often, so check the official Marhaba site before booking.
Ask SETTRA a question about your own situation.
FAQ
How much is fast track at Dubai airport?
A September 2026 guide reported Marhaba Fast Track from about AED 105 per person; prices change, so check the official Marhaba price for your airport and travel date before booking.
What is Al Majlis at Dubai airport?
A VIP facility at DXB for commercial passengers, with private immigration, a private lounge and car transfer to and from the aircraft.
Where do private jets arrive in Dubai?
Private jets use executive aviation facilities at DXB or Al Maktoum (DWC), including the Jetex VIP Terminal at DWC. Your flight operator should confirm the exact terminal and meeting point.
