Emirates passengers can now fully "check-in" for their flights from the comfort of their own home with the introduction of a new baggage collection service.
From today, Emirates Home Check-in allows customers to check in for their flights from anywhere in Dubai. The service is not yet available in any other emirates, but it means that anyone using the airline to fly from Dubai can have their baggage collected up to 48 hours before departure. The service has been operating on a trial basis since last year and comes amid consumer demand for greater flexibility and less stress.
According to the airline, the service will "check you in and print your boarding pass, weigh and securely check your baggage and deliver your luggage straight to the airport." It can be booked up to 12 hours before departure and used up to 7 hours before departure. This allows UAE residents or connecting passengers to be free of luggage before enjoying sightseeing, an evening out or a whole weekend away, prior to their departing flight.
Currently, the service costs Dh350 per trip for up to 7 pieces of luggage; additional bags cost Dh35 each. Mindful of security concerns, the service is carried out using a special fleet of vans and all bags are weighed, tagged and sealed on the spot. Any overweight baggage is also charged for at this stage.
Emirates also offers a service where luggage is retrieved, cleared at customs and delivered to customers in Dubai after their flight. Full terms and conditions are viewable here.
____________
[ On the move: a case of lost luggage ]
[ 10 things to know about your passport before you travel ]
[ On the move: the mystery of the missing trousers ]
____________
