Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
Emirates requires unaccompanied minor service for children ages 5-11, who must travel on an adult fare with no extra UM fee. For ages 12-15, the service is optional and costs $50 USD per leg.
Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: Emirates official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 5–11 |
| UM Optional | Ages 12–15 |
| Domestic Fee | Not applicable (Emirates does not operate domestic flights) |
| International Fee | Included in adult fare for ages 5-11; $50 USD per leg for ages 12-15 |
| Per Child? | Yes (per child) |
| Connections | Allowed — Max connection time is 8 hours at DXB, or 4 hours if connecting to another airline. |
| International | Allowed — Emirates operates primarily international flights. |
| Booking Method | Ages 5-11 must travel on an adult fare. The $50 fee for ages 12-15 is per leg of the journey. |
Children under 5 cannot fly alone. Ages 5-11 must use the service. Ages 12-15 may opt in for a fee. Young passengers flying from Japan to Dubai can use the service free of charge.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Check in at the dedicated Unaccompanied Minors desk, then proceed to the UM Lounge.
- Boarding: Young flyers board first to get settled and stow hand luggage with cabin crew assistance.
- In-Flight: Cabin crew supervise the child. Special meals and seating preferences can be arranged.
- Arrival: A specialist team member meets the child at the aircraft door and escorts them through the airport.
Escort Rules: The parent or guardian must remain at the airport until the flight departs and provide proof of identification.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed and signed Declaration of Indemnity form
- Child's passport (kept by airline during service)
- Proof of identification for escorting/collecting parent or guardian
Recommended
- Emergency contact information
- Preferred snacks or entertainment
Declaration of Indemnity forms are available at Emirates Airport Offices.
Safety Procedures
- Specialist team member stays with the child through security, immigration, and boarding
- Dedicated Unaccompanied Minors Lounges at Dubai International (DXB)
- Child's passport is kept securely with the airline during the journey
- Parent or guardian must remain at the departure airport until the flight takes off
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Maximum connection time of 8 hours at DXB (4 hours for other airlines)
- No overnight stays at connecting airports without an approved adult guardian
- Service applies only to Emirates-operated flights, not partner airlines
- Must be booked at least 12 hours before departure
Pro Tips for Parents
- Use the UM Lounge: If flying through Dubai, take advantage of the dedicated Unaccompanied Minors Lounge near check-in, featuring games, Wi-Fi, and snacks.
- Pre-Order Meals and Seats: When booking, let Emirates know your child's meal preferences and whether they prefer a window or aisle seat.
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for check-in at the dedicated UM desk and ensure you have all required forms, including the Declaration of Indemnity.
The Bottom Line
Emirates provides a premium UM experience including dedicated lounges at Dubai International (DXB) with video games and snacks, and the service fee is waived for children under 12 who purchase an adult fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the Emirates unaccompanied minor service cost?
- For children ages 5-11, the service is included when booking an adult fare. For teens ages 12-15, the optional service costs $50 USD per leg.
- What is the minimum age to fly alone on Emirates?
- The minimum age to fly alone on Emirates is 5 years old. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult.
- How do I book the unaccompanied minor service on Emirates?
- You must contact Emirates by phone, LiveChat, or at a local office to book the service up to 12 hours before departure.