Emirates Infant Policy: Flying with Babies & Toddlers

Introduction

Traveling with an infant on Emirates? Whether you’re planning a long-haul international trip or a short regional flight, it’s important to understand Emirates’ infant policy to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for you and your baby.

This guide covers infant ticket prices, baggage allowances, bassinet options, and travel tips to help parents navigate their flight with ease.

Emirates Infant Policy 101

Emirates Infant Travel Age Requirements

✔ Infants (0–2 years old): Children under 2 years old can travel on an adult’s lap or in a separate seat with an approved car seat.
✔ Toddlers (2+ years old): Once a child turns 2 years old, they must have their own seat and ticket.
✔ Newborn Restrictions: Emirates allows infants as young as 7 days old to fly. However, babies younger than 7 days may only travel if medically necessary with a doctor’s certificate.

📌 Tip: If your baby will turn 2 years old during your trip, you must book a child ticket for the entire journey.

Emirates Infant Ticket Prices & Fares

Emirates offers discounted infant fares based on seating arrangements:

Ticket Type	Seat Type	Cost
Lap Infant Ticket (0–2 years)	Baby sits on an adult’s lap (shared seatbelt)	10% of adult fare
Infant in a Separate Seat	Baby in a certified car seat in their own seat	75–80% of adult fare
Toddler (2+ years)	Full-fare child ticket required	Same as child fare

📌 Tip: Some premium cabins (Business & First Class) do not allow lap infants in certain seating configurations—check your specific flight details before booking.

Bassinet Seats for Infants on Emirates

For long-haul flights, Emirates offers free bassinets for babies under 2 years old, subject to availability.

Bassinet Rules & Size Restrictions

✔ Weight Limit: Up to 11 kg (24 lbs).
✔ Length Limit: Less than 75 cm (29.5 inches).
✔ Seating Location: Only available in bulkhead rows.
✔ Availability: Limited number per flight—request early.

📌 Tip: Request a bassinet at least 24–48 hours before departure by calling Emirates customer service or through Manage Booking on their website.

Infant Baggage Allowance on Emirates

✔ Lap Infants (0–2 years old): Allowed 1 checked bag (10 kg / 22 lbs) + 1 carry-on (5 kg / 11 lbs).
✔ Infants with a Separate Seat: Same baggage allowance as an adult ticket.
✔ Baby Strollers & Car Seats:

• Collapsible strollers can be checked for free.
• Car seats are allowed free of charge, either as checked baggage or in the cabin if a separate seat is purchased.

📌 Tip: Baby food, formula, and milk are allowed in carry-on bags, even exceeding standard liquid limits.

Breastfeeding & Baby Food on Emirates Flights

✔ Breastfeeding: Allowed at all times; flight attendants can provide privacy if needed.
✔ Baby Food: Emirates offers free jarred baby meals—request in advance when booking.
✔ Formula & Milk: Can be brought onboard; crew can warm bottles upon request.
✔ Sterilization: Bottles can be rinsed with hot water, but sterilization services are not available onboard.

📌 Tip: If your baby needs specific formula or food, bring your own supply, as availability on board varies.

Seating Options & Cabin Class Restrictions for Infants

Economy Class (Best for Families)

✔ Lap infants allowed (10% of adult fare).
✔ Bassinet seats available in bulkhead rows.
✔ Extra legroom seats can be booked for easier movement.

Business & First Class

✔ Bassinets available, but some Business Class seats may not accommodate lap infants.
✔ Flat-bed seats in First Class make it easier for parents to rest with their baby.
✔ Some Business Class cabins (like the A380’s upper deck) do not allow lap infants—check before booking.

📌 Tip: Emirates does not provide child restraint systems, but FAA-approved car seats are allowed for infants with their own seat.

Infant Safety & Travel Policies

✔ Lap Infant Seatbelt: Infants flying on a parent’s lap will be given a lap belt extension to secure them safely.
✔ Car Seat Requirements: Must be FAA-approved or Emirates-approved. Only allowed in window seats.
✔ Baby Carrier: Soft carriers (e.g., BabyBjörn) can be used during the flight, except during takeoff and landing.

📌 Tip: Always bring a change of clothes for both you and your baby, as accidents can happen mid-flight.

Emirates Skywards Loyalty Program for Infants

✔ Babies can be enrolled in Emirates Skywards (Emirates’ frequent flyer program).
✔ Miles can be earned on infant tickets (if a separate seat is booked).
✔ Miles can be used for future flight discounts when they transition to a child ticket.

📌 Tip: If you frequently fly with Emirates, sign up your infant for Skywards early to start earning miles.

Documents Required for Infant Travel on Emirates

✔ Passport: Required for international travel.
✔ Visa: Check destination country requirements for infant entry.
✔ Birth Certificate: May be required for verification if traveling with one parent.
✔ Parental Consent Letter: If one parent is traveling alone, a notarized letter of consent may be required for certain destinations.

📌 Tip: Always check the visa & documentation rules for your specific destination, as requirements differ by country.

Emirates Infant Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

✔ Book Early – Infant bassinet seats fill up fast.
✔ Choose Night Flights – Helps babies stick to their sleep routine.
✔ Bring Extra Supplies – Pack diapers, wipes, and formula in your carry-on.
✔ Check Airport Facilities – Dubai International Airport (DXB) has baby care lounges with changing rooms.
✔ Pre-Boarding for Families – Emirates allows families with infants to board first for extra time to settle in.

📌 Tip: Use the baby-changing stations onboard, as all Emirates aircraft have dedicated facilities.

Final Thoughts on Emirates Infant Travel Policy

Emirates is one of the most family-friendly airlines, offering free bassinets, priority boarding, and flexible baggage policies for infants. By understanding ticket pricing, seating options, and necessary travel documents, parents can enjoy a smoother journey with their baby.

Key Takeaways

✔ Lap infants fly for 10% of the adult fare, but separate seats cost 75-80% of an adult ticket.
✔ Free bassinets are available on long-haul flights (weight limit: 11 kg / 24 lbs).
✔ 1 checked bag (10 kg) + 1 carry-on (5 kg) allowance for lap infants.
✔ Breastfeeding and baby formula are fully supported onboard.
✔ Car seats allowed in the cabin (must be FAA-approved).
✔ Families with infants get priority boarding & airport assistance.

📌 Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy a comfortable journey with your little one on Emirates!