Yes, a 12-year-old can travel to Dubai, but they are typically required to travel as an Unaccompanied Minor (UM).
Travelling rules for young people flying alone can vary depending on the airline, the destination, and the child's exact age. While some general guidelines exist, specific routes often have unique requirements.
According to travel regulations, children aged 12 to 15 years are often categorized as Young Passengers (YP) and are usually permitted to travel alone on most flights without necessarily using a specific supervised service.
However, there is a notable exception for flights bound for Dubai. The rules state: "Children aged 12 to 15 years are considered Young Passengers (YP) and can travel alone on most flights, except for those to Dubai, where only children up to 18 years can travel as Unaccompanied Minors."
Implications for a 12-Year-Old
Based on this regulation:
- A 12-year-old falls within the age bracket (under 18) where the Unaccompanied Minor service is designated for travel to Dubai.
- The exception explicitly excludes Dubai flights from the standard "travel alone" rule applicable to 12-15 year olds on other routes.
- Therefore, a 12-year-old travelling solo to Dubai must be booked under the airline's official Unaccompanied Minor program.
What is the Unaccompanied Minor Service?
The Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is designed to provide supervision for children travelling without a parent or guardian. When using this service:
- The child is escorted by airline staff from check-in to the boarding gate.
- Cabin crew look after the child during the flight.
- Upon arrival in Dubai, an airline representative will meet the child and assist them through immigration and baggage claim.
- The child is only released to the specific parent or guardian pre-approved during the booking process, who must provide identification.
This service ensures the safety and well-being of young travellers throughout their journey to Dubai. Airlines usually charge a fee for this mandatory service for eligible ages and routes. It is essential to contact the specific airline you plan to use to understand their exact Unaccompanied Minor policies, procedures, and costs for travel to Dubai, and to make the booking well in advance.
