FBOs and Private Terminals in Dubai and the Middle East

An FBO (fixed-base operator) is the private terminal where business jets park, refuel and clear their passengers. In the Gulf, the best FBOs feel like a small luxury hotel: a majlis-style lounge, passport control in the building, Arabic coffee and dates on arrival, and your car waiting on the ramp.

Dubai World Central is the heart of private aviation in Dubai and home to several FBOs side by side. Abu Dhabi has its own executive airport, Al Bateen, close to the city center, as well as private facilities at Zayed International. In Saudi Arabia, Riyadh and Jeddah have dedicated private terminals, and Doha's Hamad International has one of the most polished in the region.

If you are flying on an airline, the same smooth experience is available through VIP services; see Arrive Privately. For charter options, see private jet charter.

Send passport copies to your operator in advance so immigration can be prepared, and confirm whether visas are needed for your passport. Ask the FBO to have your chauffeur cleared to meet you planeside where allowed. For onward trips, a helicopter transfer from the FBO to your hotel can save an hour.