Emirates Dubai Connect: Free Hotel & Eligibility
If you are a Canadian traveller who often takess Emirates flights, you might feel tired of long Dubai layovers. Today I wanna introduce Emirates’ free stopover hotel program, whose official name is Dubai Connect.
Simply put, Dubai Connect lets you turn a boring layover into a free short Dubai trip. Emirates gives you free hotel rooms, meals, airport transfers and transit visas with no extra charge. It is a really good benefit for Canadians flying from Toronto and Montreal.
Dubai Connect Overview & Availability
Program Core Introduction
Dubai Connect is an official free transit program offered by Emirates, designed for travellers with long layovers at Dubai Airport. The program’s goal is simple: instead of waiting for your next flight inside the airport, you can stay at a free hotel and explore Dubai during your stopover. It covers hotel accommodation, daily meals, airport transfers and transit visas, which is very useful for Canadian travellers transiting through Dubai.
Operation Status & Summer Promotion
Dubai Connect’s standard basic benefits run year-round. However, the JW Marriott Marquis 5-star hotel upgrade is not a permanent annual benefit — it is a limited seasonal promotion with exclusive eligibility rules. The best part is the summer special upgrade. Every year from late June through September, eligible promotional passengers can stay at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, which is a super famous 5-star hotel. It replaces the standard 4-star hotel only for passengers who meet the extra promotional requirements. All regular benefits are still there in other seasons, so you can always get free accommodation and meals if you qualify.
Emirates Flights
Flight info.
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Arrival
Weekly Schedule
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EK242
Emirates
14:55
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11:40
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06:45
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08:00
YUL
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06:30
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EK901
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09:30
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Dubai Connect Rules: Who is Eligible for the Free Hotel?
Exact Eligibility Criteria
All requirements are listed below. You will need to meet all of them to get the free hotel, no exception:
- All Emirates one ticket: Your inbound and outbound connecting flights must be Emirates-operated and booked under one single reservation. Separate tickets or partner airline flights are not eligible.
- Fixed layover time: All cabin classes (Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First) require a 6–26 hour Dubai layover to qualify for standard Dubai Connect benefits, following official Emirates terms.
- Shortest connection rule: You can’t deliberately book a super long layover just for free hotel. If a shorter valid connection is available at the time of booking, your application will be rejected.
- Valid ticket type: Discounted basic economy tickets are not eligible. Normal, flexible and premium tickets of all cabin class can apply.
- Advance application: You need to submit your Dubai Connect application at least 12 hours before arriving in Dubai, or you will lose eligibility for the benefits.
Cabin Class Benefit Breakdown
Different cabins get different benefits, matching your layover time and ticket grade:
Cabin Class | Complimentary Benefits |
|---|---|
Economy & Premium Economy | 1 free hotel night, full meal vouchers for your entire stopover period, and free shared airport transfers. This set of benefits perfectly matches the typical 6–26 hour layover schedules for Economy and Premium Economy passengers. |
Business & First Class | Up to 2 free hotel nights, upgraded premium meal service, private airport transfers and priority hotel check-in (this 2-night benefit is exclusive to the summer JW Marriott promotion; standard year-round Business/First Class benefits include 1 free night). These summer-exclusive perks allow you to explore Dubai more thoroughly during your transit layover. |
Minimum Layover Requirement
- Economy & Premium Economy: Minimum 8-hour layover, maximum 26-hour layover
- Business & First Class: Minimum 6-hour layover, maximum 26-hour layover
- Rule note: Stopovers outside the above windows do not qualify for standard Dubai Connect benefits
Stay Connected in UAE
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28923 booked
Full Dubai Connect Package Inclusions & Perks
Core Covered Benefits
Dubai Connect is Emirates’ free complimentary transit program for long layovers, separate from Emirates’ paid Dubai Stopover tour package. It includes almost everything you need for a comfortable transit stay with no hidden fees. All qualified passengers can get these benefits:
- Free 4-star or 5-star hotel room (late June–September promotional upgrade to JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (limited summer offer with extra eligibility rules))
- Canadian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to the UAE for up to 90 days with no advance visa application and no airline arrangement required. No transit visa processing is needed for Dubai stopovers.
- Free breakfast, lunch and dinner vouchers during your hotel stay
- Free round-trip car transfer between Dubai Airport and your hotel
- Free My Emirates Pass, you can use it get discount on Dubai shopping, eating and tourist spots
A small reminder: The standard Dubai Connect package does not include airport lounge access or additional paid activities, but all core accommodation, dining and transfer needs are fully covered.
Summer Exclusive: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
The JW Marriott Marquis hotel upgrade is a limited seasonal promotional offer, separate from standard year-round Dubai Connect benefits and subject to stricter eligibility rules. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is an iconic twin-tower luxury hotel located in the Business Bay district, approximately 3 km from the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall (a short drive away, not within walking distance). It features spacious guest rooms, stunning rooftop city views and multiple fine-dining restaurants. Exclusive airport transfers are provided for promotional upgrade guests. This limited perk turns a regular transit layover into a high-end mini vacation for qualified travellers.
Airport Transfer & Extra Perk Details
Airport transfer is super easy and no trouble. After you finish all airport procedures in DXB, Emirates staff will guide you to the Dubai Connect shuttle counter. Economy passengers share a car with others, premium cabin passengers have private car. You don’t need to book it by yourself at all.
I really love the My Emirates Pass, it’s a hidden good thing for Canadian visitors. You simply activate it in the Emirates app to get discounts on desert safaris, marina boat tours, shopping and local restaurants, making your short stopover more valuable.
Step-by-Step Dubai Connect Booking & Support Guide
Official Booking Process
Book the free Dubai Connect hotel is not hard, I use these steps every time I fly Emirates from Canada:
- Book your Emirates connecting flight from Toronto or Montreal and ensure your layover meets official program rules.
- Wait until your flight booking is fully confirmed; it is recommended to complete booking at least 12 hours before departure.
- Log in the “Manage Your Booking” page on Emirates official website or phone app.
- Find the Dubai Connect button, check if you are eligible and submit your application.
- Check your personal info carefully, then wait for Emirates email confirmation.
- When you arrive Dubai Airport, just follow the Dubai Connect sign to get your hotel voucher and transfer info.
Available Booking Channels
The fastest and safest way to apply is online through Emirates official website or app. Phone support also can help you fix problems, but online service is faster. There is no special phone number only for Dubai Connect, all questions need ask official Emirates staff, don’t trust random third-party number online.
Solutions for Denied Requests & Full Bookings
Many Canadian travellers have experienced application denials or fully booked hotels, here are some simple solutions:
- Denied application: Most denials occur due to unqualified ticket types, separately booked flights, or deliberately extended layovers when shorter connections are available. You can double-check your booking details and contact Emirates official support for review.
- Hotel fully booked: Don’t worry, Emirates will arrange another same level 4 or 5-star hotel for free, no extra charge.
- Layover time change: If your scheduled layover time changes, you need to update your Dubai Connect status immediately, or your application will be automatically cancelled.
Unforgettable Dubai Experiences!
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![Dubai desert dune bashing 1-day tour [viral desert camp + sunset + camel ride + shows + dinner]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0352e12000eihvh1lD57C_C_568_320.jpg)
24H & 48H Dubai Stopover Itineraries for Canadians
24-Hour Itinerary (Economy & Premium Economy)
If you only have one free hotel night, this simple itinerary is very suitable for you, no rush and can see all classic sights. After check in hotel in the afternoon, go to downtown Dubai to see Burj Khalifa and the famous Dubai Mall fountain show, then walk along the waterfront. Next morning, you can relax at Jumeirah Beach before go back to airport. It’s perfect for short transit stopover.
48-Hour Itinerary (Business & First Class)
If you have two free nights, you can explore more places in Dubai. On the first day, visit downtown landmarks in daytime, and join a cheap desert safari with your My Emirates Pass at night. On the second day, see the sea view at Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah, then go to Deira old market to shop and feel local culture. This itinerary combines iconic scenery, leisure activities and local cultural experiences perfectly.
Best Dubai Travel Seasons & Canada-Specific Travel Tips
Optimal Seasons for Dubai Stopovers
For us Canadian travellers, November to April is the best time for Dubai stopover. The weather is around 20 to 28 degrees, very comfortable for going out and visiting sights. The late June to September summer period is hotter, but features the standalone JW Marriott Marquis promotional upgrade. This separate limited offer requires a return ticket and 24+ hour stopover, and is not included in standard Dubai Connect benefits. If you care more about nice hotel than outdoor walking, summer is also a good choice.
Practical Booking Tips for Canadian Travellers
- Choose departure city: Emirates direct flights from Toronto and Montreal have the most stable layover time, easy to meet Dubai Connect rules.
- Passport rule: Your Canadian passport must have at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel date to avoid transit entry issues.
- Maximize your benefit: You can take the maximum 26-hour eligible layover, so you can fully enjoy your free hotel and Dubai stopover time.
Dubai Stopover Visa Policy for Canadian Passport Holders
Canadian citizens benefit from UAE 90-day visa-free entry, which applies automatically during Dubai Connect stopovers. No advance visa application, no transit visa arrangement from Emirates, and no fees are required. You only need a valid Canadian passport and confirmed flight documents to clear immigration smoothly.
Dubai Connect is an excellent free travel perk for Canadian passengers flying with Emirates. It turns a tedious long airport layover into a complimentary mini vacation, covering hotel accommodation, meals and airport transfers at zero cost. The limited seasonal JW Marriott Marquis upgrade further elevates the transit experience for qualified passengers. As long as you follow the official eligibility rules and booking steps, you can enjoy this valuable benefit on every Dubai transit flight.
[10% Off] Dubai Stays by Travel Styles
Dubai Hotels
5 star
Great227 Reviews
World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|0.73km from city centre
Let's start with the positives: The room decor was lovely, and the view from the window was great. The bedding was super comfortable, and the location is excellent, just about a 10-minute walk to the Burj Khalifa. All the staff were very friendly and welcoming.
Now for the negatives: The shower pressure was a bit weak, and the handheld showerhead didn't have different spray settings. Also, disposable toothbrushes and toothpaste were not provided.FromCAD 124
Very Good306 Reviews
Business Bay Dubai|3.12km from city centre
The scenery is incredibly beautiful. The Chinese lady at the front desk even upgraded my room. The service, environment, and views are all excellent. My only complaint is that the minibar in the room is too expensive – 80 RMB for a bottle of beer and 370 RMB for a small bottle of red wine. Ahamed provided great service and even helped carry my luggage downstairs.FromCAD 203
Very Good294 Reviews
Business Bay Dubai|2.75km from city centre
I had a wonderful experience at this hotel. A special mention to the lady at the front desk vanessa who assisted me during check-in and check-out. she was welcoming, patient, and very professional. Explained to me what are the events as i was here for new year. Asked me if i wanted to avail discounted things for the new year. Her friendliness made the stay even more pleasant. Excellent service! Room were clean and spacious as well. Your room are always maked up and the bed is really comfortable. This is my second time here and will always choose to stay here coz of the wonderful service.FromCAD 163
Great144 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|5.23km from city centre
We had such a lovely weekend stay at Movenpick Hotel & Apartments. The atmosphere was perfect for a family’s getaway – relaxing, comfortable, and welcoming. The breakfast was absolutely delicious with plenty of variety, and we especially enjoyed the pool services, which made our stay even more refreshing. Everything felt thoughtful and well taken care of – we truly loved it and would happily return.FromCAD 65
Very Good193 Reviews
Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|2.76km from city centre
Check in was smooth and was attended by Rash. She was courteous and helpful in getting the room. Was given a room on a higher floor facing partial Dubai frame. The soap etc is very poor quality and bed sheets not white, something not expected of such hotel.
Bikash at concierge was rude and I feel need training on customer relations. Gave him the card and instead of handing back, he just placed on the table. Valet parking was also slow and disorganised. Imagine waiting 30 mins just for them to pick up the car. I don't see this in Sofitel Downtown or the JW Marriot.
Location is ok but there are definitely other better hotels around the area. Other facilities such as steam room and pool area are quite old.FromCAD 201
Business travel
Very Good377 Reviews
Al Barsha Dubai|15.22km from city centre
Nice hotel with many amenities. Supermarket is open for 24h and within 5min walk as well as the bus stop is near the supermarket. Just the location is 20 miles off downtown and need to take taxi to get close to Dubai center area. Nice price with all the good sides. Would recommend.FromCAD 40
Very Good374 Reviews
Deira Dubai|9.45km from city centre
The hotel’s location was truly excellent. Just a short walk away, I found a KFC, making it easy to grab a quick meal. Additionally, the train station was extremely close, allowing seamless transportation access. Moreover, United Hypermarket was conveniently nearby, making shopping for any essentials a breeze. Overall, the hotel’s location was not just convenient—it was absolutely fantastic, placing everything I needed right at my fingertips.FromCAD 47
113 Reviews
Al Barsha Dubai|12.62km from city centre
We had a wonderful time here and were very comfortable with the bed. Although one staff member at the reception was a bit grumpy, overall our stay was pleasant and nice.FromCAD 43
Very Good439 Reviews
Barsha Heights Dubai|15.47km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff were extremely friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help with anything we needed. The service was excellent from check-in to check-out, making the whole experience smooth and pleasant. The location was convenient, and the facilities were top-notch. Overall, it was a very enjoyable stay, and I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for comfort and great hospitality.FromCAD 62
371 Reviews
Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|0.78km from city centre
We had an excellent experience on the Dubai desert safari. The tour was well organized, and everything was on time from pickup to drop-off. Our guide was professional, friendly, and very knowledgeable, making the dune bashing both exciting and safe. The desert views were beautiful, and the activities like sandboarding and the camp experience were enjoyable. Overall, it was a memorable trip and great value for money. Highly recommended.FromCAD 205
Family friendly
Very Good429 Reviews
Deira Dubai|8.9km from city centre
As a solo traveler, my stay at the Hyatt Regency felt comfortable, safe, and well-suited for independent exploration.
I booked a standard king room for a few nights of leisure travel. Check-in was smooth and efficient—the front desk staff were friendly without being overly chatty, which I appreciated as someone traveling alone. The room was clean, spacious enough not to feel cramped, with a comfortable bed, reliable Wi-Fi, and quiet enough for good sleep despite being in a busy property. Everyday essentials (toiletries, minibar basics, and strong shower pressure) were solid.
What stood out for solo travel:
• Staff were consistently helpful and attentive when I needed directions, restaurant recommendations, or help arranging transport, yet they respected my space.
• Common areas (lobby, restaurants, pool if available) felt welcoming rather than awkward. I never felt out of place dining alone or grabbing a coffee.
• Amenities like the fitness center, pool, or lounge options gave easy ways to unwind without needing a companion.
• Location access (depending on the specific property) made independent sightseeing or day trips straightforward, with staff ready to assist on taxis, transit, or local tips.
Breakfast (when included or available) offered variety and was a convenient start to the day. Service throughout was polished in the typical Hyatt style—professional and responsive.
Minor notes: Like many full-service hotels, it can feel large and convention-oriented at times, and rates (or resort fees at some locations) aren’t always the cheapest. Still, the overall reliability, cleanliness, and supportive atmosphere made it a low-stress base for solo travel.
I’d stay again for a similar trip. The combination of comfort, safety, and helpful service without pressure made it easy to enjoy the destination on my own terms.FromCAD 61
Very Good311 Reviews
World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|1.05km from city centre
We stayed at Gevora for a total of about 12 nights in the summer of 2026. The place offered excellent value for money. The hotel boasts amazing city views and a good pool area. It's especially nice to visit the pool in the evening when the city lights are visible and the pool is beautifully illuminated. Special thanks go to the excellent pool staff and the porter, Deepak, who were incredibly friendly and provided outstanding, five-star service. We also received excellent service at the reception and were able to easily change rooms when the first one wasn't to our liking. Unfortunately, I don't remember the name of the person who handled it.
The hotel breakfast was adequate, but after just over a week, it started to get monotonous as the selection isn't very extensive. Still, for the price, it was of a good standard. The hotel's overall appearance is basic and clean, but the rooms show some minor wear and tear and are partly in need of a refresh. If you book a high-floor room, be prepared for a 10-15 minute elevator ride.
The best aspects of the hotel are its location (close to the city center and Deira souks) and its staff. Right next to the hotel, there's an ATM, a pharmacy, a barber, and a grocery store, so all your essential needs are conveniently and quickly met.
Overall, the hotel offers excellent value for money, as long as you remember you're not in a five-star establishment. I can recommend it for budget-to-mid-range travel.FromCAD 90
Very Good736 Reviews
Barsha Heights Dubai|15.16km from city centre
Pros:
1. Located right next to the Internet City metro station, making it incredibly convenient to get to directly from the airport by metro.
2. The suite was very spacious and comfortable.
3. Within walking distance to a supermarket, so daily necessities are not an issue.
Cons:
1. The facilities are a bit dated, showing the hotel's age.
2. Being on a high floor means a bit of a wait for the elevator every time.FromCAD 73
Very Good106 Reviews
Al Barsha Dubai|13.18km from city centre
We had an excellent stay at **Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha**! The hotel apartment was spacious, clean, and perfect for families. Our kids especially loved the **Kids Club** and were delighted with the complimentary ice cream, which made their stay even more memorable.
A very special thank you to **Ms. Eva** at the reception for her warm welcome, professionalism, and outstanding customer service. She made our check-in and stay smooth and pleasant.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to **Mr. Fiza** for spoiling our kids with ice cream and making them feel so special. Small gestures like these truly make a big difference.
The family-friendly facilities, caring staff, and wonderful hospitality made our stay unforgettable. We highly recommend Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha to families visiting Dubai, and we look forward to staying here again! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐FromCAD 62
Great160 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|6.3km from city centre
1. The hotel rooms are quite spacious, but the facilities are outdated. The showerhead in the bathroom was leaking; when I used the hand-held shower, cold water kept dripping from the overhead shower, which was very uncomfortable.
2. The hygiene was poor. Upon checking in, I surprisingly found a pile of insect carcasses in the bathtub and some unidentified hairs on the bed. After I reported it, the housekeeping staff promptly came to clean. For the rest of my stay, they paid special attention to cleaning the bathroom, and I didn't see any more insects.
3. The hotel breakfast was very disappointing, with almost no Asian food options. I had to fill up on bread. The variety of fruits was also limited.
4. The hotel is quite far from the commercial district, and there are no shopping or dining options nearby, which is inconvenient. The only upside is its proximity to the airport.FromCAD 170
Swimming pool
Great547 Reviews
Business Bay Dubai|2.12km from city centre
Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown is my favorite hotel near Business Bay, Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. I love the stylish design and beautiful Arabic-inspired details. The gym was incredibly well equipped, we received fresh bottled water every day and room service was always fast and easy to order by phone.
If you want to walk to Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, fountain Show… it takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic lights, but easy.FromCAD 105
Great456 Reviews
Dubai|23.26km from city centre
I booked this hotel for my colleague. The hotel has a nice view and the rooms are clean and well maintained. The stay itself was comfortable. However, please be very careful with the booking conditions. If you select a non-cancellable and non-refundable rate, no changes or modifications are allowed under any circumstances, even in cases of force majeure. Due to this policy, compensation was offered instead of flexibility. I strongly recommend choosing a free cancellation option to avoid issues.FromCAD 63
Great277 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|5.63km from city centre
This hotel is truly incredible value for money. I had such a great experience from start to finish. The views are absolutely spectacular. From my room, I could even see the Dubai Frame, which made it feel extra special.
The location couldn’t be better. It’s so easy to get around the city from here, whether you’re exploring or heading out for dinner. And having a mall connected to the hotel was honestly the best part. It made everything so convenient and stress-free.
I would definitely stay here again.FromCAD 166
Very Good280 Reviews
World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|0.64km from city centre
Excellent location if you want to be close to the metro, Dubai Mall, and Museum of the Future, all within walking distance. There's a supermarket in the underground mall across the street (not under the hotel). Fantastic views from the nearly floor-to-ceiling windows with wide stone sills. The rooftop offers postcard-perfect views of the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Road. The rooms have a large fridge with a freezer in the kitchen; ours wasn't working, and they immediately brought a new one. There's an Indian restaurant and a club on the upper floors of the hotel. The breakfast in the restaurant is decent, you won't go hungry, and the staff is helpful. Outdoor parking is available. They don't provide transportation to the beach. In the lobby, there's a work area with a printer you can connect to yourself. It's a great option for a 1-4 day stay.FromCAD 72
Very Good269 Reviews
Dubai International Airport Area Dubai|8.94km from city centre
Really good property- spacious and good location. Free parking bonus and breakfast is decent. Usual hotel buffet.
Would love to stay again. Very good gym. Great staffFromCAD 74
Breakfast
Very Good663 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|6.45km from city centre
We had a wonderful stay at QE2 Dubai. It was a unique experience staying on such an iconic ship. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and they kindly fulfilled our room request. The breakfast was also very good, with a nice variety of options. Overall, it was a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Thank you!FromCAD 50
Very Good178 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|6.76km from city centre
Breakfast foods has little to no options to choose from for non-indian guests. The management before was good but now i dont know. A lot had changed even from the room doorlock which is annoying. You have to input the long numbers before you enter.FromCAD 33
Very Good237 Reviews
Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|0.57km from city centre
The breakfast was ok but the staffs payed more attention to family then couples with was not niceFromCAD 179
105 Reviews
Deira Dubai|12.64km from city centre
Was very disappointed with the state of the room for such a good brand hotel.
I didn’t bother reading any reviews. I just booked it because it was a known brand.
unfortunately on arrival the room was in a state. It was very dusty and dirty very dated and just not nice at all. The room was not cheap costing nearly $170 plus so I expected a cleaner room it was 1 o’clock in the morning when I arrived and I was just so tired that I didn’t want to kick up a fuss so I just stayed the night and left in the morning
had it been during the day I would’ve insisted on a refund and changed hotels. This is my true experience with this hotel on may not reflect the same for other travellers.FromCAD 50
Very Good170 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|5.72km from city centre
IT was good But the breakfast is very ordinary nothing special.
but the room was good clean nice .FromCAD 47
Emirates Dubai Stopover Free Hotel (Dubai Connect) FAQs
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What is the Dubai Connect?
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How long does your layover in Dubai have to be to qualify for Dubai Connect?
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How do I book the Emirates Dubai Connect free hotel?
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Do Canadian passport holders need a visa for an Emirates Dubai stopover with Dubai Connect?
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