Where Does Emirates Fly from SFO?

Travel enthusiasts often wonder about the destinations they can explore directly from their local airports. A question frequently asked by those departing from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is, “Where does Emirates fly from SFO?” The answer highlights the global connectivity offered by one of the world’s leading airlines. 

Emirates, known for its exceptional service and extensive network, operates direct flights from SFO to Dubai (DXB), a journey that spans approximately 15 hours and 40 minutes over a distance of 8,086 miles. This route is served once daily, ensuring that passengers have the opportunity to embark on their Middle Eastern adventure on any day of the week.

Dubai serves as a major hub for Emirates. From this vibrant city, travelers can further connect to over 120 destinations worldwide, ranging from the historic streets of Europe to the serene landscapes of Asia and beyond. This extensive network makes Emirates an excellent choice for globetrotters looking to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, Emirates offers a gateway to the world from San Francisco, with Dubai being the perfect starting point for your next international journey.

Emirates Flights from SFO

Currently, Emirates flights from SFO (San Francisco) include direct flights to Dubai (DXB), from where the airline flies to more than 120 cities worldwide. The table below provides the flight duration, frequency, and distance of Emirates’ direct flights from SFO.

Where Does Emirates Fly to from SFO? Emirates Direct Flights from SFO
Destination	Duration	Flights/Day	Miles	Weekdays	Route
Dubai (DXB)	15h 40m	1	8086	S, M, T, W, T, F, S	International

Emirates SFO Destinations Map 

Emirates SFO Destinations Map/Route Map. Source: Emirates.com 

For travelers looking to explore the global network of Emirates directly from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the Emirates Route Map offers a comprehensive and user-friendly tool. This interactive map, accessible through the Emirates website, is a gateway to discovering the expansive destinations served by the airline, including the sole but significant direct route from SFO to Dubai (DXB), and beyond.

To begin your journey on the Emirates Destinations Map, navigate to Emirates.com. From the homepage, follow the sequence: Where We Fly > Explore > Route map > Go to route map. This pathway leads you to a visual representation of Emirates’ global reach. By selecting San Francisco (SFO) as your departure city in the “Where are you flying from?” field, and then inputting or selecting your desired destination, the map will reveal the route, including any alternative or codeshare routes available.

This tool not only shows the direct routes from SFO but also connects passengers to over 120 destinations worldwide from Dubai, Emirates’ hub. After choosing your departure and destination cities, you can further customize your travel experience by selecting preferred travel dates, exploring in-flight amenities like lounges, seating arrangements, wi-fi, and entertainment options, and finally choosing your travel class.

Completing your booking is straightforward. After selecting your route and customizing your flight preferences, simply provide passenger details and proceed to payment. This seamless process, from exploration to booking, underscores the convenience and global connectivity offered by Emirates to its passengers flying out of San Francisco. Whether planning a business trip, a leisurely vacation, or an adventurous exploration, the Emirates SFO Destinations Map is your starting point for the world.

Emirates at SFO International Airport (SFO)

The table below is a useful guide for travelers navigating through San Francisco International Airport (SFO). It lists the services and amenities offered to enhance your airport experience. Whether you’re looking for parking options, trying to figure out transport to and from the airport, or seeking the comfort of lounges before your flight, this guide has you covered. It provides essential information on the airport’s layout, including terminal details, parking facilities, car rental services, and various passenger amenities like dining, Wi-Fi and charging stations, lost and found services, and more. 

Additionally, it includes contact numbers for general inquiries, parking information, and baggage services to assist you with any needs during your visit to SFO.

Airport Name	San Francisco International Airport
Airport Location	About 13 miles from San Francisco
Airport Address	Highway 101, San Francisco, CA 94128, USA
Website	FlySFO.com
SFO Phone Number	+1-800-435-9736
Emirates Phone Number at SFO	+1-800-777-3999
Airport Code	SFO
Terminals at SFO	4 (1, 2, 3, and International Terminal, with Boarding Gates A and G)
Emirates Departures Terminal at SFO	International Terminal A
Emirates Lounge	Located between Gates A2 and A6 at International Terminal A

Inter-Terminal Transport 

AirTrain Service

San Francisco International Airport’s AirTrain stands out as a convenient transportation option, facilitating movement across terminals, towards the vehicle rental hub, and the long-term vehicle storage area.

Red Line: Moves in a clockwise direction, making stops across every terminal, their associated parking structures, the BART Station, and the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Blue Line: Travels counter-clockwise, halting at each terminal, parking facilities, the BART Station, the Grand Hyatt hotel, the vehicle rental hub, and the extended parking area.

The AirTrain service operates non-stop, with departures every 4 minutes, ensuring continuous linkage outside the airport’s secured zones.

Walking

The architecture interlinks terminals in a circular pattern: Terminal 1 – Terminal 2 – Terminal 3 – International Terminal G – International Terminal A – and back to Terminal 1. Be aware that construction activities might limit walkability between certain terminals.

• Movement from the International Terminal to Terminal 1 is feasible outside the security perimeter.
• A secure corridor connects Gates C2 to C11 and D1 to D18, allowing passage without the need for another security check.
• An airside bridge provides a secure route from Terminal 3 to International Terminal G.
• Between Terminals 2 and 3, there are walkways available on both sides of security.

Re-screening for Security: Accessing the A gates in the International Terminal mandates undergoing another security screening.

Security and Customs

Each terminal at SFO is outfitted with dual security checkpoints, with Terminal 1 being the exception, hosting a singular checkpoint. The hours of operation differ across checkpoints.

Gates and Operating Times

• Checkpoint G: From 4:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., servicing Gates G14 to G1, E13 to E1, and F22 to F1.
• Checkpoint F3: Operations run from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., accommodating Gates F22 to F1, E13 to E1, and G14 to G1.
• Checkpoint F1: Active between 4 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., covering Gates F22 to F1, E13 to E1, and G14 to G1.
• Checkpoints D & C: Open from 4 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and 4 a.m. to 1 a.m. respectively, both checkpoints serve Gates D18 to D1 and C11 to C2.
• Checkpoint B: Available from 4 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., for Gates B27 to B6.
• Checkpoint A: Operating from 4:30 a.m. until 1 a.m., for Gates A15 to A1.

TSA PreCheck

At all security checkpoints, TSA PreCheck lanes are available for quicker screening procedures. A TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center is positioned in the International Terminal, offering interviews for PreCheck applicants. The center’s hours are Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and noon to 4 p.m.

Global Entry

SFO facilitates Global Entry for fast-track processing upon international entry. Global Entry applications are to be filled online, with subsequent interviews at the International Terminal’s enrollment center, open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mobile Passport 

Utilizing the Mobile Passport app streamlines U.S. entry with submission facilities available for iOS and Android users. The express lane for Mobile Passport users expedites the process, requiring only the digital receipt and a passport at the CBP agents’ desk.

CLEAR 

SFO embraces the CLEAR program, offering swift security clearance for its members across all terminal checkpoints.

Priority Pass

Lounges Welcoming Priority Pass Members

Subject to space availability, the following lounges offer entry to Priority Pass members:

• Air France/KLM Lounge (also known as Golden Gate Lounge)
• China Airlines Lounge
• Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

Priority Pass Membership Benefits

• Members can leverage their Priority Pass for discounts at:
• Lark Creek Grill
• Mustards Bar & Grill
• San Francisco Giants Clubhouse
• Yankee Pier

Dining and Drinks 

SFO boasts an impressive array of over 70 dining establishments, including restaurants, bars, and quick snack outlets. A vast selection is accessible outside the security checkpoints in the International Terminal Main Hall, offering early arrivals a pleasant venue to spend time before their flight.
To discover the myriad of culinary options at SFO, the airport’s official website serves as a valuable resource. You can utilize filters to search for eateries based on your terminal location and whether they are located pre- or post-security.

Wi-Fi and Charging

Complimentary Wi-Fi Access

Passengers throughout the terminals and the car rental facility can enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity. Simply select “#SFO FREE WIFI”, open a web browser, agree to the terms, and click on Connect to access the internet.

For any connectivity issues, a dedicated Wi-Fi support line is available at 855-415-9434.

Charging Facilities

Charging stations are strategically placed across all terminals, including a specialized area in the Terminal 2 food court featuring power bars for electronics.

Each terminal is equipped with desks that include charging stations, designed for passengers who need a comfortable spot to work on their laptops and keep their devices charged before boarding.

Lost and Found

If you misplace an item within the airport premises, reach out to the concerned office based on the item’s last known location.

• General Public Areas: For belongings left behind in any terminal, parking structures, or on the AirTrain, get in touch with the San Francisco Police Department’s Lost and Found by calling 650-821-7014 or by sending an email to sfolostandfound@flysfo.com. A service desk is also available for in-person inquiries, located in the arrivals section of Terminal 1.
• Security Screening Areas: If your item was lost at a security checkpoint, direct your inquiries to Covenant Aviation Security. They can be contacted at 650-457-2670 or through email at lostandfound@covenantsecurity.com.
• Onboard an Aircraft: For items forgotten on an airplane, the airline you flew with is your point of contact.

Shuttle Bus Service from/to Long-Term Parking or Car Rental Facility: If you lose something on the SFO Shuttle Bus, call 415-915-9760 to report the lost item.

Additional Information 

Information Services 

Each terminal houses information kiosks centrally located for easy access by travelers.

Assistance for Travelers

While SFO lacks an on-site traveler aid facility, the nearest assistance is provided by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Marin County in San Rafael.

Children’s Play Areas 

SFO stands out for its commitment to family-friendly travel, featuring three designated Kids Spots. These areas, packed with interactive and learning activities, are situated adjacent to Gate D7 in Terminal 2 and close to Gates E7 and F18 in Terminal 3.

Baby Facilities

SFO ensures the comfort of nursing mothers with dedicated rooms across all terminals, located in the following areas:

• International Terminal: Central hall (close to the security checkpoint for G gates) and by Gate G4.
• Terminal 1: In proximity to Gate C7.
• Terminal 2: On the departures level (beside Museum Art Cases, near the security checkpoint, and behind the ticket counter for Alaska Airlines), and the arrivals level (next to carousels 1 and 4), as well as adjacent to Gates C7, D4, and D14.
• Terminal 3: Departures area (near entrance door 5), Mezzanine (close to concession spaces), and beside Gates E5, F4, and F16.

Pet-Friendly Spots

For those traveling with pets, SFO provides several relief areas within each terminal:

• Terminal 1: Concourse B restrooms and the outdoor courtyard on the baggage claim level.
• Terminal 2: In Concourse C (by Gate C5) and D (next to Sunset News), and the outdoor courtyard on the baggage claim level.
• Terminal 3: Near the restrooms in Concourse F (close to San Francisco Magazine News) and the outdoor courtyard on the baggage claim level.
• International Terminals: At the tail end of Concourse A (indoor area).

Duty-Free Shopping

Shoppers can find duty-free items in the International Terminals near Gates A11 and G4.

Smoking Areas

Smoking areas are specifically designated and located outside of the terminals, away from secure zones.

Unique Attractions

The airport features a video art room displaying a variety of short films and animations. Furthermore, the Wag Brigade, including a mix of trained animals donning “Pet Me” vests, provides comfort and entertainment to passengers.

Meditation

The Berman Reflection Room offers a serene environment for quiet thought and meditation.

ATMs

For monetary needs, ATMs and currency exchange services are scattered throughout, notably in the International Terminal and Terminal 3 near Gate E1.

Baggage Services

The Airport Travel Agency, located just outside G security in the International Terminal, offers baggage storage solutions. Contact them at 650-877-0422 for assistance.

Water Fountains

Water refill stations are accessible throughout all terminals and departure areas, ensuring passengers stay hydrated.

Important Phone Numbers 

• General Queries: 800-435-9736
• Parking Information: 650-821-7900

Baggage Storage Services: 650-877-0422

Transport Options

Trains

• BART: Utilize BART trains for swift access to various locations across the Bay Area, including central San Francisco and Oakland. The BART station is found on the ticketing level, on the G side of the International Terminal. A trip from SFO to downtown San Francisco costs $10.20 and lasts about 30 minutes.
• Caltrain: Aimed at commuters between San Francisco and San Jose, with a necessary transfer from Caltrain to BART at Millbrae Station and then to San Bruno Station to reach the airport.

Buses

• SamTrans: Offers routes from San Mateo County and parts of San Francisco directly to SFO, with stops located outside Terminals 2 and 3, as well as International Terminals A and G.
• Charter Bus: Various charter bus services are bookable, with a detailed list of operators available on the airport’s official site.

Shuttles

Both shared and private shuttle options are provided from all terminals at SFO. Reservations can be made in advance or upon arrival by visiting the shared ride van desk in the arrivals area. A comprehensive list of shuttle operators is accessible online.

Taxis

Metered taxi services are stationed outside each terminal at the arrivals level. The fare to downtown San Francisco typically hovers around $45, varying with traffic conditions.

Ridesharing Services

Approved operators like Lyft, Uber, and Wingz offer convenient rides. For international flights, pickups and drop-offs are allowed at both levels of the International Terminal. Domestic passengers can find shared-ride services on Level 5 of the domestic garage, while private rides may pick up directly at the departure level curb.

Driving Directions

From the North

Head south on US-101 and take exit 438 to merge onto CA-1/Veterans Blvd. Utilize the right three lanes to make a slight right turn onto Junipero Serra Blvd, then merge onto I-280 using the slip road. Follow exit 43A onto I-380 directed towards US 101/San Francisco International Airport, and proceed to exit 6A onto US-101. From there, look out for signage directing you to the airport terminals.

From the South

If you’re coming from the south, travel north on US-101 and use exit 422, which leads directly toward San Francisco International Airport. Continue to follow the signs that guide you to the various terminals.

Parking Information 

SFO offers more than 5,000 parking spots for both short-term and long-term needs.

Short-Term Parking 

• The domestic garage is centrally located, providing easy access to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 with a mix of covered and open spaces. Rates stand at $2 for every 15 minutes or $36 for a full day, with a height limit of 6 feet 6 inches.
• Valet Parking found on Level 4 of the domestic garage charges $45 for the initial day, then $2 per 15 minutes or $45 daily thereafter.
• International Terminal Parking for Terminals A and G also offers both covered and uncovered options at the same rates as the domestic garage.

Long-Term Parking 

Located further from the terminals, the long-term surface lot and garages provide parking at $2 for every 15 minutes or $18 daily, with a frequent courtesy shuttle service to the terminals.

Payment Options

For ease of payment, passengers can use FasTrak lanes in the parking garages if their credit card is connected to a FasTrak account.

Cell Phone Waiting Lot

Situated near the long-term parking, this lot offers up to an hour of free parking for those waiting to pick up passengers. Note that vehicles must remain attended, and the lot is closed from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Kiss and Fly Lot

To dodge terminal congestion, the Kiss and Fly lot at the car rental center is an optimal drop-off point, with a complimentary AirTrain connecting to the terminals in about 10 minutes.

Off-Site and Hotel Parking

For budget-friendly rates, off-site lots and hotels provide competitive parking options with shuttle service to the airport. Websites like Airportparkingreservations.com can help find these deals, starting at daily rates of $9.

Accessibility in Parking

All parking areas at SFO feature accessible parking near elevators. The long-term lots are serviced by wheelchair-friendly shuttles. Vehicles over 6 feet 6 inches should use valet parking for assistance, with certain garages accommodating vehicles up to 8 feet 2 inches.

Parking Assistance For general parking questions, call 650-821-7900.

Car Rentals at SFO

The Car Rental Center is conveniently situated on the airport grounds, separate from the terminals. Access is facilitated by a 10-minute AirTrain ride.

On-site Car Rental Agencies

Agencies located directly within the Car Rental Center include:

• Thrifty: 650-283-0898
• Sixt: 415-658-9800
• National: 650-616-3000
• Hertz: 650-624-6600
• Enterprise: 650-697-9200
• Dollar: 650-244-4131
• Budget: 650-877-0998
• Avis: 650-877-6780
• Alamo: 650-616-2400

Off-site Car Rental Agencies

Companies operating off-airport with complimentary shuttle service to and from the Car Rental Center are:

• Fox: 415-917-2713
• Payless: 650-548-5161
• NU Car Rentals: 800-55-NUCAR

Airport Van Rental: 650-952-5543

Navigating the vast network of international flights can often lead to queries about specific airline routes. The FAQS below about “Where Does Emirates Fly from SFO?” serves as a crucial guide for passengers looking to explore the destinations that Emirates Airlines connects you to from San Francisco International Airport. It addresses common inquiries, ensuring you have all the necessary information to plan your journey effectively from SFO.

Frequently Asked Questions About Where Does Emirates Fly from SFO