International Fan Guide: Getting Around DFW for FIFA 2026

You've secured your tickets. You've booked your flight. Now the question every international fan is asking: how do you actually get around Dallas-Fort Worth without losing your group, your luggage, or your sanity on match day?

DFW is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States, covering over 9,000 square miles. AT&T Stadium — where Dallas will host 9 World Cup matches including a semifinal — sits in Arlington, a city located between Dallas and Fort Worth that has no direct rail connection to the airport or downtown hotels. Understanding this geography before you land will save you hours of confusion.

This guide is written specifically for international visitors flying into DFW for FIFA World Cup 2026. We cover everything from clearing customs to getting your group to kickoff on time.

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Arriving at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world, and during the World Cup, it will be operating at peak capacity. Here's what to expect.

Customs and Immigration

Allow significant time for customs and immigration, particularly if you are arriving on a transatlantic or transpacific flight. During major events, processing times can extend well beyond what you might experience at smaller airports. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recommends having your travel documents ready before you reach the booth — passport, visa (if required for your country), and any entry forms completed on the plane.

If you are using the Mobile Passport Control app or have a NEXUS or Global Entry card, you will move faster. First-time visitors from countries in the Visa Waiver Program will have enrolled in ESTA before traveling.

Airport Layout

DFW has five terminals: A, B, C, D, and E. International flights typically arrive at Terminal D (the international terminal), though some international carriers use Terminal A or E. The Skylink train connects all terminals and runs 24 hours — it is the quickest way to move between gates if you have a connection.

Baggage claim is located on the lower level of each terminal. Ground transportation — taxis, rideshares, rental cars, and private shuttles — is accessed from the lower level after you collect your bags.

Getting from DFW to Your Hotel

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Orange Line connects Terminal A at DFW to downtown Dallas and Plano. This is the most affordable option for solo travelers. The ride to downtown Dallas takes approximately 45–50 minutes.

For groups, however, public transit quickly becomes impractical. Coordinating 10 or 20 people with luggage through a rail system during peak event traffic adds stress before the match even begins. This is where a charter bus pickup makes the entire arrival sequence far simpler. We can meet your group curbside at the designated charter pickup area, load everyone's bags, and drive directly to your hotel — no transfers, no confusion, no one getting separated.

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Getting to AT&T Stadium in Arlington

This is the most important logistics point for Dallas-area World Cup matches.

AT&T Stadium is located in Arlington, Texas, at 1 AT&T Way. Arlington sits almost exactly between Dallas and Fort Worth, roughly 20 miles west of downtown Dallas and 20 miles east of downtown Fort Worth. It is an entertainment district built around the stadium, the nearby Globe Life Field (baseball), and the AT&T Entertainment Complex.

The Parking Reality

AT&T Stadium has over 25,000 parking spaces, but during World Cup matches, expect the entire surrounding area to be congested for hours before kickoff. Driving your rental car and parking is possible, but factor in 60–90 minutes of pre-match traffic and a long walk from remote parking areas.

Charter Bus Is the Clear Winner for Groups

For groups of 10 or more, a charter bus is the most practical option. We drop your group at the official charter/motorcoach staging area near the stadium, you walk directly to your gate, and we are waiting at the same location when the match ends. No parking fees, no traffic navigation, no designated driver required.

Our fleet includes full-size 55-passenger charter coaches and 14-passenger executive Sprinter vans for smaller groups. All vehicles are air-conditioned — a critical feature in Texas summer heat.

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Language and Communication

Bilingual Drivers and Staff

Our entire team at Texas Bus Services is bilingual in English and Spanish. If your group speaks Spanish, Portuguese, or a mix, we are set up for that. We have been serving Spanish-speaking communities in Texas since 2001, and bilingual communication is built into how we operate.

For other languages, we recommend downloading Google Translate before you land and saving offline language packs for your country's language, English, and Spanish. This will cover the vast majority of situations you encounter in DFW.

Signage and Navigation

Most major signage in DFW, at the airports, and around AT&T Stadium will be in English. Some areas will have Spanish translations. If you need directions, Texans are generally friendly and willing to help. Do not hesitate to ask.

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Texas Weather in June and July

This is not a polite suggestion: Texas summer heat requires preparation.

Dallas in June averages daytime highs around 95°F (35°C), with heat indices occasionally pushing higher due to humidity. July averages are similar or warmer. The sun is intense, and the AT&T Stadium parking areas and approach walkways have limited shade.

What to Pack for Match Day

• Water bottle: Bring an empty reusable bottle you can fill inside the stadium. AT&T Stadium policy typically permits sealed factory water bottles, but verify with FIFA's official stadium guide for 2026.
• Light, breathable clothing: Linen or moisture-wicking fabrics are strongly recommended. Avoid jeans or heavy cotton in direct sun.
• Sunscreen: SPF 50 or higher. Apply before you leave your hotel.
• Hat or cap: Wide-brim hats provide meaningful protection on the walk from drop-off to the stadium gate.
• Portable phone charger: With navigation, ticketing apps, and photos all running on your phone, battery life will be shorter than you expect.

Our charter buses are kept at full air conditioning throughout the day. Many groups bring a small cooler for drinks for the ride — we are fine with that for group trips.

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Tipping Culture in the United States

International visitors are sometimes surprised by tipping norms in the U.S. Unlike many countries where gratuity is included or not expected, tipping is customary for many service workers in the United States.

As a general reference:

• Restaurants (table service): 18–22% of the pre-tax bill
• Ride-hailing drivers: $2–$5 for short trips, or 15–20%
• Hotel housekeeping: $3–$5 per night, left daily
• Taxi drivers: 15–20%

For charter bus transportation, a tip for your driver is appreciated but not required. If your driver goes above and beyond — navigating difficult situations, accommodating your group's requests, handling luggage — a gratuity is a thoughtful acknowledgment.

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Money and Payments

The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). Most establishments in DFW accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Contactless payments are widely accepted.

ATMs are available throughout the airport and in most hotel lobbies. Be aware of international transaction fees from your home bank. Notify your bank of your travel dates before you depart to avoid your card being flagged for fraud.

Currency exchange is available at DFW Terminal D, though airport exchange rates are typically less favorable than your bank or a dedicated currency exchange in the city.

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Getting from Dallas to Houston for Multi-City Fans

Some fans will be attending matches in both Dallas and Houston. NRG Stadium in Houston hosted several 2026 World Cup matches including a quarterfinal.

The drive from Dallas to Houston is approximately 240 miles, typically 3.5–4 hours on I-45 South depending on traffic. Flying is an option (roughly 1 hour), but with airport logistics it often takes similar total time for groups.

For groups traveling between cities, a charter bus offers a unique advantage: your group travels together, luggage rides with you, and you can stop for a meal or landmark visit along the way. Many international fans planning a multi-city Texas trip combine a Dallas match with a Houston match on a single charter booking.

See our detailed article on the multi-day Dallas + Houston World Cup itinerary for a sample trip structure.

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Ready to Book Group Transportation?

Texas Bus Services has been operating charter transportation in Dallas-Fort Worth since 2001. DOT #4411537. Our fleet of 15 vehicles includes both full-size coaches and executive Sprinter vans, all driven by bilingual professional drivers with deep knowledge of the DFW area.

We handle airport pickups, hotel-to-stadium shuttle runs, and multi-day group transportation packages. World Cup availability is limited — we recommend booking as early as possible.

Call us at (214) 530-8364 or request a quote online to check availability for your travel dates.

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Final Tips for International Fans

• Download the DART transit app for DFW rail information, but plan on charter or rideshare for stadium trips.
• AT&T Stadium is a cashless venue — bring your credit or debit card.
• Cell service near the stadium on match day will be congested. Download your tickets to your phone's wallet app before you leave your hotel.
• Arrive at the stadium at least 2.5–3 hours before kickoff to clear security and find your seats without rushing.
• Texas BBQ is not optional. If your itinerary permits, a meal at one of the DFW-area barbecue institutions is a cultural experience that will stay with you longer than the flight home.

Welcome to Texas. We will get you there.