Tag Archives: DXB

Dubai International (DXB) welcomed 23.4 million guests in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining strong momentum and reinforcing its position as the world’s leading international airport. The performance reflects both Dubai’s growing appeal as a global destination and DXB’s continued role as the gateway of choice for millions of travellers. Traffic was up 1.5% compared to the same period in 2024, despite a record-breaking Q1 last year. January alone saw the highest monthly traffic ever recorded at DXB – welcoming 8.5 million guests – an achievement made possible not just by infrastructure, but by the coordinated effort of thousands of people behind the scenes. India retained its position as DXB’s top destination country, with 3 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (1.9 million), the UK (1.5 million), Pakistan (1 million), the US (804,000), and Germany (738,000). At the city level, London led with 935,000 guests, followed by Riyadh (759,000), Jeddah (627,000), Mumbai (615,000), and New Delhi (564,000). Leisure travel also surged during the quarter, driven by a seasonal peak at the start of the year, Eid holidays, and spring break, with double-digit increases in traffic to destinations such as the Czech Republic (+30.6%), Vietnam (+28.6%), and Spain (+20.2%). Cargo volumes registered a minor contraction of 3.6% year-on-year during the first quarter, with DXB handling 517,000 tonnes of cargo. While the numbers tell one story, it’s the people behind DXB’s peak performance who continue to make the real difference. Across its terminals, the dedication, quick thinking, and guest-first mindset of the entire oneDXB community – from Dubai Airports’ teams to its government partners, airlines, and commercial operators – plays a critical role across every touchpoint, turning operational excellence into exceptional guest experiences. …

The airport welcomed 92.3 million guests in 2024, surpassing its previous all-time high of 89.1 million in 2018. Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports shared, “This year’s results exceeded our forecast by almost 200,000 in guest numbers, underscoring the strength of DXB’s global appeal. Over the past decade, DXB has welcomed more than 700 million guests on over 3.3 million flights. Since 2014, DXB has led the Airports Council International’s rankings as the world’s busiest international airport. Dubai International (DXB) has set a new benchmark in global aviation, welcoming 92.3 million guests in 2024 – the highest annual traffic ever recorded in its history. This milestone surpasses the previous record of 89.1 million achieved in 2018 and coincides with a landmark achievement: a decade of DXB leading the Airports Council International’s (ACI) list of the world’s busiest international airports.* This record-breaking performance was driven by sustained growth throughout the year, capped by an extraordinary final quarter that highlighted Dubai’s magnetic appeal as a global destination for travel, business, and investment. December emerged as the busiest month of 2024, with 8.2 million guests choosing DXB as their gateway and destination, reaffirming its position as the airport of choice for millions worldwide. Commenting on the achievement, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said: “Dubai International (DXB) is a global success story that reflects the UAE’s ability to transform bold ambitions into reality. Consistently ranked as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, its record annual passenger traffic this year is a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence that continues to shape the UAE’s progress.” “Our sustained …

Dubai International (DXB) is on track to welcome 4.3 million guests in the first 15 days of the year, setting the stage for its busiest January yet. Daily traffic is projected to peak on 3 January, with over 311,000 guests expected. With an average of 287,000 guests passing through daily during this period—8% higher than the same period in 2024 and 6% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2018-19—DXB is operating at volumes akin to its busiest months ever, demonstrating its ability to meet global travel demand with efficiency and ease. This exceptional performance reflects a surge in international visitors flying out after the festive season, coupled with residents returning from holidays. As the world’s leading airport for international passengers, DXB remains a global benchmark for operational excellence, offering seamless connectivity and an unmatched guest experience on an extraordinary scale.

Dubai International (DXB) is set to welcome a surge in travellers as the winter holiday season unfolds, with over 5.2 million guests expected between  13 and 31 December. The daily average is projected at 274,000 guests, with Friday, 20 December, anticipated to be the busiest day of the period, hosting nearly 296,000 guests. The weekend from 20 to 22 December will also see peak activity, with an estimated 880,000 guests passing through. Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, said: “Delivering the exceptional experience that DXB is known for during peak travel periods is always a challenge, but one we are well-prepared to meet with collaboration across the oneDXB family. This year, we are excited to welcome millions of guests while also creating moments of joy through festive activations. The Family Zone at Terminal 3 will transform into a winter wonderland featuring a unique fusion performance of carollers and beatboxers, a Magic Station offering gift-wrapping and photo opportunities, a Nutcracker marching band, and more. These activities are designed to surprise and delight, making every journey through DXB truly memorable.” This season’s traffic surge reflects Dubai’s global appeal, with visitors drawn to its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings, as well as the city’s amazing winter weather. Of the projected traffic, 1.7 million guests will arrive in Dubai, and 1.5 million will depart, underscoring Dubai’s rising position as a premier destination for international travellers. Travel Tips for Guests Dubai Airports is committed to ensuring a seamless travel experience for all guests during this peak period. Here are some tips for those travelling during the coming weeks to make their journey as smooth as possible: • Check-in …

Dubai International (DXB) is on track for record-breaking annual traffic, following an impressive performance in the first nine months of the year. By the end of September, DXB had welcomed 68.6 million guests, laying a solid foundation for the typically high-traffic final quarter – a milestone made possible by the collective efforts of colleagues and partners who work tirelessly to maintain the airport’s leadership status. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “This year has highlighted the very best of DXB — showcasing its continued growth, resilience, and commitment to service excellence, qualities that have become synonymous with the airport. At the heart of this success is our people, whose dedication and collaboration have driven our record-breaking guest numbers and robust operational performance, keeping us at the top for over a decade. DXB continues to be our core focus, with ongoing investment in customer service and technological advancements, to ensure our success in delivering a superior hospitality experience. “What’s particularly noteworthy is that DXB is seeing more direct traffic than ever before — a shift from the long-standing trend where transfer traffic dominated. This reflects Dubai’s evolution into not just a premier tourist destination, but also a globally attractive place to live, work, and do business, further underscored by the city’s booming real estate market and its rising appeal as a destination for top talent. We’re focused on continuing to deliver an exceptional experience in the final quarter, buoyed by Dubai’s vibrant winter calendar and renowned attractions.” The momentum from the first half of 2024 carried into Q3, during which DXB managed 23.7 million guests, significantly contributing to the year-to-date total of 68.6 million — a growth of 6.3% compared …

Dubai International (DXB) has raised the bar on its contribution to Dubai’s economy by welcoming a record 44.9 million guests during the first six months of this year. Marking an 8% year-on-year increase in guests, DXB has established its position as a globally preferred gateway, boosted by strong connectivity with key international markets, while reaffirming its central role in supporting Dubai’s economic growth. Dubai attracted 9.31 million international visitors in H1 2024, reflecting its burgeoning appeal as a global hub for talent, enterprises, and investors. These figures, recently released by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, tie in closely with the growth of Dubai’s GDP, which reached AED 115 billion in Q1 2024, up 3.2% from the previous year. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented, “The record-breaking performance in the first half of this year highlights our strategic importance as a global aviation hub. Dubai is at the forefront of global cities when it comes to attracting talent, businesses, and tourists from around the world, and we are proud to be the gateway to the city, driving growth and enhancing the airport experience for every guest. Strong demand from key source markets such as India and the gradual but certain resurgence of markets such as China, have been instrumental in our success. We have a very optimistic outlook for the remainder of the year, and we are on track to break records with 91.8 million annual guests forecasted for 2024.” The size and significance of DXB’s established and growing markets including South Asia, Western Europe, the GCC, and East Asia has played a crucial role in the airport’s continued success. In the first half of 2024, India remains DXB’s top …

Dubai International (DXB) is gearing up for a significant increase in traffic this week (6- 17th July)  914,000 guests are expected to fly out of DXB, underscoring the airport’s robust growth this year. The peak of this travel surge will occur over the weekend of July 12-14, when DXB is ready to welcome 840,000 guests, marking the busiest weekend during this period. July 13 is projected to be the single busiest day, with an estimated 286,000 guests passing through DXB. On average, the airport will handle approximately 274,000 guests daily during this peak period. Total anticipated number of guests are 3.3 million arriving and departing through its terminals. DXB advises all travellers to allow extra time for check-in, security screening, and boarding processes to ensure a smooth journey. Dubai Airports is committed to delivering a consistently exceptional travel experience and appreciates the cooperation and understanding of our guests during this exceptionally busy travel season. Tips • Emirates passengers can take advantage of the airline’s convenient home, early and self-check-in facilities, including city check-in options. • flydubai passengers are advised to arrive at least four hours prior to departure. • Guests flying with other airlines should aim to arrive at DXB no earlier than three hours before their scheduled departure time, utilising online check-in where available to save time. • Familiarise yourself with your airline’s baggage allowance and packing regulations. Avoid last-minute surprises by checking in advance. • Save time at security screening by being prepared. Place metal items— watch, jewellery, mobile phone, coins, belt— in your hand luggage and follow the directed guidelines for carrying liquids, aerosols, and gels. • Families with children over 12 can expedite the passport control process …

After the heaviest rainfall the UAE experienced in 75 years Dubai Airports is making remarkable strides in restoring and normalising operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said since yesterday, ahead of its recovery schedule, DXB returned to its normal flight schedule and is back to operating around 1,400 flight movements a day. “With roads in and around the airport 100% clear of water accumulation, our manpower, logistics and facilities are operating as usual again. To have the airport back up and running is no small feat. 2,155 flights were cancelled and 115 were diverted. We had to work closely with our airline partners and service providers to rework schedules, boost manpower and look after all those who had been disrupted. “I’m continuously amazed with the unwavering dedication of our Dubai Airports employees, airline partners, government agencies, commercial partners and service partners. It has been the most challenging adverse weather event we’ve had to navigate, and our people and partners worked tirelessly to keep the operation running and to assist our guests.” 31 flights were diverted to Dubai World Central (DWC) and by 19 April, all guests at the airport were successfully supported and continued onwards to complete their travel plans. Guest welfare remained a key priority throughout the disruption and although there were initial challenges in transporting supplies with road closures around DXB and DWC, over 75,000 food packs were delivered across both airports. “While certain challenges remain, including processing the baggage backlog, we’re working closely with our service partners but know there’s still more work to be done and once again thank guests for their patience while we work through this,” added Mr. Griffiths. “We’re …

Dubai Airports and Dubai Autism Centre (DAC) joined hands to mark World Autism Day with a special sunflower planting ceremony. The event, held at DAC’s gardens, aimed to raise awareness about autism and highlight Dubai Airports ongoing efforts, together with its strategic partners, to create a smooth and accessible travel experience for all guests travelling through Dubai International (DXB). This initiative also underscores their support for Dubai’s journey towards becoming an Autism-friendly destination. Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “We’re committed to creating an inclusive journey for every single guest, because we recognise that we all experience the world differently. Through dedicated routes, the ongoing development of new products and services, and our collaboration with Dubai Autism Centre, we’re actively working to shape a more accessible and welcoming airport experience for all”. Al Joker added: “This initiative aligns with Dubai Airports’ dedication to supporting UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021, which aim to establish the Emirate as the world’s leading disability-friendly city”. DXB has implemented a range of initiatives for People of Determination with visible and non-visible disabilities. These initiatives include a pre-travel planner and a dedicated accessible route through the airport. This prioritised route facilitates a smoother journey through check-in, passport control, security checkpoint, and boarding for guests wearing the internationally recognised sunflower lanyard. Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General of the Dubai Autism Centre, said: “We would like to thank Dubai Airports for joining our kids in a special sunflower planting event to mark World Autism Day. Planting sunflowers goes beyond raising awareness for autism; it’s a powerful symbol of our collective effort to build an inclusive community that embraces and empowers individuals with autism.” …

Dubai International (DXB) has concluded a record-breaking year of achievements and extraordinary growth by welcoming 87 million guests in annual traffic in 2023, surpassing not only Dubai Airports’ own yearly forecast but also pre-pandemic levels of traffic. This remarkable performance marks the successful and ahead-of-time completion of DXB’s recovery journey, further solidifying its position as the world’s leading airport for international passenger traffic. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai said: “DXB’s spectacular performance in 2023 is a resounding testament to the visionary leadership and determination of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to achieve growth and excellence across sectors, surmounting all challenges along the way. This exceptional performance underscores Dubai’s emergence as the world’s most popular tourism destination and its pivotal role in global commerce and trade, facilitated by the unmatched connectivity, aviation capacity and logistics infrastructure that has been built steadily over the years under His Highness’s leadership.” “Dubai is setting new benchmarks in passenger experience with excellence levels and innovative technologies that constantly redefine airport services. Consistent with the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s top three cities for tourism and business over the next decade, the city continues to grow rapidly as a global aviation hub and the world’s preferred gateway for international travellers. As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain committed to further enhancing Dubai’s leading position on the global stage.” His Highness noted that Dubai Airports, led by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al …