Dubai Airport breaks record with 46 million passengers in half a year

Dubai Airport breaks record with 46 million passengers in half a year

02-08-25

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has reached a historic milestone: in the first half of 2025, it welcomed 46 million passengers, once again confirming its position as the world’s busiest international airport. This figure represents a year-on-year increase of 2.3% and surpasses previous records, despite regional tensions and global challenges.

What makes this achievement especially noteworthy is that it was accomplished despite a brief aviation disruption in May and June caused by the Iran-Israel conflict, which led to temporary airspace restrictions in the region. However, operations resumed quickly and efficiently, showcasing the resilience of Dubai’s air hub. According to Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, the speed of recovery was impressive and reaffirms DXB’s operational strength.

During the second quarter of the year, the airport handled 22.5 million passengers, a 3.1% increase over the same period in 2024. April was the busiest month ever recorded at DXB, with 8 million travelers, while January marked the peak of the semester with 8.5 million passengers.

The average monthly volume reached 7.7 million passengers, with a daily flow of about 254,000. In this period, 222,000 flights were operated with an average load factor of 76%, and 41.8 million bags were processed, 91% of which were delivered within 45 minutes of arrival. The mishandled baggage rate stood at just 2 per 1,000 passengers—far below the 6.3 industry average reported by SITA in 2024.

Among the top passenger markets, India led with 5.9 million travelers, followed by Saudi Arabia (3.6 million), the United Kingdom (3.0 million), Pakistan (2.1 million), and the United States (1.6 million). The top destination was London with 1.8 million passengers, followed by Riyadh, Mumbai, Jeddah, New Delhi, and Istanbul, each exceeding one million travelers.

In addition to passenger traffic, DXB handled over 1 million tons of cargo during the six-month period—a slight 0.1% increase compared to the same timeframe last year. The airport’s infrastructure connects to over 269 destinations across 107 countries, served by approximately 92 international airlines, underscoring its role as a global logistics hub.

Looking ahead, Griffiths projects a total of 96 million passengers in 2025, slightly surpassing the previous record of 92 million set in 2024. For 2026, forecasts point to the symbolic target of 100 million. In the medium and long term, plans are underway for a major expansion: Al Maktoum Airport (DWC), currently under construction, is set to become Dubai’s primary hub by 2032, with a projected capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually and a gradual transition of operations from DXB.

This consolidated success, achieved amid uncertainty, demonstrates that Dubai remains a key player in global aviation—combining operational efficiency with strategic vision. The airport’s high service performance, crisis management, and extensive connectivity represent an airport model that not only withstands pressure but thrives under it. Ultimately, this record-setting first half not only solidifies DXB’s role as an international passenger hub but also signals Dubai’s continued leadership in shaping the future of global air travel.

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