Dubai’s DXB International airport expects to handle nearly 100 million passengers in 2026

DUBAI,— Dubai International Airport remained the world’s busiest airport in 2025, welcoming a record 95.2 million travelers through its terminals, officials said Wednesday.

The milestone reflects the Emirate’s continued economic growth and the rebound in global travel following the pandemic.

Dubai has experienced a surge in tourism, business, and real estate, drawing visitors to the United Arab Emirates’ largest city.

On Monday, the government reported that tourist arrivals rose 5% last year, reaching 19.6 million, marking the third consecutive year of record numbers.

The airport, operated by the state and home to Emirates airline, plays a central role in what is sometimes referred to as “Dubai Inc.,” the network of government-linked companies that drives the city’s economy.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said the record passenger numbers show that high traffic is now “part of its operating reality,” rather than a one-time peak.

Passenger numbers at Dubai International have risen steadily over the past few years. In 2024, the airport served 92.3 million passengers, up from 86.9 million in 2023.

Before the pandemic in 2019, the airport handled 86.3 million passengers, and in 2018, it recorded 89.1 million travelers.

India remained the leading destination for outbound travelers from Dubai, with 11.9 million passengers last year.

Saudi Arabia followed with 7.5 million, and the United Kingdom accounted for 6.3 million travelers. Overall, the airport serves 108 airlines connecting to 291 cities across 110 countries.

The growth in real estate and tourism has made Dubai both a destination and a transit hub. However, the city faces rising traffic and costs that are affecting both Emirati residents and the expatriate workforce that supports its economy.

Dubai plans to shift most airport operations to Al Maktoum International Airport, about 45 kilometers away. The second airport opened in 2010 with a single terminal and served as a parking site for Emirates’ Airbus A380s during the pandemic.

It now hosts cargo, commercial, and private flights, along with the biennial Dubai Air Show. Authorities are planning a $35 billion upgrade to allow a full transfer of operations by 2032.

Dubai International Airport is expected to continue its growth in 2026, with Dubai Airports forecasting nearly 100 million passengers this year.

The second airport is also expanding rapidly. Al Maktoum International reported 30% growth in flights last year and handled 1.4 million passengers.

The long-term plan aims for a capacity of 150 million passengers annually within a decade, eventually reaching 260 million once construction is complete.

(With files from AP | Reuters)

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