Dubai International Airport (DXB), already renowned as the globe’s busiest hub for international flights, is on track for a record-setting year. Dubai Airports has revealed that in the first half of 2024 alone, the airport welcomed 44.9 million passengers—a notable 8% increase compared to the same period last year. This upsurge positions DXB to surpass its previous passenger record.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, expressed a buoyant outlook for the remainder of the year, projecting a total of 91.8 million passengers by the end of 2024. This forecast would not only surpass the 89.11 million passengers recorded in 2018 but also reflects a significant rebound in traffic. Griffiths had earlier predicted 91 million passengers for this year, highlighting the airport’s continued appeal and growth potential.
A notable surge in travel from key markets like China and India has driven this increase. The number of passengers from China has surged by 80% compared to last year, a dramatic recovery following the severe travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, the passenger volume from China and India is now approaching 90% of pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the robust recovery of global travel.
Dubai’s appeal as a major international gateway has been further cemented by the city’s proactive approach to infrastructure and tourism. The emirate has attracted 17.15 million foreign overnight visitors in 2023, bolstering its status as a central hub for both trade and tourism in the Middle East. This influx is supported by Dubai’s favourable income tax policies, extensive infrastructure investments, and open immigration stance.
Looking ahead, the construction of a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, a project approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum in April, promises to enhance Dubai’s aviation capacity significantly. With an estimated cost of 128 billion dirhams (USD 35 billion), this terminal is set to be five times larger than DXB, with a capacity to accommodate 260 million passengers, making it the largest airport globally. Sheikh Mohammed also indicated that operations from DXB will eventually transition to Al Maktoum International.
Currently, DXB serves 269 destinations across 106 countries. The top countries by passenger numbers at DXB are India, Saudi Arabia, Britain, and Pakistan. In line with its commitment to improving passenger experience, Dubai Airports plans to introduce several new features, including colour-coded car parks to aid navigation. Parking fees at DXB’s terminals range from Dh5 to Dh125 per day, with additional charges of Dh100 for extra days.