Dubai International Airport (DXB), the busiest international airport in the world, has achieved a remarkable milestone by welcoming 92 million passengers in 2024, marking a 6% increase compared to the previous year. This announcement, made by Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highlights the airport's impressive recovery from the pandemic and reinforces its status as the premier travel hub globally.
In 2024, Dubai International Airport recorded a staggering 440,000 air movements, with 106 airlines operating flights to 272 cities across 107 countries. This achievement not only represents the highest annual traffic in DXB's history but also marks the 10th consecutive year that it has held the title of the world's busiest airport.
Over the past decade, DXB has handled over 700 million passengers, solidifying its position as a leader in international travel. Looking ahead, Sheikh Mohammed announced a significant investment of AED 128 billion (approximately $34.8 billion) to reshape the global aviation landscape in line with Emirati standards. This investment aims to enhance Dubai's connectivity, efficiency, and modern travel experiences.
In addition to upgrades at DXB, Dubai is expanding its second major airport, Al Maktoum International (Dubai World Central), with a massive $35 billion terminal project. When completed, this expansion will cover 27 square miles, feature five parallel runways, and have the capacity to handle 260 million passengers annually. The first phase of this expansion is set for completion in 2034, allowing the airport to manage 150 million passengers per year. Operations from Dubai International Airport will eventually shift to Al Maktoum International, with Emirates Airlines also relocating by 2034.
Dubai is not just an airport hub but is often referred to as 'the airport of the world,' where global aviation meets world-class innovation. With this ambitious investment and continuous growth, Dubai is poised to remain at the forefront of the aviation sector, enhancing connectivity and services for travelers worldwide. This commitment to shaping the future of global aviation ensures that millions of passengers will continue to experience a world-class travel experience.