Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set to achieve record-breaking annual traffic in 2024 after a strong performance during the first nine months. By September’s end, DXB had already welcomed 68.6 million passengers, positioning itself for a busy fourth quarter.
The momentum from the first half of the year carried into the third quarter, during which DXB handled 23.7 million passengers. This represents a 6.3% year-on-year growth, bringing the total passenger count to date to 68 million.
The airport also managed 111,300 flights in Q3, contributing to 327,700 flight movements in the first nine months, a 6.4% increase compared to 2023.
Fourth Quarter Expectations
In the final quarter of 2024, DXB anticipates around 23 million visitors, driven by expatriates heading home for the holidays and tourists arriving to enjoy the UAE’s winter attractions. Direct passenger traffic is forecast to make up 60% of Q4 traffic, compared to 50% in Q3.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, highlighted the shift toward direct passenger traffic, noting Dubai’s transformation into a global hub for living, working, and tourism. He emphasized the city’s appeal, bolstered by a thriving real estate market and its ability to attract top talent. “This year’s success is a testament to our dedicated team, who have ensured record-breaking guest numbers and smooth operations,” he said.
Top Markets and Destinations
India continues to lead as DXB’s largest destination market, with 8.9 million passengers recorded in the first nine months of 2024. Saudi Arabia followed with 5.6 million passengers, a 15.2% growth, and the UK came in third with 4.6 million passengers, a 4.7% increase. Other key markets include:
- Pakistan: 3.4 million passengers
- USA: 2.6 million passengers
- Germany: 2 million passengers
For city destinations, London topped the list with 2.9 million passengers, followed by Riyadh, which saw a 25.8% surge to 2.3 million passengers. Other leading cities included Mumbai, Jeddah, New Delhi, and Istanbul.
Operational Highlights
Between January and September, DXB processed 60.1 million pieces of luggage with a 99.3% accuracy rate. For arriving passengers, 92% of baggage was delivered within 45 minutes of the plane arriving.
Winter Growth and New Additions
The winter season is expected to bring more growth, particularly from Western Europe, with an additional 237,000 seats, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with 301,000 extra seats. New airlines such as ITA, Condor, Hainan, and Druk Air have joined DXB’s network, enhancing connectivity. Dubai World Central (DWC) also welcomes new carriers like Transavia and Eurowings.
With its robust performance in 2024, DXB is strengthening its position as one of the most connected airports globally, paving the way for future innovation and success in aviation.
