With 92.33 million international passengers handled in 2024—a strong 6.1% rise from the year before—Dubai International Airport (DXB) topped Airports Council International’s 2024 list as the busiest international airport in the world.
Boom of Cargo in the Air
By rising from 17th to 11th in the worldwide air-freight rankings, DXB also caused waves in the cargo logistics industry. The airport handled 2.2 million tonnes of cargo, a 20.5% increase from the previous year, which is indicative of the resilience of the supply chain and the growth of e-commerce.
Ten Years of Domination
With 11 years in a row at the top of the international passenger traffic rankings, DXB is an unparalleled global aviation powerhouse. With 106 airlines connecting it to 272 destinations, Dubai remains a vital worldwide hub.
Looking Ahead: DWC and Beyond
While DXB sets global records, plans are accelerating to transfer operations to the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) by 2032, reshaping Dubai’s aviation future under its D33 economic vision. The expansion of DWC aims to meet long-term growth and maintain Dubai’s global leadership in air travel.
