21 November 2024

Dubai International (DXB) on track for a record-breaking 2024

With 68.6 million passengers in the first nine months, DXB is set to close the year with unprecedented results and consolidate its position as the world's busiest airport

Dubai International (DXB) is on track to record a record year for traffic and operational performance, thanks to impressive growth in the first nine months of 2024. With 68.6 million passengers welcomed by September, the airport is poised to take advantage of last quarter's peak season to reach an estimated total of 91.9 million guests by the end of the year, the highest result in its 64-year history.

In the third quarter alone, DXB handled 23.7 million passengers, contributing to an increase of 6.3% compared to the same period in 2023. Overall, 327,700 flights were operated in the first nine months of the year, an increase of 6.4% year-on-year.

The ability to manage these volumes is the result of operational efficiency and technological innovation, such as biometric recognition and real-time monitoring systems, which have significantly improved the traveler experience.

DXB has seen a major shift in traffic flows: 60% of the traffic forecast for the fourth quarter will be direct, a sign of Dubai's growing attractiveness as a tourist destination and an ideal city to live and work.

Among the main markets, India leads the ranking with 8.9 million passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia (5.6 million), the United Kingdom (4.6 million) and Pakistan (3.4 million). London remains the busiest city with 2.9 million passengers, followed by Riyadh, Mumbai and New Delhi.

DXB's success reflects Dubai's extraordinary attractiveness, which continues to grow as a tourism and commercial hub. World-class events such as the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai 7s, and New Year's Eve celebrations attract millions of visitors, while the cruise season reinforces the city's role as a global transportation hub.

DXB has been recognized for the tenth consecutive year as the world's busiest international airport. With an expanding infrastructure and the introduction of new routes and airlines, such as ITA Airways and Druk Air, the airport is preparing to consolidate its global leadership also in 2025.

According to Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, with unprecedented traffic forecasts and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Dubai International remains not only a global hub for air travel, but also a showcase of operational and technological excellence. 2024 represents a springboard for new goals, positioning DXB as an absolute protagonist in the world aviation landscape.

Edited by the editorial staff, Avion Tourism Magazine

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