Dubai International Airport Records 68.6 Million Guests In First Nine Months Of The Year

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is poised for a record-breaking year in passenger traffic, following strong results in the first nine months of 2024. By September's end, DXB had welcomed 68.6 million travellers, marking a 6.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The momentum from the first half of the year continued into the third quarter, with DXB handling 23.7 million guests.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, stated, "This year has highlighted the very best of DXB — showcasing its continued growth, resilience, and commitment to service excellence, qualities that have become synonymous with the airport. At the heart of this success is our people, whose dedication and collaboration have driven our record-breaking guest numbers and robust operational performance, keeping us at the top for over a decade."

India remained DXB's largest market with 8.9 million passengers over nine months. Saudi Arabia followed closely with 5.6 million passengers, showing a significant 15.2% rise. The UK contributed 4.6 million passengers, reflecting a 4.7% increase year-on-year. Other notable contributors included Pakistan with 3.4 million and the USA with 2.6 million passengers.

London was the top city destination for DXB with 2.9 million visitors during this period. Riyadh experienced substantial growth with 2.3 million visitors, marking a remarkable increase of 25.8%. Other key cities included Mumbai (1.8 million), Jeddah (1.7 million), New Delhi (1.6 million), and Istanbul (1.3 million).

DXB managed over 111,300 flights in Q3 alone, bringing total flight movements for the first nine months to 327,700—a rise of 6.4% compared to last year. This impressive operational capacity is supported by advanced technologies like biometrics and real-time tracking systems that enhance passenger experience.

The airport processed an impressive 60.1 million bags during this time frame with an industry-leading accuracy rate of 99.3%. Notably, about 92% of arriving baggage for terminating guests was delivered within just 45 minutes after aircraft arrival.

Future Prospects and Seasonal Traffic

The final quarter is expected to see around 23.2 million guests at DXB as direct traffic increases due to expats travelling home for festivities and tourists visiting UAE’s winter attractions. Approximately 60% of Q4 traffic is forecasted to be direct compared to previous quarters.

This period also sees major global events such as DP World Tour Championship and Emirates Dubai Sevens drawing international visitors alongside festive markets and renowned New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Expanding Connectivity and Airline Network

Growth is anticipated from Western Europe with an additional 237,000 seats compared to Q3 while CIS regions add another 301,000 seats supported by home-based carriers along with new airlines like ITA Airways joining DXB’s network.

DWC welcomes Transavia and Eurowings expanding connectivity further enhancing Dubai’s position as a hub for air travel globally.

The Airports Council International recognised DXB as the world’s busiest international airport for ten consecutive years earlier this year—a testament to its enduring appeal among global travellers seeking premium experiences under sunny skies.

With inputs from WAM