Dubai: Dubai International Airport (DXB) is on the cusp of a new passenger traffic milestone. With an impressive 8% surge in passenger numbers during the first half of 2024, reaching 44.9 million travelers, the world's busiest airport for international passengers is poised to shatter previous records.
In a move to accommodate future growth, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, has approved a monumental expansion at Al Maktoum International Airport. With a 128 billion dirham ($35 billion) investment, the new terminal will position Al Maktoum as the world’s largest airport, with a capacity of up to 260 million passengers. Sheikh Mohammed has also indicated that operations will eventually transition from DXB to the new facility.
Key markets drive surge
Dubai Airports credits the robust growth to soaring demand from major markets like India and a notable rebound in traffic from China. Following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, passenger numbers from China surged to over one million, marking an impressive 80% increase compared to last year and reaching 90% of pre-pandemic levels from 2019.
Record forecast for 2024
Currently, DXB connects to 269 destinations across 106 countries. While India remains the top source of passenger traffic, other key markets include Saudi Arabia, Britain, and Pakistan.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, expressed a positive outlook for the rest of the year, stating, “We are on track to break records with a forecast of 91.8 million annual passengers for 2024.” This projection exceeds the previous record of 89.1 million passengers set in 2018.
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Dubai’s growing influence
Dubai’s status as a premier tourism and trade hub continues to attract global visitors. In 2023, the city set a new record with 17.15 million international overnight visitors. Factors such as significant infrastructure projects, a favorable tax environment, and welcoming immigration policies contribute to Dubai’s growing allure.