Find out: Why does Dubai Airport have two codes, DXB and OMDB?
Why does Dubai International not use the code DUB instead?
Dubai --- While the name Dubai International Airport might seem straightforward, its airport code, DXB, is not as intuitive.
Typically, these codes reflect the airport or city's name, such as Delhi (DEL), Atlanta (ATL), or Berlin (BER). However, due to limited letter combinations, some airports receive less obvious codes. In Dubai's case, the code DUB was already allocated to Dublin Airport, leading to the assignment of DXB.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global aviation industry body, assigns three-letter codes to airports worldwide for easy identification and communication.
IATA was founded in Havana, Cuba, in April 1945, and started with 57 members from 31 nations.
Beyond DXB: The OMDB code
Another international organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), also assigns airport codes but uses a four-letter format primarily for pilots, air traffic control, and airline operations. These codes often reflect the airport's region and country.
Airports in the Middle East, including countries like Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates, share a common "O" prefix in their ICAO codes.
For example, while Dubai is widely known as DXB (IATA), its ICAO code is OMDB. Similarly, Abu Dhabi is OMAA, Al Ain is OMAL, Fujairah is OMFJ, Ras Al Khaimah is OMRK, and Sharjah is OMSJ. This standardized format ensures efficient communication and coordination within the region's complex airspace.
The Busiest Airport in the World
Global travel data provider OAG has confirmed Dubai's dominance in the aviation industry, ranking it as the world's busiest international airport in August, with a remarkable 5.173 million seats. This figure significantly outpaces its closest competitor, London Heathrow, which recorded 4.268 million seats.
Furthermore, Airports Council International (ACI) has recognized Dubai as the busiest international airport for an unprecedented ten consecutive years.