Dubai Airports today announced that Dubai International (DXB) welcomed 95.2 million guests in 2025, up 3.1% year on year, marking the busiest year in the airport’s history and the highest annual international passenger traffic ever recorded by any airport.

More significantly, 2025 was defined not by a single peak, but by sustained performance at record levels. DXB achieved its busiest day, month, quarter and year on record, operating at the edge of physical capacity while consistently delivering operational excellence. What would represent extraordinary strain elsewhere has become part of DXB's normal operating rhythm.

December closed as the busiest month in DXB history, with 8.7 million guests, up 6.1% year on year. The fourth quarter was also the busiest ever, with 25.1 million guests, an increase of 5.9% compared to the same period in 2024.

Total flight movements reached 118,000 in Q4, up 5%, bringing the annual total to 454,800 a rise of 3.3% year on year. Despite continued growth in movements, average passengers per movement remained strong at 214, reflecting sustained deployment of larger aircraft and high load efficiency. The annual load factor stood at 77.6%, a marginal adjustment of 0.5 percentage points.

Consistency at Scale
Rather than a story of isolated surges, 2025 demonstrated DXB’s ability to operate continuously and deliver a superior guest experience at record levels through disciplined planning and close coordination across the oneDXB community comprising airlines, service partners and government stakeholders.

DXB efficiently managed 86.75 million bags in 2025, a 4.95% year-on-year increase, marking the highest ever baggage volume handled during a calendar year. Highlighting the airport’s commitment to operational excellence, 89% of all arriving baggage was delivered to guests terminating at DXB within 45 minutes of the aircraft arriving on stand. DXB continued to deliver world-class mishandled baggage performance at 99.75%, translating to 2.47 mishandled bags per 1,000 guests. Guest processing times also remained stable at scale, with 99.35% of guests experiencing waiting times of less than 10 minutes at departure passport control, while 98.8% waiting under 15 minutes at arrival passport control. Security check waiting times remained below 5 minutes for 98.9% of guests.

Broad and Balanced Global Connectivity
India retained its position as DXB’s largest country market with 11.9 million guests, followed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 7.5 million, the United Kingdom at 6.3 million, Pakistan at 4.3 million, and the United States at 3.3 million.

Several markets recorded particularly strong growth during the year. Traffic from China increased 16.6% to 2.5 million, Russia grew 6% to 2.8 million, Turkey rose 6.7% to 2.2 million, Egypt expanded 14.3% to 1.8 million, and Italy climbed 12.5% to 1.6 million.

London remained DXB’s busiest city destination with 3.9 million guests, followed by Riyadh at 3 million, Mumbai and Jeddah at 2.4 million each, and New Delhi at 2.2 million.

By the end of 2025, DXB was connected to 291 destinations across 110 countries, served by 108 international airlines, reinforcing its position as one of the most globally connected hubs in the world.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “Airports are often defined by moments of intensity, but long-term performance is defined by how well those moments are sustained. In 2025, DXB showed that record traffic is no longer an exception, but part of its operating reality. That consistency at scale reflects the maturity of the system and the strength of collaboration across our oneDXB airport community to deliver excellence under growing demand.

We expect traffic to approach 99.5 million in 2026, supported by close coordination across the sector and the oneDXB community.”

Outlook
With demand continuing to build and capacity carefully managed, Dubai’s airports are entering a phase where performance is defined not by how high it can surge, but by how reliably it can sustain growth while consistently delivering a superior guest experience. As traffic patterns evolve, the complementary role of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) will continue to expand, ensuring the emirate remains prepared for the next era of global aviation.

This newly signed phase will see over 180,000 conventional lighting fixtures replaced with energy-saving alternatives across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), with Concourse A at DXB being the largest single area covered. Combined with the first phase completed earlier and covering 150,000 lighting units at DXB, the project will upgrade more than 330,000 lighting units in total, making it one of the most extensive airport lighting retrofit initiatives in the region.

The project is expected to cut annual energy consumption by 47 million kilowatt-hours (kWh), equivalent to powering over 4,300 homes for an entire year, a significant result that highlights the real-world impact of operational sustainability. The initiative will also deliver annual cost savings of more than AED 20 million, contributing to Dubai Airports’ efforts to optimise efficiency while supporting Dubai’s wider environmental targets.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “In partnership with Etihad ESCO and DEWA, this project highlights the power of collaboration in achieving measurable sustainability results. Airports are significant energy consumers, and that gives us both the opportunity and the responsibility to lead meaningful change. This lighting project goes beyond efficiency upgrades; it is about embedding sustainability into the core of our day-to-day operations. Every kilowatt-hour saved moves us closer to reducing our environmental impact and building a more resilient future. It sets the benchmark for what a truly sustainable airport can and should achieve.”

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, said: “Aligned with the UAE’s commitment to climate change resilience and sustainable growth, DEWA is dedicated to supporting Dubai’s journey towards a green economy. This aligns with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. The partnership between Dubai Airports and Etihad ESCO is a prime example of our collective efforts to promote energy efficiency, reduce emissions and advance Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy. Through initiatives like this large-scale retrofit, we are actively building a greener, more resilient future to support our country’s needs and ambitions.”

Dr Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad Energy Services Company, added: “At Etihad ESCO, we are driven by the mission to transform Dubai’s infrastructure as an outstanding example of energy efficiency and sustainability. This final phase of the lighting retrofit project with Dubai Airports is a testament to how strategic partnerships and innovative solutions can deliver measurable impact – from substantial energy savings to a reduced carbon footprint. It reaffirms our shared vision of making Dubai a global leader in sustainable development.”

Installation work is scheduled to begin later this year and conclude by H2 2027. This milestone reflects Dubai Airports’ commitment to decarbonising operations through practical, high-impact projects and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for sustainable aviation infrastructure.

Every year brings its own challenges in aviation, but some things remain constant. Dubai International (DXB) has retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers for the 11th consecutive year, according to Airports Council International (ACI). With 92.3 million guests in 2024, we not only extended our decade-long hold on the top spot but also set a new global benchmark for international traffic at a single airport.

While this achievement is measured in numbers, it speaks to something far greater than scale alone. It reflects the extraordinary power of Dubai as a destination in its own right - a city people choose to visit for tourism, for trade and business, or to call home.

It is a proud moment for Dubai Airports and for the entire oneDXB community, whose collaboration and extraordinary efforts continue to shape the way we welcome the world and deliver a guest experience that reflects the spirit of this city.

But while milestones like this are worth celebrating, our focus remains firmly on the future. The development of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International is already underway, bringing with it the opportunity not just to expand capacity, but to completely rethink airport design and reimagine the travel experience itself.

It is a bold vision, shaped by everything we have learned, and driven by the ambition to redefine what is possible all over again.

The daily average is projected at 274,000 guests, with Friday, December 20, anticipated to be the busiest day of the period, hosting nearly 296,000 guests. The weekend from December 20 to 22 will also see peak activity, with an estimated 880,000 guests passing through.

Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, said: "Delivering the exceptional experience that DXB is known for during peak travel periods is always a challenge, but one we are well-prepared to meet with collaboration across the oneDXB family. This year, we are excited to welcome millions of guests while also creating moments of joy through festive activations. The Family Zone at Terminal 3 will transform into a winter wonderland featuring a unique fusion performance of carollers and beatboxers, a Magic Station offering gift-wrapping and photo opportunities, a Nutcracker marching band, and more. These activities are designed to surprise and delight, making every journey through DXB truly memorable."

This season’s traffic surge reflects Dubai’s global appeal, with visitors drawn to its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings, as well as the city’s amazing winter weather. Of the projected traffic, 1.7 million guests will arrive in Dubai, and 1.5 million will depart, underscoring Dubai’s rising position as a premier destination for international travellers.

Travel Tips for Guests 
Dubai Airports is committed to ensuring a seamless travel experience for all guests during this peak period. Here are some tips for those travelling during the coming weeks to make their journey as smooth as possible:

• Check-in Early
  - Emirates guests can use home check-in, early check-in, and city check-in facilities.
  - For other airlines, guests should arrive no earlier than three hours before departure.
   
• Safe & Secure
  - Save time by placing metal items and electronics in hand luggage and adhering to LAGs (liquid, aerosols, and gels) regulations.
  - Permitted portable electronic devices, power banks, and spare batteries are prohibited in checked-in luggage and must be carried in/as hand luggage.
   
• Use Smart Gates: Families with children over 12 can expedite passport control through Smart Gates.
   
• Plan: Organise travel documents, check baggage allowances, and familiarise yourself with your airline’s regulations to avoid surprises.
   
• Avoid Congestion
  - Opt for the Dubai Metro for easy access to and from Terminals 1 and 3.
  - Farewell goodbyes should be exchanged at home, as only passengers will be permitted inside the terminals during peak periods.
   

DXB’s preparations for the winter rush reinforce its standing as the world’s busiest international airport, ensuring a smooth journey for all travellers.

In Q1, DXB witnessed a significant surge in passenger numbers, with 23 million guests passing through its terminals, marking an 8.4% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth underscores DXB's appeal to major markets and its contribution to Dubai’s prominence as an international destination for tourism and trade. Total passenger traffic for the quarter reached 23,052,060 guests, with January recording the highest traffic at 7.9 million guests.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports commented, "The robust growth trajectory at DXB continued in the first quarter of the year, with the hub recording some truly impressive numbers. Thanks in part to the proliferation of cities being added to our network by our home base carriers Emirates and flydubai, in recent months. As Dubai emerges as a global leader for attracting talent, businesses, and tourists from across the globe, our focus remains on sustaining growth momentum and enhancing the overall airport experience for every guest passing through our terminals. With a strong start to Q2 and an optimistic outlook for the rest of the year, we have revised our forecast for the year to 91 million guests, surpassing our previous annual traffic record of 89.1 million in 2018."

Aviation's Contribution to Dubai's Economy
DXB drives Dubai's economic growth and tourism, with the city registering a 3.3% increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) valued at approximately AED 307.9 billion. The airport’s efficient handling of ever-increasing passenger traffic and high cargo volumes supports the Emirate’s diversified economy. DXB serves as the main gateway to Dubai, supporting its growth and international brand. With connections to 256 destinations across 102 countries through 90 international carriers, DXB strengthens Dubai’s position as a global business and logistics hub.

Expanding Markets and Top Destinations
DXB demonstrates readiness to cater to increasing travel demand in the UAE’s key markets worldwide.

India remains DXB's top destination country, with passenger traffic reaching 3.1 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (2m), the UK (1.5m), and Pakistan (1.1m). Other significant contributors include the US (836,000 guests), Russia (725,000), and Germany (728,000). Top cities by passenger numbers include London with 961,000 guests, Riyadh (795,000), and Jeddah (669,000), followed closely by Mumbai with 637K guests.

Key Figures
Q1 saw 109,238 total flight movements, an 8.3% increase year-on-year increase. With load factors reaching 79.1% in the first quarter, the passenger per aircraft movement reached 217, a minor change from 220 per aircraft recorded during the same period in 2023.

DXB efficiently managed 26.8 million bags through its extensive baggage system during the first quarter, showcasing its operational excellence and commitment to seamless travel experiences.

Guests are urged to check their flight status with their airline and consider arriving at the airport earlier than usual to accommodate for any delays or queues caused by the weather. Plan extra time for check-in, security, and boarding processes.

Your safety and convenience are our priority. Stay informed, plan smartly, and travel safely.

DXB will continue to serve as the primary hub, meeting the needs of 100 million plus guests over the next few years as phase two of DWC takes shape.

We will be actively collaborating with our airline customers, our strategic partners, the Dubai Government, and our stakeholders to bring this visionary project to fruition.

Dubai, UAE (10:04am, March 9 2024) - Dubai Airports can confirm that normal operations at Dubai International (DXB) have been affected due to the adverse weather conditions since early hours on Saturday, March 9. Consequently, 13 inbound flights have been rerouted to nearby airports. We are actively collaborating with our service partners and airlines to minimise any inconvenience experienced by our valued guests. 

We urge guests flying out of DXB to check their flight status and plan accordingly. Due to congestion and water accumulating on the roads, we recommend allowing extra time to travel to the airport. Guests are encouraged to use the Dubai Metro for smoother transit.

As the festive season gets underway, hundreds of thousands of travellers are expected to take to the skies to reunite with family and loved ones, indulge in holiday getaways or explore exciting new destinations.

At the heart of it all Dubai International (DXB), the world’s most connected and biggest international airport, is primed for peak season, ready to facilitate a diverse range of offerings this holiday season.

DXB will welcome an estimated 4.4 million passengers through its doors between December 15 and December 31, with the average total daily traffic reaching 258,000. The hub is preparing for an exceptional spike in guest numbers on Friday, December 22, the busiest day for the airport, welcoming an estimated 279,000 passengers.

As Dubai continues to cement itself as a popular destination during the winter, a surge in arrivals is anticipated to hit during the last two weekends of the year, with half a million passengers – mainly comprising point to point traffic, expected to arrive over six days from December 22 to 24, and from December 29 to 31.

Whether departing to go home for the holidays, arriving in Dubai to celebrate the festive season or simply passing through, Dubai Airports aims to provide guests with a truly memorable experience.

Across Terminals 1, 2 and 3, the airport will host a series of activities, from a 3D photo opportunity in a giant snow globe and visits form a range of festive performers who will be handing out chocolates and other gifts, to the chance for little travellers to meet Santa and his elves and receive special presents.

“We welcomed new airlines and additional flights at DXB at the start of the winter to help attract a growing number of visitors to Dubai and connect them to even more cities. With the holiday spirit in full swing,  we’re prepared for this travel peak – your passport to a memorable experience. Backed by a state-of-the-art airport operations control centre, our dedicated teams across DXB are committed to making the festive travel experience cheerful and bright. Working closely with our partners to ensure your holiday travel is truly magical, we hope the added festive-themed activities will add a touch of wonder to their experience at DXB,” said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports.

Here are DXB’s top tips to beat the festive rush.

• If you’re flying with Emirates, use the airline’s convenient home, early and self-service check-in facilities as well as a city check-in option at ICD Brookfield Place in the DIFC area in Dubai and the dedicated facility in Ajman.
• flydubai passengers should arrive at least four hours before their departure time.
• If you’re travelling with other airlines, arrive at DXB no earlier than three hours before the scheduled departure time. Use online check-in where available to save time.
• Families with children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process.
• Be aware of the latest travel regulations for the destination you’re travelling to, and be prepared with all the necessary travel documents.
• Weigh luggage at home, assemble documents in advance and be prepared for security checks to minimise stress and delays.
• Properly pack spare batteries and power banks in your hand luggage.
• Say your goodbyes at home as only passengers will be allowed inside the terminals during peak periods.
• Use Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport’s Terminals 1 and 3. Metro operating times are generally extended during festive holidays and peak periods at DXB. 
• Dubai Airports and the Road and Transport Authority have urged motorists to use alternate routes as the Airport Road leading to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 is expected to experience congestion during peak hours during the busy travel period.
• Access to the arrivals’ forecourts in both Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised airport vehicles only. Those visiting the airport to pick-up guests should use DXB’s designated car parks or valet services.
• Once at the airport, enjoy DXB’s world class facilities – including restaurants, duty free shopping, hotel and exclusive lounge access before their flight.

The MoU aligns with Dubai Airports’ commitment to support UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 for the Emirate to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city. Building on the success of the ‘We all meet the world differently' programme launched last year, Dubai Airports continues its efforts to make travelling easier for passengers with hidden disabilities at both Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC).

Essa Al Shamsi, SVP of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, said: “We understand the importance of bridging gaps in service levels and enhancing facilities that guests with disabilities require to enjoy their journey to their fullest, and we're committed to continuously improving to meet and exceed guest expectations. Our partnership with the Dubai Autism Center not only demonstrates our efforts to provide an exceptional travel experience for all guests but also underscores our dedication to creating an airport environment where everyone can feel comfortable and supported.”

Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General of the Dubai Autism Center said, “We are proud that the cooperation between the Center and Dubai Airports over more than a year has yielded fruit by creating an autism-friendly travel experience at one of the world’s most prominent airport hubs.” 

 Al Emadi expressed his appreciation towards Dubai Airports and their tireless efforts to enhance the travel experience for people of determination, from the services they seek at the airport to implementing an environment that meets their needs as fully as others, in line with the vision of the UAE’s wise government to transform the Emirate of Dubai into a friendly city for people of determination.

The MoU was signed by Essa Al Shamsi and Mohammed Al-Emadi at DXB’s Al Majlis VIP facility in the presence of senior representatives from both organisations. Following the signing ceremony, the representatives came together at Terminal 3 departure forecourt to plant sunflowers – a globally recognised symbol for hidden disabilities – in a move symbolising positivity, hope, and a brighter future. 

DXB received the Autism-friendly certificate in November 2022 after successfully meeting the requirements of DAC’sAutism-Friendly Programme for providing services and facilities to support accessibility for people with autism. DXB introduced a range of options for POD travellers, including a travel planner for pre-travel preparation and an Autism Friendly Route, offering a prioritised route for check-in, passport control, security checkpoints, and boarding, which can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard. Specially trained Guest Experience Ambassadors and employees wearing a sunflower pin are readily available to assist and support travellers throughout their airport journey.

To mark the immense progress made across the industry, the universally renowned chart-topping band, who achieved more than 96 million in album sales, more than 658 million singles worldwide and earned gold and platinum certifications in more than 35 countries, will play an exclusive set at the bi-annual invitation-only dinner, scheduled for Thursday, November 16.

As one of the most sought-after invitations of the year, the hallmark event in the aviation community’s social calendar promises an evening of elite entertainment. Dubai Airports will gather its strategic partners and industry colleagues – representatives of key players in the aviation, aerospace, and defence sectors – from around the world to celebrate its successes, proving that collaboration is key for innovation and excellence.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports commented: "This is the perfect opportunity to come together and recognise our accomplishments, and for us to show our gratitude to our industry peers for their continued support and help in achieving our goals. Maroon 5’s remarkable talent and international appeal aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing world-class experiences, and as we gather to celebrate the Airshow, an event that holds a pivotal role in shaping the future of the aviation industry, we are confident that their performance will make this year’s exclusive gala dinner unforgettable."

Having achieved worldwide acclaim with hits like "Sugar", "Moves Like Jagger", "Girls Like You", and "This Love”, Maroon 5 is one of the 21st century’s biggest acts, having had 32 records on the Billboard Hot 100 since their first release in 2002, as well as the most Top 10s in this century by a duo or group, the most #1s on Hot 100 this century by a duo or group and the most #1s by a duo or group in the history of the Top 40 chart.

Expected to win guests over with their hybrid rock / R&B sound, Maroon 5 is the latest to join the list of magnificent performers who have wowed aviation VIPs at the exclusive event. Previous guests include Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, The Script, Stevie Wonder, Tom Jones and many more.

Dubai International (DXB) topped the Airport Connectivity rankings for the Asia-Pacific and Middle East region, as announced by the Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) on Tuesday.

The Airport Connectivity Report reveals that air connectivity in the Middle East stands out with +26% growth in total connectivity in 2022 vs. 2019, with direct connectivity to destinations in North America, Asia-Pacific and Africa witnessing the strongest recovery since Covid-19, with Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) driving the growth. On the contrary, Asia-Pacific has seen a decline in air connectivity by -38% in the same period.

Welcoming another milestone for DXB, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “I'm incredibly proud to see DXB at the top of the Airport Connectivity Index for Asia Pacific and the Middle East. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and our service partners working across DXB, and it reaffirms our commitment to providing seamless connections for our guests worldwide. We'll continue to elevate the travel experience, and connect people, cultures, and opportunities like never before.”

Stefano Baronci, Director General, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) said, "We congratulate Dubai International for achieving the No.1 position in the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East connectivity ranking. This reaffirms Dubai Airport's commitment to providing top-quality air connectivity, both direct and indirect, connecting people and places across the world. Dubai Airport has consolidated its leading position in this ranking by improving its connectivity post-pandemic, with a growth of 17% over 2019. Dubai Airport's commitment to enhancing connectivity is bolstering the region's economy and global trade." 

Developed in partnership with PwC, the Airport Connectivity Report measures passengers’ ability to access the global air transport network, capturing both direct and indirect routes, while also factoring in the quality of the service of each connection, such as destination choice, service frequency, onward connectivity, price, contributing to the passenger experience. 

DXB is connected to more than 255 destinations across 104 countries and more than 90 international airlines.

Hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a specialised United Nations agency, this was the first edition of the event and was held under the theme ‘Shaping the Skies of Tomorrow: Addressing Key Issues and Technologies in Air Navigation and Safety’.

In Montreal, aviation professionals and experts came together to explore the latest innovations and challenges, focusing on aviation safety and efficiency. DAYC’s participation solidified Dubai Airports’ commitment to developing youth in the aviation industry, in line with the UAE Government’s vision of harnessing their talent and empowering the leaders of tomorrow. 

Commenting on the partnership, Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “Attending Air Navigation World 2023 allowed us to showcase the skills and potential of youth in the UAE. The UAE Government advocates youth empowerment, constantly creating new ways for youth to shoulder responsibilities, innovate, and contribute to the welfare of the wider community. Our participation is a testament to the UAE’s leading status in global aviation, and we’re proud to have collaborated on an international stage to foster the future leaders of the industry.”

Further to offering insights into the vision, mission and objectives for the aviation industry's evolution and the youth's role in addressing it, the group showcased an array of innovative, youth-led projects that were successfully integrated into Dubai Airports' operations. These included the Passenger Flow Model (PFM) and several AI-based initiatives that support operational efficiency and ensure seamless guest experience at every touchpoint at Dubai International (DXB), even during peak times. 

DAYC representatives also met with His Excellency Fahad Saeed Mohammed Abdullah Al Raqbani, Ambassador of the UAE to Canada, to share their work in bridging the gap between experience and innovation, pioneering projects, and its pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation.

“It’s been a rewarding first half for Dubai International and amidst increasing guest numbers, we take great pride in knowing we are continuously delivering with operational excellence and providing an exemplary guest experience. Our dedicated team go above and beyond to create a personalised and seamless experience for every guest.  Recent stories of our team delivering a unique guest experience at DXB  include communicating with a guest with a hidden disability using a translator tool, working with our stakeholders to locate a lost passport minutes before the guest's flight was due to depart, helping a guest recover his lost wallet from his hotel after he cleared immigration and even reuniting a little boy in the U.K with his beloved stuffed bunny after he had been left behind at DXB .   

As we recover with our H1 traffic surpassing pre-pandemic levels, we continue to remain committed to ensuring every guest who travels through our airport leaves with a smile,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

DXB's baggage performance continues to be world-leading, and in H1 2023, baggage volume increased by 7% compared to pre-pandemic H1 2019 levels. This year so far, DXB handled approximately 37.2 million bags without compromising baggage delivery to customers – 92% of all baggage was delivered within 45 minutes to customers.
In H1 2023, DXB successfully managed multiple seasonal peak periods and continued to provide a seamless guest experience through operational excellence, exceeding agreed KPIs in collaboration with the airports’ strategic partners.
DXB received numerous accolades including a certification from Airports Council International for its ongoing efforts to prioritise a safe and inclusive airport experience for guests with both physical and hidden disabilities – a significant milestone. And welcomed several new airlines to the DXB family, further expanding connectivity to new destinations and countries.

India continues to lead as DXB’s top destination country in terms of traffic with 6m guests in the first half, followed by Saudi Arabia with 3.1m guests, and the United Kingdom with 2.8m guests. Other leading destinations include Pakistan (2m guests), the U.S. (1.8m guests), Russia (1.3m guests) and Germany (1.2m guests). 
The list of top city destinations was led by London with 1.7m guests, Mumbai (1.2m guests) and Riyadh (1.2m guests) following in a close third. 
DXB is connected to 257 destinations across 104 countries, through more than 91 international airlines. 

Cargo volumes at DXB surged in the second quarter by 16.1% year on year to reach 453,500 tonnes, bringing the total freight volume for the first half of the year to 853,500 tonnes, down from 6.2% compared to last year. 

DXB handled a total of 201,800 flights in the first half, up 30.2% year on year, up 13% compared to the same period in H1 2019. The average number of guests per flight during the first half reached 214 while the load factor was 77%.

Outlook for H2 2023
Looking to the remainder of the year, Dubai Airports is optimistic about the levels of demand and is expecting record-breaking numbers during the winter season. 
“We started the second half with strong demand in July, and with the ongoing seasonal peak coinciding with the reopening of schools in August, we’re preparing for an exceptionally busy rest of the year. We’ve readjusted our forecast for the year from 83.6m guests to 85m, just 1.6% shy of DXB’s annual traffic in 2019,” added Paul. 

• Travellers between the ages of 4 and 12 can use dedicated passport control counters to independently stamp their passports upon arrival at Terminals 1, 2, and 3. 
• For those travelling with families, travellers over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process. 
• Make the most of the DXB experience with various amenities in lounges, dining and shopping outlets, and duty-free. 
• The road through the airport could get busy during peak times. If possible, use the Dubai Metro, which has stations at DXB Terminals 1 and 3. 
• DXB offers a range of other transportation choices — hail an Uber, Careem, RTA Taxi, or rent a car.
• Those picking up guests should use DXB’s designated car parks or valet services to receive their guests in comfort. Access to the Arrivals' forecourts in Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised airport vehicles only.
   

Once in Dubai, visitors and returning residents can discover the beautiful Emirate through the city’s diverse attractions, cultural exhibitions, live performances, tailored family experiences and more. 
For queries, call +9714 224 5555, email customer.care@dubaiairports.ae, or webchat through the Dubai Airports website or Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 

Operated by Generation Unlimited, a global multi-sector partnership that enables youth to become productive and engaged members of society, the digital platform aims to empower young individuals with free, world-class, and job-relevant skills training, with content spanning across digital, foundational, role-based and technical skills. All certifications support youth with future employment and entrepreneurship opportunities made available on the platform. The programme offers a lifeline to youth aged between 15-24 from 10 countries, including Brazil, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ghana, Honduras, Malaysia and Vietnam. Through Dubai Airports’ long-standing partnership with Dubai Cares since 2010, the UAE-based philanthropic organisation exclusively collects funds through donation boxes in public areas of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), to help amplify their global reach and impact. 

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “We’ve supported a number of Dubai Cares’ global initiatives for more than a decade. Together, we’ve made positive change and improved lives. The future belongs to our youth, and we’re proud to be part of an ongoing initiative that supports this important segment of society. We’re confident these funds will continue to help the younger generation reach their full potential.” 

Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Cares, said: “The youth are the future drivers of our socio-economic growth and development. Investing in youth through the skills and resources they need to thrive in the future needs to be a global priority. We are grateful to Dubai Airports for raising funds in support of the ‘Passport to Earning’ initiative that empowers young individuals with invaluable skilling and training opportunities and allows them a dedicated platform to seek meaningful employment. We also thank everyone who contributed towards this initiative and supported our journey towards driving human development through education.”

Dubai Cares, part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives is working towards providing children and young people in developing countries with access to quality education. 

The certification acknowledges DXB’s ongoing prioritisation of a safe and inclusive airport experience for passengers with both physical and hidden disabilities. This aligns with the 2019 ACI World General Assembly Resolution and United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of Persons, which stipulates that all persons with all types of disabilities must enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.  

Through the launch of a phased, two-year plan that addresses and elevates the travel experience for People of Determination (POD), DXB has successfully proven its ability to provide an accessible and inclusive airport experience for passengers, airport workers, visitors and the elderly. This includes launching a travel planner for pre-travel preparation, designing an Autism Friendly Route, and implementing a large-scale training programme.

Under the banner of ‘We all meet the world differently’, DXB’s innovative POD initiative contributes to Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s leading disability-friendly city and drives regional and international awareness of travellers with physical and hidden disabilities. 

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer, said: “Dubai Airports remains committed to creating an inclusive airport experience and we’re working with stakeholders to ensure we continue to develop services and facilities that travellers with disabilities require to make their travel to Dubai comfortable. Our goal is to see the needs of POD met at every touchpoint of the journey – especially those with hidden disabilities such as autism, chronic fatigue, and pain. This prestigious ACI accreditation is a testament to our success so far and reaffirms our efforts as we continue to prioritise POD rights as an inseparable part of our guest experience.

“DXB is leading the way to make travel more inclusive by introducing thoughtfully designed infrastructure, such as a prioritised route through check-in, passport control, and security. These services and facilities are available to all POD with hidden disabilities as part of the sunflower lanyard scheme. We will continue to drive the common goal of Dubai and its leadership for an inclusive community that is free from barriers and empowers POD” he added.

Designed to help airports measure, evaluate, and improve their accessibility culture, the ACI accreditation is the only international programme dedicated to travel accessibility and passengers with disabilities. The programme provides a platform through which airports can demonstrate to travellers, regulators, and the wider aviation landscape that they are implementing international best practices and recommendations and serves as a foundation from which airports can continue to improve their approach to accessible airport experiences. 

“Dubai International’s recovery has been spectacular this year as evidenced by the impressive traffic growth in the first quarter. As a result, the seasonal peaks this year are expected to be the busiest since 2019, and we are preparing ourselves accordingly. Teams across DXB, representing terminal operations, guest experience, control authorities including Dubai Police, airlines, ground handling, baggage operations, car parks, and multiple commercial and service partners, are all working in perfect sync to maintain the high quality of service that international travellers have to come to expect of Dubai,” said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports.
Backed by DXB’s state-of-the-art airport operations control centre, which not only monitors operations inside the terminals and on the airfield in real time but also helps predict and address operational situations before they occur, the teams at the airport are working collaboratively to ensure a smooth airport experience for passengers from kerb to boarding gates despite peak traffic. Meanwhile, Dubai Airports has also issued simple guidelines for passengers to follow to beat the holiday rush. 

• Passengers flying Emirates can use the airline’s convenient home, early and self-service check-in facilities as well as a city check-in option at ICD Brookfield Place in the DIFC area in Dubai and the dedicated facility in Ajman. 
•  flydubai passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before the departure time of their flight. 
• Passengers flying all other airlines should arrive at DXB no earlier than 3 hours before the scheduled departure time of their flights. DXB recommends using online check-in where available to save time.
• For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process. 
• Passengers should be aware of the latest travel regulations for destinations they are travelling to, and to be prepared with all the necessary travel documents before reaching the airport.
• Weighing luggage at home, assembling documents in advance, and being prepared for security checks helps minimises stress at the airport.
• Spare batteries and power banks are considered a safety hazard and are prohibited to be carried in or as checked-in luggage. Passengers must properly pack batteries and power banks and carry them their hand luggage only.
• Travellers can use Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport’s Terminals 1 and 3. Metro operating times are generally extended during Eid holidays.
• Access to the arrivals’ forecourts in both Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised airport vehicles only. Those visiting the airport to pick-up guests are advised to use DXB’s designated car parks or valet services to receive their guests in comfort. 
• Once at the airport, travellers can enjoy DXB’s world class facilities – including restaurants, duty free shopping, hotel, and exclusive lounge access – before their flight.

Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Head of Hajj Committee at Dubai Airports, urged all travellers to arrive at Dubai International (DXB) four hours before their scheduled flight departure to complete all travel procedures comfortably. In addition, he advised Hajj travellers to ensure the validity of all their travel documents, including passport, Emirates ID, and Hajj permit prior to arriving at the airport.

"It will get quite busy in the coming weeks as the Hajj season coincides with the summer travel peak, but the teams at DXB have completed the necessary planning and preparation to meet and exceed the expectations of our guests. We are ready to give the Hajj pilgrims a special welcome this year”, he said.
While Dubai Airports is working closely with airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners to make the airport experience seamless, travellers can follow a few simple tips to smoothen their journey through the airport.

1.     Be aware of the latest travel regulations and ensure that you have all the necessary documents with the required validity before reaching the airport.
2.     For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process. 
3.     Weighing luggage at home, checking documents in advance, and being prepared for security checks can save a lot of time at the airport.
4.     Use the Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport.
5.     Friends and families using private vehicles are advised to use the airport’s designated car parks or valet service to receive their guests in comfort as access to the Arrivals forecourt in Terminals 1 and 3 is limited to only public transport and other authorised airport vehicles.
6.     DXB guests can access the customer contact centre through calling direct number (04-224 5555), email at customer.care@dubaiairports.ae, webchat through the Dubai Airports and DXB&more websites, or using Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The Hajj committee comprises key service partners including Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Health Authority, dnata, Emirates, flydubai, Saudi Airlines, and flynas. 

Mohammad Al Marzouqi, Head of the Hajj Committee, emphasised on the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders and service partners as the key to maintaining service quality especially during annual peak travel seasons. 

Dubai Airports is committed to providing world-class passenger facilities and services, to ensure the comfort, convenience, and safety of all guests arriving at and departing from DXB. 

Key facts and figures
DXB’s passenger traffic totalled 21,256,489 during the first three months of the year, up 55.8% compared to the first quarter of 2022, and marking the first time since the fourth quarter of 2019 when average monthly traffic reached the 7-million passenger-mark. March was the busiest month in the first quarter with 7.3 million passengers, which is also the highest monthly traffic since January 2020 when DXB recorded 7.8m passengers.

DXB is currently connected to 234 destinations across 99 countries via 89 scheduled international carriers. 

Top destinations
India remained DXB’s top destination country with passenger traffic reaching 3m, followed by Saudi Arabia (1.6m), the UK (1.4m) and Pakistan (1m passengers). Other countries of note include the US (840K passengers), Russia(729K) and Germany (628K), while the list of top cities by passenger numbers was led by London (890K passengers) Mumbai (645K), and Jeddah (641K), followed closely by Riyadh (604K passengers). 

Cargo 
DXB handled a total of 400,015 tonnes of cargo during Q1, a contraction of 23% compared to the first quarter of 2022 during which the hub had handled 519,555 tonnes of airfreight. 

Flights
Total flight movements during Q1 reached 100,840, a year-on-year increase of 23% and 1.6% higher than Q1 of 2019 when DXB recorded a total of 99,197 movements. With load factors exceeding 2019 levels throughout the first quarter and reaching 80% in March 2023, the passenger per aircraft movement grew 19.5% to reach 220. 

“DXB’s performance in the first quarter has exceeded our expectations and reflects the strong growth in demand that we are continuing to see across our key markets. With important developments in the international travel sector such as the further easing of travel protocols in China, and the upcoming local annual seasonal peaks and festive holidays, our outlook for the second quarter and the remainder of the year remains bullish. Accordingly, we have had to readjust our traffic forecast for 2023 upward to 83.6 million passengers, which will put DXB within striking distance to our 2019 annual traffic” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

H. E. Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports received the awards on behalf of DXB and Eugene Barry, EVP Commercial was in attendance at the ceremony.

In support of the UAE Government’s NAFIS Programme and its empowerment of Emiratis in the private sector, Dubai Airports is signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Enova, a joint venture between Majid Al Futtaim and Veolia, to boost Emiratisation in Enova’s provision of Facilities Management Services.

The agreement aligns with the UAE Cabinet’s goal of increasing Emiratisation by two per cent annually and underwrites Dubai Airport’s commitment to meeting – and exceeding – national Emiratisation targets from 2023 to 2026, and beyond through its strategic private sector partnerships. 

The agreement was recently signed by Meshari Al Bannai, Executive Vice President of Human Resources Development, Dubai Airports and Renaud Capris, Chief Executive Officer, Enova, in the presence of several senior leaders – including Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer, and Omar Binadai, EVP Infrastructure of Dubai Airports, respectively, as well as Khalifa Bin Braik Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management Business and Fatima Alloghani, Emiratisation Director, Majid Al Futtaim.

The partnership will see Enova’s proposed Emiratisation Plan – which aims to increase Emiratisation by 15 per cent by 2025 onwards – activated over the course of the contract. Enova’s dedication to targeting 15 per cent Emiratisation during the next three years underpins Majid Al Futtaim’s initiative and the UAE Government’s NAFIS Programme and is actively contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development journey. 

To meet the targets outlined in the MoU, Dubai Airports and Enova will allocate positions to graduate trainees, fresh graduates, and experienced professionals alike, with technical, administrative, and supervisory roles serving as key areas of professional development. The recruitment plan will roll out in phases, ensuring that UAE nationals receive high-quality, on-the-job training necessary to equip them for the demands of the industry. 

Meshari Al Bannai, Executive Vice President of Human Resources Development at Dubai Airports, said: “Dubai Airports remains committed to supporting the UAE Government’s initiatives, including its NAFIS Programme and larger goal of driving local economic development. Our partnership with Enova is another demonstration of our dedication to growth, and we’re positive that the phased approach will be successful in fulfilling our Emiratisation targets. The UAE prides itself on a talented national workforce, and we’re thrilled to play a role in championing Emiratis across the aviation sector.”

Khalifa Bin Braik, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management Business, commented: “Majid Al Futtaim is fully committed to supporting the UAE Government's NAFIS program in line with the growth, development, and well-being of the communities we serve. As such, doubling our Emiratisation efforts and exceeding our target last year puts us on track of welcoming 3,000 Emiratis into our workforce by 2026. Being an Emirati-owned organisation, we believe in the crucial contribution and nurturing of local talent.”

Renaud Capris, Chief Executive Officer at Enova, added: “We are proud to be partnering with Dubai Airports in expanding our commitment towards the UAE’s NAFIS program, particularly in an industry that is shaping the future by prioritising digital transformation and sustainability. Enova and Dubai Airports share a focus on protecting the environment, and with our dedication to integrating energy-efficient solutions within facilities management, we are ideally placed to develop the talented and ambitious national skills required to ensure the UAE remains a global leader in sustainable growth.”

Developing its strategy for employing local talent is a priority for Enova – one that precedes the organisation’s competitive edge and long-term success. In 2022, Enova hired 30 UAE nationals in on-site operations and support services within its Dubai headquarters. The company has also seen an impactful increase in its internal Emirati workforce and remains dedicated to advancing Emirati human capital throughout the UAE.

Dubai Airports’ partnership with Enova will serve as a cornerstone to support and upskill the ambitious national workforce and will continue to drive the UAE’s larger goals of accelerating national development and boosting the local economy. 

The Awards recognise Dubai Airports’ Omni-Channel 24/7 bilingual Contact Centre, launched as part of the operator’s wider guest experience enhancement programme. Dubai Service Excellence Scheme mystery shopper report released at the time of Contact Centre launch showed a significant movement in customer satisfaction, where ratings increased from 8.6% to 96.5% as a direct result of the newly launched integrated contact centre. The contact centre offers guests convenience and ease during their visit to Dubai’s airports through Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems, live chat, and new options such as WhatsApp and social media.

The two awards highlight the importance of the integrated contact centre, which blends live and technology-enabled services to ensure that travellers have always-on access to DXB customer service professionals. To maintain seamless operations, the service includes the most updated and consistent information across all channels, including automated flight status check and routing to key DXB partners - that include Emirates, dnata, and the Road and Transport Authority.

Speaking on the two awards, Michelle Lee, Vice President - Brand & Communications, said: “Crafting smiles and enhancing our guest experience at every customer touchpoint is at the core of everything we do in our contact centre. Winning both the Gold Stevie® Award and the IBXA Award is a testament to our team's hard work during a very challenging period. Our commitment to delivering world-class business solutions aligns with the Dubai government's vision of providing innovative customer service, and drives Dubai Airports’ long-term ambition of delivering the best airport customer experience.”

For the past 17 years, the annual Stevie® Awards for Sales and Customer Service have set the standard for the world’s premier business awards ceremonies, recognising the achievements of contact centres, customer service, business development, and sales professionals. The competition receives over 12,000 nominations each year from cross-sector organisations spanning 70 countries. More than 170 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie® Award winners.

The IBXA Awards recognises the innovative efforts of global organisations across different categories. The event has been awarded the Outstanding Trust Mark by the Independent Awards Standards Council.

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: "Providing our guests, employees, and stakeholders with a safe, secure, and efficient environment is our top priority. We are proud to have won these two prestigious awards as they highlight the significance we attach to these objectives and our commitment to them, and we will continue to strive for excellence in this area.” 

The RoSPA Health & Safety award assesses each business’ Occupational Health and Safety Management System, and key criteria includes the engagement of senior leadership, review of accident and ill health records for both employees and contractors, as well as the daily implementation of safety management systems and policies. The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards is the UK’s largest occupational health and safety awards programme. Now into its 67th year, the Awards have almost 2,000 entries every year, covering nearly 50 countries and a reach of over seven million employees. The award will be officially presented at a ceremony in Dubai on May 4^th.

The assessment criteria for the British Safety Council’s International Safety Awards 2023 included: the identification and management of occupational health and safety hazards and wellbeing concerns, health and safety policy and regulatory compliance, health and safety hazards and risks management, health and safety performance management, the senior leadership’s commitment to health and safety, improvements in H&S policies and standards post COVID-19, health and safety audits/reviews, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) management, and staff engagement in health and safety. This year, a total of 947 organisations applied for the British Safety Council programme, with 30 per cent of global applicants awarded with ‘merit’ status. The applicant organizations were of all sizes, types and sectors including businesses from the UK, Africa. Asia, India, mainland Europe and the Middle East.

The award will be officially presented during a gala dinner ceremony, held in London, in May 2023. The International Safety Awards features 12 categories that recognise an organisation’s commitment to excellent standards of health, safety, and wellbeing management.  

We are obviously quite thrilled to top the list of the world’s busiest international airports for the ninth consecutive year, but it comes as no surprise given Dubai International’s (DXB) stellar performance throughout 2022 and the upsurge in traffic in the final quarter. The increase in demand for air travel was universal in 2022, but what set DXB apart was the dedication of our people and the meticulous planning and preparation by each and every service partner that makes up Dubai’s amazing airport community. Our preparedness backed by collaboration enabled us to not just accommodate the rapid increase in demand but also deliver tangible enhancement in service quality and overall airport experience for the 66 million passengers that passed through DXB during the year. As we celebrate this achievement, our focus remains on continuing to work on keeping DXB on top of the list of the busiest hubs but also having it acknowledged by travellers globally as delivering the best airport experience in the world. 

Dubai Airports has been recognised as one of the Best Employer Brands in this year’s LinkedIn MENA Talent Awards under LinkedIn for companies above 1,000 employees. 

The Award recognises entities that focus on building a strong employer brand to engage with their audiences in a meaningful manner, with Dubai Airports being awarded for displaying the organisation’s culture and values across the platform, and engaging with its following of over 814,600 users. Dubai Airports’ second-place win is also a testament to the organisation’s presence on LinkedIn in regularly sharing content that helps to support its employees and its local community, while also creating compelling, real-life stories that humanise the brand and empower employees to become brand ambassadors and advocates.

Meshari Al Bannai, Executive Vice President of Human Resources Development at Dubai Airports, said: “We truly believe that empowering our people throughout their careers is key to our success. LinkedIn is a powerful platform, and implementing a strategy that allows us to connect with our employees through engaging, human and emotive content helps us foster talent throughout the organisation”. 

“We utilise the platform to showcase our company culture, whilst sharing industry knowledge and expertise, helping us to inspire people of Dubai Airports. Recognition in this year’s LinkedIn MENA Talent Awards reflects our commitment to building communities across the business that empowers people to become the game changers of tomorrow”, he added. 

The winners were selected based on performance, results and impact of organisations leveraging their LinkedIn Talent Solutions. The criteria for selection included companies that have built a strong employer brand and engage with their audience in a meaningful way, company page views on the platform, percentage of follower growth on the platform and, the way talent engages with the company’s content via likes, comments and shares. LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network with over 530 Million members, celebrates the success of companies around the world that are innovating and leading the future of work.

The annual initiative will provide opportunities for Emirati graduates to gain a holistic understanding of airport operations at one of the world’s leading – and busiest – international airports. With three rotational phases over a 12-month training period, trainees will be exposed to cross-functional job roles and will be supported with focused career planning and personalised feedback and guidance. Final placements at the end of the programme will be granted based on completed requirements and business confirmations, among other factors, offering the grads an opportunity to kickstart and grow their careers with Dubai Airports.

Dubai Airports prides itself in fostering a vibrant, supportive environment marked by excellence and quality, and seeks to empower the next generation of Emirati grad trainees through unique approaches to growth and development. With many graduates seeking careers that offer more fulfilment and long-term satisfaction, Dubai Airports is providing a way for young Emiratis to gain extensive experience in a fully equipped, world-class aviation hub.

Meshari Al Bannai, Executive Vice President of Human Resources Development at Dubai Airports, said: “Dubai Airports is dedicated to boosting the national talent base by nurturing the next generation of Emirati professionals and is committed to providing the necessary tools to support them on their career journeys. The Future Faces Graduate Programme is a brand-new platform that allows ambitious young grads to upskill their talents in a dynamic aviation environment, with the opportunity to experience tailored job rotations at one of the world’s best international airports. We look forward to partnering with universities across the UAE as we extend this programme to emerging Emirati graduates across the country.”

Emirati graduates interested in applying to join the first cohort of the Future Faces Graduate Programme can find more information at this link: careers.dubaiairports.ae 

Dubai Airports, the operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), is calling on UAE Nationals to join its airport fire services department and register for its UAE National Airport Fire Services Programme during the 2023 edition of the National Service Career Fair 2023, taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 6-8 March.

As part of its ongoing Emiratisation strategy, Dubai Airports will be participating at the career fair to engage with young Emiratis and inspire them to become part of the world’s largest airport fire services department across two airports and apply to join its training programme.

Dubai Airports Fire Services department is fully equipped with a fleet of top-class vehicles armed with the latest aircraft firefighting technologies and safety controls, domestic vehicles, a mobile incident command vehicle to monitor incidents, water tankers, as well as rescue stairs vehicles at each location.

Dubai Airports’ presence at the National Service Career Fair 2023 reaffirms its commitment to empowering young Emiratis with opportunities to enhance their skills and competitiveness in the workforce, while gaining professional experience in the aviation sector, one of the key contributors to UAE’s economy. 

Organised by the Ministry of Defence’s National Service and Reserve Authority, the fair aims to open channels of communication between UAE graduates from the national and reserve service in the armed forces and the exhibitors from the government and private sectors to find job opportunities for the graduates.

For more information on registration and attendance at the fair, please visit: https://nscf.ae/

Dubai International (DXB) has registered a year of strong recovery and consistently robust growth in its customer base that propelled the annual passenger numbers to 66 million in 2022. The airport’s growth outpaced the annual forecast yet again in the final months of the year following an exceptionally strong fourth quarter.

Key facts and figures
DXB welcomed a total of 66,069,981 passengers during 2022, a year-on year-growth of 127%. Traffic volumes were propelled by strong growth in the final quarter of the year during which the airport recorded 19,729,155 passengers, up 67% compared to the fourth quarter of 2021. It was the busiest quarter since 2019. December was the busiest month of the year with 7.1 million passengers, the first time since January 2020 that DXB’s monthly traffic hit the 7 million mark.

Top destinations
India retained its position as the top destination country for DXB by passenger volume, with a total traffic of 9.8 million passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia with 4.9 million passengers, and the United Kingdom with 4.6 million passengers. Other destination countries of note include Pakistan (3.7 million passengers) the US (3 million), and Russia (1.9 million), which along with Turkey (1.6 million) has recorded more than 100% recovery in passenger volumes compared to 2019 levels.  

DXB’s top destination cities during 2022 were London with 3 million passengers, Riyadh (2 million), Mumbai (1.9 million) and Jeddah and New Delhi both with 1.7 million passengers.

DXB is currently connected to 229 destinations across 99 countries through more than 88 international carriers.

Flights
Total flight movements at DXB totalled 96,701 during the fourth quarter bringing the annual flight movements to 343,339, a year-on-year growth of 47%. The average number of passengers per flight reached 204, up 33% year-on-year.

Cargo
Cargo continued to register a contraction in volumes with 420,125 tonnes recorded in the fourth quarter, down 31.7% compared to 614,834 tonnes in Q4 of 2021. DXB handled 1,727,815 tonnes of cargo during 2022, a drop of 25.5% resulting from the moving of all major freight operators back to Dubai World Central (DWC) and the return of pax-freighter aircraft back to passenger operations during the year.

Baggage and Waiting Times
DXB's baggage handling system processed a total of 62.2 million bags in 2022 with a success rate of 99.8% - a rate of 2.2 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers, an impressive performance for the world's busiest international hub. In terms of baggage delivery on arrival, 92% of all baggage was delivered within 45 minutes* to our customers. The baggage volume in 2022 represents 86.2% of the 2019 baggage volume at DXB.

The average waiting time at passport control queues was less than 13 minutes for 95.48% of the arriving passengers and 96.24% of passengers queued for less than 5 minutes at departure passport control. The average queue times at security check on departures was less than 3 minutes for 96.38% of total passengers**.

Welcoming DXB’s stellar performance as the perfect high note on which to start the new year, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “We knew it was the year when growth would return to the air travel sector in a big way, but the surge was much stronger than anticipated and we had to do our best to turn that challenge into an opportunity. Thanks to the planning, preparation, and all the collaboration and hard work of our people across the airport community, we were ready to meet the challenge of rapid recovery in customer numbers while delivering significant improvement in our service quality across the board.”

Commenting on the outlook for 2023, Griffiths said, “Given its dynamism and global impact, there is never a dull year for the aviation sector and 2023 will be no exception. With DXB forecast to welcome 78 million passengers this year, and Dubai hosting major international events including the Dubai Airshow and COP28, it will be another year of new challenges and opportunities and we are ready for them. Our top priority in 2023 will be our customers, our people, and sustainability – three key areas that are crucial to our aspirations and goals as the world’s busiest global hub, a preferred employer, and as a key player and trend-setter in the world’s aviation industry.”

Dubai Airports is looking to attract young, ambitious, and dynamic Emiratis to enrol in its state-of-the-art emergency services training programme and take up the role as frontline heroes at the world’s busiest international airport.

As part of a recruitment drive, Dubai Airports is actively seeking the next cohort of Emiratis to join its intensive training programme. It comprises English language training provided in partnership with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), followed by an intensive firefighting training programme, provided through International Fire Training Centre-Serco at Dubai World Central (DWC) airport.

With many school graduates now looking for careers that offer more personal meaning and satisfaction, firefighting at one of the world’s leading aviation hubs offers a path to a different professional experience – one based on dedication and commitment that invokes a sense of pride and honour that comes from public service for the good of the nation.

With one of the largest airport fire services departments in the world across two airports, a firefighting career with Dubai Airports offers a variety of exciting challenges and a work experience where no two days are the same. The department is fully equipped with a fleet of top-class vehicles armed with the latest aircraft firefighting technologies and safety controls, domestic vehicles, a mobile incident Command vehicle to monitor incidents, water tankers, as well as rescue stairs vehicles at each location. 

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “We are looking for young motivated, self-confident and driven Emiratis to help us protect the ‘Gateway to Dubai’. Young people today are attracted to careers where they can make a tangible difference to Dubai and its long-term development agenda.  It gives me an enormous sense of pride to invite these young Emirati leaders to apply to become part of a world-class team that ensures the safety and wellbeing of millions of passengers who use our airports every year.”

UAE nationals looking for a rewarding and exciting career can apply to join the Dubai Airports’ fire services training programme via this link https://careers.dubaiairports.ae/

Dubai International (DXB) will remain exceptionally busy over the coming days well into the New Year on account of the holiday season, prompting Dubai Airports to issue a travel alert. The operator is urging passengers to plan their trip to and through the airport and follow simple travel tips to ensure a smooth airport experience.

DXB’s average daily passenger numbers have risen almost back to pre-pandemic levels on the back of strong recovery throughout 2022, making this latest seasonal peak one of busiest since 2019. Over the next eight days starting December 27, nearly 2 million passengers are expected to pass through DXB, with average daily traffic reaching 245,000 passengers. January 2 is expected to be the busiest day with traffic exceeding 257,000 passengers.

December has been exceptionally busy for DXB owing to a combination of factors including the seasonal influx of visitors, the recently concluded football event in Doha, and Dubai’s emergence as a preferred tourist destination over the past two years.

Dubai Airports is working closely with airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners to ensure a smooth airport experience for arriving and departing passengers, the operator has urged travellers to follow a few simple tips to beat the holiday rush.

• For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process. 
• The roads to the airport could get busy during peak times. It’s best to plan some extra time to get to and through the airport.
• If you are flying out of Terminal 1, arrive at the airport no earlier than 3 hours before your departure.
• Use online and self-service options wherever available to get off to a smooth start to your journey.
• Those travelling from Terminal 3 can use Emirate's convenient early and self-service check-in facilities.
• Weighing luggage at home, checking documents in advance, and being prepared for security checks can save a lot of time at the airport.
• Use the Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport. Dubai Metro, which has stations at DXB’s Terminal  1 and Terminal 3, will be operational round the clock from December 31, 2022, to January 1, 2023.
• Say your goodbyes at home as typically only passengers are allowed inside the terminals during peak periods.
• Friends and families are advised to use the airport’s designated car parks or valet service to receive their guests in comfort as access to the arrival forecourt in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are limited to public transport and other authorised vehicles.

Dubai International (DXB) was declared the Airport of the Year at the Aviation Business Awards 2022. 

DXB was chosen as the winner in the category based on its “unrivalled performance” over the past 12 months. The airport welcomed 28 million passengers in the first half of 2022, nearly three times the volume during the same period last year, while not only maintaining but enhancing its service quality and ensuring a seamless travel experience for guests across all its touch points. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports received the award at a ceremony held in Dubai on Thursday (December 8) evening. ​

Dubai Airports is introducing a comprehensive new programme to ensure the delivery of a sector leading, inclusive, and seamless travel experience for all People of Determination (POD) with hidden disabilities that travel through Dubai International (DXB).

As part of Dubai Airport’s shared values ‘We all meet the world differently’, this new initiative will contribute to the UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 vision for Dubai to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city and barrier-free community that empowers and welcomes all POD travellers. This new programme will roll out in two phases over two years and unite service partners across the DXB community to elevate the travel experience for passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism, chronic fatigue, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

In an effort to integrate recognisable and accessible options for POD travellers, Dubai Airports will be introducing a travel planner for pre- travel preparation and an Autism Friendly Route, with a prioritised route through check-in, passport control, security check point and boarding, which can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard. Specially trained staff equipped to support POD travellers will be easily identifiable wearing sunflower pins, allowing for increased visibility, communication and support throughout the airport journey.

A comprehensive educational campaign to drive awareness around autism, specifically relating to socially acceptable language and empathy will be undertaken as part of the programme, complemented by the distribution of key training materials across all airport entities, ensuring that POD travellers are met with consistent support and a positive customer experience.  Dubai Airports has been accredited by the Dubai Autism Centre as an Autism friendly environment .

The second phase of the roll-out will see additional, innovative solutions, including connected airports, quiet rooms, and an airport safari tour.

Majed Al Joker, COO of Dubai Airports said, “Dubai Airports is committed to promoting the inclusion and participation of People of Determination – who, as an integral part of our travelling customer base deserve the highest level of care and customer service. We are working to provide the essential services and amenities and are proud to be collaborating with the Dubai Autism Centre and the sector to drive awareness around hidden disabilities. This initiative is only the beginning of what we hope will be a transformative travel experience for all POD that travel through our airports.”

The initiative is part of Dubai Airports’ ongoing commitment to enhancing passenger safety and guest experience. The operator is working in close consultation with all partners and stakeholders to ensure implementation of resources, coordination of staffing and communication with customers is seamless and consistent. 

Dubai Airports is treating fans to an array of exciting games, performances, and activations as part of World Cup celebrations across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC).

Travellers at DXB and DWC are being wowed with the sights, sounds, and colours of football’s four-yearly showpiece happening in Qatar. The activities include lively dance performances and flag parades on alternating days between DXB and DWC, adding a dash of colours and bringing a festival spirit to the terminals.

Adidas, the supplier of the official World Cup match ball, have a giant ball installation at both airports – in the departure hall and at the DXB Family Zone at Terminal 3, and the departure terminal at DWC. Fans can experience giants of the game Lionel Messi and Karim Benzema in augmented reality by scanning a QR code at these locations. Visitors can also grab official merchandise at dedicated Adidas World Cup stores at both airports.

Terminal 3 at DXB is also home to the incredible Game Space – the region’s first airport gaming lounge that opened recently. The space features 40 game stations, each of which boasts 50-inch screens and side-by-side seating for either solo or multi-player gaming. Located in the heart of DXB Family Zone at B Gates in Terminal 3, the facility offers travellers to turn wait time into game time before their flight.

To keep fans connected with the games even when they are travelling, JCDecaux has partnered with Dubai Airports to display live scores of the World Cup tournament on advertising screens across key locations at DXB. Football lovers that are waiting for their flights can also enjoy the games live on the screen in the fan zone at Terminal 3.

In collaboration with Dubai Airports, Careem is offering a 10% discount on all trips to and from DWC, with savings up to 15 AED per ride for a maximum of four trips per passenger per month, throughout the world cup period.

With Dubai Airports you won’t miss out on a minute of the fun and enjoyment of this year’s World Cup.

DXB started the second half of the year with a bang, with average monthly traffic exceeding the 6-million mark throughout the third quarter. The hub recorded 18.5 million passengers in Q3, the first time that quarterly traffic reached pre-pandemic levels since 2020. DXB had recorded 17.8 million passengers in the first quarter of 2020 prior to the pandemic.

“The growth in passenger traffic has been terrific throughout the year and continues to exceed our expectations by a margin. While we are thrilled with the numbers, what really gives us immense satisfaction is how the airport community is working together like a well-oiled machine to keep raising the bar on service quality. Our collaborative approach and service transformation initiatives are making a tangible difference in the happiness of our customers, and that remains our ultimate measure of success” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

Key facts and figures
Passenger volumes at DXB recorded a triple digit surge in the third quarter to reach 18,455,938, propelling the year-to-date September traffic to 46,340,826 passengers, a year-on-year increase of 167.6%. The YTD traffic volume represents 72% of DXB’s pre-pandemic passenger traffic during the same period in 2019.

Cargo
Impacted by the moving of all major freight operators from DXB back to Dubai World Central (DWC) in March, Cargo continued to register a softening of demand in Q3. DXB recorded 397,676 tonnes of freight in the Q3, bringing the total volume for the first nine months of 2022 to 1,307,691 tonnes, a year on year drop of 23.3%.

Flights
Flight movements in Q3 surged to 98,577 at DXB, propelling the number of flight movements recorded between January and September to 274,911, up 159.5% year-on year.

Top destinations
India was DXB’s top country destination in terms of traffic volume, recording 6.8 million passengers in the first nine months of the year. Saudi Arabia was placed second with 3.4m passengers followed by the UK (3.2m passengers) and Pakistan (2.7m passengers). Other country markets of note were the US and Australia with 2.2m and 1.1m in passenger traffic respectively. The top three cities by traffic were London (2m passengers), Riyadh (1.5m) and Mumbai (1.3m).

Through ‘Scan, Pay and Go’, DXB car park users need to simply scan the QR code on their parking entry ticket to be directed to the payment gateway where they can select one of three secure payment methods – Visa, MasterCard or Apple Pay – to complete the transaction. The users have a 10-minute window after completing the transaction to exit the gate barrier. Car park users do not need to visit or remember any website, register online or download any smartphone application to be able to use ‘Scan. Pay and Go’, making the option even more handy.

Commenting on the launch of the new system, Eugene Barry, Executive Vice President of Commercial at Dubai Airports said, “We are delighted to launch 'Scan, Pay and Go’, which is the outcome of Dubai Airports' ongoing approach of working closely with all of our partners to upgrade every customer touchpoint at DXB.”

While the new mobile payment option is now available across all DXB’s car parks, the existing parking payment machines will also continue to be available as an alternate payment option for car park users.

The 26.5-million-passenger-per-annum capacity terminal at DWC is already fully operational with the whole array of airport services, food and beverage and retail outlets as well as Dubai duty free, serving existing charter operations by multiple international carriers for the ongoing winter season.

The launch of the match day shuttle flights and additional charter flights connected to the FIFA World Cup games are expected to increase the passenger demand at DWC three-fold over the coming weeks. Passenger numbers at the airport are forecast to surpass 494,000 in the final three months of the year.

“A spike in demand of this magnitude would pose a challenge for any airport, but we have had some recent practice. In May-June this year, we orchestrated the almost flawless temporary relocation of more than 1,000 flights a week from Dubai International (DXB) to DWC for the 45-day long DXB northern runway rehabilitation project, while managing an exceptionally strong recovery throughout. The collaborative spirit within the airport community here in Dubai is strong and it will go into overdrive in the coming weeks to convert this challenge into a great opportunity,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

He added that the FIFA World Cup related operations will provide Dubai Airports a chance to showcase DWC’s unique selling points such as its proximity to new Dubai, quick turnaround time for carriers, and a full-fledged facility designed for quick and easy travel with minimum walking distances among others.

Dubai Airports is pulling out all the stops to provide match-goers travelling to Qatar a smooth and effortless airport experience at DWC. The operator will be deploying a dedicated front-line team to facilitate efficient processing at every service touchpoint, ensure a consistently smooth experience and on-time departures. More than 60 check-in counters, 24 boarding gates, 60 passport control counters (departures and arrivals) and 10 smart gates, and 4 baggage belts on arrivals will be operational throughout the period to cope with the anticipated surge in demand.

Getting to and from the airport will also be made easier through a Road Transport Authority (RTA) dedicated bus service operating every 30 minutes around the clock between DWC and the Ibn Battuta Metro Station and Expo City Metro Station. RTA taxis will also be available as usual, and travellers driving to DWC will be able to use the airport’s 2,500-vehicle capacity car park free-of-charge.

Dubai Airports has advised match-goers flying on match day shuttle flights to check the health and other requirements with their respective airlines before arriving to the airport. It is mandatory for travellers to hold a valid match ticket and the Hayya Card  to board match day shuttle flights. The baggage allowance for passengers using the shuttle service is limited to hand luggage as per their class of travel, and no checked luggage will be accepted except wheelchairs and strollers.

In addition to the match day shuttle services, flydubai and Qatar Airways will be operating chartered flights to cater to the passenger demand for the FIFA World Cup matches in Qatar.

UAE, Dubai, 3 November 2022: His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), and Chairman of Dubai Airports, hoisted the UAE national flag commemorating UAE Flag Day on November 3. The ceremony was hosted at Dubai International Terminal 3 and was attended by senior representatives of key airport stakeholders including Dubai Airports, the DCAA, Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, and the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs, among others.

Flag hoisting ceremonies were also organised at Dubai International Terminal 2 and Dubai World Central. The Flag Day celebrations come in response to an initiative by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for all federal ministries and institutions to hoist the UAE flag simultaneously, to mark the accession of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as President of the UAE.

The award was presented at a prestigious ceremony held in Montreal, Canada, at the 41^st General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recently. Dubai Airports was recognised for its efforts as a leading player in the global aviation industry in implementing its ongoing sustainability programmes. Some of these projects include the replacing of 150,000 conventional light fixtures across DXB's terminals and airfield with significantly more efficient LED lights, introducing electric and hybrid ground service vehicles, and building a 15,000-panel solar array at DXB’s Terminal 2, the largest at any airport in the Middle East.  

Commenting on Dubai Airports’ achievement, Omar Binadai, Executive Vice President of Technology & Infrastructure at Dubai Airports said: “We are delighted to be recognised as a positive force within the industry – one that is helping to support the global aviation community on its journey to a more sustainable future, and an organisation that is both fully aligned with, and committed to, helping the UAE’s wider efforts in achieving long-term climate action goals.”

Established in 2016, the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award aims to shine a light on countries, businesses, and individuals around the world by recognising their contribution to the success of aviation industry. This triennial award reflects UAE’s commitment to promote aviation and support to ICAO’s ‘No Country Left Behind’ initiative.

This year, the second edition of the Award was divided into three categories that represent a unique mix of aviation business, including outstanding resource contribution to ICAO programs, best aviation sustainability program (Environment or Socio-economic Pillars), and aircraft cabin noise-research and development category. 

The move reflects Dubai Airports’ commitment to developing and growing its people and to enable the leaders of the future to progress their careers within the organisation. This is indicative of our focus on strong recovery from the pandemic and readiness and planning to capitalise on anticipated future growth opportunities.

Omar Binadai, Executive Vice President – Technology and Infrastructure

With the growing impact that technology now has on infrastructure, and the two fast becoming inseparable, Omar has been tasked to lead the transformation of Dubai Airports’ technology solutions and ongoing maintenance and improvements to its critical infrastructure. A technology industry veteran with over two decades of experience in the sector, Omar has delivered verifiable business growth and success over the years and has strengthened relationships with key partners and stakeholders.

Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President – Terminal Operations

As an entity that considers itself to be in the business of hospitality, this role with its focus on customer service and hospitality, is the major point of difference for our competitors. Essa Al Shamsi’s appointment as SVP, Terminal Operations marks the increased importance Dubai Airports places on the delivery of world class customer service and operational efficiency. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, Essa Al Shamsi will play a pivotal role within the team in the transformation of Dubai Airports’ guest experience, reinforce the collaborative approach within the DXB community and build even stronger relationships with service partners.

Moataz Roushdy, Senior Vice President – Finance

There has been a dramatic improvement in Dubai Airports’ financial operations over the past two years enabling the organisation to create a more effective, sustainable business. Following his performance in Dubai Airports’ efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s financial impact, Moataz Roushdy has been promoted to the role of Senior Vice President – Finance, reporting to the Chief Financial Officer. In his new role, Moataz Roushdy will oversee the financial operations, planning and budgeting-related activities, service costing and performance reporting covering the entire finance domain of the organisation.

Meshari Al Bannai, Executive Vice President – Human Resources Development at Dubai Airports, said: “Our social contribution forms an important part of our people development strategy and enables local talent to develop their careers at Dubai Airports. These changes represent the ongoing evolution of our business, and better equip us to support our future growth and bolster our efforts to create world-class products and services that exceed our guests’ expectations. These leaders have demonstrated their capabilities with impressive track record of success across our business, and their contribution to our organisation in these new roles will continue to bring value to our stakeholders, team and guests.

“The move is a demonstration of our strategy which focusses on developing the talent within to be leaders of the future. It will strengthen our senior management team and augments our ability to provide sustainable operational services to millions of global travellers who value the high benchmarks of quality and excellence we have set, while supporting our longer-term development and planning objectives.” he added.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – October 20, 2022: Dubai Airports has issued an advisory alerting travellers that Dubai International (DXB) will experience an exceptionally busy 10-day period as a result of schools breaking for half-term holidays later this week.

Passenger numbers at DXB are rising rapidly towards 2019 levels on the back of strong recovery throughout 2022, making seasonal peaks busiest since the pandemic. According to the operator, some 2.1 million passengers are expected to pass through DXB between October 21 to October 30, with total average daily traffic reaching 215,000 passengers. October 30^th is expected to be the busiest day with daily traffic exceeding 259,000 passengers.

While Dubai Airports is working closely with airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners to ensure a smooth airport experience for arriving and departing passengers, the operator has urged travellers to follow a few simple tips to beat the holiday rush.

·Be aware of the latest travel regulations for the destination you are travelling to and ensure that you have all the necessary documents with the required validity before reaching the airport.

·For those travelling with families, children over the age of 12 can use Smart Gates to speed up the passport control process. 

·If you are flying out of Terminal 1, arrive at the airport no earlier than 3 hours before your departure. Use online check in wherever available to save time.

·Those travelling from Terminal 3 can use Emirate's convenient early and self-service check-in facilities.

·Weighing luggage at home, checking documents in advance, and being prepared for security checks can save a lot of time at the airport.

·Use the Dubai Metro to get to and from the airport.

·Friends and families are advised to use the airport’s designated car parks or valet service to receive their guests in comfort as access to the arrivals forecourt in Terminal 3 is limited to public transport and other authorised vehicles.

·Once at the airport, travellers can enjoy DXB’s full range of facilities including restaurants, duty free shopping and lounges to relax before their flight.

·DXB guests can access the customer contact centre through calling direct number (04-224 5555), email at customer.care@dubaiairports.ae, webchat through the Dubai Airports and DXB&more websites, or using Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

DUBAI, UAE: September 28, 2022: Dubai Airports confirms that in line with directives of the Covid19 Control and Command Centre through the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, it is not mandatory for passengers to wear face masks at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) effective from Wednesday, September 28, 2022. 

Based on their specific requirements or the rules applicable at intermediate or final destinations, airlines can however request passengers to wear the face mask on board if deemed necessary. 

The well-being of all our customers and staff is our topmost priority and Dubai Airports works closely with regulatory authorities, airlines and service partners to ensure a safe and healthy airport environment. 

A steady surge of growth throughout the second quarter has propelled Dubai International’s (DXB) half yearly traffic to 27.9 million passengers, just 1.2 million shy of the airport’s total annual traffic last year. DXB achieved the milestone despite a significant reduction in capacity resulting from the 45-day closure of its northern runway in May-June for a major refurbishment project.

Key Figures    
Maintaining its growth recovery for the ninth successive quarter since the start of the pandemic, DXB recorded 14.2 million passengers in the second quarter of 2022, a year-on-year jump of 190.6%. The hub welcomed a total of 27,884,888 passengers in the first half of the year, up 161.9% compared to H1 2021. The traffic volume represents 67.5% of DXB’s pre-pandemic passenger traffic during the same period in 2019.

Top Destinations    
India remained DXB’s top destination country by passenger numbers with traffic for the first half reaching 4 million passengers – driven primarily by top city destinations such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. Saudi Arabia was second on the list with 2 million passengers, followed closely by the United Kingdom with 1.9 million passengers. Other country destinations of note include Pakistan (1.7 million passengers), and the U.S. (1.4 million passengers).

The top three cities were London with 1.3 million passengers, Riyadh (910,000 passengers), and Mumbai (726,000 passengers).

Cargo     
DXB handled 390,520 tonnes of cargo in the second quarter, bringing the total freight volume for the first six months of 2022 to 910,075 tonnes, a contraction of 18.9%. DXB’s cargo traffic was impacted during the second quarter by the moving of major freight operators back to Dubai World Central (DWC) in March. As a significant portion of the cargo traffic at DXB is carried within the hold of passenger aircraft, the total cargo throughput was affected by the reduction in capacity due to the northern runway refurbishment programme, which took place between 9^th May and 22^nd June.

Flights     
During the first six months of 2022, DXB handled a total of 154,993 flight movements, up 55.9% compared to the first half of 2021. The figure represents 87% of the pre-pandemic flight movements at DXB during the first half of 2019.

“DXB’s recovery from the impact of the global pandemic has been spectacular, and that position has been strengthened during 2022, particularly during the second quarter. Not only has Dubai Airports been successful in managing the recovery, but customer service quality has been maintained throughout. We knew at the start of the pandemic that the dramatic downturn would be followed by an equally dramatic upturn, so we were well prepared for it and using all of the business data at our disposal were able to predict the start of the recovery. We worked with our service partners across the airport community to be ready and prepared to deliver the consistently smooth and easy experience that our passengers have come to expect at DXB,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

Waiting Times      
Thanks to DXB’s investment in the latest biometric technology, Smart Gates are now speeding customers through the immigration process and our advanced operations control centre uses real-time information to improve service and efficiency across all touchpoints. Customer waiting times have also remained short despite surging traffic. During the first half, 96% of passengers queued for less than 5 minutes at departure passport control, whilst the average queue times at security check on departures was less than 3 minutes for 97% of total passengers*.

Baggage      
The 175km long baggage handling system at DXB processed a total of 27.1 million bags in the first half of 2022 with a success rate of 99.8% (mishandled baggage rate of 1.75 bags per 1,000 passengers), an impressive performance for the world's busiest international hub.  In terms of baggage delivery on arrival, 92% of all baggage was delivered within 30 minutes**. The current baggage volume represents 77.2% of the baggage volume at DXB for the same period in 2019.  

Forecast     
Based on the strong first half and projection of a stronger second half with average monthly traffic expected to reach 5.6 million passengers, Dubai Airports has readjusted upwards its annual forecast for 2022 to 62.4 million passengers.

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*Based on average queuing times (weighted by the total number of passengers processed) captured by Dubai Airports’ real-time monitoring system.

**The baggage delivery performance measures the time from the moment the aircraft comes to a halt on the bay to the time the bags are delivered to the reclaim carousel.

DUBAI, UAE - August 14, 2022: Dubai Airports can confirm that operations at Dubai International (DXB) are currently recovering to normal following the extensive weather delays in region over the past two days.  Between Sunday afternoon and the early hours of Monday, a total of 44 flights were cancelled while 12 flights that were diverted to Dubai World Central (DWC) and other neighbouring airports have since returned back to DXB or their respective base. There have been no weather related flight cancellations or diversions since. We are working closely with airlines and other service partners to restore normal operations at the earliest and to ensure that inconvenience to our customers is minimised. We urge all customers to check directly with their airlines to obtain the latest information on the status of their flights.