Dubai International (DXB) welcomed a record 44.9 million guests in the first half of 2024, marking an 8% increase from the previous year. This achievement underscores DXB’s status as a globally preferred gateway and its pivotal role in Dubai’s economic growth.
The city of Dubai attracted 9.31 million international visitors in the first six months of 2024, highlighting its growing appeal as a hub for talent, businesses, and investors. This growth aligns with Dubai’s GDP increase to AED 115 billion in Q1 2024, up 3.2% from the previous year.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, emphasized the airport’s strategic importance, noting that strong demand from key markets like India and a resurgence from China have driven success. “We are optimistic for the remainder of the year and on track to break records with a forecast of 91.8 million annual guests for 2024,” he said.
DXB’s top destination countries in H1 2024 were India (6.1 million passengers), Saudi Arabia (3.7 million), the United Kingdom (2.9 million), and Pakistan (2.3 million). The top city destinations included London (1.8 million guests), Riyadh (1.6 million), and Mumbai (1.2 million).
The airport managed 216,000 flight movements, a 7.2% increase from last year, and handled 39.7 million bags, marking the highest-ever volume for the first half of a year. DXB’s commitment to operational excellence ensured that 92% of arriving baggage was delivered within 45 minutes.
Efforts to enhance the guest experience continue, with upcoming developments such as color-coded car parks, a new signature aroma in Al Majlis, and an advanced queue management system. During H1 2024, 98% of guests experienced wait times of less than 10 minutes at departure passport control and less than 15 minutes at arrivals.
These achievements solidify DXB’s position as a leading global business and logistics hub, with connections to 269 destinations across 106 countries, served by 101 international airlines.