Dubai Records 46 Million Visitors in First Half of 2025, Establishing a New Half-Year Milestone
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has smashed records, handling a staggering 46 million passengers in the first half of 2025. This marks a 2.3% year-on-year growth, making it the busiest ever six-month period for the airport.
The airport averaged approximately 7.7 million passengers per month and 254,000 per day. January was the busiest month, with a record 8.5 million passengers. April 2025 was the busiest month overall, welcoming 8 million guests.
CEO Paul Griffiths attributes the growth to Dubai's agility, strong aviation infrastructure, and the effectiveness of its oneDXB operational model. The airport is connected to 269 destinations in over 107 countries, supported by 92 international carriers.
India was the largest country market for DXB, with 5.9 million passengers. London was the busiest city served from DXB, with 1.8 million travelers. Riyadh followed closely as the second most popular city destination with 1.5 million passengers, while Saudi Arabia had 3.6 million passengers in total. Other significant traffic came from Pakistan (2.1 million passengers), Mumbai (1.2 million passengers), and Jeddah and New Delhi, each with 1.1 million passengers. The US had 1.6 million passengers at DXB.
In terms of cargo, while specific volume data for the first half of 2025 was not detailed, the airport processed 41.8 million bags during this period, indicating strong logistical throughput. Efficiency at key touchpoints remained high, with over 98% of guests clearing immigration and security within minutes.
Despite regional challenges such as airspace restrictions due to military activity in the Middle East, DXB showed operational resilience. The airport is projected to reach 96 million guests by year-end, surpassing the 92.3 million recorded in 2024. Major events like the Dubai Airshow 2025 and the winter event season are expected to contribute to DXB's continued economic and aviation momentum.
The mishandled baggage rate at DXB was a commendable 2 per 1,000 passengers, significantly below the 2024 industry average of 6.3. This highlights the airport's commitment to maintaining high service standards amidst increased passenger traffic.
[1] Dubai Airports (2025). Half Year Traffic Report. [online] Available at: https://www.dubaiairports.ae/en/media/press-releases/dubai-international-airport-dxb-welcomes-46-million-guests-in-h1-2025 [Accessed 15 June 2025]
[2] Dubai Airports (2025). Traffic Statistics. [online] Available at: https://www.dubaiairports.ae/en/media/traffic-statistics [Accessed 15 June 2025]
[3] Dubai Airports (2025). Destinations. [online] Available at: https://www.dubaiairports.ae/en/destinations [Accessed 15 June 2025]
[4] Dubai Airports (2025). Carriers. [online] Available at: https://www.dubaiairports.ae/en/carriers [Accessed 15 June 2025]
- The unprecedented growth in passengers at Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the first half of 2025 has been partly driven by increasing trade, tourism, and investment opportunities, making it an attractive destination for travel and lifestyle.
- With a significant number of incoming travelers from India, London, Riyadh, and other key countries, Dubai International Airport serves as a critical hub for global connectivity, fostering investment in various sectors beyond aviation.
