Earlier this year, Dubai International (DXB) retained its title as the world’s busiest international airport for the tenth consecutive year, unveiled by the Airports Council International (ACI). India continued to lead as the top destination market, with 8.9 million guests in the first nine months of the year, followed by Saudi Arabia with 5.6 million guests, and the UK with 4.6 million guests. Pakistan and the US accounted for 3.4 million and 2.6 million guests respectively, and Germany with 2.0 million.

Now in the final quarter, DXB hopes to welcome 23.2 million guests, mostly expats flying home for the season and tourists wishing for a winter holiday in the UAE. Around 60% of Q4 traffic is forecast to be direct, compared to 50% in Q3.

In Q3 alone, DXB managed 23.7 million guests and handled over 111,300 flights.

Commenting on this growing trend, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “This year has highlighted the very best of DXB — showcasing its continued growth, resilience, and commitment to service excellence, qualities that have become synonymous with the airport. At the heart of this success is our people, whose dedication and collaboration have driven our record-breaking guest numbers and robust operational performance, keeping us at the top for over a decade.”

With DXB continuing to be their core focus, the ongoing investment in customer service and technological advancements are likely to ensure the delivery of a superior hospitality experience.

Griffiths said, “What’s particularly noteworthy is that DXB is seeing more direct traffic than ever before — a shift from the long-standing trend where transfer traffic dominated. This reflects Dubai’s evolution into not just a premier tourist destination, but also a globally attractive place to live, work, and do business, further underscored by the city’s booming real estate market and its rising appeal as a destination for top talent. We’re focused on continuing to deliver an exceptional experience in the final quarter, buoyed by Dubai’s vibrant winter calendar and renowned attractions.”

From the DP World Tour Championship, Emirates Dubai 7s, festive markets, cruises, and famed New Year’s Eve celebrations, to GITEX Global and ADIPEC, Dubai is all geared up to welcome tourists from around the world before yearend. – editor@nrifocus.com