Dubai International (DXB) welcomed 70.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, setting a new all-time high for quarterly traffic.
DUBAI: Dubai International Airport (DXB) has recorded a new milestone, welcoming 70.1 million guests between January and September 2025, marking a 2.1 percent year-on-year increase. The achievement was powered by a record-setting third quarter that saw 24.2 million travellers pass through the hub—its busiest quarter in 65 years.
DXB’s twelve-month rolling traffic totalled a staggering 93.8 million passengers at the end of September, reflecting Dubai’s growing importance as a global travel and tourism gateway.
Aircraft movements also remained high, with 336,000 flights handled across all categories in the first nine months, up 2.7 percent from the previous year. The average number of passengers per flight reached 213, showcasing operational efficiency at scale.
India retained its position as DXB’s top source market with 8.8 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (5.5 million), the UK (4.6 million), Pakistan (3.2 million), and the USA (2.4 million). Among top city destinations, London led with 2.8 million passengers, followed by Riyadh, Mumbai, Jeddah, and New Delhi.
DXB’s performance was bolstered by excellent service metrics. Over 63.8 million bags were handled—a record for the period—with 90 percent reaching passengers within 45 minutes. Mishandled baggage accuracy remained at an impressive 99.9 percent. Passport control wait times were also minimal, with 99.6 percent of departures clearing in under 10 minutes and 99.8 percent of arrivals waiting less than 15 minutes.
Future developments are already underway to enhance the passenger journey further. Projects include CB Central in Terminal 3 showcasing Dubai’s best brands, CB East and West with new retail and dining spaces, and CD Central in Concourse D for panoramic viewing and modernised facilities.
Looking ahead, Dubai Airports is preparing for the next phase of growth through Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), expected to become the emirate’s main international airport by the early 2030s. DWC is envisioned as a smart, sustainable global hub built to set new standards in aviation.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “These record-breaking results reflect the strength of Dubai’s aviation and tourism sectors and our airport community. But it’s also a signal to the future—our goal isn’t just expansion; it’s smart, guest-focused growth powered by innovation and sustainability.”
