Dubai International Airport welcomed 24.2 million passengers in the third quarter of 2025, marking the highest quarterly traffic in its 65-year history and a 1.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

The strong Q3 performance lifted total passenger numbers for the first nine months to 70.1 million, up 2.1 percent year-on-year. Twelve-month rolling traffic reached a record 93.8 million guests by the end of September. Aircraft movements also remained robust, with 115,000 flights recorded in the quarter and 336,000 flights handled year-to-date, a 2.7 percent increase. The average passenger per flight stood at 213.

Dubai Airports is continuing to invest in terminal enhancements. Projects include CB Central, CB East, and CB West in Terminal 3, offering upgraded shopping, dining, and family-friendly experiences. Terminal 1’s CD Central has also been refreshed with panoramic airfield views, modern dwell areas, and improved retail access.

Looking ahead, Dubai Airports is preparing Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International as the city’s future main gateway in the early 2030s. The airport is being designed as a smart, sustainable hub to enhance efficiency, connectivity, and passenger experience. CEO Paul Griffiths highlighted that the vision for DWC goes beyond capacity growth, aiming to reshape global travel through technology and sustainability.

India remained DXB’s top country market with 8.8 million passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia, the UK, Pakistan, and the US. London was the most popular city destination, with Riyadh, Mumbai, Jeddah, and New Delhi also ranking high.

Operational performance remained strong, with 63.8 million bags handled year-to-date and 90 percent delivered within 45 minutes. Passport control, security, and baggage handling efficiency continued to exceed international standards, underlining DXB’s role as a global aviation and economic hub.

News Source: Emirates News Agency