Dubai’s main aviation hub has once again secured its position as the busiest airport on the planet. In 2025, Dubai International Airport handled an unprecedented 95.2 million travelers, underscoring the emirate’s rapid economic and tourism growth.

The surge reflects a strong rebound in global travel after the pandemic, combined with Dubai’s expanding appeal as a destination for tourism, business, and real estate investment. According to official figures released earlier this week, the city welcomed 19.6 million tourists last year, a 5% rise from the previous year and the third consecutive annual record.

Dubai International serves as the main base for Emirates airline, the long-haul carrier that anchors the city’s extensive network of government-owned and government-linked enterprises, often referred to as “Dubai Inc.” This ecosystem continues to play a central role in positioning Dubai as a global transit and commercial hub.

Airport officials say the latest figures show that exceptional passenger volumes are no longer unusual. Chief Executive Paul Griffiths noted that record-breaking traffic has effectively become part of the airport’s normal operations.

Passenger numbers have climbed steadily in recent years. After welcoming 92.3 million travelers in 2024, the airport surpassed its pre-pandemic high of 86.3 million passengers recorded in 2019. Even earlier, traffic reached 89.1 million in 2018, highlighting long-term growth.

India remained the busiest outbound market from Dubai last year, accounting for 11.9 million passengers. Saudi Arabia followed with 7.5 million, while the United Kingdom ranked third at 6.3 million. Overall, the airport connected travelers to 291 destinations across 110 countries, served by 108 airlines.

Once known primarily as a stopover point, Dubai has increasingly become a destination in its own right. A booming property market and record tourism levels have fueled this shift, though they have also contributed to rising living costs and heavier traffic congestion for residents.

Looking ahead, Dubai plans a major transition. Airport operations are scheduled to move to Al Maktoum International Airport, located about 45 kilometers south of the city. Opened in 2010, the newer airport expanded its role after the pandemic, handling cargo, private aviation, and select commercial flights, while also hosting the Dubai Airshow.

Authorities expect the relocation to take place around 2032, following an estimated $35 billion expansion project that will mark a new chapter for aviation in the city-state.