In the first half of 2026, Dubai International Airport welcomed 31.5 million passengers, reflecting a steady recovery in air travel amid operational challenges. The airport witnessed significant growth in passenger numbers during the second quarter, with a notable increase in capacity utilization by airlines and a resurgence in demand.
Recovery in Passenger Numbers
Despite ongoing restrictions in the regional airspace affecting flight movements, the number of passengers grew gradually throughout the second quarter. April saw 3.5 million passengers, followed by an increase to 4.5 million in May and culminating in 5 million in June.
13 Million in Q2 Amidst Rapid Recovery
This ongoing recovery is attributed to the resurgence of international airlines, improved connectivity, and increased aircraft occupancy rates. These factors signal robust demand in key markets and burgeoning confidence as Dubai International Airport enters the typically busier second half of the year.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented, “The first half of the year served as a comprehensive test for the global aviation system, while simultaneously confirming our ability to respond efficiently and flexibly. With the gradual recovery of capacity at various levels, demand has returned swiftly, indicating the sector’s resilience. This surge is particularly significant for Dubai International Airport, as international transit flights remain a core component of passenger movement. The outstanding performance of the airport community over the past months has played a crucial role in enhancing our readiness to accommodate this renewed demand, working alongside our airline partners to reinforce Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub.”
Enhancements and Developments at Dubai International Airport
As airlines rebuild their schedules, Dubai Airports is committed to enhancing the future of Dubai International Airport through a comprehensive development programme. Initiatives include upgrading passenger facilities, introducing a unified and integrated departure experience, expanding self-service options, advancing biometric systems, and improving operational efficiencies.
These improvements aim to simplify the travel experience, increase operational flexibility, and enhance the overall journey of millions of travelers flying through Dubai’s gateway to the world. The airport is also implementing the latest technologies to upgrade primary passenger areas, creating more comfortable and seamless environments and enhancing the quality of waiting areas.
Strong Performance Indicators in the First Half
For the second quarter, Dubai International Airport recorded 13 million passengers, bringing the total for the first half to 31.5 million, a decline of 31.3% compared to the same period in 2025. Flight movements numbered 150,600 in the first half, down 32.1% year-on-year, with 62,500 movements during the second quarter.
By the end of the first half, the airport served 50 international airlines, providing connectivity to 217 destinations across 99 countries. Aircraft occupancy rates continued to improve, nearing levels seen in 2025, as international connectivity expanded.
Air freight volume reached 751,340 tonnes in the first half, a year-on-year decrease of 28.7%, with 351,716 tonnes handled during the second quarter. Additionally, the airport accommodated 30.3 million bags during this period, down 28% from the previous year, with 12.7 million bags processed in the second quarter. Remarkably, the mishandled baggage rate stood at 2.7 bags per 1,000 passengers, significantly below the global average of approximately 4.9 bags per 1,000 passengers.
Throughout the first half, Dubai International Airport maintained a seamless passenger experience, with 98.98% of departing passengers completing immigration procedures in under 10 minutes and 98.95% of arrivals in under 15 minutes. Furthermore, 99.34% of travelers passed through security screening in less than five minutes.
Looking ahead, Dubai Airports anticipates a stronger momentum in the second half of the year, driven by ongoing recovery in airline networks, increased scheduled flights, rising international transit traffic, and easing travel advisories in key markets. The busy winter season and Dubai’s packed agenda of global events across business, entertainment, and sports further bolster this optimistic outlook.