Dubai International Airport (DXB) set a new global benchmark in 2025. It welcomed a record 95.2 million passengers and reinforced its status as the world’s busiest international airport. Moreover, the airport posted its strongest year for international traffic. Authorities said this consistency under pressure suggests DXB has reached a new operating standard.
DXB achieved its busiest day, month, quarter, and year on record in 2025. Officials noted that the airport managed this growth while operating near physical capacity. It maintained strong operational performance despite heavy passenger flow. What would strain many airports has therefore become routine at DXB. Notably, December became the airport’s busiest month ever, handling 8.7 million passengers, a 6.1% increase compared to December 2024.
Furthermore, the fourth quarter also set a record. It processed 25.1 million passengers, up 5.9% year-on-year. Meanwhile, flight movements rose to 118,000 in Q4, bringing the annual total to 454,800. This marked a 3.3% increase from 2024. As a result, average passengers per flight remained strong at 214.
DXB recorded its highest baggage volume ever. It processed 86.75 million bags in 2025, up 4.95% from 2024. Officials highlighted fast baggage delivery, with 89% of arriving bags reaching passengers within 45 minutes. Additionally, the mishandled baggage rate remained low at 2.47 bags per 1,000 passengers.
Passenger processing remained efficient. At departure passport control, 99.35% waited under 10 minutes. At arrival, 98.8% waited under 15 minutes. Security checks stayed quick, with 98.9% waiting under five minutes. Consequently, the overall passenger experience remained strong despite high traffic volume.
Dubai’s ruler described DXB as the “lifeblood of Dubai,” praising the airport’s team for maintaining high service standards. He also highlighted the airport’s role in supporting the emirate’s global connectivity and economic growth. In terms of markets, India remained DXB’s largest country market with 11.9 million passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia (7.5 million) and the United Kingdom (6.3 million).
Meanwhile, Pakistan and the United States rounded out the top five with 4.3 million and 3.3 million passengers, respectively. Additionally, other markets showing strong growth included China, Russia, Turkey, Egypt, and Italy. Notably, London remained the busiest city route with 3.9 million passengers.
By the end of 2025, DXB served 291 destinations across 110 countries and hosted 108 international airlines. This reinforced its status as a global aviation hub. Moreover, Dubai Airports’ CEO said the airport expects traffic to approach 99.5 million passengers in 2026. He added that strong sector coordination will support continued growth.
Overall, the Dubai airport record reflects a major milestone for global aviation. It also underscores Dubai’s growing importance as a central international travel hub. Therefore, DXB’s performance in 2025 signals that Dubai is likely to remain a dominant global aviation hub for years to com
