Dubai International Airport (DXB) handled 31.5 million passengers during the first half of 2026, with traffic gaining momentum through the second quarter as airlines restored capacity and regional operating conditions improved.
Passenger numbers remained significantly below last year’s levels following regional airspace constraints and what Dubai Airports described as one of the most challenging operating periods in DXB’s history. However, monthly figures point to a steady recovery, with passenger volumes increasing from 3.5 million in April to 4.5 million in May and 5 million in June.
DXB handled 13 million passengers during the second quarter, bringing the first-half total to 31.5 million, down 31.3% compared with the same period in 2025.
Airline Capacity and International Connectivity Recover
The return of international airlines, improving connectivity and stronger load factors helped support the recovery during the latter part of the first half.
By the end of June, almost 50 international airlines were operating at DXB, connecting Dubai with 217 destinations across 99 countries. Load factors were also approaching 2025 levels as international connectivity continued to expand.
“The first half of the year tested every part of the aviation system, and demonstrated our resilience. As capacity steadily returns across the board, demand is responding immediately,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.
“That is particularly important for DXB, where international transfers account for a significant share of traffic. Strong performance across the airport community in recent months has left us well placed to accommodate returning demand, work closely with our airline partners, and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global hub.”
Aircraft movements totalled 150,600 during the first six months of the year, a decline of 32.1% year-on-year. Of these, 62,500 movements were recorded during the second quarter.
DXB Continues Investment in Passenger Experience
Dubai Airports is continuing a broad programme of improvements at DXB as traffic returns.
Projects include upgrades to passenger facilities, a new consolidated remote departures experience, expanded self-service options and the continued development of biometric systems.
The airport is also introducing smarter operational tools and targeted capacity improvements while redesigning key passenger areas to improve movement, waiting spaces and overall comfort.
The investments are intended to increase operational flexibility while simplifying journeys through the airport as DXB prepares for higher passenger volumes.
Baggage Performance Remains Ahead of Global Benchmark
DXB processed 30.3 million bags during the first half, down 28% year-on-year, including 12.7 million during the second quarter.
Despite the disruption to traffic patterns, the airport recorded 2.7 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers. Dubai Airports said this remained well below the latest global industry benchmark of approximately 4.9 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers.
Passenger processing times also remained strong. During the first half, 98.98% of departing passengers completed passport control in less than 10 minutes, while 98.95% of arriving passengers cleared passport control within 15 minutes.
At security checkpoints, 99.34% of passengers completed screening in under five minutes.
Cargo traffic followed the broader decline in activity, with DXB handling 751,340 tonnes during the first half, down 28.7% from a year earlier. Second-quarter cargo volumes reached 351,716 tonnes.
Stronger Second Half Expected at DXB
Dubai Airports expects traffic momentum to strengthen further during the second half of 2026 as airline networks and frequencies continue to recover.
Growth is also expected to be supported by increasing international transfer traffic, the easing of travel advisories in key source markets and the start of the winter airline schedule.
Dubai’s calendar of international business, leisure and sporting events is also expected to generate additional demand during what is traditionally a busier period for the airport.
