DXB to Hit 100-Million-Passenger Mark in Next 18 Months

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is expected to reach the 100-million-passenger mark over the next 18 months, said DXB CEO Paul Griffiths said on Tuesday.

Addressing a news conference in connection with the upcoming Dubai Airshow 2025 next month, he said that the global passenger traffic was projected to reach around 9.8 billion people in 2025, an increase of 3.7% compared with last year.

“In the UAE, especially in Dubai, the passenger growth continues to break all records as over the next 18 months, DXB alone expects to cross the 100-million-passenger mark, and we are very proud to be the global hub of choice for so many people,” he said.

Dubai International (DXB) set a new benchmark in global aviation, receiving 92.3 million guests in 2024 – the highest annual traffic ever recorded in its history.

He added that the Dubai Airshow has become not just a major international platform, but a centre of innovation where great ideas take flight.

He said that this year’s edition of Dubai Airshow will be held under the theme of ‘The Future is Here’, which says and showcases to the world that Dubai is the centre of excellence and innovation, which shows the way for others to follow.

“We will demonstrate the latest advancements across a key range of different topics that are vital to our shared future. Sustainability will be a major part of the show. We are hosting one of the most amazing developments in airports and aerospace engineering,” Griffiths added.

Dubai Airshow 2025 will be held From November 17 to 21 this year at Dubai World Central (DWC) and the site will become a launchpad for the aircraft, infrastructure, and regulations set to redefine travel – in the city preparing to debut electric flying taxi services as early as next year.

The event will feature more than 1,500 exhibitors from around the world, over 200 aircraft on display, and 12 conference tracks with more than 350 expert speakers.

Anthony Khoury, the UAE’s General Manager for Joby Aviation, said that the Dubai Airshow’s focus on Advanced Air Mobility is a testament to the UAE’s leadership in a new era of flight.

“The energy and ambition here perfectly align with the global movement to bring quiet, clean, and fast air travel to communities worldwide. We will showcase the progress we have made toward making this a reality,” he said.

DXB’s New Vision

A day ago, Dubai Airports announced the plans to make DXB and Al Maktoum International (DWC) the most accessible and inclusive airports in the world by 2035. The initiative is part of Dubai’s wider goal to become a fully disability-friendly city.

The strategy focuses on more than just facilities, working with the community of People of Determination (PoD) to shape services, staff training, and communication. An awareness campaign was also launched, featuring six real-life stories from PoD travellers navigating the airport.