DXB welcomed 44 million international travelers: A boost to Dubai's business, corporate and leisure travel? What are the new updates on economy?

Dubai attracted 9.31 million international visitors in H1 2024, reflecting its burgeoning appeal as a global hub for talent, enterprises, and investors.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented, "The record-breaking performance in the first half of this year highlights our strategic importance as a global aviation hub.

Dubai is at the forefront of global cities when it comes to attracting talent, businesses, and tourists from around the world, and we are proud to be the gateway to the city, driving growth and enhancing the airport experience for every guest.

Strong demand from key source markets such as India and the gradual but certain resurgence of markets such as China, have been instrumental in our success.

Other significant markets include the United States (1.7 million guests), Russia (1.3 million), and Germany (1.3 million).

The top three city destinations were London with 1.8 million guests, Riyadh (1.6 million), and Mumbai (1.2 million).

Key figuresThe total number of flight movements reached 216,000, a 7.2% increase compared to the first six months of last year.

The busiest month was January with 7.9 million guests.

DXB efficiently managed 39.7 million bags in the first half of the year, a 6.7% year-on-year increase, marking the highest-ever baggage volume handled in the first half of the year.

The average number of guests per aircraft movement was 213, and the load factor remained steady at 77% compared to H1 2023.

Direct traffic accounted for 56% of the total, witnessing a slight increase, while transfer traffic comprised 44%.

Meanwhile, during the second quarter of 2024, the airport saw 21.8 million guests, an increase of 7.5% compared to the same period last year and total movements were recorded at 107,000.

These include colour-coded car parks for easier navigation, a new signature aroma in Al Majlis to create a welcoming atmosphere befitting the VIP facility, and an advanced queue management system.

The real-time monitoring system used at DXB helps the airport anticipate and prevent queues from building up across touchpoints, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey for all guests.

During H1, 98% of guests experienced less than 10 minutes of wait times at departure passport control and the same percentage waited less than 15 minutes at arrivals passport control. 95% of guests at departure security screening waited less than three minutes.