Dubai International’s passenger numbers climbed steadily through the second quarter, reaching 5 million in June, despite a 31.3 per cent decline in first-half traffic overall.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) welcomed 31.5 million guests in the first half of 2026, as airline capacity continued to return and demand strengthened through the second quarter following one of the most challenging operating environments in the airport’s history. Regional airspace constraints continued to influence traffic during the period. Guest volumes nonetheless rose steadily through Q2, climbing from 3.5 million in April to 4.5 million in May and 5 million in June.
The steady return of international carriers, improving connectivity and strengthening load factors point to resilient demand across key markets. Overall, first-half traffic was down 31.3 per cent year on year, with 13 million passengers recorded in the second quarter alone.
CEO points to demand rebound
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said the first half of the year had tested every part of the aviation system.
“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. 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.”
Dubai Airports continues to invest in DXB as airline schedules rebuild. Enhancements underway include a new consolidated remote departures experience, expanded self-service options, further development of biometric systems and targeted capacity improvements. The airport says these initiatives are intended to simplify journeys and increase operational flexibility as passenger numbers recover.
H1 performance at a glance
Aircraft movements totalled 150,600 during the first half, down 32.1 per cent year on year. By the end of June, DXB was served by almost 50 international airlines, connecting guests to 217 destinations across 99 countries, with load factors approaching 2025 levels.
Cargo volumes reached 751,340 tonnes during the first half, down 28.7 per cent year on year. DXB processed 30.3 million bags over the same period, a fall of 28 per cent, though its mishandled baggage rate of 2.7 per 1,000 passengers remained well below the latest global industry benchmark of around 4.9.
The airport also reported strong processing times, with 98.98 per cent of guests completing departure passport control in under 10 minutes, 98.95 per cent clearing arrival passport control in under 15 minutes, and 99.34 per cent passing through security in under five minutes. Dubai Airports expects stronger momentum in the second half, supported by recovering airline networks and frequencies, rising international transfer traffic, easing travel advisories across key source markets, the winter schedule and Dubai’s calendar of business, leisure and sporting events.
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