DXB sees passenger traffic soar in 2023, welcomes 86.9 million travellers

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has achieved a remarkable turnaround in 2023. Not only did it surpass pre-pandemic passenger traffic, but it also exceeded its yearly forecast, welcoming 86.9 million travellers. This marks a 31.7 per cent surge in numbers compared to 2022. Passenger traffic in 2019 was 86.4 million.

This is a key achievement in its “recovery” journey over the past three years.

“Dubai is setting new benchmarks in passenger experience with excellence levels and innovative technologies that constantly redefine airport services,” said Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. “Consistent with the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s top three cities for tourism and business over the next decade, the city continues to grow rapidly as a global aviation hub and the world’s preferred gateway for international travellers.”

Dubai’s profile as a top tourist destination was further cemented when it made it to the top of the 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winners for the third year in a row in the top destinations category.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “I am incredibly proud of everyone at Dubai International, for their dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, which has propelled us to break many of our records. 2023 was an exceptional year and is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, efficiency and delivering exemplary guest experience.

“Looking ahead, we’re renewing our commitment to collectively enhance the airport experience for all our guests by launching a significant project to expand and refurbish facilities at DXB, to fortify our infrastructure for future growth.”

#Dubai International (@DXB) continues to smashes targets. This remarkable performance marks the successful and ahead-of-time completion of DXB’s recovery journey, further solidifying its position as the world’s leading airport for international passenger traffic. pic.twitter.com/XgBGrNIjEg

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 19, 2024

Key highlights of DXB’s performance in 2023

Based on the latest data, the airport is linked to 262 destinations across 104 countries through 102 international carriers.

Flight movements recorded at DXB were the highest ever at 416,405, reflecting the increase in passenger traffic.

December last year was the busiest month in Q4, with DXB welcoming 22.4 million guests during this period.

In terms of operational efficiency, the airport maintained a 99.8 per cent baggage handling success rate despite a significant increase in volume.

DXB handled 1.8 million tonnes of cargo, with Q4 2023 witnessing a 20.4 per cent year-on-year growth.

The airline also achieved the highest-ever score in ACI World’s Airport Service Quality programme, reflecting exceptional passenger satisfaction.

India headed the list of top countries for passenger traffic (11.9 million guests,) followed by Saudi Arabia (6.7 million guests), and the UK followed next (5.9 million guests). Pakistan, the US, Russia, and Germany were also key countries on the list.

London remained the most popular single destination, with Riyadh and Mumbai rating as the second and third most popular destinations.

The world’s busiest airport is set for a strong future

According to global travel data provider OAG’s latest report, Dubai International (DXB) remains the World’s Busiest International Airport in February 2024 with 4.7 million seats.

DXB is poised for continued growth in 2024, with initial forecasts anticipating 88.8 million guests. This ambitious target brings the airport close to its record of 89.1 million set in 2018.

To further elevate the passenger experience, DXB plans to launch a significant project to expand and refurbish facilities, solidifying its position as a global leader in aviation.

Read: Paul Griffiths on Dubai Airports’ bold journey to super-hub status