Dubai Airports set to pick up pace after tough first half sees 31% traffic drop
Dubai: Dubai International (DXB) is heading into a stronger second half of 2026, with airline capacity steadily returning and a major investment programme gathering pace , even as the world’s busiest international hub posted a sharp year-on-year fall in passenger numbers for the first six months of the year. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances H1 traffic falls DXB…
Dubai International Airport (DXB) anticipates a robust second half of 2026 following a significant 31% decline in passenger numbers during the first half of the year. The airport, the world's busiest international hub, handled 13 million passengers in Q2, resulting in a 31.3% drop compared to the same period in 2025. Aircraft movements also fell by 32.1%, with 150,600 movements recorded.
Cargo throughput declined by 28.7%, with 751,340 tonnes handled in H1, including 351,716 tonnes during Q2. Baggage handling saw a 28% decrease, with 30.3 million bags processed in H1, including 12.7 million in Q2.
Despite the challenges, DXB's CEO, Paul Griffiths, emphasized the airport's resilience and steady recovery. Monthly guest volumes rose consistently from April to June, with international carriers gradually resuming operations and connectivity improving. Griffiths highlighted that the airport's performance positioned DXB well for the anticipated demand.
DXB maintained its extensive network, with almost 50 international airlines serving 217 destinations across 99 countries. The airport is also investing in upgrades to guest facilities, expanded self-service options, biometric systems, and targeted capacity improvements to future-proof the hub. Analysts predict that passenger numbers in the UAE will recover faster than expected, with DXB on track to finish 2026 close to 100 million passengers.
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