UAE aviation sector experiencing 'trampoline bounce' in growth despite disruption, says airport chief

Dubai Airports chief executive Paul Griffiths has highlighted a significant growth in the UAE's aviation sector, describing it as a "trampoline bounce" effect despite ongoing disruptions. Speaking at a media briefing, Griffiths reported that Dubai International Airport (DXB) welcomed 31.5 million passengers in the first half of 2026, with traffic continuing to increase throughout the year.

The number of passengers jumped from five million in June to 6.3 million in July, marking a 26% monthly increase. Griffiths attributed this surge to strong demand for the emirate, both as a destination and a connecting hub. Currently, airline capacity has risen to 84% of pre-pandemic levels, while passenger volumes have reached 78%.

Some carriers are yet to resume operations due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict, but most are expected to restart by the beginning of the next winter season. Griffiths anticipates that DXB will handle around 70 million passengers in 2026 and eventually reach 100 million by the end of 2027. He emphasized that Dubai's aviation model supports tourism, trade, and investment, with the city's expansion driving demand for air travel.

The development of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is progressing rapidly, with the first phase set to open in the early 2030s and a capacity of 150 million passengers. The airport will feature five runways, with two in operation initially and additional runways added as demand grows. The transition from DXB to DWC will be phased as capacity becomes available, with flydubai expected to begin moving aircraft as early as next year.

Griffiths also discussed the future of air travel at DWC, envisioning a passenger journey transformed by technology, with check-in potentially eliminated and baggage drop-off combined with facial recognition. The airport aims to offer a seamless experience akin to arriving at a hotel lobby. The Government of Dubai Media Office's International Media Briefing series facilitates direct dialogue between global media and leaders driving Dubai's sectoral development, providing insights into the strategies and priorities shaping the city's growth.