UAE airports deliver strong performance during H1 2024

Passenger traffic at airports across the UAE surged by 14.2% in the first half of 2024. During this period, the airports handled more than 71.75 million passengers, compared to 62.79 million last year. The country has been taking planned steps to expand in the vital sector.

In terms of air cargo traffic during H1 2024, the numbers reached more than 2.1 million tonnes, comprising 528,430 tonnes of imports, 245,217 tonnes of exports and 1,389,136 tonnes of transit cargo. National carriers accounted for 68% of the total air cargo traffic.

The Director-General of the general civil aviation authority (GCAA) attributed the strong performance in the UAE aviation sector to continued investment in infrastructure development and regulatory enhancements, besides advancing digital transformation.

Establishing UAE airports as a major hub for air transport

The GCAA is optimistic about the future. It noted its commitment to ensuring the highest levels of safety and security, adopting better technologies to enhance the passenger experience, and establishing the UAE as a major hub for air transport both regionally and globally.

Its Director-General highlighted that the GCAA remains dedicated to advancing development and expansion plans to boost the competitive standing of the Gulf state’s civil aviation sector on the global stage, as per media reports.

The competitive performance and international reputation of UAE national carriers are reflected in the impressive results recorded during the first half of the year, he added. The GCAA is a federal, autonomous body overseeing all aviation-related activities in the country.

UAE airports see high passenger traffic despite challenges

During H1 2024, the number of arrivals in UAE airports reached 20.27 million passengers, departures surpassed 21 million passengers and transit passengers numbered 30.39 million, according to official figures.

The airports in the UAE capital received 13.9 million passengers during the period. Passenger traffic at Dubai International airport increased to 44.9 million, despite the intense rains in the beginning of the year and several flight cancellations amid regional disruptions.

In terms of overall air traffic, the total movements reached almost 500,000 movements, seeing an overall positive rate of 11.8% compared to the same period last year. February recorded the highest rise in air traffic movements.

Important role DXB plays in global connectivity

Dubai International (DXB) is preparing to receive 3.43 million passengers from the last date of this month to September 1 as UAE residents return from their summer vacations. The airport expects September 1 to be the peak day, accommodating 291,000 passengers.

DXB is constantly on the list of busiest airports globally. Earlier this year, the airport earned the tag of the second busiest airport on the planet for the first time, moving up five places from its position in 2022. It is at the forefront of global travel and connectivity.

The stunning ranking highlights the important role Dubai International plays in global connectivity, commerce and economic development. The airport continues to remain resilient amidst the serious challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of global travel.