Dubai International Airport (DXB) has once again claimed its position as the world’s busiest international airport in 2024, handling an impressive 60.236 million airline seats. This marks a 7% increase compared to 2023 and a remarkable 12% rise from pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to data from aviation consultancy OAG.
Key to Dubai’s dominance is the strong performance of its flagship carriers, Emirates and flydubai, which operate to over 265 destinations worldwide. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) also reported a milestone for UAE airspace, with over 1 million flight movements recorded in 2024. Notably, Emirates Flight 305 from Shanghai marked the year’s millionth air movement on December 22.
As reported by Khaleej Times, the Dubai-Riyadh route emerged as the 6th busiest in the world, further solidifying the region’s connectivity.
Globally, London Heathrow Airport ranked second, with 48.358 million seats—11.877 million fewer than DXB—posting a modest 4% growth from 2023. Seoul’s Incheon International Airport secured third place with 41.633 million seats, followed by Singapore Changi, Amsterdam Schiphol, Istanbul, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Frankfurt International, and Hong Kong International.
In the broader category of both domestic and international flights, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport took the top spot as the busiest airport overall, with 62.7 million seats. Dubai International ranked second, followed by Tokyo International and London Heathrow.
This accolade reinforces Dubai’s pivotal role in global aviation, as the city continues to innovate and expand its reach as a premier travel hub.
