The operator of Dubai International Airport announced on Wednesday that the airport, the busiest in the world, is expected to handle nearly 100 million passengers this year after achieving record performance in 2025.

In a statement, Dubai Airports said it expects Dubai International Airport to receive 99.5 million passengers in 2026, driven by growing demand in several key markets.

Dubai International welcomed 95.2 million passengers last year, an increase of 3.1 percent compared to 2024. India, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom remained among its largest markets, while China, Egypt, and Italy recorded significant growth.

Dubai is the largest tourism and trade hub in the Middle East and also serves as a major air travel connection point between Europe and Asia. According to official data, the city received 19.6 million overnight visitors last year.

Dubai International Airport (Archive)

Dubai Airports stated that the airport recorded its highest ever daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual passenger numbers, noting that it operated at full capacity while maintaining operational excellence.

To meet rising demand and accommodate its rapidly growing population, the Emirate of Dubai announced a major 35 billion dollar expansion of its second airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, also known as Dubai World Central, which is also operated by Dubai Airports.

The expansion is designed to handle 150 million passengers annually over the next decade, with total annual capacity expected to reach 260 million passengers once fully completed.