DXB delivers strong start to 2025 with India being top destination country

Traffic was up 1.5% compared to the same period in 2024, despite a record-breaking Q1 last year. January alone saw the highest monthly traffic ever recorded at DXB - welcoming 8.5 million guests – an achievement made possible not just by infrastructure, but by the coordinated effort of thousands of people behind the scenes. 

India retained its position as DXB’s top destination country, with 3 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (1.9 million), the UK (1.5 million), Pakistan (1 million), the US (804,000), and Germany (738,000). At the city level, London led with 935,000 guests, followed by Riyadh (759,000), Jeddah (627,000), Mumbai (615,000), and New Delhi (564,000). Leisure travel also surged during the quarter, driven by a seasonal peak at the start of the year, Eid holidays, and spring break, with double-digit increases in traffic to destinations such as the Czech Republic (+30.6%), Vietnam (+28.6%), and Spain (+20.2%). 

Cargo volumes registered a minor contraction of 3.6% year-on-year during the first quarter, with DXB handling 517,000 tonnes of cargo.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “Our Q1 performance sets a strong foundation for the year ahead, not only in terms of guest numbers, but in the calibre of the people behind them. Delivering the busiest month in DXB’s history while maintaining exceptional service levels cross baggage, guest flow, and accessibility is no small feat. It requires precision, agility, and an extraordinary team effort. 

“What makes this possible is the collective effort of our oneDXB community, with each member playing a critical role across every touchpoint. This shared culture of collaboration and consistency is what elevates our performance and ensures we meet the growing expectations of our guests, every single day.”

DXB also recorded 111,000 flight movements in Q1, up 1.9% over the same period last year, with an average of 215 guests per flight. Despite the continued growth in guest volumes, DXB sustained high levels of operational efficiency. More than 21 million bags were processed in Q1, with the rate of mishandled baggage reduced to fewer than 1.95 bags per 1,000 guests, translating to a success rate of 99.8%. 

Meanwhile, the use of real-time monitoring systems and biometric passport control helped ensure that more than 95% of guests experienced minimal wait times across key airport touchpoints. Accessibility enhancements, including dedicated services for People of Determination and guests with hidden disabilities, further demonstrate DXB’s commitment to inclusive, guest-centric travel. 

In Q1, Dubai Airports was recognised with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, and in March, DXB was also named the world’s busiest international airport by Airports Council International (ACI) for the 11th consecutive year.