Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set to handle more than 3.6 million passengers between 13 and 25 August as the summer holidays draw to a close and families return ahead of the new academic year.
According to Dubai Airports, daily passenger traffic is expected to average 280,000 during this period, with the peak anticipated on Friday 15 August when numbers are forecast to surpass 290,000. The surge follows a record-breaking first half of 2025, during which Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors, marking a 6 per cent increase compared to the previous year. In the same period, DXB processed over 46 million passengers, maintaining its position as the busiest international airport in the world.
To manage the increased volume, Dubai Airports is working closely with the oneDXB community, which includes airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners. The aim is to deliver smooth operations and minimise stress for travellers during the high-demand travel period.
Passengers arriving in Dubai are being encouraged to make use of available facilities and plan ahead. Those aged 12 and above can use Smart Gates to speed up passport control, while all travellers are advised to keep passports, boarding passes and visas ready to accelerate clearance. Visitors can also take advantage of the wide range of amenities available in lounges, restaurants, retail outlets and duty-free shops.
Transport connections are being highlighted as a key part of the passenger experience. The Dubai Metro, with stations at Terminals 1 and 3, offers a direct link to the city, while taxis, ride-hailing services and car rentals provide additional options.
DXB has also reiterated its commitment to accessibility. Enhanced support for People of Determination includes clearly marked accessible routes, discreet assistance for those wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2.
The back-to-school travel wave comes on the heels of Dubai Airports’ strong performance in 2024, when DXB recorded 92.3 million passengers, the highest annual total in its history. Meanwhile, Al Maktoum International (DWC) continues to advance its long-term expansion plans, which aim to accommodate up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually.
Dubai Airports said it remains focused on operational resilience and collaboration among service providers to ensure safety, security and a positive customer experience, even during the busiest travel periods.
