ABU DHABI – The UAE’s aviation sector achieved a record milestone in 2025, solidifying its position as a leading global logistics hub amid unprecedented passenger traffic growth and expanding international connectivity.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) handled a record number of 95.2 million passengers in 2025, an increase of 3.1% year-on-year. This was the busiest year in the airport’s history, with the highest annual international passenger numbers ever recorded by any airport.
The number of air movements increased by 3.3% to 454,800, and baggage volume reached a record high of 86.75 million pieces. DXB is currently operated by 108 international airlines and connects to 291 destinations in 110 countries.
Abu Dhabi Airports recorded more than 33 million passengers in 2025, the highest annual traffic volume in the airport’s history. Zayed International Airport carried 8.59 million passengers in the fourth quarter, an increase of 13.8% year-on-year. Cargo volumes at the emirate’s five airports rose to nearly 770,000 tonnes, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s growing role in global logistics.
Sharjah Airport reported a 13.9% increase in passenger numbers to 19.48 million from 17.1 million in 2024. The number of flights increased to 116,657 as the airport expanded its connectivity across regional and international markets.
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport surpassed the one million passenger mark for the first time, hosting 1.3 million travelers in 2025. The airport has also expanded its scheduled network to 16 international destinations, including India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Russia and Egypt.
The aviation sector remains at the heart of the UAE’s tourism strategy, with increased connectivity supporting the flow of visitors from key global markets.
Emirates flies to 152 destinations in 79 countries and territories, while flydubai flies to more than 135 destinations in 58 countries with a fleet of 97 aircraft. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways flies to 91 destinations in more than 50 countries, while Air Arabia will add 30 new routes in 2025, bringing its total network to 219 destinations with locations in the UAE, Morocco, Egypt and Pakistan.
Airports across the country continue to invest in infrastructure and advanced technology to improve operational efficiency and passenger experience. DXB recorded a baggage mishandling rate of 99.75% in 2025, while airports across the country expanded their use of artificial intelligence, self-service platforms, and digital payment systems.
During the year, airports across the UAE won multiple international awards and recognitions for safety, operational excellence, sustainability and customer experience, reflecting the country’s continued leadership in global aviation standards.
