By Kavita Mistry 
Dubai International airport (DXB) is preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year as the back-to-school season coincides with the end of summer holidays. Passenger numbers between 13 and 25 August are expected to exceed 3.6 million, with daily averages around 280,000. The highest volume is forecast for Friday, 15 August, when traffic could surpass 290,000.
This seasonal surge follows a strong first half of 2025 for Dubai’s tourism and aviation sectors. The city recorded 9.88 million international overnight visitors, a 6% year-on-year increase, while DXB welcomed more than 46 million passengers, reaffirming its position as the world’s busiest international airport.
Dubai Airports is working with its oneDXB community—comprising airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners—to deliver a seamless and efficient airport experience during the peak period. The collaborative effort aims to ensure quick processing, effective crowd management, and enhanced guest services.
Passengers arriving at DXB are encouraged to take advantage of the airport’s facilities and travel options. Families with children aged over 12 can use Smart Gates to expedite passport control. Travellers are advised to keep passports, boarding passes, and visas ready for inspection. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including lounges, dining outlets, retail stores, and duty-free shopping.
For transport, DXB offers direct access to the Dubai Metro from Terminals 1 and 3, alongside a range of alternatives such as Uber, Careem, RTA taxis, and car rental services. The airport also provides enhanced services for People of Determination, including marked accessibility routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2.
With coordinated efforts across stakeholders, DXB aims to maintain service quality and ensure passengers enjoy a smooth start or end to their journeys during this busy travel period.
