Dubai Airports Cuts 2026 Passenger Forecast
Dubai Airports has cut its passenger forecast for 2026 as the region faces continued disruption to air travel.
The airport operator now expects Dubai International Airport (DXB) to handle around 70 million passengers in 2026, according to CEO Paul Griffiths. The new estimate is significantly below its earlier target of 100 million passengers.
The company now expects DXB to reach the 100-million passenger milestone by the end of 2027, rather than this year.
Why Dubai Airports Cuts 2026 Passenger Forecast ?
Dubai has built its position as one of the world’s busiest international aviation hubs. Passenger traffic at DXB has grown strongly in recent years, supported by Dubai’s tourism, business travel and international connectivity.
However, regional disruptions have affected expectations for air travel this year. The revised forecast reflects a slower growth outlook compared with the airport’s earlier projections.
The change does not mean Dubai’s aviation sector has lost its long-term growth potential. DXB remains a major global hub and continues to connect passengers with destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Dubai Airports’ latest forecast also highlights how regional developments can quickly affect international travel demand.
The airport’s performance remains closely linked to Dubai’s wider economy, including tourism, hospitality, trade and business activity. Reaching 100 million passengers in 2027 would mark another major milestone for the emirate’s aviation sector.
For now, Dubai Airports Cuts 2026 Passenger Forecast to 70 million passengers, with the 100-million target pushed back by about a year.
