Dubai Airports has kicked off the winter season with one of its most extensive networks in history. Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are welcoming new airlines and expanded connectivity to meet rising seasonal travel demand.
Direct traffic remains a defining feature of DXB this winter, accounting for 55 percent of total passenger demand. This growth follows a familiar yearly pattern, driven by Dubai’s pleasant winter climate, international business and sporting events, entertainment programs, and residents travelling abroad for holidays or family visits. The city’s appeal as a long-term home for many people also contributes to the surge.
Strong Growth from Europe and Central Asia
Europe and Central Asia are generating a significant increase in passenger numbers this season. FlyArystan joined DXB’s network on November 29, offering twice-weekly flights from Aktau in Kazakhstan. Austrian Airlines resumed operations on December 2 with five weekly flights from Vienna, reinforcing the city’s connectivity with Europe.
European carriers are also expanding capacity. Virgin Atlantic introduced the A350-1000 on its Dubai route, boosting seat capacity by 52 percent, while British Airways reinstated A380 services from London Heathrow. These developments highlight the strong confidence European airlines have in Dubai as the festive season approaches.
Strengthened Links with South Asia and the Middle East
Seasonal demand from South Asia and the wider Middle East is contributing to DXB’s robust connectivity. Varesh Airline launched twice-weekly flights from Sari in Iran on October 30, while Fly Jinnah introduced twice-weekly services from Lahore on November 2. These additions strengthen direct traffic from regional hubs where winter travel to Dubai typically peaks.
Saudi Arabia remains a key contributor, already DXB’s second-largest country market, accounting for 7.8 percent of total passengers. Combined passenger traffic from Saudi Arabia across DXB and DWC reached 6.3 million, marking a 1.3 percent year-on-year increase. DWC recorded particularly strong growth, with passenger numbers rising 459 percent to 173,000, highlighting its growing role within Dubai’s aviation network.
Dubai World Central’s Strategic Momentum
DWC is emerging as a vital part of Dubai’s aviation landscape. Many airlines are utilizing its available capacity to complement DXB services. The airport welcomed 1.1 million passengers in the first 10 months of the year, representing a 36.6 percent increase. Growth is being driven by demand from the CIS, GCC, and Western European markets. Cargo volumes and aircraft movements at DWC are also increasing, reinforcing the airport’s strategic importance.
Eurowings is contributing significantly to this expansion. The airline has launched daily services from Stuttgart to DXB, operates three-times-weekly flights from Düsseldorf to DWC, and increased frequencies to Berlin, Cologne, and Hannover. It also introduced a Premium Bizclass offering on the Berlin route, catering to higher-end travelers.
Winter Outlook and Passenger Confidence
Robert Whitehouse, Vice President of Research at Dubai Airports, highlighted the importance of winter travel for the city’s aviation sector. He noted that the network’s breadth reflects evolving passenger demand. He emphasized that the growth in direct traffic across both airports represents a balanced mix of inbound visitors, outbound travel from residents, and people choosing Dubai as a long-term home.
These enhancements underline the confidence of airline partners in Dubai’s travel demand and highlight the city’s continued appeal to business travelers, residents, and tourists. Direct traffic growth reinforces Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets, showcasing the resilience and diversity of its connectivity.
Conclusion
As the winter season continues, Dubai Airports is demonstrating remarkable adaptability and growth. With expanding routes from Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East, and increasing passenger numbers across DXB and DWC, the city is well-prepared to meet seasonal travel demand. This expansion highlights Dubai’s commitment to providing world-class connectivity, ensuring seamless travel for millions of passengers and reinforcing its status as a leading global aviation hub.
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