Dubai International Airport (DXB) celebrates its 66th anniversary on September 30, 2026, marking a transformation from a small airfield into one of the world’s leading hubs for international passenger traffic.

Since opening in 1960 with a 1,800-metre sand runway and a modest terminal, the airport has undergone decades of expansion to accommodate larger aircraft, rising passenger demand and an increasingly extensive global route network. By September 2026, cumulative passenger numbers had exceeded 1.5 billion, according to an announcement by Dubai Airports during a Dubai government media briefing.

The airport’s development has closely tracked Dubai’s economic transformation, with expanding air connectivity supporting the emirate’s growth in tourism, trade, logistics and international investment.

From a sand runway to modern aviation infrastructure

The foundations of modern Dubai International Airport were laid in 1959, when the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum ordered the construction of a new airport for the emirate.

When the facility officially opened on September 30, 1960, it featured a 1,800-metre compacted-sand runway, an aircraft apron, a small passenger terminal and a fire station. Initially designed for smaller aircraft, the airport gradually expanded as demand for air travel increased.

Aviation had already been part of Dubai’s transport landscape, with seaplanes accounting for much of the emirate’s earlier air traffic. The development of scheduled air services created a need for infrastructure capable of accommodating larger aircraft and more passengers.

A major breakthrough came in May 1965, when a nearly 2,800-metre asphalt runway entered service. The upgrade enabled larger aircraft and jetliners to operate at the airport. Comet aircraft operated by Middle East Airlines and Kuwait Airways were among those arriving during this period.

The new runway marked a turning point, positioning the airport to support Dubai’s expanding international connections and economic ambitions.

Emirates and flydubai accelerate connectivity

Dubai’s rapid economic expansion during the 1970s and 1980s drove further investment in airport infrastructure and flight capacity. The airport increasingly supported the emirate’s development as a centre for trade and re-export.

The launch of Emirates in 1985 opened another chapter in DXB’s growth. The airline built an extensive international network from Dubai, strengthening the airport’s role as a connecting hub between global markets.

flydubai, which began operations in 2009, further expanded links with regional and international destinations.

The opening of Terminal 3 in 2008, dedicated to Emirates, represented another major investment in passenger-handling capacity. More broadly, the airport’s business model evolved beyond serving arriving and departing flights to facilitating connections between countries, airlines and markets.

A decade at the top of international passenger traffic

Dubai International Airport reached a significant global milestone in 2014, when it became the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic, handling 70.4 million passengers.

DXB retained its leading position over the following decade. In 2024, it marked 10 consecutive years at the top of the international passenger traffic rankings, recording 92.3 million passengers, up 6.1% from 2023.

Over that decade, the airport handled more than 700 million passengers across over 3.3 million flights.

Traffic continued to climb in 2025, when DXB welcomed a record 95.2 million passengers, an increase of 3.1% year on year. The airport described the figure as the highest annual international passenger traffic recorded by any airport worldwide. Aircraft movements reached approximately 454,800 during the year.

Cumulative passenger numbers surpass 1.5 billion

DXB’s long-term growth is also reflected in its cumulative passenger figures.

At its 60th anniversary in 2020, the airport had handled 1.115 billion passengers across more than 7.47 million flights since opening. Its network connected more than 240 destinations in 95 countries.

By September 2026, cumulative passenger numbers had surpassed 1.5 billion. That represents an increase of approximately 385 million passengers in six years, despite significant challenges facing the global aviation industry during the period.

The airport’s historical milestones also illustrate the pace of its expansion. It took 51 years to serve its first 500 million passengers, while the cumulative total reached one billion after a further seven years, according to the historical sequence cited in the source material.

2026 growth amid regional challenges

DXB continued to handle substantial passenger volumes in 2026, despite difficult operating conditions affecting regional air traffic during the first half of the year.

The airport welcomed 31.5 million passengers during the first six months. Traffic recovered gradually in the second quarter as airlines restored some capacity, with monthly passenger numbers rising from 3.5 million in April to 4.5 million in May and five million in June.

Dubai Airports Chief Executive Officer Paul Griffiths said in September that DXB was projected to handle around 70 million passengers in 2026. He also indicated that annual traffic could reach 100 million by the end of 2027 as airlines rebuild their operational capacity.

Aviation’s wider contribution to Dubai’s economy

DXB’s importance extends well beyond passenger movements. Aviation has become a major contributor to Dubai’s economic activity, supporting tourism, trade, logistics and employment.

A study by Oxford Economics, commissioned by the Emirates Group and Dubai Airports, found that aviation contributed 27% of Dubai’s gross domestic product in 2023. The sector generated AED 137 billion in total added value and supported 631,000 jobs.

The study projected that aviation-related activities would contribute AED 196 billion by 2030, equivalent to 32% of Dubai’s projected GDP at 2023 prices. Employment supported by the sector was forecast to reach 816,000, an increase of 185,000 jobs compared with 2023.

These figures underline the role of aviation as an integral part of Dubai’s wider economic system rather than simply a means of transporting passengers.

Air cargo strengthens Dubai’s global trade links

Freight operations form another important part of Dubai’s aviation network, supported by the emirate’s geographic position, ports, free zones and integrated transport infrastructure.

In 2024, DXB handled approximately 2.2 million tonnes of air cargo, up 20.5% from 1.8 million tonnes in 2023.

The increase reflects the airport’s role in moving high-value goods and time-sensitive shipments. Its links with sea and land transport also support Dubai’s wider logistics and re-export activities.

Smart technology reshapes the passenger journey

DXB is increasingly using digital systems to streamline airport procedures and improve the passenger experience, from arrival formalities to departure.

During the first half of 2026, more than 9.4 million passengers used smart travel services at Dubai airports, including smart gates and the Red Carpet service.

Approximately 9.02 million travellers completed procedures through smart gates, while more than 439,000 used the Red Carpet service.

Supported by artificial intelligence and biometric technology, the service has reduced average processing time for crossing procedures from 12.5 seconds to 3.4 seconds. The system can process up to 10 travellers simultaneously.

These developments reflect a broader shift towards biometric identification, reduced reliance on paper documents and fewer interruptions during airport processing.

Al Maktoum International Airport prepares for future demand

As DXB marks 66 years of operations, Dubai is also developing its next major aviation gateway at Dubai World Central, home to Al Maktoum International Airport.

In 2024, Dubai approved a second phase of the airport’s expansion, backed by an investment of $35 billion. The plan aims to provide capacity for 150 million passengers annually over the next decade, with the ultimate objective of accommodating more than 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo each year.

The final development plans include five runways, four concourse buildings and more than 400 aircraft gates. They also provide for an automated passenger transport system and integrated connections with the city’s road, metro and air transport networks.

In June 2026, the Dubai government confirmed that major project packages remained under implementation. These include the West Terminal, Concourse 4, the automated passenger transport system and the baggage-handling system, indicating progress beyond the initial planning stage.

Key milestones in DXB’s history

• 1959: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum orders construction of a new airport for Dubai.

• 1960: DXB opens on September 30 with a 1,800-metre sand runway and a small terminal.

• 1965: A nearly 2,800-metre asphalt runway enters service.

• 1983: Dubai Duty Free opens.

• 1985: Emirates begins operations.

• 1988: Annual passenger traffic reaches 4.3 million.

• 1998: Passenger traffic exceeds 9.7 million, and Terminal 2 opens.

• 2000: Concourse C opens, raising annual capacity to 23 million passengers.

• 2008: Terminal 3 opens, increasing annual capacity to 60 million passengers.

• 2009: Passenger traffic exceeds 40.9 million, and flydubai begins operations.

• 2013: Concourse A, dedicated to A380 aircraft, opens.

• 2014: DXB handles 70.4 million passengers and becomes the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic.

• 2018: The airport welcomes its one-billionth international passenger since opening.

• 2019: Passenger traffic reaches 86.4 million.

• 2025: DXB records 95.2 million passengers, its busiest year on record.

• 2026: Cumulative passenger numbers surpass 1.5 billion.

From a sand runway in 1960 to a record 95.2 million passengers in 2025, Dubai International Airport’s history mirrors the emirate’s transformation into a major global centre for business and travel.

After 66 years, DXB remains central to Dubai’s international connectivity, while investment in technology, capacity and integrated transport systems is shaping the next stage of development. As Al Maktoum International Airport advances, Dubai is preparing for further growth in passenger traffic, cargo operations and global aviation links.

Source: Emirates 247

The first group of Sri Lankan pilgrims travelling for Hajj 2026 has arrived in Saudi Arabia, officially marking the beginning of this year’s pilgrimage operations for the island nation.

A contingent of 325 pilgrims landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on Saturday, May 2, where they were received by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, along with Acting Consul General Mafusa Lafir and other officials.

Representatives from the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, Saudi-based Hajj service provider Rehlat Wa Manafe, and Nusuk Hajj operations also attended the reception to assist pilgrims with arrival procedures and logistical arrangements.

Speaking during the welcome ceremony, Ambassador Ajwad highlighted the spiritual importance of the Hajj pilgrimage and conveyed his best wishes to the pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey.

He also expressed gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman for the extensive preparations and facilities provided by Saudi authorities to support millions of pilgrims visiting the Kingdom from around the world.

The ambassador assured the pilgrims that the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah would remain available throughout the pilgrimage season to provide assistance and ensure a safe and smooth Hajj experience.

Saudi Arabia is expected to host approximately 3,500 pilgrims from Sri Lanka during the 2026 Hajj season. The arrangements are being coordinated through cooperation between the Sri Lanka Hajj Mission, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the designated Saudi service provider, and local travel agencies.

Saudi Arabia has begun receiving the first wave of international pilgrims under the Makkah Route initiative, as flights from multiple countries arrived in the Kingdom on Saturday ahead of the annual Hajj season.

The first aircraft carrying Pakistani beneficiaries of the program landed at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah after departing from Jinnah International Airport in Karachi. Pakistan has been allocated a total Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims this year, with approximately 118,000 places reserved under the government scheme and the remainder managed by private tour operators.

Officials, including Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi, attended the departure ceremony. According to the Sindh Directorate of Hajj, 160 pilgrims were sent off with prayers and well wishes.

On the same day, a separate flight carrying Bangladeshi pilgrims arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The pilgrims were seen off by Tarique Rahman and Saudi Ambassador Abdullah bin Abiyah, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Flights under the initiative also departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia and Ankara Esenboga Airport in Türkiye, with both arriving in Madinah, reflecting the continued expansion of the program.

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports confirmed it has deployed advanced technologies and specialized personnel across air, land, and sea entry points to ensure efficient processing and high service standards for arriving pilgrims throughout the Hajj season.

Meanwhile, the first group of Indian pilgrims was welcomed at Madinah airport by Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan and Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, along with senior Saudi and Indian officials. The ambassador also reviewed airport facilities and met volunteers assisting pilgrims.

The Makkah Route initiative, implemented by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, is now in its eighth year and has expanded to 17 departure points across 10 countries. As part of the Pilgrim Experience Program under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the initiative has recently been extended to include Senegal and Brunei Darussalam, in addition to Morocco, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Türkiye, Côte d’Ivoire, and the Maldives.

The program aims to simplify travel for pilgrims by completing key entry procedures in their home countries, including electronic visa issuance, immigration clearance, and health verification. Luggage is also pre-coded and sorted according to accommodation arrangements in Saudi Arabia, enabling pilgrims to proceed directly to transport upon arrival without waiting at baggage claim areas.

Authorities said the initiative is carried out in coordination with multiple government entities, including the ministries of foreign affairs, health, and Hajj and Umrah. Since its launch in 2017, more than 1.25 million pilgrims have benefited from the service.

Source: arabnews

As the sun sets and the call to prayer fills the air, Riyadh transforms into a city of vibrancy and activity during Ramadan. Whether you're visiting Riyadh for the first time or returning for another Ramadan season, the evenings after iftar offer a rich mix of culture, dining, and relaxation. From lively entertainment hubs to serene cultural experiences, Riyadh’s post-iftar atmosphere is sure to captivate. Here's your ultimate guide to exploring Riyadh after sunset this Ramadan.

Top Evening Hotspots to Explore

Boulevard City stands out as one of Riyadh’s most popular destinations after iftar. This massive entertainment hub is filled with open-air spaces, cafés, restaurants, and entertainment zones that come alive after sunset.

The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with locals and visitors strolling through its wide boulevards, meeting friends, and enjoying the warm evening air. Whether you're in the mood for shopping, dining, or simply people-watching, Boulevard City offers something for everyone without the pressure of a structured evening plan.

A stone’s throw away is Boulevard World, an immersive experience that feels like a mini-world tour. This zone features various themed areas inspired by international cities and landmarks.

After a satisfying iftar meal, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant, visually engaging zones, where you can snap photos, sample international cuisine, and enjoy casual entertainment. As the evening progresses, Boulevard World becomes more lively, with the energy escalating as the night deepens—perfect for a memorable night out.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, Sports Boulevard offers a peaceful escape. This area is a favorite for evening walks, light physical activities, or simply enjoying the outdoors after a long day of fasting.

Local residents often visit Sports Boulevard to breathe in the fresh air and soak in the calm of Riyadh’s surroundings. This is an ideal spot for visitors looking to experience Riyadh’s more serene side, with gentle exercise or relaxation.

Dining Destinations to Savor the Evening

Riyadh is a paradise for food lovers, and Bujairi Terrace in Diriyah is one of the most sought-after dining spots during Ramadan. This area is surrounded by historic architecture, offering a picturesque backdrop as you enjoy a meal or dessert in its open-air dining spaces.

Many locals and visitors choose Bujairi Terrace for its relaxed atmosphere, perfect for lingering over a late dinner, sampling delicious desserts, or engaging in heartfelt conversations. The outdoor seating and beautiful view of Diriyah's historic surroundings make it a standout for a Ramadan evening out.

For those craving a more refined dining experience, VIA Riyadh is the place to be. Known for its luxury restaurants and chic ambiance, VIA Riyadh offers an upscale atmosphere perfect for a special night out.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, enjoying time with loved ones, or just looking for a sophisticated dining experience, VIA Riyadh offers an array of high-end options. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a polished, tranquil environment after the sunset, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more formal.

Cultural and Relaxed Evening Experiences

If art and culture are what you’re after, make sure to visit the Diriyah Biennale. This prestigious art exhibition brings together artists and creatives from around the world, offering a deep dive into contemporary art in a reflective setting.

Ramadan evenings are perfect for exploring the exhibitions, as the environment is calm and reflective, allowing you to absorb the artwork at your own pace. Afterward, you can head to a nearby café or restaurant to discuss the exhibits or relax with a coffee.

For a touch of heritage and culture, Samhania offers a refined, heritage-inspired setting. Known for its elegant and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to experience the slower pace of Riyadh after iftar.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk, indulge in cultural experiences, or savor a quiet meal at one of the area’s fine dining establishments. Samhania provides an intimate environment where you can unwind while soaking in the cultural richness of the city.

If you want to immerse yourself in the authentic local experience, Souq Al Zal is a must-visit after sunset. This traditional market is one of the most atmospheric places in Riyadh, coming to life in the evening as people browse antiques, traditional goods, and local products. It’s a great way to experience Riyadh’s vibrant culture and lively energy.

The market’s historic charm, combined with the buzz of local shoppers and visitors, provides a unique insight into the daily life of the city.

Late-Night Coffee and Social Hangouts

After a long day of fasting, KAFD (King Abdullah Financial District) is the ideal late-night destination for coffee lovers. The district is home to some of Riyadh’s trendiest cafés and dessert spots, where people meet up after iftar to socialize and enjoy a sweet treat.

The area remains lively well into the night, offering a great environment for casual meetups, group gatherings, or romantic dates over a cup of coffee. Whether you're in the mood for a light conversation or a deeper connection, KAFD offers a comfortable and modern space to unwind.

As the evening winds down, Layali Diriyah offers the perfect spot for suhoor—a peaceful and traditional place to end the night. The setting is calm, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for those who want to enjoy a late meal before the city quiets down for the night.

The late operating hours of Layali Diriyah make it a popular choice for those looking to stay out later into the night, providing a tranquil end to a busy evening.

Essential Traveler Tips:

• Plan your activities after sunset: Riyadh truly comes to life in the evenings. The most vibrant atmosphere can be found between 9 PM and midnight, so make sure to schedule your activities accordingly.

• Book dining reservations in advance: Weekends are especially busy, so it’s a good idea to reserve your table early to avoid long wait times at popular spots.

• Take it slow: Riyadh’s evenings are all about enjoying the ambiance. Allow yourself to move slowly between destinations, savoring each moment in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

From art and culture to dining and leisurely strolls, Riyadh offers endless opportunities to make your evenings after iftar memorable. Whether you’re looking for excitement, tranquility, or a taste of authentic local culture, Riyadh’s Ramadan nights promise to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable experiences.