How direct traffic is shaping the winter season
Direct traffic now accounts for 55 per cent of passenger demand at Dubai International (DXB), underscoring its significance in the winter schedule. This increase reflects the city’s seasonal pattern: cooler weather, international events, holiday travel, and a steady inflow of people choosing Dubai as a home.
European and Central Asian carriers expand presence
Europe and Central Asia are experiencing significant growth. FlyArystan started twice-weekly flights from Aktau on November 29, and Austrian Airlines resumed five weekly flights from Vienna on December 2. Established carriers also increased capacity: Virgin Atlantic deployed the A350-1000 to Dubai, boosting seats by 52 per cent, and British Airways restored A380 services from London Heathrow. These developments reflect strong confidence in European markets ahead of the festive season.
Regional demand reinforces DXB’s connectivity
Seasonal demand from South Asia and the Middle East is expanding DXB’s reach. Varesh Airline started twice-weekly flights from Sari, Iran, on October 30, and Fly Jinnah added twice-weekly flights from Lahore on November 2. These routes boost regional hub traffic, which usually increases during winter travel to and from Dubai.
Saudi Arabia records sharpest rise
Saudi Arabia is DXB’s second-largest market, accounting for 7.8 per cent of passengers year-to-date. Total traffic across DXB and Dubai World Central (DWC) reached 6.3 million, up 1.3 per cent. DWC surged 459 per cent to 173,000 passengers, emphasising its growing importance.
DWC’s growing strategic role
DWC welcomed 1.1 million guests in the first 10 months, a 36.6 per cent rise, driven by demand from CIS, GCC, and Western Europe. Cargo and aircraft movements are growing, reinforcing its role as a complement to DXB. Eurowings adds a daily Stuttgart service from DXB, three weekly Düsseldorf flights at DWC, and increased routes to Berlin, Cologne, and Hannover, including Premium Bizclass to Berlin.
Outlook for the season
This winter’s schedule enhancements reflect airline partners’ confidence in Dubai’s strong travel demand. They highlight Dubai’s appeal to visitors, business travellers, and residents, who drive direct traffic growth. DXB and DWC position Dubai as a leading, dynamic aviation hub.
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