With a robust infrastructure and a vision for continued growth, UAE airports have notched up an impressive milestone by welcoming over 134 million passengers in 2023. As the aviation sector charts a course for the future, eyes are now set on surpassing the 140 million mark in 2024, solidifying the UAE’s position as a premier aviation hub on the world stage.
The remarkable surge in passenger traffic is attributed to the resilient backbone of the UAE’s aviation industry, overseen by Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Al Suwaidi hailed the robustness of the UAE’s airport infrastructure, which facilitated around 38 million arrivals, 37.805 million departures, and 58.328 million transit passengers in 2023 alone. This remarkable growth was fueled by successful international conferences and a flourishing tourism sector, further underlining the UAE’s allure as a global destination.
Looking optimistic, Al Suwaidi foresees a continued expansion in passenger traffic, potentially reaching 140 million, buoyed by ongoing airport expansions and developments. Initiatives such as the inauguration of Zayed International Airport – Terminal A and the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport are poised to elevate the UAE’s connectivity to diverse destinations, reinforcing its status as a global aviation powerhouse.
Highlighting the UAE’s formidable airport infrastructure, Al Suwaidi emphasized the presence of over 521 aircraft belonging to national carriers and a total of 924 registered aircraft in the country. The UAE’s leadership in civil aviation is further underscored by its world-class airports, complemented by a network of aircraft maintenance companies, training institutions, and specialized medical facilities.
Looking to the future, strategic projects aimed at enhancing airspace management and streamlining air traffic flow are on the horizon. With over AED 700 million allocated to upgrade services at the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Center over the next decade, the UAE is poised to set new operational efficiency and safety standards.
