Dubai International Airport (DXB) has been ranked among the world’s most connected airports, offering hundreds of nonstop destinations. According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, which analyzed data from the first half of the year, DXB secured the sixth position in global connectivity. Despite being the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, it was surpassed by Istanbul Airport, which leads the ranking with direct flights to 309 destinations.
Istanbul Airport’s strategic location, bridging Europe and Asia, contributes to its extensive flight network. Opened in 2018, it replaced Atatürk Airport as Turkey’s primary air hub and continues to expand its reach. Dubai, known for its ambitious infrastructure projects, has similar plans to develop a larger and more advanced aviation hub.
Construction is underway to transform Al Maktoum International Airport into the city’s future primary airport. The AED 128 billion project will create an aviation hub five times the size of DXB, with an annual passenger capacity of 260 million. Once completed, it will significantly enhance Dubai’s role as a global air travel leader.
