Khaberni - Dubai International Airport witnessed its busiest days on record, with over 324 thousand guests crossing yesterday (January 3), and 322 thousand today (January 4). From January 1 to January 11, Dubai International Airport welcomes approximately 3.4 million guests, with daily numbers continually exceeding 300 thousand travelers, reflecting peak levels and strong demand for travel.
These exceptional numbers demonstrate a high level of readiness, operational flexibility, and integrated work of the airport community (oneDXB) in delivering safe and efficient operations and a reliable travel experience on a large scale.
Emirates Airline has forecasted a significant peak in travel movement during the first week of January 2026, with high numbers of departures and arrivals recorded from January 2 to January 5.
Emirates Airline advises travelers to arrive at the airport four hours before departure time, considering the possibility of traffic congestion on the roads leading to the airport, full parking lots, and heightened movement inside the airport. They also encourage travelers to benefit from services that offer a faster and smoother travel experience.
Between January 2 and January 5, 2026, Dubai International Airport is expected to witness one of the highest rates of traveler movement in recent years. Due to several factors, including travelers returning after the New Year's holiday, businessmen arriving for meetings, and vacationers returning home, significant delays are likely to occur at the airport.
During the peak travel season, coinciding with school holidays and holidays, Dubai International Airport welcomes millions of travelers. The airport has made significant efforts to accommodate this massive influx of travelers by increasing the number of flights, expanding check-in counters, and implementing more effective security measures. However, despite these efforts, travelers should still expect long wait times and congestion in airport lounges.
Travel experts advise travelers to take advantage of the digital check-in services provided by Emirates Airline, which allow seat selection, baggage tag placement, and completion of check-in procedures for the flight from their homes or hotels comfortably. This service saves valuable time at the airport and alleviates some of the burdens of busy travel.
