The UAE’s aviation sector has experienced robust growth in the first half of 2023, with a staggering 71.75 million passengers passing through its airports.
This represents a significant 14.2% increase compared to the 62.79 million passengers recorded during the same period in 2022. The figures, released by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), underscore the UAE’s continued ascent as a global aviation hub, bolstered by strategic investments and a strong recovery in international travel.
The GCAA’s latest data highlights the substantial growth across various segments of passenger traffic. During this period, inbound passengers to UAE airports reached over 20.27 million, while outbound travelers numbered 21.09 million. However, the largest segment was transit passengers, with an impressive 30.39 million people using UAE airports as a key stopover point in their global journeys.
In addition to passenger traffic, the overall air traffic movements also saw a notable rise, with nearly 500,000 movements recorded in the first half of 2023. This marks an 11.8% growth from the previous year, with February standing out as the most active month, showing a 15% increase in air traffic compared to February 2022.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, attributed this remarkable growth to the UAE’s strategic foresight and investments in aviation infrastructure and digital transformation. He emphasized that the leadership’s vision and commitment to maintaining the UAE’s competitive edge in global aviation are key drivers behind these impressive figures. The country’s national carriers, known for their excellence and strong international presence, have played a critical role in boosting the sector’s growth.
Looking ahead, the UAE is set to further expand its aviation sector by exploring new markets and strengthening existing ones. The GCAA’s successful efforts in establishing air transport agreements with over 90% of the world’s countries have solidified the UAE’s position as a central player in global aviation. With a strong focus on safety, technology, and customer experience, the UAE is poised to continue its upward trajectory, making it an indispensable hub in the global air transport network.
As the aviation industry worldwide continues to recover and expand, the UAE remains at the forefront, leveraging its strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and visionary leadership to cement its role as a leading global aviation center. The continued growth in passenger traffic and air movements is a testament to the UAE’s enduring commitment to excellence and innovation in the aviation sector.
