Passenger arrivals at Dubai International Airport fell by nearly one-third during the first half of 2026, amid disruptions to air travel caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
According to the airport operator, 31.5 million passengers arrived in Dubai during the first six months of 2026, compared with around 46 million during the same period last year — representing a decline of approximately 32%.
Arab media reports attribute the decline partly to the ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran, which has significantly disrupted air travel across the region.
Rising fuel prices have also pushed up airfares globally, adding further pressure on passenger demand.
The sharp decline at one of the world's major aviation hubs highlights the wider impact of the conflict on regional travel and the aviation industry.
