Airport records 4.4% monthly growth in international seat capacity as airlines ramp up operations to meet peak summer demand
Dubai: Dubai International Airport (DXB) has retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international travel, with airlines scheduling 4.54 million seats on international flights during August, according to data from aviation analytics provider OAG.
The figure, equivalent to approximately nine million seats in both directions, places Dubai ahead of all other global airports for international seat capacity.
According to OAG, Dubai International recorded a 4.4% increase in scheduled international seat capacity compared with July, representing an additional 190,000 seats month-on-month as airlines expanded operations to accommodate peak summer travel demand.
London Heathrow ranked second globally with 4.26 million seats, followed by Seoul Incheon International Airport with 3.95 million seats.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport placed fourth with 3.85 million seats, while Istanbul Airport ranked fifth with 3.80 million seats.
The increase in capacity at Dubai International comes amid continued growth in airline operations and strong demand for international travel during the summer season.
Dubai International also maintained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic in 2025 for the 12th consecutive year, according to the Airports Council International’s annual report.
The airport welcomed 95.2 million passengers in 2025, marking a 3.1% increase compared with the previous year and making 2025 the busiest year in its history.
Growth has continued into 2026, with Dubai International handling 18.6 million passengers during the first quarter of the year, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.
The latest OAG figures highlight Dubai’s continued strength as a global gateway connecting international markets and supporting the emirate’s growing tourism, trade and business sectors.
Source: Emirates 24|7