The busiest airport in the world. Dubai takes the crown from the USA

DXB ranks first among the world's busiest airports. According to data from OAG, a company specializing in analyzing the aviation industry, Dubai airport will serve as many as 5.5 million seats in January. This allowed him to overtake Hartsfield-Jackson-Atlanta, the current leader from across the Atlantic.

Position breakout American airport, which currently has 4.9 million seatsallowed the new leader to comfortably place on the podium. In third place is the airport Haneda in Tokyo.

OAG (Official Aviation Guide) Ranking is characterized by the fact that it is based not on the actual number of passengers, but on the planned number of seats on board. The leading demand indicator shows expectations for high passenger traffic, Aviationa2z.com reports.

Atlanta, whose traffic relies mainly on domestic connections in the US, sees seasonal drops in winter. Dubai, on the other hand, as a global transfer hub, benefits from growing international and tourist traffic during its peak season.

Top 5 ranking (January 2026):

1. Dubai (DXB)

2. Atlanta (ATL)

3. Tokyo Haneda (HND)

4. Guangzhou (CAN)

5. Shanghai Pudong (PVG)

Dubai is one of the most frequently chosen destinations

Dubai still remains one of the most frequently chosen destinations among tourists in the world. Additionally, its high transit traffic generates further revenues – DXB is also a global transfer hub for Asia, the Americas and Europe. Additionally, Emirates airline is one of the largest in the world.

DXB ended the year on records. In December 2025, the airport served approximately 8.8 million passengers. New year, same successes – On January 3, the airport served 324,000 people (a new one-day record).

They are leaders in Europe Istanbul Airport (4.28 million seats in January 2026) and London Heathrow (4.25 million seats).

prepared by WM

Source: