Dubai’s transport infrastructure ranks ‘among world’s best’

Dubai’s reputation as a global aviation powerhouse has helped the UAE secure the top spot for air transport infrastructure in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) latest Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024.

The biennial report assessed the performance of 119 economies across key tourism and transport indicators. The UAE outperformed global aviation leaders including the United States, the Netherlands, Singapore and the UK to claim the top position for air transport.

The WEF attributed the UAE’s success to major investments in aviation infrastructure, led by Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world’s busiest for international passengers, and Emirates, the world’s largest international airline.

DXB extends global leadership

In 2024, DXB welcomed a record 92.3 million passengers, surpassing the previous all-time high of 89.1 million passengers set in 2018. The milestone saw DXB retain its position as the world’s busiest international airport for a 10th consecutive year, according to Airports Council International (ACI).

Over the past decade, DXB has accommodated more than 700 million passengers across 3.3 million flights. Operator Dubai Airports remains confident the emirate will surpass the 100 million annual passenger milestone in 2027, aided by the $35 billion expansion of Dubai World Central, which is set to be the world’s largest airport upon completion.

The UAE also ranked in the global top 10 for several other infrastructure categories in the WEF Index, including road quality (5th), port infrastructure (9th) and public transport (10th).

Strategic investments boost Dubai’s reputation

The WEF praised the country’s integrated mobility network, citing Dubai’s investments in smart urban transport, including the driverless Dubai Metro system and ongoing development of autonomous vehicle technology.

The country’s advanced logistics capabilities and efficient customs procedures also contributed to its overall performance, supporting broader goals outlined in Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and the UAE Centennial 2071 vision.

Dubai welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors in 2024, up 9% year-on-year, contributing to a benchmark performance by the city’s hotel sector. Despite increased capacity, the citywide average occupancy rate reached 78.2%, while RevPAR and ADR also rose year-on-year.

With continued investment in aviation and transport, the UAE is expected to remain a global benchmark for infrastructure development, supporting future growth across tourism, real estate, and logistics.