Hospitality

In a boost to Dubai’s GDP, DXB sets record with 44.9 million guests in first half

Published

1 year ago

August 7, 2024

Dubai International (DXB) has raised the bar on its contribution to Dubai’s economy by welcoming a record 44.9 million guests during the first six months of this year.

Marking an 8% year-on-year increase in guests, DXB has established its position as a globally preferred gateway, boosted by strong connectivity with key international markets, while reaffirming its central role in supporting Dubai’s economic growth.

Dubai attracted 9.31 million international visitors in H1 2024, reflecting its burgeoning appeal as a global hub for talent, enterprises, and investors. These figures, recently released by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, tie in closely with the growth of Dubai’s GDP, which reached AED 115 billion in Q1 2024, up 3.2% from the previous year.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented, “The record-breaking performance in the first half of this year highlights our strategic importance as a global aviation hub. Dubai is at the forefront of global cities when it comes to attracting talent, businesses, and tourists from around the world, and we are proud to be the gateway to the city, driving growth and enhancing the airport experience for every guest. Strong demand from key source markets such as India and the gradual but certain resurgence of markets such as China, have been instrumental in our success. We have a very optimistic outlook for the remainder of the year, and we are on track to break records with 91.8 million annual guests forecasted for 2024.”

Established and growing markets

The size and significance of DXB’s established and growing markets including South Asia, Western Europe, the GCC, and East Asia has played a crucial role in the airport’s continued success. In the first half of 2024, India remains DXB’s top destination country with 6.1 million passengers, while traffic from China exceeded 1 million passengers, representing 80% year-on-year growth and a 90% recovery compared to 2019 levels.

DXB’s top destination countries after India are Saudi Arabia with 3.7 million guests, the United Kingdom with 2.9 million guests and Pakistan with 2.3 million guests. Other significant markets include the United States (1.7 million guests), Russia (1.3 million), and Germany (1.3 million). The top three city destinations were London with 1.8 million guests, Riyadh (1.6 million), and Mumbai (1.2 million).

DXB is connected to 269 destinations across 106 countries, served by 101 international airlines, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading global business and logistics hub.

Key figures

The total number of flight movements reached 216,000, a 7.2% increase compared to the first six months of last year. The busiest month was January with 7.9 million guests.

DXB efficiently managed 39.7 million bags in the first half of the year, a 6.7% year-on-year increase, marking the highest-ever baggage volume handled in the first half of the year. Highlighting the airport’s commitment to operational excellence, impressively, 92% of all arriving baggage was delivered to guests terminating at DXB within 45 minutes of the aircraft arriving on stand.

The average number of guests per aircraft movement was 213, and the load factor remained steady at 77% compared to H1 2023. Direct traffic accounted for 56% of the total, witnessing a slight increase, while transfer traffic comprised 44%.

Meanwhile, during the second quarter of 2024, the airport saw 21.8 million guests, an increase of 7.5% compared to the same period last year and total movements were recorded at 107,000.

Enhancing the guest experience

As part of Dubai Airports’ continuous efforts to enhance the guest experience, with a focus on operational excellence and seamless travel experiences, new developments will be rolled out in the coming months. These include colour-coded car parks for easier navigation, a new signature aroma in Al Majlis to create a welcoming atmosphere befitting the VIP facility, and an advanced queue management system.

The real-time monitoring system used at DXB helps the airport anticipate and prevent queues from building up across touchpoints, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey for all guests. During H1, 98% of guests experienced less than 10 minutes of wait times at departure passport control and the same percentage waited less than 15 minutes at arrivals passport control. 95% of guests at departure security screening waited less than three minutes.

Hospitality

Orange Hub Unveils Flagship Family Entertainment Center at WTC Mall, Abu Dhabi

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Orange Hub, the high-energy entertainment concept by IdeaCrate, proudly announces the grand opening of its fifth UAE center—and third in Abu Dhabi—at WTC Mall. This flagship venue cements Orange Hub’s position as a rising leader in the UAE’s family entertainment sector, bringing a new era of immersive fun, adrenaline-filled games, and elevated dining to the heart of downtown Abu Dhabi.

Located in a central, high-traffic hub, Orange Hub WTC Mall introduces next-generation attractions not seen in other branches, including a four-lane interactive bowling alley, a state-of-the-art Laser Tag Avenue, a motion-sensitive Pixel Floor Game, and a giant volcano slide in the expanded soft play area. Families, teens, and young adults can also enjoy an expansive arcade and carnival games with high-value redemption rewards.

For the first time, Orange Hub debuts a fully reimagined Orange Café, offering an elevated dining experience with a robust menu designed for comfort, variety, and style—perfect for families and youth looking for the ultimate hangout.

Signature weekly promotions return, including:

Hi5 Tuesday: AED 5 games (select games, excluding bowling and laser tag)
Half Price Thursday: 50% off blue reader games
Double Dirham Friday: Double credit on spend

Shifa Yusuffali, CEO of IdeaCrate said: “Our mission is to create a next-generation family entertainment center where thrill meets play and every visit feels like a win. With cutting-edge attractions, immersive games, and our signature ‘Play. Win. Feast. Repeat.’ experience, Orange Hub is designed for kids, teens, and families to come together, have fun, and make lasting memories—all under one vibrant roof.”

Orange Hub at WTC Mall is now open and ready to welcome families, youth, and anyone seeking the best in urban leisure culture. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual outing, or a new spot to feast and play, Orange Hub promises a rewarding experience for all.

Hospitality

RIVA BEACH CLUB WELCOMES THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH UNFORGETTABLE BEACHFRONT EVENTS AND EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Infinity pool overlooking beach and Dubai skyline with palm trees and sun loungers at beachfront resort

The festive season in Dubai is here, and there’s no better place to embrace the celebrations than Riva Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah. Blending golden sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed spirit, Riva is turning up the fun with a sparkling lineup of events, from weekly experiences to Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Early bird offers are available until 10 November 2025 – because who doesn’t love a good discount?

Christmas Day Brunch – Celebrate in True Riva Style

Gather your loved ones for a spectacular Christmas feast that blends beachside charm with festive cheer. Indulge in an unlimited buffet of holiday classics and sweet treats, all paired with free-flowing drinks and live entertainment. Little ones will be thrilled with the dedicated kids’ fun zone and crafts, while adults can toast the day with complimentary wine on arrival.

For those looking to welcome 2026 in style, the New Year’s Eve Celebration promises a vibrant beachfront evening with panoramic skyline views, live music, festive décor, and free-flowing drinks under the stars. It’s the ultimate way to ring in the New Year with friends and family right on the sand!

In addition to its festive offerings, Riva Beach Club continues to host a variety of weekly experiences designed for every guest.

UAE Resident Offer (Every Monday): Start the week with sunshine and flavour. Residents enjoy 50% off the à la carte menu, perfect for a midweek pause with Mediterranean favourites and waterfront vibes.

Mankind Tuesdays (Every Tuesday): Turn a regular Tuesday into an adventure. Men get full beach and pool access, curated dining, up to 50% off water sports rentals with Ignite Water Sports, and 30% off at Kalm Grooming Salon – all for AED 99 per person. Paddleboards, kayaks, and e-foils bring adrenaline and fun, making it the ultimate weekday escape.

The Great Family Weekend (Saturday & Sunday): Weekends just got better. Families can enjoy pool and beach access, curated dining, and kids’ entertainment. The package is AED 399 for two adults and AED 99 per child, with night swim access until 10 PM, because the fun shouldn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Located along Palm Jumeirah’s scenic coastline, Riva Beach Club continues to define the city’s beach lifestyle. With Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, relaxed energy, and stunning views, it remains a favourite destination to celebrate, dine, and unwind for all ages.

Hospitality

CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON AT VOCO BONNINGTON DUBAI

Published

13 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Chef cooking marinated meat and vegetables on a flat-top grill at a teppanyaki restaurant

‘Tis the season to sparkle and voco Bonnington Dubai is wrapping up the year with a line-up of festive feasts and celebrations that promise to make this holiday season your most memorable yet. From lavish brunches and glittering gala dinners to gourmet takeaways that bring the magic home, every moment at voco Bonnington is designed to be merry, bright and full of flavour!

Festive Takeaways – A Feast to Remember (with a 20% Early Bird Offer!)

Why cook when you can celebrate? This year, voco Bonnington Dubai is serving up the ultimate festive feast to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Choose between a succulent roast turkey with all the trimmings (AED 849) or a perfectly cooked roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and rich gravy (AED 549) – both crafted by the hotel’s culinary team to perfection.
Make it extra jolly with the Early Bird 20% discount on all takeaway orders placed before 10th December – the perfect excuse to start celebrating early!

Christmas Day Brunch at The Cavendish Restaurant

Unwrap joy this Christmas Day with a spectacular international buffet spread, live entertainment, and a festive atmosphere that feels like home – only better. Whether you’re toasting with bubbles or keeping it family-style, The Cavendish sets the scene for a day of good food, great company and endless cheer.

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner – Countdown in Style

Say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026 with an evening to remember at The Cavendish. Enjoy a decadent international buffet, live entertainment, and the perfect setting to toast to new beginnings as the clock strikes midnight.

Festive Group Bookings – Gather, Feast, and Celebrate Together

Whether it’s an office party or a year-end get-together with friends, The Cavendish Restaurant is the perfect spot for festive group celebrations. Enjoy a specially curated menu starting from AED 149 per person (minimum 20 guests) and raise a glass to togetherness in true voco style.

This season, let voco Bonnington Dubai take care of the details so you can focus on what really matters — celebrating with the people you love, in a place where every moment feels special.