Emirates Crosses 90 Million Passenger Milestone on India-Dubai Route Since 1985

Picture Credits: Emirates

INDIA – UAE: Emirates Airline has achieved a significant milestone, transporting over 90 million passengers between Dubai and India since initiating operations in 1985. This achievement aligns with the recent official visit to India by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE. The visit highlights the strengthening ties between the two nations and emphasizes the increasing significance of the India-Dubai air corridor.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations and Air Connectivity

Sheikh Hamdan’s visit emphasized the robust relationship between India and the UAE. Accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials reaffirmed the strategic partnership between the two countries. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that India was among Emirates’ initial destinations, serving over 90 million passengers over four decades. He remarked that the visit signifies a further advancement in their shared vision for growth and innovation.

Currently, Emirates operates 167 weekly flights connecting Dubai to nine Indian cities, playing a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity, trade, and tourism. The Government of Dubai Media Office reports that six major carriers now operate 538 weekly flights connecting Dubai to 23 key Indian destinations. This expansion reflects the surging demand for travel and the strategic alignment between the two nations in enhancing economic and cultural exchanges.

Surge in Passenger Traffic and Tourism Growth

India remains the largest destination market for Dubai International Airport (DXB). In 2024, 12 million out of DXB’s 92.3 million total passengers traveled between India and Dubai, underscoring the corridor’s sustained popularity for both leisure and business travelers. ​

In 2024, Dubai experienced a notable increase in tourism from South Asia, welcoming 3.14 million overnight visitors from the region. India contributed the largest share of these visitors, underscoring the country’s significant role in Dubai’s tourism sector. This influx highlights the strengthening people-to-people ties and the mutual interest in cultural and economic exchanges. The ongoing expansion of Emirates’ network and the broader aviation partnership are expected to further enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global aviation and commercial hub.

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