DXB handles 751,340 tonnes of cargo in H1

Dubai International (DXB) handled 751,340 tonnes of cargo in the first half of 2026, down 28.7% from the same period last year. Cargo volumes reached 351,716 tonnes in the second quarter, as operations continued to recover after a difficult start to the year. The cargo performance comes as airline networks and flight schedules rebuild across Dubai. The return of international connectivity is important for cargo operators, as more flights support the movement of goods through the airport and provide links to key global markets.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: "The first half of the year tested every part of the aviation system, and demonstrated our resilience. As capacity steadily returns across the board, demand is responding immediately. That is particularly important for DXB, where international transfers account for a significant share of traffic. Strong performance across the airport community in recent months has left us well placed to accommodate returning demand, work closely with our airline partners, and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global hub."

DXB recorded 150,600 aircraft movements during the first half, including 62,500 in Q2. By the end of June, the airport was connected to 217 destinations across 99 countries through almost 50 international airlines.

Cargo volumes in Q2 accounted for almost half of the H1 total, with 351,716 tonnes handled during the period. The airport’s cargo activity is closely linked to its international flight network and the availability of capacity across key routes.

DXB is also continuing to improve its operational systems and capacity as activity rebuilds. The airport expects stronger momentum in the second half of the year, supported by the recovery of airline networks and frequencies.

The H1 cargo figures reflect the impact of the challenging operating environment earlier in the year, while Q2 volumes show that cargo activity remained significant through the second quarter.