The event was held at Atlantis The Royal on October 29 and brought together representatives from airlines, ground services, retail, dining, hospitality and transport companies operating across Dubai International (DXB).

The gathering highlighted the role of these partners in maintaining airport services and connecting Dubai with destinations worldwide, particularly during a challenging year marked by changing operating conditions and airspace restrictions.

According to Dubai Airports, airlines adjusted their schedules and supported affected passengers, while commercial partners continued providing services despite unpredictable passenger numbers. Their combined efforts helped maintain airport operations and service standards during periods of uncertainty.

Eugene Barry, Chief Commercial Officer of Dubai Airports, said the partners had maintained high standards and provided consistent service and hospitality throughout the year.

He said their collaboration helped passengers and staff navigate uncertainty and created a foundation for growth. Barry added that the partnerships extended beyond commercial relationships, with each partner contributing to the overall experience and character of DXB.

Dubai Airport Welcomes 31.5 Million Passengers

Dubai International Airport welcomed 31.5 million passengers during the first half of 2026 and remains on track to exceed 70 million by the end of the year.

Dubai Airports said the performance reflected the commitment of airline partners to restoring capacity and connectivity, supported by coordination across the airport.

Robert Whitehouse, Vice President of Research at Dubai Airports, said committing aircraft, crews and resources during a challenging global environment required significant decisions from airline partners.

He highlighted the cooperation involved in adjusting flight schedules as operating conditions changed, noting that schedule coordination, which normally takes place once a season, had to be repeated during the year.

Whitehouse said airline networks connected Dubai with individual markets while collectively supporting the airport's wider global reach.

Focus on Passenger Experience and Tourism Growth

The event also featured a discussion between Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, on the outlook for Dubai's tourism and aviation sectors.

Dubai Airports said it continues to invest in terminal facilities and operational improvements to enhance passenger movement and make journeys through DXB more convenient.

The improvements are aimed at maximising the airport's existing capacity while responding to changing passenger expectations.

As part of the event, each partner received a scale model of DXB's air traffic control tower in recognition of its contribution to the airport's operations and overall performance.

The recipients included airline and ground services operators, as well as companies working in retail, dining, hospitality, transport and other commercial sectors.

Dubai Airports Prepares for Winter 2026

The gathering also looked ahead to Dubai's busy winter travel season, when an international calendar of business, sporting and entertainment events is expected to attract visitors from around the world.

Dubai Airports said it would continue working with its partners to strengthen connectivity, maintain passenger services and support the city's position as a global aviation and tourism hub.

The airport and its partners are also focused on ending 2026 strongly and preparing for further opportunities in 2027.