Dubai International Airport to target 28 million passengers in 2021?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is reportedly aiming to reach 28 million passengers in an anticipated growth in international air travel demand.

"People think it will trickle back. I don't believe that. I believe it will be an absolute flood of demand when people get the confidence to travel again," Dubai Airports Chief Executive Paul Griffiths told Reuters.

“The airport, one of the world's busiest, could see over 40 million passengers this year if it was really, really lucky,” Griffiths said. “We're comfortable with that mid-range of about 28 (million).”

From June 24, we will be reopening our Terminal 1 and Concourse D facilities, so we can safely, smoothly and easily welcome even more flights and guests through our airport. Check back for details on airlines flying to/from T1, and the retail and dining options available pic.twitter.com/6fabEuBhud

— Dubai International (@DXB) June 20, 2021

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set to reopen its Terminal 1 and Concourse D facilities beginning June 24, 2021, as the pandemic-related travel restrictions are easing amid increased vaccination rates.

The reopening of the facilities will enable the gradual return of 40 plus international carriers that are currently operating at Terminals 2 and 3 back to their home terminal at DXB airport.

In the first quarter of 2021, DXB reported passenger traffic of 5.75 million, a 67.8% decrease from the same period in 2020.