Airports in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates recorded significant growth in passenger traffic and cargo volumes in 2025.
This was driven by rising travel demand, expanded route networks and continued infrastructure investments in both airports.
Sharjah International Airport handled 19.48 million passengers last year, a 13.9% increase from 17.1 million in 2024, according to the Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA). Aircraft movements rose 8.3% year on year to 116,657 flights, while air cargo volumes increased to 204,323 metric tons, up from 195,909 metric tons in 2024.
Ali Salim Al Midfa, chairman of SAA, said the results reflect the “success” of the airport’s long-term strategy.
“The steady rise in passenger and cargo volumes aligns with Sharjah Airport’s goals to increase capacity, enhance service quality and support the emirate’s broader economic and tourism ambitions,” Al Midfa said.
He added that ongoing investment in infrastructure, digital systems and sustainability initiatives remains central to the airport’s growth.
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport also reported growth, having received more than 1 million passengers for the first time in 2025, with traffic reaching 1,000,303.
The airport expanded its scheduled international network in 2025 to 16 destinations, including India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Russia and Egypt.
It also implemented a number of development projects, including upgraded passenger facilities.
These developments transition Ras Al Khaimah International Airport toward being a major regional airport.
While Dubai International Airport (DXB) remains the world’s busiest, with 5.50 million seats reported in January 2026—up 4% year on year according to OAG Schedules Analyser—Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are strengthening their roles in regional and international connectivity due to growing tourism and business travel demand in both emirates.
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