The List of International Airports in UAE
The United Arab Emirates is home to several international airports, such as Dubai International Airport (DXB), Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH), and Sharjah International Airport (SHJ). Apart from this, numerous other international airports in UAE experience high passenger traffic, such as Al Maktoum International (DWC), Ras Al Khaimah (RKT), Fujairah (FJR), and Al Ain (AAN).
There is no doubt that the UAE accommodates high-end aviation infrastructure. The nation connects millions of passengers to global destinations every year. Many people wonder how many international airports in UAE, the country presents a range of options across all its emirates. These prominent airports play a major role in boosting tourism, trade, and the growth of businesses.
Moreover, they also incorporate ultra-modern terminals and provide efficient cargo handling solutions. Let’s take a closer look at these international airports in UAE.
List Of Top 10 International Airports in UAE:
For people wondering how many airports in UAE, many international airports in the UAE are strategically advanced and handle both cargo and passenger traffic easily. Here is a complete overview:
| Airport Name | Emirate | Location |
| Dubai International Airport | Dubai | Al Garhoud |
| Zayed International Airport | Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi City |
| Sharjah International Airport | Sharjah | Sharjah City |
| Al Maktoum International Airport | Dubai | Dubai South |
| Ras Al Khaimah International Airport | Ras Al Khaimah | Ras Al Khaimah |
| Fujairah International Airport | Fujairah | Fujairah City |
| Al Ain International Airport | Abu Dhabi | Al Ain |
| Al Bateen Executive Airport | Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi |
| Sir Bani Yas Airport | Abu Dhabi | Sir Bani Yas Island |
| Delma Island Airport | Abu Dhabi | Delma Island |
1. Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Dubai International Airport (DXB), located in the Al Garhoud district, is one of the busiest international airports in UAE. It is also the world’s top airport that experiences immense international passenger traffic. The airport has three main terminals, with Terminal 3 dedicated to Emirates Airlines and serving as one of the world’s largest airport terminals.
Moreover, as one of the largest airports, it handles more than 80 million passengers each year and provides worldwide flight connections. It offers several facilities to passengers, like luxury lounges, duty-free shopping, and advanced baggage systems, which establish the airport as an international aviation center. Travelers to Dubai can partner with the best tour & travel agency for Dubai visa, to get smooth transit support through DXB.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | DXB |
| Opened | 1960 |
| Ranking | One of the world’s busiest airports for international passengers |
| Main Airline Hub | Emirates |
| Terminals | 3 Terminals (T1, T2, T3) |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 5 km from central Dubai |
| Transport Options | Metro, Taxi, Bus, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Duty-Free Shops, Restaurants, Lounges, Hotels |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout the airport |
| Baggage Services | 24/7 available |
| Nearby Hotels | Dubai International Hotel, Holiday Inn Express |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
2. Zayed International Airport (AUH)
Zayed International Airport (AUH), earlier known as the Abu Dhabi International Airport, serves as a primary airport within the United Arab Emirates. The airport recently opened the Midfield Terminal as a new facility that allows the airport to process more than 45 million passengers every year.
It serves as the hub for Etihad Airways, which provides advanced technology and biometric identification systems and premium lounge areas. The airport’s strategic location provides efficient transportation connections between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Therefore, it provides top-of-the-line infrastructure for both passenger and cargo services.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | AUH |
| Former Name | Abu Dhabi International Airport |
| Renamed | 2024 |
| Ranking | One of the major aviation hubs in the Middle East |
| Main Airline Hub | Etihad Airways |
| Terminals | Midfield Terminal (Main Terminal) |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 30 km from Abu Dhabi city |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Bus, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Duty-Free Shops, Restaurants, Lounges, Transit Hotel |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout the airport |
| Baggage Services | 24/7 available |
| Nearby Hotels | Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Airport |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
3. Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
Sharjah International Airport (SHH) is another prominent contender in the list of international airports in UAE. It is situated 13 kilometers from the center of Sharjah city. The airport functions as the primary base for Air Arabia, the region’s leading low-cost carrier.
Moreover, this airport can process more than 13 million passengers each year. Its dedicated freight terminal provides effective cargo operations. The airport is suitable for budget travelers and logistics companies because of its affordable prices and efficient operations, and its ability to reach more than 60 destinations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sharjah, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | SHJ |
| Opened | 1977 |
| Ranking | One of the leading low-cost travel hubs in the region |
| Main Airline Hub | Air Arabia |
| Terminals | 1 Main Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 13 km from Sharjah city |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Bus, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Duty-Free Shops, Restaurants, Prayer Rooms, Lounges |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout the airport |
| Baggage Services | 24/7 available |
| Nearby Hotels | Centro Sharjah Hotel |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
4. Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), situated in Dubai World Central, operates as a developing airport that will become the biggest airport worldwide after it completes its construction. The airport handles cargo operations and some passenger flights at present and will grow to manage more than 160 million passengers each year.
DWC serves as an addition to DXB, which also serves as a component of Dubai’s long-term aviation development plan. The airport provides extensive runways and logistical facilities, which enable direct access to Jebel Ali Port for worldwide trading operations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Dubai South, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | DWC |
| Type | International Airport |
| Opened | 2010 |
| Also Known As | Dubai World Central (DWC) |
| Role | Secondary airport to Dubai and future mega aviation hub |
| Terminals | Passenger Terminal and Cargo Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 37 km from central Dubai |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Bus, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Basic Duty-Free Shops, Restaurants, Lounges |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout the airport |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Areas | Dubai South, Expo City Dubai |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
5. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT)
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT) serves the northern emirate area and is one of the vital international airports in UAE for regional travel. The airport has only a single terminal, which services both passengers and cargo operations. It is located at a distance of 18 kms from downtown.
In addition to that, the airport supports charter services and low-cost airlines, which help to boost tourism in Ras Al Khaimah. It is increasing its operational capacity to attract more international airlines and expand its yearly passenger handling capabilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | RKT |
| Opened | 1976 |
| Role | Regional airport supporting tourism and cargo operations |
| Terminals | 1 Passenger Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 18 km from Ras Al Khaimah city |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Basic Duty-Free Shops, Restaurants, Lounges |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available in select areas |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Beaches, Resorts, Jebel Jais |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
6. Fujairah International Airport (FJR)
Fujairah International Airport (FJR) stands as a strategic east airport in UAE because it operates outside the Strait of Hormuz maritime area. The airport deals mainly with cargo shipments and private flights.
Therefore, there is limited access for passengers. It has a single runway that can accommodate large aircraft and offer refueling facilities. Therefore, the airport serves as a crucial link for logistics and shipping operations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Fujairah, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | FJR |
| Opened | 1987 |
| Role | Primarily cargo operations with limited passenger services |
| Terminals | 1 Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 1 km from Fujairah city |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Basic Services, Lounge, Cargo Handling |
| Free Wi-Fi | Limited availability |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Fujairah Beach, Al Hajar Mountains |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
7. Al Ain International Airport (AAN)
Al Ain International Airport (AAN) is located approximately 18 km northwest of Al Ain city and is a growing international airport in UAE. The airport has one terminal, which operates mainly regional flights and handles cargo and pilot training flights.
The airport provides better service than major airports because it has fewer passengers and operational capacity. This specific airport plays a significant role in supporting the aviation needs of the eastern Abu Dhabi region and future expansion plans.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Al Ain, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | AAN |
| Opened | 1994 |
| Role | Regional passenger flights, pilot training, and cargo operations |
| Terminals | 1 Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 18 km from Al Ain city |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Car Rental |
| Facilities | Basic passenger services, lounge, parking |
| Free Wi-Fi | Limited availability |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Al Ain Zoo, Jebel Hafeet |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
8. Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI)
Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), located in Abu Dhabi, is the Middle East’s only dedicated business aviation airport and a unique UAE airport. This airport provides private jet access to VIP passengers and offers them premium services through its executive lounges and swift customs procedures.
It also supports high-end corporate travel and government operations. Therefore, the specialized infrastructure of the airport provides travelers with better security and operational efficiency, which makes it the top business aviation destination in the area.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | AZI |
| Opened | 1969 |
| Role | Exclusive executive airport for private jets and VIP flights |
| Terminals | 1 Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Approximately 10 km from Abu Dhabi city center |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Private Car, Chauffeur Services |
| Facilities | VIP lounges, private terminals, aircraft handling services |
| Free Wi-Fi | Available |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche Beach |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |
9. Sir Bani Yas Airport (XSB)
Sir Bani Yas Airport (XSB) is a niche airport and serves the island of Sir Bani Yas in Abu Dhabi. This airport in UAE supports tourism. It has a short runway and handles charter and private flights.
Moreover, it provides access to luxury resorts and wildlife experiences on the island. Therefore, the small island operates as a vital environmental travel center that provides unique travel options throughout the United Arab Emirates.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | XSB |
| Opened | 2008 |
| Role | Serves tourism to Sir Bani Yas Island, mainly private and charter flights |
| Terminals | 1 Small Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Located on Sir Bani Yas Island (remote from mainland cities) |
| Transport Options | Resort transfers, private vehicles |
| Facilities | Basic passenger services, small lounge |
| Free Wi-Fi | Limited availability |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Sir Bani Yas Wildlife Reserve, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts |
| Operating Hours | On-demand (not 24-hour commercial operations) |
10. Delma Island Airport (ZDY)
Delma Island Airport (ZDY) is located on Delma Island in Abu Dhabi and is one of the smaller yet important international airports in UAE for regional connectivity. The airport provides service for domestic flights and limited charter flights, which allow remote island communities to reach the mainland.
The airport has basic infrastructure with a single runway and terminal. Thus, it plays a crucial role in transportation, supporting residents, tourism, and essential services on the island.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Delma Island, United Arab Emirates |
| Airport Code | ZDY |
| Opened | 2000 |
| Role | Serves domestic passenger flights and local connectivity |
| Terminals | 1 Small Terminal |
| Distance from City Center | Located on Delma Island (close to local settlements) |
| Transport Options | Taxi, Local transport |
| Facilities | Basic passenger services, waiting area |
| Free Wi-Fi | Limited availability |
| Baggage Services | Available |
| Nearby Attractions | Delma Island Beaches, Dalma Museum |
| Operating Hours | Limited (based on flight schedules) |
Conclusion
The United Arab Emirates operates an advanced aviation network, which has both large international and smaller regional airports. If you are wondering how many international airport in UAE, the country is aiming to expand its infrastructure to fulfill growing demand.
Each airport serves a specific function, which includes processing millions of passengers, handling freight, and providing services to travelers. The international airports in UAE enhance the country’s global connections while generating economic development and establishing the nation as a major Middle Eastern aviation center.
For travelers who are planning to visit the UAE, partnering with the best tour and travel agency for Dubai visa can be a good choice for easy travel planning and airport coordination.
Check: Airport to Airport Visa Change Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many international airports are there in the UAE?
Many people often wonder how many international airports in UAE, the answer is that the UAE has around 10 prominent international and regional airports. These ensure easy passenger travel, cargo operations, and tourism.
What is the most popular airport in the UAE?
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the most popular international airports in UAE that handles extensive passenger traffic and provides easy connectivity across hundreds of global destinations.
Which airport is best for international travel in the UAE?
Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport are best for international travel due to their advanced terminals and extensive global flight networks.
Which is the largest airport in the UAE?
Dubai International Airport is the largest international UAE airport. However, Al Maktoum International Airport is planning to become the biggest in the future expansion.
Which airport is best for cargo operations in the UAE?
Sharjah International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport are best for cargo operations due to top-of-the-line logistics and freight handling facilities.
Are UAE airports open 24 hours?
Yes, most UAE airports operate 24 hours, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These airports handle continuous international flights, cargo operations, and passenger services daily.
