PTI

Dubai, Jan 11: Dubai International was the world's fastest growing airport in 2007 in terms of international passenger throughput, handling 34.34 million travellers in a record growth of 19.31 per cent, its operator said.

Passenger throughput at Dubai International Airport is expected to reach 40 million in 2008.

The record growth in 2007 over the previous year is likely to propel Dubai International higher on Airports Council International's list of the world's busiest airports in terms of international passengers.

In 2006, it was ranked 10th on the list with a passenger throughput of 28.78 million, a statement from the airport's operator said.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Chairman of Dubai Airports, said, "Dubai International's growth is a reflection of Dubai's robust economy, and its rising popularity as an international commercial and tourism hub."

The high growth rate in passenger throughput registered in 2007 means that for the sixth consecutive year, Dubai International has maintained an average growth rate of well over 15 per cent.

Connected to over 205 destinations across six continents through 120 airlines, Dubai International accounts for over 27 per cent of all passenger and aircraft movement in the Middle East and Africa region.

The airport will open its new Terminal and an associated facility in the middle of 2008 and another A380 specific facility in 2009, tripling its total capacity.