The Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) reported a significant increase in passenger traffic at Sharjah International Airport, with a total of 17,101,725 passengers welcomed in 2024. This figure represents an impressive 11.4% growth compared to the 15,356,212 passengers recorded in 2023. Additionally, the airport experienced a rise in flight activity, with the total number of flights reaching 107,760, marking a 9.5% increase from the 98,433 flights the previous year.

Cargo operations at the airport also saw remarkable success, with cargo handling volumes increasing by 38.6%. In total, the airport handled 195,909 tonnes of cargo in 2024, up from 141,358 tonnes in 2023. Furthermore, the airport facilitated 14,035 tonnes through sea-air cargo operations, demonstrating its pivotal role in the logistics sector.

According to WAM, Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, stated that these record-breaking results underscore the airport’s position as a global hub for air transport and logistics. He attributed this success to the airport’s dedication to providing high-quality services and innovative travel experiences, which align with its strategic goal of accommodating 25 million passengers annually by 2027. Al Midfa also noted that the SAA is focused on enhancing airport facilities, streamlining operations, and promoting sustainability in line with the UAE’s aviation sector objectives.

Sheikh Faisal bin Saoud Al Qassimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority, highlighted that the growth in passenger numbers reflects Sharjah’s significant advancements in tourism, economic development, and investment. He emphasized that these achievements are supported by modern infrastructure, progressive governance, and strong legislative frameworks. To further enhance passenger experience, Sharjah Airport expanded its network of flight routes in 2024, adding seven new direct destinations to various capitals and cities.

Air Arabia launched direct flights from Sharjah Airport to several locations, including Warsaw and Krakow in Poland, Athens in Greece, Vienna in Austria, and Malé in the Maldives. Additionally, Fly Oya introduced direct flights to and from Tripoli, Libya. The number of international airlines operating at Sharjah Airport also increased, with six new airlines beginning services, including Fly Jinnah from Pakistan, UR Airlines from Iraq, Fly Oya from Libya, AJet from Türkiye, Flynas from Saudi Arabia, and Iraqi Airways.

To enhance its air cargo capabilities, Sharjah Airport attracted new airlines such as Kenya Airways, which commenced cargo operations from Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania. UPS also started weekly routes connecting the Far East, Sharjah, and Europe. Furthermore, Tanzania Airlines launched regular flights from Dar es Salaam to Sharjah via Kenya, while Qatar Airways Cargo inaugurated new routes between Doha and Sharjah. In support of Sharjah’s strategic food security initiatives, the airport facilitated the import of 2,200 cattle through 13 dedicated flights for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock’s Mleiha Dairy Farm project.