India, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia Lead Rapid Aviation Growth Powering Unmatched Connectivity Across Asia-Pacific and Middle East Airports

Published on December 12, 2025

The aviation industry in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East is entering a period of unprecedented expansion, with India, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia emerging as the key drivers of growth. Rising passenger demand, significant airport infrastructure investments, and expanding airline networks are transforming the region into a global aviation powerhouse. Airports are scaling up capacity, modernizing terminals, and adding new runways to accommodate the surge in both domestic and international travelers. Forecasts indicate that passenger traffic across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East will grow steadily through 2028, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and reshaping air connectivity in one of the world’s most dynamic travel regions.

The forecast anticipates Asia-Pacific airports to achieve a 4.8% annual growth in passenger numbers, while the Middle East is expected to reach 5.4% per year. These gains reflect strong economic foundations, increasing travel demand, and the expansion of airport infrastructure, even as geopolitical uncertainties and supply-chain challenges continue to affect certain markets.

Leading Markets Fueling Expansion

India, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia are identified as the leading growth engines. India and Vietnam are spearheading recovery in Asia-Pacific, boosting both domestic travel and international connectivity, while Saudi Arabia is scaling up its airport infrastructure to strengthen its position as a major Middle Eastern hub.

Airports across both regions are responding to the rising demand with ambitious investment plans, modernization projects, and enhanced operational efficiency. Policies supporting air transport liberalization, visa simplification, and streamlined slot allocation are expected to further accelerate growth and economic activity.

Asia-Pacific Regional Overview

Passenger traffic in Asia-Pacific is projected to surpass pre-pandemic levels in most markets by 2026, supported by new airline routes, additional aircraft, and expanded airport capacity. Regional forecasts include:

• Southern Asia: The fastest-growing subregion, with a projected annual growth rate of 6.3%, led primarily by India’s domestic market. By 2028, India is expected to add 100 million domestic passengers, underpinned by long-range aircraft that facilitate international travel.
• South-eastern Asia: Expected to grow 5.1% annually, with Vietnam leading at 8.1%. Thailand and Indonesia are projected to increase by roughly 4% per year. Regional capacity remains slightly below 2019 levels in 2025, reflecting aircraft delivery delays and reduced outbound travel from China.
• Eastern Asia: Annual growth is forecast at 4.3%, with international travel expanding 6.6% per year. China’s outbound tourism is a key driver, projected to grow 10.3% annually, achieving full recovery by 2027. Hong Kong is projected to see a 9.2% compound annual growth rate, with pre-pandemic traffic levels expected soon.
• Oceania: Passenger traffic is expected to rise 3.3% annually, dominated by Australia and New Zealand, which account for 90% of the region’s travelers. International travel is set to grow 4.3% annually, while total passengers remain slightly below 2019 levels in 2025.

Domestic travel, particularly in India and Vietnam, is projected to remain robust, while international markets in Eastern Asia, India, Thailand, Japan, and Australia are set to grow steadily.

Middle East Passenger Growth Outlook

The Middle East is on track for sustained expansion, with passenger traffic forecast to rise 5.4% annually from 2025 to 2028. Saudi Arabia, the largest domestic market, is expected to increase from 58 million passengers in 2024 to 72.5 million in 2028, representing a 5.5% annual growth rate.

Significant airport projects are set to support this growth:

• Saudi Arabia: King Salman International Airport is projected to reach 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million by 2050, operating five runways.
• Dubai: Dubai World Central is being developed to accommodate 260 million passengers with five runways.
• Abu Dhabi: Expansion and upgrades at Zayed International Airport are enhancing regional capacity and connectivity.

Preparing for a New Era of Aviation

Airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are investing in new terminals, extended runways, and advanced operational systems to meet growing demand. Key strategies include optimizing existing infrastructure, diversifying revenue streams, and securing financing for large-scale projects.

Government initiatives aimed at air transport liberalization, visa facilitation, and slot allocation modernization are expected to further drive growth. These measures will also stimulate tourism, business travel, and broader economic development across both regions.

The forecast underscores that, despite regional challenges, Asia-Pacific and Middle East aviation markets are entering a decade defined by innovation, capacity expansion, and increasing global connectivity. With substantial investment and strong passenger demand, airports in these regions are set to remain among the world’s most dynamic aviation hubs through 2028 and beyond.