Saudi Arabia, United States, China, Egypt, Thailand: World’s Largest Airports by Area Highlight These Nations as Powerhouses of Aviation and Tourism Connectivity

Published on May 3, 2025

As air travel continues to soar and global hubs expand to meet rising demand, the largest airports in the world are transforming into mega-cities of infrastructure, engineering, and passenger convenience. These vast aviation ecosystems don’t just connect cities—they connect continents, economies, and cultures. Covering thousands of hectares, these giants stand as monuments to human ingenuity and global ambition.

Here’s a traveler-focused look at the world’s 10 largest airports by total land area in 2025, and how they contribute to tourism, economic impact, and the evolution of global aviation.

1. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) — Dammam, Saudi Arabia — 776 km²

The largest airport in the world by area, King Fahd International is practically a city in itself. While it handles only around 10 million passengers annually, it hosts a residential compound, large-scale greenhouses for landscaping, and a mosque for 2,000 worshippers. Built initially as a U.S. airbase, it was transformed into a commercial airport in 1999. Its vast capacity leaves room for future tourism and cargo growth, potentially positioning Dammam as a transit hub in the Gulf.

2. Denver International Airport (DEN) — Denver, Colorado, USA — 135.7 km²

America’s largest airport by area, DEN is known for its unique peaked roof resembling the Rocky Mountains. Though steeped in conspiracy lore, Denver International is a serious economic driver, supporting over 200,000 jobs regionally and moving nearly 70 million passengers annually. Designed with expansion in mind, it continues to grow as a strategic central U.S. hub for both tourism and business travel.

3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) — Texas, USA — 69.6 km²

Positioned between Dallas and Fort Worth, DFW is a major connector between North America and Latin America. With its own ZIP code, police force, and postal services, it operates like a self-governed city. As American Airlines’ key hub, DFW is crucial to both domestic tourism and international business travel. Its efficient Skylink transport system and sustainability initiatives make it a model for modern aviation infrastructure.

4. Orlando International Airport (MCO) — Florida, USA — 53.8 km²

Serving as the front door to Walt Disney World and central Florida’s vast theme park tourism industry, MCO is both vast and welcoming. Originally a military base, it now features resort-like architecture, an integrated hotel, and nature preserves—all underscoring Florida’s brand as a global vacation hub. With more than 50 million travelers per year, its design balances scale with ease for families and international tourists.

5. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) — Virginia, USA — 48.6 km²

Dulles plays a key role as the international entry point to the U.S. capital. Known for its signature swooping terminal design and its historic mobile lounges, IAD combines tradition with cutting-edge upgrades like AeroTrain service. It’s closely linked to the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Center, merging aviation with tourism and culture. It continues to grow as a transatlantic gateway and key global hub.

6. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) — Beijing, China — 46.6 km²

One of the newest mega-hubs, Daxing is a symbol of China’s rapid modernization. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, its starfish layout ensures no gate is more than an 8-minute walk from the center. With high-speed rail integration and cutting-edge automation, Daxing is expected to become the world’s busiest airport by 2040, supporting inbound tourism and outbound business connectivity.

7. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) — Houston, Texas, USA — 44.5 km²

Houston’s main international hub is central to U.S.-Latin America routes. Home to United Airlines’ southern base, IAH supports over 40 million passengers a year. Its expansive footprint includes massive terminals, green energy initiatives, and a solar farm. With its proximity to oil and space industries, IAH is a magnet for international business travelers.

8. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) — Shanghai, China — 39.9 km²

Pudong serves as China’s busiest international gateway, connecting Shanghai to every major continent. Its maglev train link to the city is the fastest airport transfer in the world. With over 70 million passengers pre-pandemic and growing international links, Pudong is crucial for global trade, tourism, and tech-driven traveler services.

9. Cairo International Airport (CAI) — Cairo, Egypt — 36.3 km²

Africa’s largest airport by area, Cairo International connects travelers to Egypt’s rich heritage. Beyond its size, it is a cultural showcase, with pharaonic-inspired terminals and a museum on-site. As Egypt strengthens its tourism sector, CAI remains vital for transcontinental connections and cultural tourism.

10. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) — Bangkok, Thailand — 32.4 km²

Southeast Asia’s largest by land area, Suvarnabhumi blends functionality with art, featuring Thai sculptures and garden sanctuaries inside its massive terminal. Built on reclaimed land once known as “Cobra Swamp,” it now serves over 60 million passengers annually. BKK anchors Thailand’s tourism economy and remains the key entry point to Indochina.

Bottom Line These airports are more than transit points; they are economic engines, architectural marvels, and cultural ambassadors. As the aviation industry continues to grow, expect these mega-hubs to evolve even further, driving tourism, innovation, and global connectivity well into the future.