Summary: Bahrain International Airport delivered its best operational year in 2025, handling 405,217 tonnes of cargo and 9.74 million passengers while expanding service to 74 destinations across six continents.

Bahrain International Airport posted record operational results in 2025, driven by stronger cargo throughput and rising passenger numbers as the airport widened its international reach.

Record-breaking Cargo and Passenger Figures

According to Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), BIA handled 405,217 tonnes of cargo in 2025, a 3.2% rise from the 392,812 tonnes reported the previous year. Passenger traffic also climbed, with the airport welcoming 9.74 million travellers, up 4.2% from 9.35 million in 2024. Aircraft movements reached 97,740, reflecting improved load factors and more efficient runway utilisation.

  • Cargo handled: 405,217 tonnes (3.2% increase year-on-year)
  • Passengers: 9.74 million (up 4.2% from 2024)
  • Aircraft movements: 97,740

Network Expansion Across Six Continents

BIA extended its route map to cover 74 destinations on six continents in 2025, operating passenger and cargo services in partnership with 39 airlines. The airport added several long-haul and regional links that strengthened Bahrain's connectivity to major markets.

  • New routes added in 2025: London Gatwick, Nairobi, New York, Bucharest, Ashgabat, Liege
  • Airline partnerships: 39 carriers connecting passenger and cargo services

BIA identified its five fastest-growing city links compared with 2024 as Singapore, Bengaluru, Abu Dhabi, Najaf and Sharjah, underscoring demand across Asia and the Gulf region.

Passengers at Bahrain International Airport terminal with aircraft parked at gates, illustrating increased passenger traffic and connectivity
Bahrain International Airport handled record cargo and passenger volumes in 2025 while growing its global network.

Operational Peaks and Efficiency Gains

Operational data from 2025 highlighted busy periods and a focus on efficient use of existing infrastructure. The airport reported specific peak days and hours that illustrated concentrated demand at certain times of the year and day.

  • Busiest day for aircraft movements: 14 April
  • Day with highest passenger volumes: 8 August
  • Peak hour for aircraft movements: 01:00 AM
  • Peak hour for passenger activity: 09:00 PM

BIA has demonstrated remarkable operational reliability and connectivity over the past year, facilitated by the dedication of airline partners and the airport community. This success reflects BIA’s strategic vision and its commitment to supporting Bahrain’s broader economic goals. Moving into 2026, our focus remains on enhancing the passenger experience and driving further growth in Bahrain’s aviation sector, in line with the Kingdom’s economic development aspirations.

What This Means for Travelers and the Industry

BIA’s stronger performance signals improved connectivity and capacity for both passengers and freight. For businesses, the higher cargo throughput reinforces Bahrain’s role as a logistics node. For travellers, the expanded route map delivers more direct options and greater choice when planning trips to and from the Kingdom.

  • More destinations and carriers increase routing options for passengers
  • Higher cargo volumes support trade and supply-chain reliability
  • Operational efficiency may reduce delays and improve on-time performance

So what? The airport’s 2025 results mean travellers can expect broader connectivity and potentially improved service levels when flying through Bahrain, while shippers and regional businesses benefit from enhanced cargo capacity that supports trade and economic development.