Dubai handled a record 51 million passengers last year, 8% more than in 2010.
The highest passenger numbers came from India, UK, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Qatar, Germany and USA.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: "In a year that was characterised by economic uncertainty, political instability and high oil prices, passenger growth continued unabated, driven by new routes and additional frequencies as airlines capitalised on Dubai's attractiveness as a business and tourism destination and efficiency as a transfer hub.
"That trend will continue in 2012 with our two largest airlines - Emirates and flydubai - set to receive additional aircraft throughout the year."
