Paul Griffiths

Paul Griffiths became the first chief executive of Dubai Airports in 2007 and has led the organisation ever since, overseeing Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (Al Maktoum International). Under his leadership DXB has repeatedly ranked as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic, reaching a record of more than 95 million passengers in 2025.

Before moving to the Gulf, Griffiths spent around fourteen years with the Virgin Group and later ran London Gatwick as managing director. At Dubai Airports he oversaw the opening of Terminal 3, Concourse A — the first facility built specifically for the A380 — and the operation of one of the world’s largest and most complex airport systems.

He was appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) in 2015 for services to British prosperity in the UAE and to music; a noted cathedral organist, he is a fellow and former vice-president of the Royal College of Organists.

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Part of Recognized contributors to the UAE — this journal’s directory of Emiratis and long-serving expatriates who helped shape the country.