DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Dubai's main airport solidified its position as the busiest for international passengers, with traveler numbers surging more than 10 percent last year.

Government-backed operator Dubai Airports said Monday that Dubai International Airport handled just over a record 78 million passengers in 2015. That compares with 70.5 million passengers the previous year.

The Mideast gateway surpassed London Heathrow as the busiest handler of international travelers in 2014. Heathrow says it handled 75 million passengers in total last year.

Dubai International is the busier of two passenger airports in Dubai. It is the home of fast-growing hometown carrier Emirates and discount airline FlyDubai.

It still has a ways to go to top Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as the world's busiest airport overall. That airport handled more than 100 million passengers last year.