Dubai has unveiled a groundbreaking plan to transform Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) into the world’s largest airport.
- World’s largest passenger hub with a capacity of 260 million passengers per year.
- Five-fold increase in passenger capacity compared to DXB.
- All operations will eventually shift from DXB to DWC.
- Five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates are planned.
This ambitious project, estimated to cost AED 128 billion ($34.85 billion), is expected to further solidify Dubai’s position as a global leader in aviation and logistics.
The new passenger terminals at DWC will boast a staggering capacity of 260 million passengers annually, a five-fold increase compared to the current Dubai International Airport (DXB).
“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn. Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and its new global center.”
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai
Al Maktoum International Airport will be the new home of flagship carrier Emirates and its sister low-cost airline Flydubai along with all airline partners connecting the world to and from Dubai.
All operations at DXB will eventually be transferred to DWC in the coming years. The exact timing was not known yet.
“DXB will continue to serve as the primary hub, meeting the needs of 100 million plus guests over the next few years as phase two of DWC takes shape.”
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports
Infrastructure
To accommodate this massive passenger capacity, the airport will feature five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates. Additionally, the project promises to integrate cutting-edge aviation technologies, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
This project extends beyond just the airport itself. Dubai South, the surrounding area, will witness the construction of a city capable of housing one million people.
By establishing itself as the world’s premier airport, Dubai aims to become a global aviation powerhouse. This project is envisioned as a generational leap forward, ensuring sustainable development for future generations.
Images via Dubai Airports
Let’s hope it does not become another Istanbul where you land and can easily spend another 30 mins taxiing to the gate making short connections stressful, or really not possible, given the size of that airport.
This is an unbelievable development. ‘All operations at DXB will eventually be transferred to DWC in the coming years’ – with all the billions of dollars and massive infrastructure improvements at Dubai Airport – how is the concept of moving to a new airport feasible?
What – just shut down Dubai Airport?