Dubai is preparing for one of the most ambitious transitions in global aviation history. Actually, Al Maktoum Airport or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, is all set to take over as the main aviation hub. This is because Dubai International Airport (DXB) is near its maximum passenger capacity.
Dubai International Reaches New Heights
Credit – Go Kite Dubai
According to Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths, DXB is on track to handle 95.3 million passengers by the end of this year. Hence, it is extending its 11-year streak as the busiest international airport in the world. Moreover, Griffiths announced during the Dubai Airshow 2025 that the airport is likely to cross the 100 million passenger mark by 2027.
By 2031, the DXB will hit its peak capacity of 115 million passengers, after which a complete transition to Al Maktoum International Airport will begin. Griffiths revealed that operations will shift to the DWC to accommodate around 124 million passengers by 2032. In addition, he calls it a defining moment in the aviation journey of Dubai.
Al Maktoum Airport: A $35 Billion Mega Vision
Credit – Coop Himmelblau
Al Maktoum Airport is located in the Dubai South Economic Zone. Moreover, it represents the futuristic approach to infrastructure and innovation in Dubai. In addition, the upcoming airport is being created to transform air travel on an unprecedented scale, with a development cost of $34.8 billion.
The mega hub will span more than 70 square kilometres. Hence, it makes it nearly five times larger than DXB after completion. Moreover, this new airport will have the following features:
- Five parallel runways for simultaneous takeoffs and landings.
- 400 aircraft gates equipped with next-generation boarding systems.
- Capacity for 260 million passengers per year — the largest in the world.
This airport was originally opened for cargo operations in 2010. However, it started its passenger services in 2013. Currently, the DWC handles executive, charter, and cargo flights. However, the upcoming expansion will transform it into a smart city-sized aviation ecosystem. Hence, it will support more than a million residents and thousands of businesses in the surrounding area.
Transition Timeline: From DXB to DWC
Griffiths highlighted that the transition is going to take place in carefully managed stages to avoid any disruption. Moreover, flydubai is expected to be one of the first airlines to relocate to DWC, as DXB approaches full capacity.
Griffiths told reporters, “As we begin to run out of slots at the DXB, Flyfubai will likely be one of the first movers”. However, DXB is also implementing some measures to improve its capacity. Below are the top measures:
- Expanding aircraft parking stands in the midfield area.
- Introducing faster check-in and processing technologies.
- Streamlining passenger flow through innovations like the Red Carpet Corridor allowing travelers to pass through without stopping.
Griffiths described his goal clearly – “We want you to go straight through to your destination with delay for the first time you step out of your car or off the metro station.”
Engineering the Future of Global Aviation
Now, the phase two expansion of the Al Maktoum Airport is in progress. However, final designs are being completed. Once operational, it will redefine the airport city into a sustainable, ultra-efficient, and technology-driven hub integrating aviation, logistics, and urban living.
On the other hand, Griffiths confirmed that the Dubai Airport is working closely with its engineering partners to ensure DWC becomes one of the most advanced airports in the world.
Moreover, he also highlighted that the upcoming Dubai Airshow 2025 is going to showcase cutting-edge innovations, like eVTOL aircraft, space technologies, and advanced defense systems. Hence, it reflects the dedication of the emirate to shaping the future of flights.
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[…] Al Maktoum Airport Set to Replace DXB by 2032 as Dubai’s New Global Aviation Hub […]
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