Dubai has initiated the construction of a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, with the aim of making it the world’s largest airport. The emirate’s ruler announced that all operations at Dubai International Airport will eventually be transferred to Al Maktoum International Airport in the coming years.
UAE PM HH Sheikh Mohammad revealed the news on X, stating, “Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport, and commencing construction of the building at a cost of AED 128 billion as part of Dubai Aviation Corporation’s strategy.”
Al Maktoum International Airport: Key Features
- Capacity: The airport will have the world’s largest capacity, capable of handling up to 260 million passengers annually.
- Size: It will be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport.
- Infrastructure: The airport will feature 400 aircraft gates to facilitate smooth operations.
- Runways: It will have five parallel runways to efficiently manage air traffic.
- Innovation: The project will introduce new aviation technologies, marking a significant advancement in the aviation sector.
- Cost: The project is estimated to cost about $34.85 billion over several years.
- Timeline: The first phase, capable of accommodating 150 million passengers per year, is expected to be completed within 10 years.
The ruler mentioned that they are constructing an entire city “around the airport in Dubai South,” which will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors, and will require housing for a million people. He added, “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.”