By 2032, Dubai aims to complete the first phase of its ambitious Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which is set to become one of the largest and most technologically advanced airports in the world. With a capacity to handle 150 million passengers per year, DWC will completely replace the existing Dubai International Airport (DXB) once operational. In preparation for the major move, a Dh1 billion contract has already been awarded for the construction of a second runway at DWC, with Dh75 million of preparatory work underway. By 2032, Dubai aims to complete the first phase of Al Maktoum International Airport, an ambitious project designed to be the largest in the world. The ambitious, state-of-the-art airport, located in the south of Dubai, will be a key part of the emirate’s strategy to cement its position as a global aviation hub.
According to Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, the design work is well underway and the team is committed to delivering the project on schedule, transforming the airport into a “technological marvel” with an intuitive and seamless passenger experience. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that contracts for the DWC have been awarded, underlining the authority’s commitment to delivering this landmark project.
The new Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) in Dubai will not simply replace the existing DXB, but will be a completely new type of hub, focused on creating a memorable and comfortable travel experience. The plan is to create eight smaller airports within one complex, providing a more intimate and personalised experience. DWC is positioned as a complete “destination”, offering a superb choice of retail, duty-free and outlet shopping, where “travel becomes a celebration”.
The introduction of cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence will play a key role in optimising airport operations, from gate allocation to automated baggage handling. While ambitious goals such as clearing immigration in seconds or creating an “airport without borders” are still in the works, a strategic partnership with the Directorate General of Identification and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) points to a commitment to maximum automation and simplification.
Ultimately, DWC, which covers an area five times the size of DXB, will be able to handle up to 260 million passengers and 12 tonnes of cargo per year, making it not only the world’s largest airport, but also the most technologically advanced and user-friendly.
According to Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, the design work is well underway and the team is committed to delivering the project on schedule, transforming the airport into a “technological marvel” with an intuitive and seamless passenger experience. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that contracts for the DWC have been awarded, underlining the authority’s commitment to delivering this landmark project.
The new Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) in Dubai will not simply replace the existing DXB, but will be a completely new type of hub, focused on creating a memorable and comfortable travel experience. The plan is to create eight smaller airports within one complex, providing a more intimate and personalised experience. DWC is positioned as a complete “destination”, offering a superb choice of retail, duty-free and outlet shopping, where “travel becomes a celebration”.
The introduction of cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence will play a key role in optimising airport operations, from gate allocation to automated baggage handling. While ambitious goals such as clearing immigration in seconds or creating an “airport without borders” are still in the works, a strategic partnership with the Directorate General of Identification and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) points to a commitment to maximum automation and simplification.
Ultimately, DWC, which covers an area five times the size of DXB, will be able to handle up to 260 million passengers and 12 tonnes of cargo per year, making it not only the world’s largest airport, but also the most technologically advanced and user-friendly.
