In April 2024, the Dubai Government announced Phase Two of Al Maktoum Int’l Airport expansion, aiming to transform it into the world’s largest aviation hub. The plan includes five runways and an initial capacity of 150 million passengers annually within the next decade, eventually reaching 260 million passengers per year, along with the capability to handle 12 million tonnes of cargo.
Upon completion, Al Maktoum International Airport will be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport, which is already the world’s busiest for international passengers, handling more than 92 million passengers in 2024.
The airport will feature over 400 aircraft gates, five parallel runways built to the highest operational standards, and a total of five passenger terminal buildings. Once fully completed, it will cover an area of 70 square kilometers.
As part of the expansion plans, a new city will be developed within Dubai South. This city will become a hub for the world’s leading logistics and air transport companies, creating numerous job opportunities in Dubai.
According to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, housing will be needed for at least one million people.
Additionally, the new airport will feature an integrated landside transport hub, connecting roads, the Dubai Metro, and city air transport to ensure seamless connectivity.
DWC is designed to offer an exceptional passenger experience with advanced technology. Automated bots will handle kerbside baggage drop-off, while trackable systems will ensure predictable baggage collection. Thoughtful terminal layouts will enhance intuitive wayfinding.
As part of the expansion, biometrics and smart passenger tracking will streamline movement through the terminals, eliminating congestion and ensuring smooth airport operations with state-of-the-art technology.
Welcome to the Airport of the Future!