December 18th, 2024
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has endorsed the designs for the new AED128 billion passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This significant move came during his visit to the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, signalling the start of an ambitious development aimed to position Dubai as a central hub in global aviation.
Details: Unprecedented scale and capacity
The new terminal, set to be the largest globally, promises to handle up to 260 million passengers annually, marking a historic capacity expansion. It will be five times the size of the existing Dubai International Airport, accommodating 400 aircraft gates and featuring five parallel runways. The project not only aims to transform the aviation landscape but also includes the development of an entire city around the airport, anticipating a million residents and numerous business opportunities.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of @DubaiAirports: The announcement of phase two of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International Airport's (DWC) expansion, representing a substantial investment of AED128 billion, marks the start of a huge investment of resources by our many stakeholders in… pic.twitter.com/J8QA9DmJZD
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 28, 2024
What they're saying: Commitment to future growth
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the project's importance, stating, "Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminal 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." He further stressed the strategic foresight of the development, ensuring "continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn."
Zoom in: Technological and environmental foresight
The design and construction of Al Maktoum International Airport focus on cutting-edge aviation technologies and sustainable practices. Expected to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification, the airport's design includes an automated people mover system and an integrated transport hub linking roads, Metro, and city air transport. This approach underlines Dubai's commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
Driving the news: Economic and social impact
The development is not just an aviation project but a cornerstone for future economic expansion as articulated by Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation. He noted, "The development of this new airport will be an integral part of Dubai’s economy and major contributor to the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), generating a significant workforce and residential requirement."
What's next: A decade of development
The first phase of the airport is projected to complete within ten years, initially supporting 150 million passengers annually. This phased approach ensures a scalable development in line with Dubai's long-term economic and infrastructural goals.