Dubai Airport enters a new era with Al Maktoum International

Dubai has officially begun construction on what is set to become the world’s most advanced and largest airport, the new Al Maktoum International Airport, located in the Dubai South district. With the first phase scheduled for completion by 2032, this ambitious project will eventually replace the existing Dubai International Airport (DXB) as the city’s primary aviation hub.

Massive scale and cutting-edge technology

Dubai Airport

Image: Dubai Airports website

Designed to handle up to 260 million passengers annually, the futuristic airport will span an incredible 70 square kilometres, with five parallel runways and more than 400 aircraft gates. Once complete, it will be over five times the size of DXB, which currently holds the title of the world’s busiest international airport.

More than just massive in scale, Al Maktoum International is being designed to push the boundaries of travel tech. The new airport will feature automated check-in and boarding, AI-powered security systems, and robotic staff, setting a new global standard for passenger experience.

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First phase in motion

Construction is already underway, with contractors mobilised and a Dhs1 billion contract awarded for the development of a second runway. The first phase will include a new terminal, four concourses, and capacity for 150 million passengers per year.

Dubai’s vision for growth

This bold move aligns with Dubai’s long-term economic vision, supporting the emirate’s D33 Agenda and massive growth in tourism and logistics. According to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the airport will be the heart of a new city, one that will house over a million people and host the world’s top transport and logistics firms.

Key facts about Dubai’s new Al Maktoum International Airport

  • Location: Dubai South, near Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone
  • Estimated cost: Dhs128 billion (approx. $34.8 billion)
  • Total area: 70 square kilometres — over five times the size of DXB
  • Projected capacity: Up to 260 million passengers annually
  • Runways: Five parallel runways planned
  • Infrastructure: Will include over 400 aircraft gates
  • Opening timeline: First phase expected to be operational by 2032
  • Airport City vision: Designed to support a population of over one million residents and workers
  • Technology: Features AI-powered security, automated check-in and boarding, and robotic staff
  • Architectural design: Led by Coop Himmelb(l)au, with a futuristic canopy terminal and integrated landscaping

Image: Dubai Airports website