His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the strategic plan of the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects and approved designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
It will be the largest in the world when fully operational. Set to be built at a cost of US$35bn (AED128 billion), the new terminal will ultimately enable the airport to handle a passenger capacity of 260 million annually.
Within ten years, DWC will overtake all operations from the current airport, which is located in the heart of the city.
Encompassing 400 aircraft gates and five parallel runways, the airport will span a total area of 70 sq km. Upon its completion, it will be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport (DXB). Additionally, the new airport will incorporate innovative technologies unprecedented in the aviation sector.
Growing population
Plans are also underway for the development of an entire airport city in Dubai South, which is expected to increase the demand for housing for one million people. Situated in a prime location, the city will accommodate key companies in the logistics and air transport sectors from around the globe.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, stated that Dubai's growth has always gone hand-in-hand with the growth of its aviation infrastructure.
"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 designing and building a state-of-the-art airport that will provide a quick, convenient, and high-quality 21st-century experience for our customers. This further solidifies Dubai's position as a leading aviation hub on the world stage," he said.
He said DXB will continue to serve as the primary hub, meeting the needs of 100 million plus guests over the next few years as phase two of DWC takes shape.
