Dubai’s New Mega Airport to Replace DXB: A $35B Aviation Leap

1 month ago Editor

Dubai is solidifying its status as a global aviation hub with a Dh128 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport. Featuring five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the mega project will eventually replace DXB, the world’s busiest international airport.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has held the title of the world’s busiest international airport for a decade, welcoming over 770 million passengers and handling 3.3 million flights, according to Airports Council International. In 2023 alone, DXB recorded 92 million passengers and 440,000 flight movements, connecting 272 cities across 107 countries.

Beyond DXB, Dubai is set to redefine global aviation with an ambitious expansion at Al Maktoum International Airport. Initially opened for cargo in 2010 and passenger services in 2013, the airport is undergoing a Dh128 billion expansion that will feature five parallel runways, 400 aircraft gates, and a total area of 70 square kilometers.

With construction already underway, this state-of-the-art facility will eventually replace DXB, making it five times larger than its predecessor. The investment aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub for the next decade.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “Dubai is the airport of the world and a new world in the aviation sector.” As the city continues to innovate, the new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to reshape the future of international air travel.