Dubai, known for its grand and ambitious projects, has once again captured the world’s attention with its approval of a 128 billion dirham ($35 billion) plan to build a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This new terminal is set to be five times larger than Dubai’s current main international airport, making it the largest airport in the world in terms of size.
A Visionary Move
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and prime minister of the UAE, announced that the new Al Maktoum International Airport will have the world’s largest capacity, catering to up to 260 million passengers. This groundbreaking move will see all operations at Dubai International Airport being transferred to the new airport in the coming years, which currently stands as the second-busiest airport globally in terms of passenger traffic.
Technological Advancements
The statement accompanying the approval of the new passenger terminal highlighted the implementation of new aviation technologies in the sector, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to innovation and progress. The airport will feature 400 aircraft gates and five parallel runways, ensuring smooth operations and efficient service for passengers.
The new airport will be situated in Dubai South, with plans for an entirely new city to be built around it, creating demand for housing for a million people. This strategic move will not only transform the southern end of Dubai but also attract leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors, establishing Dubai as a global hub for air travel and commerce.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, CEO of Emirates Airline, expressed excitement about the new developments, emphasizing that Al Maktoum International Airport will be the new home for Emirates, FlyDubai, and other airline partners. The investment in the new terminal is aimed at providing unparalleled travel experiences, world-class logistics capabilities, and contributing to Dubai’s economic growth.
Ambitious Goals
Dubai’s D33 agenda, which seeks to double the city’s economy by 2033, is further bolstered by the development of the Al Maktoum International Airport. Also known as Dubai World Central (DWC), the airport is projected to cover 27 square miles upon completion, with a capacity to handle 260 million passengers annually and 12 million tons of cargo.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed within 10 years, with a capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually. This marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s journey towards becoming the world’s airport, port, urban hub, and global center, setting the stage for a new era of air travel and economic prosperity.
Dubai’s plan for a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport represents a bold and visionary move that will reshape the aviation landscape and propel the city towards new heights of success and innovation. With cutting-edge technologies, grand infrastructure, and a strategic vision for the future, Dubai is poised to become a global leader in air travel and economic development.
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