Emirates to Get New $35Bn International Hub at Dubai’s Al Maktoum Airport

DUBAI- The Dubai International Airport (DXB), renowned as the world’s busiest hub for international travel, is poised to transfer its operations to the city-state’s expansive secondary airfield located in the southern desert regions “within the next 10 years,” as disclosed by its ruler on Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement signifies a significant milestone in the resurgence of Emirates (EK), the flagship long-haul carrier, following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Photo: HH Sheikh Mohammed

Emirates Dubai Al Maktoum Hub

Plans to relocate operations from DXB, the current airport, to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central have been in the pipeline for years, albeit delayed due to the aftermath of the emirate’s economic crisis 2009.

In an online statement, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the strategic vision behind the initiative, stating,

“We are embarking on a new endeavor aimed at shaping the future for generations to come, fostering sustained and robust growth for our descendants and their progeny in succession.” He added, “Dubai is poised to become the epicenter of global connectivity, serving as a pivotal aviation hub, maritime gateway, bustling urban center, and a beacon of innovation on the global stage.”

HH Sheikh Mohammed

The announcement showcased computer-generated images of a gracefully curved, white terminal reminiscent of the iconic Bedouin tents in the Arabian Peninsula.

According to the announcement, the new airport will boast five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, starkly contrasting to the current setup with just two runways akin to Dubai International Airport.

The financial well-being of Emirates, the flagship carrier, has long been regarded as a key indicator for the global aviation industry and the broader economic stability of Dubai. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, both Dubai and the airline swiftly rebounded by aggressively promoting tourism, even as some countries cautiously emerged from their pandemic-induced slowdown.

Photo: Dubai International Airport

Record Breaking Passengers Movement

In a remarkable turn of events, the number of passengers traversing through DXB exceeded its 2019 total, reaching 86.9 million passengers last year compared to 86.3 million in 2019.

Before the pandemic, the airport experienced its busiest year in 2018, recording 89.1 million passengers. However, in 2022, the figure dropped to 66 million passengers amidst the disruptions caused by the global health crisis.

Back in February, Dubai celebrated its record-breaking tourism figures, revealing that it welcomed 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. The average hotel occupancy rate hovered at approximately 77%. Concurrently, the real estate market, known for its cyclical nature, continued its strong performance, nearing historically high valuations.

However, as passenger numbers soared, DXB faced renewed challenges regarding its capacity. The airport, surrounded by residential areas and major highways, was constrained on all fronts.

Photo: Emirates

Need for New Airport

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) from DXB, commenced operations in 2010 with a single terminal.

During the pandemic, it served as a parking facility for Emirates’ Airbus A380s and other aircraft, gradually resuming activity with cargo and private flights in the ensuing period. Additionally, it hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and possesses ample space in the surrounding desert for expansion.

Sheikh Mohammed’s announcement highlighted Dubai’s intentions to expand further south. Notably, the nearby Expo 2020 site has already begun offering residential properties for sale.

“Dubai’s ruler expressed, ‘As we develop an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, the demand for housing for a million people will naturally ensue.’ He emphasized that the city will attract top-tier logistics and air transport companies.

Nevertheless, previous attempts to advance this project were thwarted by financial challenges. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, precipitated by the Great Recession, necessitated a $20 billion bailout from Abu Dhabi (AUH).

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