Dubai South, a planned city expected to accommodate 1 million residents, is undergoing massive expansion plans for the Al Maktoum International Airport. The emirate aims to build a $35 billion airport with a passenger capacity of 260 million, making it the largest airport in the world. This ambitious project is being led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.
The construction of the expanded airport is estimated to cost AED 128 billion over the next ten years. The new facility will feature five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, consolidating all international flights that currently operate out of Dubai International Airport. The expansion plans coincide with the recovery of air travel in Dubai to pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 17.15 million international visitors in 2023.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum expressed his vision for the upgraded Al Maktoum International Airport as a key element of Dubai’s future growth. He emphasized the importance of ensuring continuous development for future generations, making Dubai the world’s airport, port, urban hub, and new global center.
Dubai aims to build an entire city around the airport to accommodate the anticipated housing needs of 1 million people. This expansion plan is part of Dubai South’s economic zone plans and serves as its focal point. Plans are also in place to provide housing for 1 million residents and create 500,000 jobs across a 55-square mile area in this region.
Overall, these massive expansion plans demonstrate Dubai’s commitment to creating a sustainable and thriving future for its citizens and businesses alike.