Dubai launches $35 billion mega-airport set to become the world’s largest

Dubai’s New Al Maktoum Airport: A $35 Billion Aviation Hub

According to УНІАН — Туризм: The emirate of Dubai has officially initiated construction of the Al Maktoum International Airport, a massive $35 billion project designed to become the planet's biggest aviation hub. Once completed, the facility will handle up to 260 million passengers annually, cover an area of 70 square kilometers, and feature 400 boarding gates along with five parallel runways. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s ruler, emphasized that the future complex will function as a fully integrated airport city, blending air travel with urban development.

Phased Expansion and Relocation Plans

In its initial phase, the new airport is expected to serve roughly 150 million passengers each year. Over the next decade, major carriers Emirates and Flydubai will relocate their operations from the existing Dubai International Airport (DXB), which has been operational since 1960 and processed 95.2 million travelers in 2025. The transition is scheduled for completion by 2035, at which point DXB is slated to shut down.

The Al Maktoum project also includes plans for housing and employment opportunities for 1 million people. Situated 35 kilometers from downtown Dubai, the airport has the potential to reshape global aviation. Beyond expanding passenger capacity, this development is expected to drive regional economic growth.

“The construction of Al Maktoum Airport is part of Dubai’s strategy to strengthen its position on the global aviation stage.”

Once operational, the new hub could significantly boost the region’s tourism appeal, as increased passenger flow opens up fresh opportunities for business and investment. This ambitious initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to infrastructure advancement and sustained economic growth, even amid challenges in the global air travel market.

As Dubai prepares for the grand opening of the Al Maktoum International Airport, it is important to note the impending closure of the iconic Dubai International Airport in 2035. This transition marks a significant shift in the region's aviation landscape and highlights the emirate's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure. For more insights on this pivotal change, read about the upcoming shutdown of Dubai's legendary airport.