Dubai has initiated the construction of what is set to become the “world’s largest” airport terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This ambitious project, announced by the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is estimated to cost nearly $35 billion.
The new terminal, approved for construction and design, is a significant step forward in Dubai’s vision for aviation infrastructure. Once fully operational, it is expected to handle an impressive 260 million passengers annually. This capacity would make it the largest in the world, surpassing even the current Dubai International Airport, which is already one of the busiest globally.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the terminal’s vast scale, describing it as “five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport.” The ambitious project aims to position Dubai as a key player in global aviation, providing extensive connectivity and facilities to accommodate the growing demand for air travel.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO of Emirates, provided further details on the project’s timeline and scope. The initial phase is expected to be completed within a decade, with a capacity to serve 150 million passengers annually. This phase will establish the airport as a hub for flagship carrier Emirates, its low-cost counterpart Flydubai, and other airline partners, facilitating seamless global connections through Dubai.
Despite its impressive plans, Al Maktoum Airport has faced challenges in attracting a significant portion of Dubai’s air traffic since its opening in 2010. However, authorities aim to position it as the primary airport, eventually replacing Dubai International Airport, which is limited in its expansion due to its central location within the city.
Sources By Agencies
