Business
Emirates Unveils Ambitious New Base at Al Maktoum International Airport
Emirates has revealed its plans for a cutting-edge new base at Al Maktoum International Airport, located in Dubai. This expansive mega hub is part of the Dubai World Central project and will eventually serve as the primary international gateway for the Gulf carrier. The airport, also known as Dubai World Central, has been operating since 2010, primarily focusing on cargo services before integrating passenger flights in 2013.
The ambitious expansion project at Al Maktoum International involves an investment of AED 128 billion and aims to make the airport five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport (DXB). The development will include five terminals, five parallel runways, and a total of 400 aircraft gates. The finalized plans for Al Maktoum International Airport position it as the future sole international hub for Dubai, with an anticipated capacity to handle up to 260 million passengers.
Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, Paul Griffiths, expressed the significance of this strategic move, indicating that the evolution of Dubai’s aviation infrastructure aligns with the city’s growth. This development marks a substantial investment in creating a cutting-edge airport that prioritizes customer experience in the 21st century.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum recently shared initial concepts for the new airport, emphasizing its importance as a project designed for the future generations. The expansion of Al Maktoum International includes the construction of an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, which is set to attract leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the long-term vision behind this project, ensuring continuous growth and stability for future generations in Dubai.
The new Al Maktoum International Airport represents a significant milestone for Emirates and the aviation industry, positioning Dubai as a global aviation hub and urban center. The project underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovative infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the aviation sector.