Dubai has commenced work on a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, envisioning it to become the world’s largest airport with a price tag of nearly $35 billion. “We have approved the designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport and have begun construction at a cost of AED 128 billion ($34.85 billion),” proclaimed Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. Upon completion, the airport will boast an annual passenger capacity of 260 million, according to a government statement. Sheikh Mohammed expressed that the airport will have the world’s largest capacity and will be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport, which is one of the busiest air hubs globally. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO of Emirates, stated that “the first phase of the project will be ready within a period of 10 years, with a capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually.” Since 2010, Al Maktoum Airport, located on the outskirts of Dubai, has handled a relatively small portion of the Gulf financial hub’s air traffic. Authorities aim for it to replace Dubai International Airport, which has an annual passenger capacity of up to 120 million but is constrained by its proximity to the city center and limited expansion possibilities.
Dubai Announces $35 Billion Expansion of Al Maktoum Airport
