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Dubai International Airport Set to Close Amidst Massive Expansion
Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world’s busiest airport for international travelers, is slated for closure as part of a massive £28 billion expansion plan. This ambitious project aims to shift operations to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), significantly boosting Dubai’s airport capacity to accommodate up to 260 million passengers annually.
Shifting Operations to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
Paul Griffiths, the airport’s chief, announced that all services will eventually transition to the newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) over the coming decades. This move signifies a strategic shift in Dubai’s aviation infrastructure.
- DWC is located 22 miles from the city center and 38 miles from DXB.
- DWC first opened in 2010.
- A new DWC terminal is anticipated to open in 2032, with full expansion projected into the 2050s.
The End of an Era for Dubai International Airport
According to Griffiths, Dubai International Airport, which commenced operations in 1960, is nearing the conclusion of its “useful operating role.” The proximity of two major hubs makes maintaining both economically impractical.
Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market conference, Griffiths stated:
“There is little sense in operating two major hubs with such close proximity to one another. We will move every single service to DWC. By then, every single asset at DXB will be close to the end of its useful operating role, so the economics of keeping DXB open will not be possible unless we invest a huge amount of money.”
DXB’s Current Status and Future Plans
While DXB handled a record 92.3 million passengers in 2024 making it the world’s second busiest airport, it remains the leader in international passenger traffic. DWC, in contrast, has seen limited use over the past 15 years, primarily for cargo and select passenger services.
Al Maktoum International Airport: A Global Aviation Hub
The expanded Al Maktoum is projected to be five times larger than DXB, boasting the capacity to manage 260 million passengers annually upon completion. The new airport will feature:
- Five parallel runways.
- Up to 400 aircraft gates.
These features solidify its position as the world’s most significant airport project.
Strain on DXB’s Capacity
Dubai tourism sees around 6.2 million international travelers arriving daily, including approximately 17,000 British visitors. This surge in international foot traffic has placed considerable strain on DXB’s capacity, especially given its location between major highways and residential areas.
Ongoing Operations and Redevelopment
In April, UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the impending shift of aviation operations to DWC. In the interim, DXB will remain the emirate’s principal aviation hub, with major airlines like British Airways and Emirates continuing their popular routes from the UK. While the precise closure date for Dubai International Airport remains unconfirmed, it is anticipated that the site will be redeveloped for real estate purposes in the future.
Singapore Changi Airport Crowned World’s Best
Meanwhile, Singapore Changi Airport has been recognized as the world’s best airport for a record-breaking 13th time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This ranking is based on a comprehensive customer satisfaction survey evaluating service and facilities across 565 airports. Changi Airport offers many attractions, including a butterfly garden, rooftop pool, and hedge maze.