Dubai Airports has confirmed that plans to transfer operations from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) remain on schedule. According to CEO Paul Griffiths, the transition is still expected to take place by 2032 despite ongoing regional developments. The move will mark one of the largest airport transitions ever undertaken, with DWC set to become the world’s largest airport upon completion.
The AED 128 billion expansion project will transform Al Maktoum International Airport into the world’s largest airport by passenger capacity. Initially designed to accommodate 150 million passengers annually, the airport will eventually handle up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo each year. Spanning approximately 70 square kilometres, the airport will feature five parallel runways, two passenger terminals, seven concourses, and more than 430 aircraft stands, creating one of the world’s most advanced aviation hubs.
Once sufficient capacity is available at DWC, all operations are expected to move from DXB, with airlines gradually transitioning over the coming years. Dubai Airports has indicated that maintaining two major airport hubs in close proximity would be impractical, particularly as DXB’s infrastructure approaches the end of its operational lifespan. The relocation is also expected to support the continued growth of Dubai South, while future technology, streamlined passenger processes, and transport links such as the Etihad Rail high-speed network are expected to improve connectivity and reduce queues, delays, and check-in times.
