The Dubai Government has confirmed that the first phase of the Al Maktoum International Airport development is progressing on schedule, with the mega-project remaining on track to begin operations in 2032.
Authorities said significant progress has been achieved across key construction packages, including enabling works, runway infrastructure and the initial foundations for passenger terminals and gates. The project has now entered a major construction phase, with contracts worth AED13 billion ($3.5 billion) currently under execution and preparations underway to award additional contracts exceeding AED55 billion in the next stage.
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the airport development reflects Dubai’s long-term vision to strengthen economic growth, global connectivity and competitiveness. He described the project as a key enabler of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), supporting expansion of the aviation sector, enhancing transport and logistics capabilities, and attracting high-value investments.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman of the Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Chairman of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, said the project is among Dubai’s most important strategic investments, designed to accommodate future growth in travel, trade and logistics while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading global aviation and logistics hub.
According to Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, more than 17,000 concrete piles have been installed and over 45 million cubic metres of excavation completed. The second runway has also been completed ahead of rehabilitation work on the existing runway. Construction activities have surpassed 10 million work hours over the past 15 months, with the current workforce of around 9,000 expected to grow to 120,000 at peak construction.
By the end of the year, authorities plan to award major contracts covering the Western Passenger Terminal, aircraft concourses, Automated People Mover system and baggage handling infrastructure.
Once fully completed, Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to become the world’s largest aviation hub, capable of handling more than 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually. The facility will feature five parallel runways, two passenger terminals, seven concourses and more than 430 aircraft stands, supported by integrated air, rail and road transport links. -TradeArabia News Service
