Dubai government has earmarked Dh1 billion ($272.2 million) for Dubai World Central, a purpose-built aerotropolis being developed to meet the future needs of the emirate's aviation, tourism, trade and logistics sectors, said a senior official.

The investment will also cover the relocation of the Dubai Airshow 2013 to Dubai World Central and the start of the first phase of development of its aviation district, remarked Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation.

'Dubai World Central is an integral component of the strategic vision of Dubai Government to establish the emirate as an international aviation hub and a gateway to global markets,' he noted.

'The aviation district has been holistically conceived to capitalize on the dynamic aviation industry of the UAE and the region. The move of Dubai Airshow 2013 to DWC is an example of Dubai’s long-term plan to meet the growing demands of the industry,' said Sheikh Ahmed.

The latest announcement is part of DWC’s multi-phased plan to develop a dedicated aviation cluster.

Covering over 6.8 sq km, the aviation district provides both landside and airside facilities and leverages the current and future capacity of Al Maktoum International Airport.

Once complete, it will be home to many aviation companies, including FBOs, MROs and light manufacturing, said Sheikh Ahmed.

The masterplan also addresses the need for a controlled access to airside functions, which are exemplified in the general aviation area consisting of a heliport, areas dedicated for MROs and FBOs, an executive jet terminal and covered aircraft parking stands., he added

Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said: “As evident with the recent investments being made in the aviation sector within the region, including Emirates Airlines’ record-setting purchase of 50 new aircraft during the Dubai Airshow, Dubai World Central is strategically positioned to service and cater to the needs of the region’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.'

'The aviation district within DWC is the next step in strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading aviation and logistics hub,' he stated.

Rashed Bu Qara'a, chief operation officer, Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said: “We are showcasing various opportunities at DWC to the global aviation community during this year’s Dubai Airshow.

There has been positive feedback from the different industry players, especially after seeing first hand the progress of DWC and understanding our strategic vision to create a multimodal platform for aviation and logistics sectors.'

'Built with future capacity in mind, Dubai World Central will be able to meet the many needs of different companies across the breadth of the aviation sectors,' he added.

The Airshow's new venue will encompass a larger area than the current facility and will consist of a grand reception building, two large exhibition halls, and static display areas, which will offer more space to accommodate additional aircraft, said Bu Qara'a.

The show’s Royal Pavilion for VIP visitors will be positioned to overview the display line and static display. An exclusive area that commands an excellent view of the showcase has also been earmarked for the press facility along with the control tower.

There will also be a special dedicated area for casual visitors to witness the Airshow’s flying displays and to accommodate leisure and entertainment activities for families, he added.-TradeArabia News Service