Dubai International Airport (DXB), long a global aviation leader, will officially close within the next 10 years. The closure will pave the way for the new mega hub at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which is set to become the main airport for the city by 2034. This move, confirmed earlier this year, will shift all passenger and cargo flights to DWC, marking a significant milestone in Dubai’s aviation strategy.
Expansion Plans for DWC
DWC is backed by a substantial $35 billion expansion project, designed to handle up to 260 million passengers annually—almost three times the number currently handled by DXB. The new hub will feature five runways, 400 gates, advanced digital check-ins, and faster connections. The first phase of construction is already underway, with a terminal designed to welcome 150 million travelers each year.
Why Al Maktoum International?
Located 45 kilometers south of DXB in Dubai South, DWC offers ample space for expansion, unlike DXB, which is constrained by urban development in Garhoud and Al Qusais. Moving operations to the south will reduce air traffic congestion over residential areas, facilitate faster flight connections, and enhance logistics, thanks to DWC’s proximity to the Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s busiest ports.
Future of DXB
While the exact plans for DXB remain unconfirmed, early indications suggest that the site will be redeveloped into a new urban center for Dubai. The site may include residential, commercial, and public spaces, making it a prime area for investment in the heart of the city.The Transition Timeline
The transition to DWC will take place in phases. Cargo and budget airlines will move first, followed by the larger carriers. Despite the eventual closure, DXB will remain operational and continue to undergo upgrades to ensure it remains a world-class airport until the shift is complete. Though the move will not happen overnight, the countdown has already begun.
