Al Maktoum International Airport project reaches key milestones ahead of 2032 launch
AED13 billion in contracts underway as Dubai advances plans for world’s largest aviation hub
Dubai: The Dubai Government has confirmed significant progress on the Al Maktoum International Airport development project, with work on the first phase advancing in line with approved timelines and operations set to begin in 2032.
Major milestones have been achieved across key development areas, including enabling works, runway infrastructure, and initial structural foundations for passenger terminals and gates, reflecting steady progress on one of the emirate’s most strategic infrastructure initiatives.
Strategic investment in future growth
His Highness 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, commended the team leading the strategic project under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman of the Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Chairman of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects.
“The project will attract high-value investments, broaden business activity, and create sustainable economic opportunities that will support Dubai’s development journey for decades to come,” he said.
Large-scale construction phase
His Highness 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 has entered a large-scale construction phase, with contracts valued at AED13 billion currently under execution.
He added that preparations are underway to award additional contracts worth more than AED55 billion during the next phase.
“Al Maktoum International Airport will serve as a key pillar in strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for trade, tourism, logistics, and international connectivity,” he said.
Progress and upcoming works
According to officials, construction activities include the installation of over 17,000 concrete piles and excavation exceeding 45 million cubic metres, along with major infrastructure works such as runway development and core structural elements.
More than 10 million work hours have been completed over the past 15 months, with the current workforce of around 9,000 expected to rise to approximately 120,000 at peak construction.
Upcoming packages include major works for passenger terminals, aircraft concourses, automated transport systems and baggage handling infrastructure, with contracts spanning extensive structural and infrastructure development.
World’s largest aviation hub
Upon completion, Al Maktoum International Airport is set to become the world’s largest aviation hub, with capacity exceeding 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually.
The project will feature five parallel runways, two passenger terminals, seven concourses and more than 430 aircraft stands, supported by integrated transport connectivity linking air, rail and road networks.
Supporting economic and operational vision
Officials highlighted that the project forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Dubai’s aviation sector, enhance operational efficiency and support long-term economic growth.
Additional investments are also being made to modernise existing infrastructure at Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central, with a total budget of AED16 billion allocated for ongoing upgrades.
The development of Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to play a central role in shaping Dubai’s future as a global hub for travel, trade and logistics, reinforcing its competitiveness and readiness for long-term growth.