Top 10 facts about Dubai’s new airport

All eyes will be on Dubai South over the next couple of years as a huge new passenger terminal project takes flight – here's the lowdown

Because there’s never a dull minute in Dubai apparently, you’ve probably heard that the emirate is getting a gigantic new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. Set to replace all operations at Dubai International (DXB), it will hold the world’s largest capacity annually.

The spectacular designs have been approved by HH. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the ambitious project is set to position Dubai as a global aviation leader.

We’re so excited we’ve put together 10 fab facts…

1. The new terminal will be five times bigger than Dubai International Airport (DXB), with a capacity of 260 million passengers annually.

2. The airport will feature five terminals, providing ample space for travellers and airlines.

3. With over 400 aircraft gates, Al Maktoum International will be well equipped to handle a large number of flights simultaneously.

4. The project has a whopping budget of Dh128 billion (approximately US $35 billion), reflecting Dubai’s commitment to maintaining its status as a major tourism hub.

5. The first phase of construction is expected to be complete in 10 years, with an initial annual capacity of 150 million passengers.

6. The airport is designed to represent a leap into the future and align with the UAE’s vision for a sustainably built environment; it aims to achieve a LEED Gold certification.

7. Al Maktoum International is located in Dubai South, covering an impressive 70 square kilometers.

8. Dubai plans to build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South and demand for housing for a million people is expected to follow.

9. The airport will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.

10. The airport will have the capacity to handle 12 million tonnes of cargo each year.

Find out more about the Dubai South area