DWC, located about 45 km from DXB, is envisioned as a next-generation travel complex that will reshape the flow of global aviation and anchor major urban development in Dubai’s southern region.
Dubai: Dubai’s plan to build one of the world’s largest airports has gained fresh momentum as Dubai International Airport (DXB) recorded 93.8 million passengers so far this year, already surpassing last year’s record, officials said Wednesday.
The sharp rise in traffic has reinforced the urgency behind the city’s USD 35 billion expansion at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai World Central (DWC), where Dubai aims to construct a sprawling new airport with five runways and the capacity to eventually replace DXB as the emirate’s main aviation hub.
DWC, located about 45 km from DXB, is envisioned as a next-generation travel complex that will reshape the flow of global aviation and anchor major urban development in Dubai’s southern region. Officials say the project is not just about increasing capacity but transforming the entire passenger experience.
“These record-breaking results reflect the continued strength of Dubai’s aviation and tourism sectors,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. “Yet, it also reinforces the importance of what comes next. The vision for DWC goes beyond capacity expansion – it represents the reimaging and evolution of the entire travel experience.”
The urgency is underscored by Dubai’s rapid expansion as both a major transit point and a fast-growing destination. A booming real-estate market, record tourism arrivals, and a swelling population have put pressure on existing infrastructure, making the shift to DWC increasingly critical.
The ongoing Dubai Air Show — being held at DWC — has already seen massive aircraft orders from Emirates and FlyDubai, signalling aggressive route and fleet expansions that will rely heavily on the new airport’s capabilities.
Last year, DXB handled 92.3 million passengers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and edging past its previous 2018 record of 89.1 million. With 93.8 million already recorded this year, planners say Dubai can no longer delay its transition to the five-runway megaproject that will define the next era of global aviation. AP
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