Al Maktoum International is set to become the world’s largest airport by passenger capacity and scale. Located in Dubai South, the $35 billion project represents the emirate’s bold vision to redefine global air travel. It will eventually replace Dubai International Airport (DXB) as the main hub by 2032.
Also called Dubai World Central (DWC), the airport began cargo operations in 2010 and passenger flights in 2013. Once completed, the world’s largest airport by capacity will handle up to 260 million passengers every year. The mega project includes five parallel runways and over 400 aircraft gates, making it one of the most advanced aviation hubs in the world.
Spanning about 70 square kilometres — five times the size of DXB — Al Maktoum International sits at the heart of the Dubai South economic zone. The development will support more than one million residents and thousands of businesses, transforming Dubai into a complete aerospace city.
By 2031, Dubai International is expected to reach its limit of around 115 million passengers. Al Maktoum International will then take over major operations to manage the growing demand for air travel.
The project also highlights Dubai’s sustainability goals. With AI-powered technology and renewable energy systems, the airport aims to deliver faster, cleaner, and smarter travel experiences.
Al Maktoum International is not just an airport — it is Dubai’s gateway to the future. Designed to strengthen the emirate’s position as a global aviation leader, it stands as a symbol of innovation, ambition, and progress.
