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    Dubai Begins Building the World’s Largest Airport Terminal at Al Maktoum International (DWC)

    Dubai Begins Building the World’s Largest Airport Terminal at Al Maktoum International (DWC)

    Dubai has started work on a $35 billion terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. The project will add five parallel runways and more than 400 aircraft gates. When complete, the airport can handle up to 260 million passengers each year. Officials say the first phase will shape the next era of Dubai aviation.

    Fast Facts

    • Budget: $35 billion (approx. AED 128 billion).
    • Capacity: Up to 260 million passengers per year.
    • Scale: About 400 aircraft gates and five parallel runways.
    • Phase 1: Targets 150 million passengers annually by 2032.

    What Dubai Approved

    The Government of Dubai confirmed designs and the start of construction for the new passenger terminal. The plan sets the ultimate capacity at 260 million passengers a year. It will sit on about 70 square kilometers in Dubai South. The terminal forms part of a long-term strategy for the city’s growth.

    “Al Maktoum International Airport will enjoy the world’s largest capacity,” said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, announcing the project details via the Dubai Media Office. The airport will include five runways and around 400 gates, according to the same statement.

    First Phase and Timeline

    Officials target the first phase to handle 150 million passengers a year. This phase is scheduled for completion by 2032, according to The National. Early works include enabling packages, a second runway, and core systems like baggage and cooling plants.

    Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects says the coming phase adds major capacity and 190 contact stands. The authority outlines phase details on its website for Al Maktoum International Airport.

    Why It Matters

    Dubai International (DXB) is nearing capacity after record traffic. The new terminal at DWC will take over in the coming years, authorities say. It is designed to support the city’s economy and create large job opportunities. The plan also supports future airline growth and next-gen passenger tech.

    Independent reports confirm the AED 128 billion budget and the 260 million target capacity. See coverage by Reuters and Dubai Airports for additional context.

    Voices From the Project

    Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said the first phase should be ready within ten years, with capacity for 150 million passengers. He added that the new airport will deliver “cutting-edge technologies” and unmatched service levels, per the Dubai Media Office.

    Leaders say the airport will anchor a larger urban hub in Dubai South. Plans include housing and jobs for up to one million people, as outlined by project officials in recent briefings.