Introduction

Al Maktoum International Airport also known as Dubai World Central first opened in 2010 for cargo operations, with passenger operations following in 2013. The new airport will have a 65 square kilometre footprint, five runways, 400 contact gates across five terminals and a 14 station Automated People Mover. It is the main part of Dubai South, a planned residential, commercial and logistics complex. When fully completed (originally expected 2027, now in 2030), the airport will contain transport modes, logistics, and value-added services, including manufacturing and assembly, in a single free economic zone.

Named after Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, one of the founding fathers of the United Arab Emirates, this airport is a proud emblem of Dubai’s visionary leadership. Officially opened in June 2010 and starting commercial flights in October 2013, Al Maktoum was designed to be one of the largest airports globally.

  • Location: Dubai South, near jebel Ali port
  • IATA Code: DWC
  • Opened: June 2010 (commercial flights from October 2013)
  • Area: Over 220 square kilometers
  • Planned Capacity: 160 million passengers annually
  • Runways: Five planned, each four kilometres long

Technology in Dubai Airport

Dubai’s airport management harnesses the power of Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to optimize operations. These technologies forecast passenger flows, baggage handling, and aircraft movements, enabling proactive measures to manage congestion, allocate resources efficiently, and minimize delays.

Currently, Al Maktoum International Airport employs several cutting-edge technologies to enhance the passenger experience:

  • Biometric Technology: Facial recognition for fast and secure check-ins
  • Robotics: Robotic cleaners and baggage handlers for efficiency
  • AI Applications: Predicting passenger flows to ensure smooth operations
  • Expansion Plans: Aiming for 160 million passengers annually by 2030
  • Sustainability Goals: Focus on carbon-neutral growth

Airlines use Al Maktoum Airport

There are 9 airlines with flights from Dubai:

  • Aeroflot.
  • Azimuth Airlines.
  • Luxair.
  • S7 Airlines.
  • Skypower Express Airways.
  • Smart Wings.
  • Ural Airlines.
  • UT air.
  • Zan Air. These airlines provide various international flight options for travellers.

Unique Features

Al Maktoum International Airport boasts several unique features that distinguish it from other airports worldwide:

  • Five Runways: Designed for simultaneous operations.
  • Cargo Operations: Integral to Dubai’s economy and global logistics.
  • Proximity to Jebel Ali Port: Enhances its role in global trade routes. • Trade and Logistics Hub: Al Maktoum International Airport is a huge trade and logistic Hub. It will become the major logistics hub for the movement of goods and commodities. It has world-class cargo facilities for all categories.
  • Tourism and Hospitality: Dubai is one of the most famous tourist spots in the world. It is boosted more by the recent construction of Al Maktoum International Airport. Every year, the airport serves millions of visitors and provides convenient access to Dubai’s attractions, hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment venues. It plays an important role in making the city vibrant and contributes to revenue generation and job creation in the hospitality sector too.
  • Cost: The building is set to cost AED 128 billion (US $35 billion) with reports claiming the airport will be able to handle 260 million passengers per year.
  • Total Airport area: It will cover an area of 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres). The airport has a projected annual capacity of 12 million tonnes (12,000,000 long tons; 13,000,000 short tons) of freight and between 160 million and 260 million passengers.

How to get to Al Maktoum International Airport:

For those planning a trip to or from Al Maktoum International Airport, here are the main ways to get there:

  • By car: easily accessible via sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed and Emirates Road. It’s about an hour’s drive from both Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi.
  • Public Transport: Frequent bus services by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA). Taxis are also available 24/7.
  • Luxury Travel: Private limousine services are available for booking online or via phone.

Future plans for Al Maktoum Airport

The expanded airport—which is also known as Dubai World Central—will cover more than 27 sq miles and feature five parallel runways. When fully complete, the new Al Maktoum International Airport will accommodate 400 gates enabling the facility to handle up to 260 million passengers annually.

Facilities at Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport

Designed to be a frontrunner in the aviation sector, Al Maktoum Airport Dubai boasts a plethora of facilities to cater to your needs, including:

  • Dining Options: Whether you seek a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the airport offers restaurants and cafes to tantalise your taste buds.
  • Financial Services: From currency exchange shops to banking facilities, you’ll find everything you need to manage your finances conveniently.
  • Retail Therapy: Indulge in a shopping spree at the Al Maktoum Airport Duty-Free Shop, offering a wide range of products.
  • Traveller Assistance: The “Marhaba” concierge service provides easy assistance to navigate the airport, ensuring a smooth experience.
  • Essential Services: Medical centers, prayer rooms, and ample car parking are available to cater to your various needs.

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai South is a rapidly developing aviation hub that is set to play a significant role in Dubai’s future real estate and investment landscape.

Here’s an overview of the key developments and implications for the Dubai property market:

1. Dubai South Development:

  • Dubai South is a master-planned city that surrounds the Al Maktoum International Airport, covering an area of 145 square kilometers.
  • It is being developed as an integrated “aerotropolis,” combining aviation, logistics, commercial, and residential components.
  • The development includes various districts, such as the Aviation District, Residential District, and the Business District, catering to a diverse range of industries and lifestyles.

2. Impact on Real Estate:

  • The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the broader Dubai South development are expected to have a significant impact on the surrounding real estate market.
  • The demand for residential, commercial, and industrial properties in Dubai South is projected to increase, as the area becomes a hub for aviation, logistics, and related industries.
  • Developers are already launching new projects in the area, catering to the anticipated demand from residents, investors, and businesses

3. Investment Opportunities:

  • The Dubai South development presents various investment opportunities, both in the residential and commercial segments.
  • Investors can explore options such as off-plan properties, income-generating assets like warehouses and logistics facilities, and mixed-use developments.
  • The proximity to the airport and the broader infrastructure development in the area are expected to drive capital appreciation and rental yields for investors.

4. Infrastructure and Connectivity:

  • The Dubai South development is designed with a focus on connectivity and infrastructure, including the extension of the Dubai Metro network and the development of road networks.
  • The improved accessibility and connectivity will enhance the appeal of the area for residents, businesses, and investors.

As Dubai continues to position itself as a global aviation and logistics hub, the development of Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai South will have a transformative impact on the emirate’s real estate landscape. Investors and end-users alike will have the opportunity to capitalize on the emerging opportunities in this rapidly evolving part of Dubai.