Sheikh Mohammed’s announcement on Sunday signifies a significant milestone in the recovery of Emirates, the flagship long-haul carrier, following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Plans to relocate from DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central have been in the pipeline for some time, but were previously hampered by economic challenges stemming from the sheikhdom’s 2009 financial crisis.
In a statement shared online, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of the project as a means of securing sustained growth and progress for future generations. He stated, “We are embarking on a new initiative that will ensure a prosperous and stable future for our children and their descendants.”
5 parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates
“Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global centre.” The announcement included computer-generated images of a curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. Al Maktoum currently has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.
Emirates Airline key indicator
The financial stability of Emirates airline has been a key indicator for the global aviation industry and the overall economic well-being of Dubai. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Dubai and the airline were able to swiftly recover by focusing on promoting tourism, outpacing the recovery of some other countries. In 2021, the number of passengers traveling through DXB exceeded the 2019 total, reaching 86.9 million passengers compared to 86.3 million passengers in 2019. The airport’s peak year was in 2018, with 89.1 million passengers passing through, and in 2022, 66 million passengers were recorded.
In early February, Dubai revealed record-breaking tourism figures, boasting 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. The average hotel occupancy rate was approximately 77%. Despite facing fluctuations, Dubai’s real estate market continues to thrive, with property values nearing all-time highs. The surge in passenger numbers has once again highlighted the constraints of DXB Airport, surrounded by residential areas and major roads. This increase in passengers is despite the increase and delay in visas for several nationalities such as Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis.
Al Maktoum International Airport
Al Maktoum International Airport, located 28 miles from DXB, was established in 2010 with one terminal. During the pandemic, it was used as a parking facility for Emirates’ Airbus A380s and other aircraft, gradually transitioning back to operations with cargo and private flights. The airport also hosts the Dubai Air Show every two years and has ample space in the desert for future expansion.
Sheikh Mohammed’s announcement highlighted Dubai’s intentions to extend its development southward, with plans already in place for housing options near the Expo 2020 site. The ruler of Dubai mentioned the city’s ongoing efforts to create a new urban center around the airport in Dubai South, anticipating a surge in demand for housing to accommodate a million people. This development is expected to attract top companies in the logistics and air transport industries, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global hub. These plans come at a critical time as Dubai navigates the aftermath of record-breaking rainfall, which disrupted activities in the city earlier this month.