Al Maktoum: Dubai Airport’s Ambitious New Era

Challenges and Opportunities in the Dubai Airport Transition: A New Era for Al Maktoum

A new chapter for Dubai’s airport system is about to begin with the initiation of preparations for one of the world’s largest aviation projects — the gradual transition of all traffic from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The scale and significance of this transformation are milestones not only for the city but also for global aviation. The process presents numerous technical, organizational, and human resource challenges — including temporary adjustments in retirement timing among the staff.

Background of the Decision

In April 2024, the Dubai government officially announced that all airport operations would transition from the current city-center-adjacent DXB to the Al Maktoum Airport located at Dubai World Central near Jebel Ali. The new terminal, developed with an investment of 128 billion dirhams, will have the capability to handle up to 260 million passengers annually, fully taking over DXB's current traffic, with completion expected by 2032.

Why is the Shift Necessary?

Dubai International is currently the world’s busiest international airport and is already operating at its capacity limits. In the first half of 2025 alone, it handled 46 million passengers, a new record. In April alone, 8 million passengers passed through its terminals — a monthly high for this airport. The growing passenger traffic cannot be managed long-term with the current infrastructure.

Experts estimate that by the end of 2026, DXB's annual traffic could reach 100 million and might exceed 115 million by 2031. This growth can only be managed with a new, significantly larger and more modern air transport hub, which Al Maktoum Airport can provide.

Transition Period – The Challenge of Dual Operations

One of the biggest challenges is not the construction of the new airport itself but ensuring a smooth transition. According to current plans, both airports will operate in parallel for several years. This means that while DWC gradually takes over airlines, flights, and logistical operations, DXB will continue to operate at full capacity.

The CEO of Dubai Airports recently confirmed that more than one airport's worth of employees will be needed during this transition period since both the old and new sites need to be operated simultaneously. This means readiness not only to operate DWC but also to maintain the existing DXB systems.

This human resource demand poses a significant organizational challenge. Specialists, engineers, technicians, customer service representatives, and maintenance staff will be under double pressure: they must prepare for the new system while ensuring continued high-level service at the existing airport.

Delayed Retirements?

The CEO also hinted that during the transition period, some employees may need to delay their retirement. While this is not compulsory, the company expects that experienced colleagues will remain during the changeover, contributing their knowledge and routine to ensure a smooth transition. Management communicates this not as a restriction but as a mutual effort for the successful launch of the new airport.

Preparations Underway

Contracts related to the development of DWC began in the first half of 2025, with expectations of launching further large-scale infrastructure projects in the coming years. The goal is to create a complex capable not only of passenger transport but also of freight service and aircraft maintenance — all with sustainable, digital, and future-proof solutions.

A new district will also develop around the airport, including offices, hotels, leisure facilities, and commercial zones. Thus, DWC will not just be a new airport but a comprehensive economic and transportation center, a cornerstone of Dubai’s future.

Gradual Relocation of Airlines

In the coming years, several airlines will gradually move to DWC, starting with low-cost carriers and those operating smaller international routes. Throughout this process, it will be essential to appropriately inform travelers since flight locations will change, raising new logistical questions — such as transportation to DWC, parking, ground transport connections, and transit options.

Summary

Dubai is entering a new era in aviation, and while the transition period presents significant organizational and personnel challenges, the Al Maktoum International Airport marks a massive leap forward in the long run. One of the world's most dynamically developing cities will thus set a new global standard and take another step toward becoming the center of future air traffic.

Flexibility, experience, and human commitment will be necessary throughout the transition — from both employees and passengers. If successful, DWC will not only be a new airport in a technical sense but also a symbol of Dubai’s vision: rapid, efficient, sustainable, and globally influential.

(Source: Based on statements from the Dubai Airshow press conference.)