Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport is on track to become the world’s largest aviation hub, with construction progressing steadily through 2026 and a confirmed opening for its first phase in 2032.
What Is Being Built
The airport is being developed to handle more than 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually, spread across five parallel runways, two passenger terminals, and seven concourses with 430 aircraft stands. Once complete, it will be roughly five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport.
Construction Progress So Far
More than 17,000 concrete piles have been completed, over 45 million cubic metres of excavation has taken place, and the airport’s second runway is already finished. Contracts worth AED13 billion are currently being executed, with more than AED55 billion in additional strategic contracts expected to be awarded by the end of 2026.
How Dubai International Fits Into the Plan
Dubai International Airport remains the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, having handled more than 95 million passengers in 2025. Once Al Maktoum’s first phase opens in 2032, operations will begin gradually transferring over, with Emirates planning one of the largest airline relocations in aviation history.
What This Means for Residents and Investors
The shift is already reshaping areas like Dubai South and Dubai Investment Park, where rents have risen as workers and businesses position themselves near the new hub. New metro and rail links, including a planned Route 2020 extension, are also being studied to connect the new airport to the rest of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Al Maktoum Airport open?
Phase one is scheduled to begin operations in 2032.
How many passengers will it handle?
At full buildout, it is designed to handle more than 260 million passengers annually.
Will Emirates split flights between both airports?
No, Emirates has confirmed it will not split operations due to its hub-and-spoke connection model.
