In a groundbreaking move poised to reshape the global aviation landscape, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has given the green light to the ambitious design plans for a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This monumental undertaking, estimated at a staggering AED128 billion, is set to propel Dubai to the forefront of the aviation industry with what promises to be the world’s largest airport terminal upon completion.

During his visit to the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, Sheikh Mohammed, accompanied by other critical dignitaries including His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, provided strategic oversight and approval for the terminal’s designs. Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed articulated the project’s significance, stating, “Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, commencing construction for AED128 billion as part of Dubai Aviation Corporation’s strategy.”

The grand vision for Al Maktoum International Airport encompasses a terminal of unprecedented scale, poised to accommodate an astonishing 260 million passengers annually, five times the capacity of the current Dubai International Airport. This colossal infrastructure endeavour will elevate Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub and catalyze exponential economic growth and development within the region.

Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the holistic approach to the project, envisioning not just an airport but an entire city centre in Dubai South, designed to accommodate the burgeoning demand for housing and facilitate the operations of leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors. He remarked, “We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children. Dubai will be the world’s airport, port, urban hub, and new global centre.”

Integral to the master plan for the Airport of the Future is a comprehensive strategy to leverage cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. With an expansive area covering 70 square kilometres, the airport aims to surpass all existing benchmarks, boasting a capacity exceeding 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per annum upon full development. Sheikh Mohammed’s unwavering commitment to innovation and progress is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail evident in the strategic implementation plan for the airport.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, emphasized the pivotal role of the new airport in shaping the future trajectory of Dubai’s aviation sector. “With the continuous support and blessings of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and in keeping with his vision for the Aviation industry in Dubai, we announce the commencement of the design and construction process for the new airport at Jebel Ali,” he stated.

The project’s ambitious scope extends beyond mere infrastructure development, focusing on enhancing the passenger experience through state-of-the-art facilities and unparalleled levels of service. Sheikh Ahmed underscored the transformative impact of the new airport, stating, “Al Maktoum International (AMI) is planned in such a way as to represent a leap into the future. It will comprise five parallel runways, west and east processing terminals, and an integrated landside transport hub for roads, Metro, and city air transport.”

In addition to its economic significance, the project underscores Dubai’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. His Excellency Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the airport’s development and Dubai’s economic agenda, stating, “The development of this new airport will be an integral part of Dubai’s economy and major contributor to the Dubai Economic Agenda.”

The unveiling of plans for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport heralds a new era of innovation and progress in Dubai’s aviation sector. With Sheikh Mohammed’s visionary leadership, the project is poised to redefine the global aviation landscape, setting new standards for excellence, sustainability, and economic prosperity.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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