Dubai to Shut Down Its Main Airport as Part of $35 Billion Aviation Expansion

Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world’s busiest hub for international travel, will eventually shut down operations as the UAE shifts all air traffic to the rapidly expanding Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

This decision comes as part of a $35 billion plan to build the world’s largest airport. DWC, located 28 miles from DXB, will feature five runways and 400 aircraft gates, aiming to accommodate up to 260 million passengers annually once complete.

DXB saw a record 92.3 million travelers in 2024, but space limitations due to surrounding highways and neighborhoods have made expansion impossible. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, stated that operating two major airports in such close proximity no longer makes sense.

DWC has mostly served cargo flights since its opening in 2010 but will now take center stage in Dubai’s aviation future. While the first phase of DWC’s terminal is expected by 2032, expansion work could stretch into the 2050s.

For now, DXB will continue to operate as the city’s main airport, with popular carriers like Emirates and British Airways maintaining routes. Meanwhile, redevelopment plans for DXB’s current site are expected to focus on real estate and urban development.