Shift from DXB is 'absolutely essential' for airport's growth

Dubai's Al Maktoum International set to take over by 2032 as DXB nears capacity

- BY DHANUSHA GOKULAN

Dubai's aviation future is firmly set on Dubai World Central (DWC) - Al Maktoum International Airport, as Dubai International (DXB) approaches its operational limits. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, has confirmed that the complete transition of operations to DWC is not just a plan, but a necessity, with a firm target set for 2032.

"The DWC Al Maktoum International project is absolutely essential for our growth," Griffiths stated, underscoring the strategic imperative behind the move. “There will come a point where we outgrow DXB, and in 2032, we must make that move to DWC, Al Maktoum International.”

Phased transition

Griffiths noted that, despite continuous improvements in systems, technology, and infrastructure, DXB can only stretch its capacity so far.