Dubai International Airport (DXB) is preparing for a phased closure in the coming decades, with all operations set to transfer to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The plan was announced as DWC undergoes a large expansion project valued at £28 billion.
Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, confirmed the move at the Arabian Travel Market conference. He cited the impracticality of operating two large airport hubs in close proximity and the aging infrastructure of DXB, which opened in 1960.
Mr. Griffiths indicated that maintaining DXB's current operations would require considerable investment.
The transition is expected to be gradual, aligning with the completion of phases at DWC. The new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport is anticipated to be ready by 2032, with further expansions planned into the 2050s. This timeline suggests DXB will continue handling flights for at least another 10 years.
According to Metro, Mr. Griffiths stated, "There is little sense in running two major hubs in such proximity. We will move every single service to DWC."
He also commented on the current airport's condition, adding, "The economics of keeping DXB open will not be viable unless we invest a significant amount of money."
The plan comes as Dubai continues to attract a growing number of international visitors. In 2024, Dubai welcomed 1,327,000 visitors from the UK, a 14% increase from the previous year, according to data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The emirate received 18.72 million international overnight visitors in the same period.
UK travelers planning visits to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) should ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their arrival date. Those holding a residence permit need passports valid for at least three months past their arrival in the UAE. For travelers transiting through the UAE without passing through immigration, the passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the transit date.
