Earlier this year, Dubai stunned many with the announcement of a massive Dhs128 billion initiative to expand Al Maktoum International Airport, making it five times larger than DXB. The plans to transform this airport into the world’s busiest have been in the works for over a decade, but the sheer scale of the renovation is truly astonishing.
The latest visuals give us a clearer picture of the future Dubai World Central as the architects and designers explain their vision. Austrian architecture firm Coop Himmelb(l)au, which won the contract on September 5, has shared insights into the design. The revamped airport is designed to handle 260 million passengers annually, focusing on customer comfort and ease of movement.
The airport will feature a unique roof that allows abundant natural light, creating a spacious feel for easy navigation. Coop Himmelb(l)au emphasizes the use of artificial intelligence and advanced design to enhance passenger experience, highlighting a streamlined check-in process and cutting-edge security measures. The design will also reflect Dubai’s cultural heritage, blending traditional elements with modern materials and advanced features to honor the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity.
Sustainability is a key aspect, with the airport leveraging natural daylight, renewable energy sources, and the latest sustainable energy solutions to minimize its carbon footprint. The design also considers the local weather in the Jebel Ali area, optimizing natural light while reducing glare and heat to decrease reliance on artificial energy.
Once completed, the airport will feature over 400 aircraft gates, five parallel runways with top operational standards, and five passenger terminal buildings, covering a total of 70 square kilometers. The first phase of the project is expected to be ready by 2032, accommodating 150 million passengers annually. However, the full project completion is projected to extend well into the 2050s.
