阿尔马克图姆机场：随着2032年的临近，合同总额达到550亿迪拉姆
Dubai's next mega-airport just moved up a gear. More than Dh55 billion in strategic contracts are set to be awarded in 2026 for Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) , keeping the project on track for a Phase 1 opening in 2032 — and cementing what will become the world's largest aviation hub.
The scale of the build
Once complete, Al Maktoum will handle up to 260 million passengers a year and 12 million tonnes of air cargo, eventually replacing Dubai International (DXB) and becoming the home of Emirates. The design calls for five parallel runways, two terminals and seven concourses linked to more than 430 aircraft stands.
Work is already well advanced. Contracts worth around Dh13 billion are currently under execution, with more than 17,000 concrete piles installed and over 45 million cubic metres of excavation completed, alongside a finished second runway. The next wave of Dh55 billion-plus awards will cover major packages including the Western Passenger Terminal, additional concourses, the Automated People Mover and the baggage-handling system. The on-site workforce — about 9,000 today — is expected to climb toward 120,000 at peak.
Why property investors are watching
An airport of this scale is one of the most powerful long-term demand drivers a property market can have. The expansion sits at the heart of Dubai South and anchors the wider southern growth corridor toward Jebel Ali — areas where off-plan projects are launching around future connectivity, jobs and logistics. As the airport moves from groundworks to buildings, expect the surrounding communities to attract steady end-user and investor demand.
Buyers looking at the corridor can explore off-plan launches in Dubai's communities , review masterplans from leading developers , and pair a long-term hold with the UAE Golden Visa . Our market insights track how mega-infrastructure feeds through to prices.
The bottom line
With Dh55 billion in contracts lining up this year and a firm 2032 target, Al Maktoum is shifting from vision to visible progress — and Dubai South is positioned to be one of the biggest long-term beneficiaries.
Sources: The National , Gulf News .
Discover off-plan opportunities in Dubai South and beyond at offplans.com.