**Dubai International Airport to Close Permanently in 2035**
Dubai, UAE – Dubai International Airport (DXB), recognized as one of the world's largest aviation hubs, is scheduled to close permanently in 2035. The transition will involve a gradual transfer of all operations to Al Maktoum International Airport, located in Dubai South. This phased transfer is expected to commence around 2032 and will span several years.
Al Maktoum International Airport is currently undergoing an extensive redevelopment project, with an investment of approximately £28 billion. Upon completion, it is projected to become the largest airport globally, with the capacity to accommodate up to 260 million passengers annually. The new airport will feature five runways and 400 aircraft gates, significantly expanding its operational capabilities compared to DXB, which is already one of the busiest airports in the world.
Dubai Airports’ Chief Executive, Paul Griffiths, highlighted the rationale behind this decision during the Arabian Travel Market in 2025. He stated that maintaining two major airport hubs in such close proximity—approximately 70 kilometers apart—would be inefficient. Griffiths emphasized that the full transfer of operations would hinge on Al Maktoum reaching the necessary capacity to absorb all flights and services currently managed by DXB. He also noted that by the time the transfer occurs, DXB's facilities would be nearing the end of their operational lifespan, making it economically impractical to continue their maintenance without significant investment.
Dubai International Airport has a rich history, having opened its doors on September 30, 1960, with a modest terminal and a runway made of compacted sand measuring 1,800 meters. Over the decades, it has evolved into a critical global aviation hub, currently ranking as the second-busiest airport in the world. In 2025, DXB served approximately 95.2 million passengers, maintaining its status as the largest international airport based on international passenger traffic.
As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, the transition to Al Maktoum International Airport marks a significant shift in Dubai's approach to air travel infrastructure. The move is anticipated to enhance operational efficiency and accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region.
The closure of DXB will not only impact passengers and airlines but will also have broader implications for the local economy and tourism sector, which heavily relies on the airport's operations. As the timeline for this transition unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments to ensure a smooth transfer of services and maintain Dubai's reputation as a leading global travel destination.
For now, travelers and airlines will continue to utilize Dubai International Airport, with the focus shifting towards preparing for the eventual transition to Al Maktoum International Airport, which promises to redefine air travel in the region.