Latest news with #KhalifaAlZaffin
23-05-2025
- Business
Dubai Municipality Signs AED 150 Million Deal to Build Stormwater Tunnel in Dubai South
Dubai Municipality has signed a AED 150 million agreement with Dubai South to build a secondary stormwater tunnel, advancing the emirate's push for future-ready infrastructure and sustainable urban growth. The project, part of the wider AED 30 billion Tasreef initiative, will connect Dubai South's drainage network to Dubai Municipality's deep tunnel system via Expo Road. The new tunnel is designed to improve stormwater and surface runoff management, reduce flood risks, and protect key assets across the residential district. This strategic move supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to drive economic resilience and sustainable development. The stormwater system is expected to serve up to one million future residents in Dubai South. H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, described the initiative as a key step in delivering integrated infrastructure across the emirate. 'This project reflects our commitment to a unified stormwater system that meets Dubai's needs for the next 100 years,' he said. The Tasreef programme, set for completion by 2033, is the largest of its kind in the region. Once operational, it will boost the emirate's stormwater drainage capacity by 700 per cent and manage over 20 million cubic metres of water daily. H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai South, said the project would strengthen the district's readiness to handle future growth. 'This partnership supports our vision of transforming Dubai South into a fully integrated, sustainable urban hub,' he noted. By aligning infrastructure with long-term development goals, the new stormwater tunnel marks another milestone in Dubai's effort to become a global leader in urban planning and environmental resilience. News Source: Dubai Media Office
UAE Moments
12-05-2025
- Business
- UAE Moments
7 Amazing Features at Dubai's New Airport
Dubai is building a next-level airport, and it's going to be massive, literally. The new Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, is set to span a jaw-dropping 70 square kilometres. That's five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport (DXB). With a price tag of $35 billion, this future hub will become one of the most advanced and spacious airports in the world. Join our FREE WhatsApp channel to dive into a world of real-time engagement! So, what can travellers expect when it opens? Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, recently shared some of the coolest features that are in the works. Here are 7 standout features to look forward to: 1. A Terminal Like No Other DWC's terminal design is huge and smart. It will have two passenger terminals and seven concourses, with over 400 aircraft gates to handle future growth. Unlike traditional airports with one central terminal, DWC is being designed as a cluster of smaller terminals that work together, like a system of mini airports within a mega one. 2. Seamless Tech Everywhere Say goodbye to long queues. DWC will be packed with AI and smart tech that knows who you are as soon as you walk in. No more standing in line for immigration or check-in. Biometric ID and facial recognition will process passengers quickly and smoothly. 3. Robotics Behind the Scenes Expect robots to do the heavy lifting, literally. From automated baggage handling to smart security checks, advanced robotics will take over many of the tasks usually done by people. This means faster service, fewer delays, and a smoother journey overall. 4. No Counters, No Lines That's right, no check-in or immigration counters. The airport's 'borderless' experience means everything will be handled digitally. Once you're in, the system will already know who you are, where you're coming from, and where you're going. 5. Hop On a Train Inside the Airport DWC will feature a state-of-the-art Automated People Mover (APM). Think of it like an internal train system that helps you move between gates, terminals, and sections of the airport quickly. This will be especially handy for transit passengers making tight connections. 6. A Global Trade Powerhouse Because it's close to Jebel Ali Port and several free zones, DWC will also become a logistics superhub. It's part of Dubai's long-term vision to connect air, land, and sea transport. The airport is expected to support up to one million people through jobs and nearby housing as part of the larger Dubai South development. 7. Built With Sustainability in Mind The airport is aiming for LEED Gold certification, with eco-friendly power sources, smart water usage, and strong waste management systems. DWC is also designed to be carbon neutral, putting sustainability at the heart of its operations. With construction already progressing, Al Maktoum International Airport is on track to redefine air travel. Whether you're flying in or just transiting through, expect a futuristic, ultra-efficient experience from start to finish.
09-05-2025
- Business
Al Maktoum International Airport to Begin Operations by 2032
New Dh1-billion runway contract marks major milestone in developing the world's largest airport. Dubai's aviation landscape is set for a dramatic transformation as Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) moves closer to becoming the new aviation hub of the emirate. The first phase of the mega airport is scheduled for completion by 2032, with the capacity to handle 150 million passengers annually. Once operational, DWC will begin taking over all flight operations from Dubai International Airport (DXB), according to a top official. New Runway and Groundwork Underway Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, made the announcement on Thursday during the Airport Show in Dubai. He revealed that a Dh1-billion contract has been awarded for the construction of a second runway at DWC. Enabling work—often the initial step in large-scale construction—has already begun, with an additional Dh75 million allocated to this preparatory phase. 'We are moving decisively to deliver the project on schedule,' Al Zaffin said, noting that design work is in progress and ground activity has started. A Technological Marvel in the Making The airport, which has been described as the 'most futuristic' in the world, will feature cutting-edge technology and a passenger-centric design. Once complete, DWC will cover 70 square kilometers—five times the size of DXB—and will eventually serve up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually. Plans include two main passenger terminals, seven concourses, and over 400 aircraft gates. The airport will also introduce AI-powered systems to optimize operations, including automated gate allocations and smarter terminal layouts for smoother passenger transfers. Redefining the Travel Experience Beyond its size, DWC is being designed as a travel destination in itself. According to Al Zaffin, the terminal will feature immersive retail experiences, advanced duty-free outlets, and robots handling baggage. 'There is going to be a giant terminal for arrivals and departures which will then lead to different concourses,' he said. 'It's going to be a place where travel is celebrated.' The design process involved reviewing multiple iterations to ensure both efficiency and elegance in passenger flow and airport experience. Smart Immigration and Seamless Travel In collaboration with government authorities, Dubai plans to implement a smart corridor that allows passengers to clear immigration in seconds. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, had previously hinted at these advancements. Al Zaffin confirmed the vision but noted that certain features, like borderless travel, may take longer to fully realize. 'The plan is to have an airport where people can move through without customs and immigration,' he said. 'How much of it we do at the test stage and how much we do later remains to be seen.' A Phased Shift from DXB to DWC Last month, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, confirmed the awarding of initial contracts for DWC's development. Once operational, DWC will gradually take over all flight operations from DXB, positioning Dubai at the forefront of global aviation innovation and capacity. With its mix of scale, advanced technology, and passenger-first design, Al Maktoum International is poised to reshape how the world travels through Dubai. News Source: Khaleej Times
09-05-2025
- Business
Phase 1 of Al Maktoum International to be completed by 2032
The first phase of Dubai's new Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA) is set to be completed by 2032. In an announcement made on Thursday, Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said the first phase will include the construction of a new passenger terminal, along with four concourses. "Several major packages required for the first phase of the project — including the Automated People Mover (APM) and the Baggage Handling System (BHS) - are currently in the tendering stage, with contracts expected to be awarded later this year," his statement added. "Additionally, the terminal substructure, early 132kV substations, and district cooling plants are the next packages to be tendered this year, laying the foundation for the subsequent phases of delivery." The completion of the first phase will increase capacity of Al Maktoum International Airport to approximately 150 million passenger annually. The airport is set to reach a target capacity of 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per year when it is fully functional. "This ambitious project is a cornerstone of the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033, driving long-term economic growth, fostering innovation, and reinforcing Dubai's global competitiveness in aviation and beyond," he said. Al Zaffin said the transition from Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum International Airport will take place as a "single, seamless move to avoid operational challenges and minimise disruption for passengers". It was in April last year that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, announced the "approval of the designs for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport". "Al Maktoum International Airport will enjoy the world's largest capacity, reaching up to 260 million passengers. It will be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport, and all operations at Dubai International Airport will be transferred to it in the coming years," he had posted on social media at the time. "The airport will accommodate 400 aircraft gates and feature five parallel runways. New aviation technologies will be employed for the first time in the aviation sector. As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow. It will host the world's leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.
Dubai Eye
08-05-2025
- Business
- Dubai Eye
Phase 1 of Al Maktoum International to be completed by 2032
The first phase of Dubai's new Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA) is set to be completed by 2032. In an announcement made on Thursday, Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said the first phase will include the construction of a new passenger terminal, along with four concourses. "Several major packages required for the first phase of the project — including the Automated People Mover (APM) and the Baggage Handling System (BHS) - are currently in the tendering stage, with contracts expected to be awarded later this year," his statement added. "Additionally, the terminal substructure, early 132kV substations, and district cooling plants are the next packages to be tendered this year, laying the foundation for the subsequent phases of delivery." The completion of the first phase will increase capacity of Al Maktoum International Airport to approximately 150 million passenger annually. The airport is set to reach a target capacity of 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per year when it is fully functional. "This ambitious project is a cornerstone of the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033, driving long-term economic growth, fostering innovation, and reinforcing Dubai's global competitiveness in aviation and beyond," he said. Al Zaffin said the transition from Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum International Airport will take place as a "single, seamless move to avoid operational challenges and minimise disruption for passengers". It was in April last year that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, announced the "approval of the designs for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport". "Al Maktoum International Airport will enjoy the world's largest capacity, reaching up to 260 million passengers. It will be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport, and all operations at Dubai International Airport will be transferred to it in the coming years," he had posted on social media at the time. "The airport will accommodate 400 aircraft gates and feature five parallel runways. New aviation technologies will be employed for the first time in the aviation sector. As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow. It will host the world's leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.
