New airport planned in tourist destination to deal with record visitors

LocalTravel
19 Nov 2025 • 6:39 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Dubai International Airport (DXB) has shattered its previous passenger records, accommodating 93.8 million travellers this year.
  • This record-breaking surge highlights Dubai's pivotal role as a global aviation hub and necessitates a $35 billion (£26bn) expansion project at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
  • The DWC is currently hosting the biennial Dubai Air Show, which has seen significant aircraft orders from Emirates and FlyDubai to fuel major route expansions.
  • Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, stated that the vision for DWC extends beyond capacity, aiming to reimagine and evolve the entire travel experience.
  • Despite a real estate boom and record tourism numbers, Dubai is now grappling with increasing traffic and rising costs impacting both citizens and foreign residents.

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