Everything to Know about the Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC, Dubai) and Its Rising Influence on Dubai’s Property Market

Dubai has long enjoyed a stellar reputation for world-class infrastructure. Building on that, Dubai is gradually making progress on one of its biggest aviation and real estate initiatives yet: the expansion and development of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). As the major driver of growth for Dubai South, this airport project is reshaping property demand, investment flows, and where people choose to live or do business in Dubai. This article walks you through everything you need to know about DWC, its history, scale, design, expansion, real‐estate implications, and why now might be the opportune moment to pay closer attention to Dubai South.

Overview of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) and Its Expansion Plans

Al Maktoum International Airport, also known by its acronym DWC (Dubai World Central), is part of a vast master plan to build a new aviation, logistics, residential, and commercial hub in Dubai South. In June 2010, the airport began its cargo operations, and it wasn’t until October 2013 that it started handling passenger traffic after the passenger terminal was opened.

In April 2024, Dubai’s leadership approved a Phase II expansion for DWC, projected to cost approximately AED 128 billion (about US$35 billion) to transform the airport into a mega-hub. This plan aims to transform DWC into a facility that can ultimately serve up to 260 million passengers annually, with a capacity of up to 12 million tonnes of cargo, featuring five parallel runways, over 400 aircraft gates, multiple termini/concourse wings, and advanced landside and airside infrastructure.

Al Maktoum International Airport: Location

DWC, also known as the new airport in Dubai, is situated in the Jebel Ali area, located in the southern part of the Emirate. According to the Dubai South airport map, it is located at the heart of the community. Roughly 37 kilometers southwest of central Dubai, the Jebel Ali / Dubai South area was selected for its open desert space, proximity to the Port of Jebel Ali, and the ability to plan supporting infrastructure without the constraints faced by Dubai International Airport.

DWC’s distance from Key Dubai Landmarks

These distances imply that DWC’s location in Dubai is truly at the heart of what many consider “central Dubai,” but infrastructure plans such as roads, rail, and metro are set up to make it increasingly connected to the rest of the city, lowering effective travel time and friction.

Al Maktoum International Airport Opening Date: Timeline to Know

Here is a timeline of major milestones for Al Maktoum International Airport. DWC opening timeline included 3 major dates:

• June 27, 2010: Cargo operations began.
• October 27, 2013: Passenger terminal officially opened for commercial passenger operations.
• 2018: Expanded passenger terminal (or upgrades) increased passenger handling capacity to ~ 26 million annually.

When looking at the Dubai new airport construction update, a huge expansion, dubbed Phase II, will turn DWC into one of the world’s largest airports:

• April 2024: The Ruler of Dubai approved an AED 128 billion expansion plan.
• Over the next 10 years (i.e., by ~2034-2035), the plan is to realize much of that expansion by building new runways, concourses, terminal wings, gates, logistics facilities, and other infrastructure.

The DWC completion date remains unclear. However, many of the earlier phases are currently underway, and it is anticipated to be fully operational by the 2030s.

Latest Update around the Al Maktoum International Airport, DWC, Dubai (in 2025)

By mid-2025, several key developments and indicators show that the airport expansion is well underway and already influencing surrounding economic activity:

• The AED 128 billion expansion has sparked strong interest in real estate in Dubai South. According to property analysts, property transaction volumes have exceeded AED 15 billion in just the first five months of 2025.
• Rental rates in Dubai South have risen by approximately 20% year-to-date (2025).
• Property prices have risen significantly for both off-plan and completed properties, with numbers varying by sub-community; some reports indicate 25% growth since the announcement of phase II.
• Recognized institutions are investing; examples include a $1 billion real estate deal involving Brookfield and regional partners, as well as large infrastructure contracts, notably the second runway, worth approximately AED 1 billion.

These data show that the market is not waiting for full completion; anticipation and early investment are already strong.

Al Maktoum International Airport Capacity

Dubai’s New Airport: Size

DWC is designed to be the world’s largest airport in Dubai; thus, it will enjoy a massive capacity, whether in passengers or cargo. Here are the known and planned capacity figures:

• Under the current passenger terminal (after expansions), DWC passenger capacity will average 26 million passengers per year.
• With the Phase II expansion, the plan is to serve 150 million passengers annually over the next decade, with a target of reaching full capacity of 260 million passengers annually.
• Cargo capacity is projected to be up to 12 million tonnes annually in the end state.

In terms of physical scale, Dubai's new airport will be outstanding:

• The new airport will feature five parallel runways and over 400 aircraft gates and contact stands, along with satellite concourses.
• The Phase II vision also accounts for landside infrastructure, including an automated people mover and integrated transport hubs (such as metro, roads, and rail).

Key Features and Design of the New Dubai Airport

Al Maktoum Airport's design and planned features are ambitious, blending functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability:

• Architectural design: The firm COOP Himmelb(l)au is leading the new terminal design in collaboration with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) and Dar Al-Handasah. The design emphasizes open spaces, natural lighting, cultural motifs, and integration with the environment.
• Sustainability: DWC airport features include maximizing daylight and natural ventilation, utilizing renewable energy sources, employing performance glass and shading to reduce heat, implementing efficient water usage, and implementing waste management systems. It is intended to be a “green” and sustainable airport in many respects.
• Technological integration: Biometric identification, smart security, robotics in baggage handling, automated and smooth check-in and immigration processes, people mover systems inside the airport, etc. Features are designed to reduce queues, improve passenger flow, and enhance the comfort of travelers.
• Terminal layout & modularity: Dubai’s new airport terminals and concourses are planned to be added in phases, which helps scale efficiently as demand grows. Multiple concourses, satellite fingers, and a landside transport hub will integrate seamlessly with roads, metro/rail, etc.
• Passenger amenities: The plan includes expansive retail, dining, and lounges (for first / business class), large drop-off areas with grand canopies, green zones within terminal buildings, and indoor landscaping/green zones.

Dubai South: The Emerging Real Estate Hotspot Around DWC

DWC is part of Dubai South’s broader masterplan, envisioned as an integrated city of aviation, logistics, residential, commerce, tourism, and free zone activities. Spanning 145 square kilometres, Dubai South has enormous growth potential.

Some of the existing sub-communities include Dubai Industrial City, Dubai Investment Park, Expo City, and Emaar South, among others. Many of these are now benefiting directly from proximity to DWC. In 2025, property in these areas will remain significantly more affordable than in core Dubai (Downtown, Business Bay, etc.). Nevertheless, their appeal is skyrocketing given their proximity to the new mega-airport.

Why Is Dubai Building a New Mega Airport?

Several reasons justify the investment allocated for the highly anticipated DWC / Al Maktoum:

1. Capacity constraints at DXB/Dubai International Airport: DXB is geographically surrounded by built-up areas, thus hindering any expansion plans. To manage future passenger, freight, and tourism growth, Dubai needs more space. DWC offers that space.
2. Support for Dubai’s Growth Strategy / 2040 Vision: Dubai is set to become a global hub for tourism, logistics, trade, aviation, and commerce. A mega airport, such as Al Maktoum Airport, plays a foundational role in achieving this goal. A large-scale infrastructure development is needed to meet the needs that arise from urban expansion, population growth, and the rise in international travel.
3. Economic diversification: In line with Dubai’s vision to diversify its economy and steer away from oil, Dubai South plans to support logistics, freight, aviation services, free zones, etc., broadening the economic ecosystem. Jobs, business, tourism, and real estate all expand in tandem.
4. Strategic location & future planning: With global air traffic growing, competition among aviation hubs is intense. Dubai aims to maintain its leadership in connectivity, speed, efficiency, and passenger experience. Building with green/sustainable features also aligns with global trends and regulatory expectations.

DWC vs DXB

In the ongoing DWC vs DXB discussion, understanding the difference between Al Maktoum Airport and Dubai International Airport is key. The Dubai airport comparison highlights how the new DWC represents the future of aviation, while the old airport continues to serve as the city’s global gateway.

How Al Maktoum International Airport Is Driving Real Estate Demand

The impact of Al Maktoum Airport on real estate was unmistakable. The mere announcement of DWC’s expansion has already sparked significant momentum in the real estate sector in Dubai South and adjacent areas:

• Price uplift & transaction volume: As mentioned, transactions in Dubai South exceeded AED 15-16 billion in 2024, and in only five months of 2025, they nearly matched that amount, highlighting the rise in DWC property demand and going hand in hand with Dubai property growth in 2025.
• Rental growth: Rents have increased by ~20% in 2025.
• Yield attractiveness: Investors are expressing increased interest in airport infrastructure and real estate. They are drawn by relatively high yields vs. prime areas. Off-plan and ready units in Dubai South currently offer more favorable prices per square foot and yield metrics compared to high-cost areas.
• Affordability gap: Dubai South property prices are still approximately 60% lower than those in prime areas such as Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. That gap makes it appealing for budget-aware homebuyers and investors seeking long-term growth.
• Speculative & institutional investment: Large funds, institutional investors, and top developers are moving in, due to the expected infrastructure improvements and the long-term vision of Dubai’s aviation hub status.
• Infrastructure-led demand: New transport links, planned metro/rail connectivity, and roads help reduce the cost and time of living further out, making areas around DWC more liveable and investable.

Most Populars around DWC, Dubai

Certain areas are already attracting interest around Al Maktoum Airport / Dubai South. Some of the most popular neighbourhoods/sub-regions include:

• Dubai Industrial City
• Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
• Expo City (legacy of Expo 2020)
• Emaar South

Property Investment Opportunities in Dubai South and Surrounding Areas

For investors or homebuyers looking at property investment in Dubai South, here are some of the promising real estate opportunities near DWC:

1. Off-plan developments in Dubai South and its sub-communities. These often offer a lower entry price per square foot, and potential for capital growth as the airport and infrastructure develop.
2. Ready properties in communities like Emaar South, Dubai Investment Park, and others are some of the best areas to invest in Dubai. These are appealing for those who want to move sooner or generate rental income while waiting for further expansion.
3. Logistics, commercial property, and warehouses: Because DWC is designed to be an aviation and logistics hub, demand for industrial, storage, and business park real estate is likely to increase.
4. Mixed-use communities: These are residential, retail, and leisure communities with amenities, where residents live without the need to commute to distant parts of Dubai.
5. Land parcels: For large investors or developers, acquiring land in growth zones around DWC may yield large returns in the medium to long term.
6. Real rental housing: For families or individuals wanting affordable housing relative to prime districts, but with improved connectivity and services.

Al Maktoum Airport’s Impact on Property Prices and Rental Yields

Here are some of the observable trends and projections as of 2025:

• Property price growth: Since the airport expansion announcement, Dubai South property prices have increased by an average of 25% in many sectors.
• Rental growth: Rents are up about 20%. Communities around DWC are experiencing strong demand, both from end-users and tenants.
• Rental yields: Rental yields in Dubai South have followed suit, with some areas showing yields in the 7-10% range.
• Comparison with prime areas: Even with the strong Dubai real estate market growth, many properties near DWC remain significantly more affordable in terms of price per square foot than those in established prime districts. This points to a potential upside.
• Forecasts: Looking at DWC area price trends, analysts estimate property prices in Dubai South may rise further by 15-20% in the near to medium term, as infrastructure contracts are awarded and connectivity improves.

Dubai’s Upcoming Connectivity and Infrastructure – Linking DWC to the Rest of Dubai

The appeal of DWC is strongly tied to its connection to the rest of Dubai, as well as the road and metro connectivity that Dubai South will enjoy. Several infrastructure projects and transport links to Dubai South are planned or underway :

• Dubai Metro Blue Line extension: One of the major transit plans is the Dubai Metro expansion to DWC with a Blue Line. This will be critical for commuter access and reducing travel time to/from the core city.
• Etihad Rail: The national rail network, Etihad Rail, is planned to include a stop in Dubai South, which improves connectivity to other emirates and the inland UAE.
• Road infrastructure: Infrastructure development near Al Maktoum Airport will extend to roads. Multi-lane highways, upgraded access roads, and interchanges are being planned to ensure smooth road access to DWC and surrounding developments.
• Integrated transport hub: The new airport will feature landside transport hubs, people mover systems within the airport grounds for connecting concourses, drop-off and pick-up zones, and more.
• Support services & amenities: As the development of Dubai South continues, various facilities, including retail, leisure, education, and healthcare, will be integrated into the master plan, reducing the need for long-distance commutes.

Who Benefits Most – Investors, Homebuyers, or Businesses?

When looking at residential vs. commercial property in Dubai South, we notice that all Dubai real estate market segments stand to gain, but in different ways and with different risk profiles:

• Investors: Dubai property investors are probably one of the biggest beneficiaries. Buying early off-plan or in less developed sub-communities near DWC offers the potential for capital appreciation. Rental yields are currently competitive. Institutional investors are already showing confidence, which reduces risk.
• Homebuyers (end-users): Those looking to live more affordably compared to central Dubai can benefit from better-priced homes now, while also gaining from future infrastructure developments.
• Businesses (commercial, logistic, retail, hospitality): There are many huge business opportunities near DWC, given the airport’s focus on cargo, logistics, and free zones. These opportunities include warehouses, freight forwarders, distribution centers, hotels, and service industries.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Invest Near Al Maktoum International Airport?

Wondering whether to invest in Dubai South or not? Here’s why 2025 and the next few years are particularly strategic for investment near DWC:

1. Price gap & value advantage: Compared to prime Dubai, prices per square foot are much lower in Dubai South. That gives room for upside, as clearly highlighted by the Dubai property investment 2025 trends.
2. Early mover advantage: Those who invest earlier tend to benefit more in high-growth infrastructure zones.
3. Strong macro policy support: Government commitment means risks related to planning, permits, etc., are lower. Free zone benefits and foreign ownership policies add to Dubai South’s attractiveness.
4. Rental demand is already rising: For investors focused on rental income, the latter is improving with 20%+ growth registered.
5. Institutional interest & liquidity: Big investments, partnerships, and developer interest reflect confidence, help liquidity, and reduce risk.
6. Projected population & employment growth: As the airport opens jobs, people will need housing, services, and other amenities.

Final Thoughts: The Role of DWC in Dubai’s 2040 Vision and Economic Growth

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is not simply another airport expansion; it is an integral part of Dubai’s 2040 Vision. The growth in passenger and cargo traffic will make it a global aviation hub. Urban development will spread more sustainably, reducing the overcrowding of central districts. Massive job creation, economic diversification, and global competitiveness will ensue. All of these changes will influence property markets deeply, bringing real estate investment, new communities, and infrastructure upgrades to areas that were previously peripheral.

In short, DWC is shaping the future of Dubai. Anyone interested in Dubai’s future real estate should not ignore Dubai South and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

FAQs

1. Where is Al Maktoum International Airport located in Dubai?

DWC is situated in the southern part of Dubai, in the Jebel Ali/Dubai South area, approximately 37 km southwest of the central Dubai landmarks.

2. When will Al Maktoum International Airport be fully operational?

It is already operational in phases: cargo operations began in 2010, and the passenger terminal has been operational since late 2013. Reaching full capacity is expected over the next decades, likely in the 2030s.

3. How big is Al Maktoum International Airport?

Once complete, the airport will feature 400 aircraft gates and contact stands, five parallel runways, and will handle up to around 150 million passengers within 10 years. Ultimately, the airport will enjoy a capacity of 260 million passengers annually, plus around 12 million tonnes of cargo.

4. Why is Dubai building a new airport when DXB already exists?

DXB is highly successful and central, but physically constrained. Dubai’s growth in tourism, trade, aviation, and population demands expansion. DWC offers the land, flexibility, and longer-term planning capacity, as well as logistics integration (air, sea, and land), to handle future demand that DXB cannot handle alone.

5. How will Al Maktoum International Airport impact real estate in Dubai?

It is already doing so. Property prices, transactions, and rental rates in the vicinity of Dubai South are on the rise. The airport expansion is driving demand for housing, commercial property, logistics/warehousing, supporting infrastructure, schools, and retail, among other sectors.

6. Is Dubai South a good area to invest in property right now?

Yes, for many investors it is. Although there are trade-offs, such as its distance from certain central amenities and current infrastructure delivery, the combination of lower prices, improved infrastructure, government backing, and rising demand makes it one of the more compelling growth opportunities in Dubai in 2025.

7. What types of properties are available near Al Maktoum International Airport?

You’ll find a mix of property types, including apartments, townhouses, villas, ready and off-plan properties, industrial and logistics warehouses, commercial and office space, free-zone potential, and mixed-use developments. Communities such as Emaar South, DIP, Dubai Industrial City, and Expo City offer a range of property types.

8. Will property prices increase around Al Maktoum International Airport?

All signs point to yes. Analysts forecast further growth of 15-20% in the near to medium term, which varies by location, property type, road/metro access, amenities, and other factors.

9. How will DWC connect to the rest of Dubai?

Through the Blue Line Metro, Etihad Rail, improved road networks, transport hubs, and people mover systems.

10. What future developments are planned around Al Maktoum International Airport?

Many developments are planned, including the massive terminal expansion, new runways, satellite concourses, hundreds of gates, integrated logistics zones, free-zone business parks, residential communities, commercial, retail, leisure amenities, improved public transport, and others.

11. How can investors benefit from early property investment near DWC?

By purchasing off-plan or early-stage properties, selecting projects with good connectivity potential, choosing locations close to planned metro/rail or major roads, and focusing on property types. You can also contact our real estate specialists at Driven Properties, who can help you make the best of what Dubai South has to offer. ​