Al Maktoum eyes 12 million tonnes cargo by 2032

Al Maktoum International Airport is progressing with large-scale construction, with total cargo capacity planned at 12 million tonnes when fully completed. Expected to be completed by 2032, the project is currently in an active build phase, with AED13 billion worth of works underway and more than AED55 billion planned for future contracts. Key works include runway development, excavation and early structural foundations linked to terminal and cargo systems.

The expansion is expected to strengthen air cargo handling in Dubai by adding major new capacity and easing pressure on existing airport facilities. This will support smoother movement of freight such as e-commerce goods, industrial parts and transit cargo moving through regional hubs. The design includes multiple runways and large-scale infrastructure that will improve long-term freight efficiency and connectivity.

Construction activity is already visible across key packages, including runway works and deep excavation for core airport systems. Once operational, the airport is expected to handle significantly higher cargo volumes across global trade routes linking Asia, Europe and Africa.

Her Excellency Engineer Suzanne Al Anani, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, said: “The works are advancing at an accelerated pace, with major packages under execution and further strategic contracts planned in the coming phase.”