Dubaiuncovered

Dubai Airports’ CEO, Paul Griffiths, has announced that Dubai International Airport (DXB) is moving forward with its commitment to upgrade facilities and technology, despite an order for 125 new Boeing wide-body Dreamliners by carriers Emirates and flydubai. The initial phase of upgrades will focus on Terminal 2 and Concourses C and E at Terminal 3.

The airport has revised its full-year 2023 forecasts to 86.8 million travellers from 85 million, with an average of 7.6 million travelers passing through each month.

With DXB close to hitting a 100 million passenger capacity milestone, the new orders from Emirates and flydubai, placed during the recent Dubai Airshow, make it crucial for the airport to boost its existing capacities at the mega hub as soon as possible.

Griffiths emphasized the need to maintain a seamless and stress-free passenger journey, especially as up to 70 per cent of passengers have alternative hub options. He confirmed the airport may have to revise its budget of Dh6 to Dh10 billion for the makeover, given the new orders.

Regarding the expansion to Dubai World Central (DWC), Griffiths stated that it remains a long-term goal, with the focus currently on expanding operations at both airports to accommodate the rapidly growing demand.

The upgrade of Terminal 2, expected to be completed next year, will cater to the significant growth of flydubai, with enhancements aimed at improving customer experience. Additionally, significant programs for refurbishment and expansion for Concourses C and E at Terminal 3 are in place to enhance passenger handling capacity.

The airport is also integrating its check-in and immigration processes to provide a more seamless experience for passengers. The goal is to simplify the process and eventually eliminate the need for check-ins altogether, envisioning a scenario where travelers drop their bags, enjoy dining or shopping at the airport, and board their plane without any hassles.