At Dubai South, the future takes shape now: Khalifa Al Zaffin

When Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’; he said, “We know our economic path over the next decade. The world makes way for those who know what they want.” Inspired by this vision, Dubai is advancing with ambitious projects that position it as a leader in sustainable development and a model for global cities.

In light of Sheikh Mohammed’s recent approval of designs for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport and the initiation of construction at a cost of Dhs128bn, we at Dubai South recognise the significant impact this project will have on both Dubai and the UAE at large.

The next phase of Dubai’s development

This strategic development will contribute to the emirate’s advancement and business growth through our integrated ecosystem that supports progress and provides an ideal environment for our residential communities, operating businesses, and foreign investments to collaboratively shape the future.

As the largest single-urban master development dedicated to aviation, logistics, and real estate, Dubai South anticipates a significant demand for accommodation in and around the area, driven by its proximity to the airport.

This location is expected to house one million people, underscoring the profound vision of our leadership. The Residential District at Dubai South stands out as a free zone and premier investment destination, offering numerous benefits including advanced infrastructure well-equipped to support the transformative impact, positioning Dubai as a leader in the global aviation sector for the next forty years.

While the new airport is to majorly contribute to one of the key priorities of the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’- to establish Dubai as one of the top five logistics hubs in the world – Dubai South is also in line with this goal through its Logistics District, which sets new standards, using innovation to ensure operational speed and efficiency.

Demand for logistics services is expected to rise significantly, with the handling of 12 million annual tonnes of cargo. Companies based in Dubai South will also benefit greatly from being in proximity to the world’s largest airport, once complete, and the Jebel Ali port, facilitating smoother goods transportation.

Dubai South – the new aviation destination

Upon completion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the subsequent transfer of all operations from DXB, the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai South will be fully ready to handle the increased requirement for MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and other aviation-related services. This enhancement will underscore Dubai South’s preeminence in the aviation sector.

Dubai is rapidly progressing towards sustainable growth across all sectors. At Dubai South, we are entirely committed to supporting government initiatives and realising vision for the new airport.

Our goal is to contribute in cementing Dubai’s position as the aviation capital of the world and as a vibrant urban metropolis.

We will utilise our resources, infrastructure, and specialised services to facilitate these ambitious projects and address residential, logistical, and aviation needs upon project completion.

The author, Khalifa Al Zaffin, is the executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South. Dubai Aviation City Corporation is the licensing and the regulatory body of Dubai South Free Zone.