In the heart of Dubai’s City, a new future of aviation and economic growth is taking shape. Al Maktoum International Airport is not just an airport—it’s a strategic mega-project redefining the map of investment in the emirate.
What is Al Maktoum International Airport?
Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central – DWC) is Dubai’s second airport after DXB, but in the near future, it is set to become the largest airport in the world in terms of passenger capacity—expected to handle more than 260 million passengers annually once fully completed.
Located in Dubai South, the airport is positioned within one of the city’s most ambitious development zones, designed to become an integrated hub for business, logistics, and residential living.
Why is Al Maktoum Airport a Unique Real Estate Investment Opportunity?
Its location alone is enough to attract attention, but several factors make this airport a powerful magnet for real estate investors:
- Dubai South: A Smart, Self-Sustaining City in the Making
The area surrounding the airport is undergoing rapid urban growth with residential complexes, commercial hubs, and free zones under construction—offering long-term investment potential.
- Growth in Aviation and Logistics
With the presence of global freight companies and increasing air trade, there’s a growing demand for employee housing, hotels, and commercial spaces—boosting the real estate potential of the area.
- Advanced Infrastructure and Future Metro Connectivity
The planned extension of the Dubai Metro to connect with Al Maktoum Airport (via the extended Green Line) will ensure easier access and enhance the value of properties in surrounding zones.
- Expo 2020 Legacy and Ongoing Development
Though Expo 2020 has concluded, the infrastructure built around it remains highly active and has evolved into District 2020—a smart innovation-driven community, further increasing demand for residential and commercial real estate.
Property Prices Around Al Maktoum Airport
The Dubai South region, particularly the neighborhoods surrounding Al Maktoum Airport, has seen a steady rise in property prices over the past few years—fueled by infrastructure expansion and major projects.
- Off-plan apartments: Prices start at around AED 450,000 for studios or 1-bedroom units, going up to AED 900,000 or more depending on size and location, especially near the future metro link.
- Villas and townhouses: Range between AED 1.2 million to AED 2.5 million, with flexible financing options of up to 25 years.
- Expected rental yields: Between 6% to 8% annually, which is attractive compared to more saturated areas in central Dubai.
Notably, current prices are still lower than Dubai’s city center, making the area appealing to investors seeking medium- to long-term capital growth before the region becomes fully developed.
Key Figures Every Investor Should Know:
- Total area of the airport: 56 km²
- Future capacity: 260 million passengers annually
- Phase two of construction: Started in 2024 and expected to complete within 5–7 years
- Real estate projects around the airport: Over 50 residential and commercial developments underway
What Does This Mean for You as an Investor?
If you’re looking for emerging areas with strong future value appreciation, Dubai South—and specifically the zones around Al Maktoum Airport—represents a smart and strategic choice.
As aviation and logistics operations expand, property demand will increase accordingly. Current price points are still accessible, offering an opportunity to enter the market early—before prices surge with full infrastructure rollout.
Al Maktoum Airport is not merely an aviation project—it’s the heart of a new city taking shape in Dubai’s south. It’s waiting for visionary investors ready to seize the future. If you’re one of them, the time to act is now.
