Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a 50-kilometer autonomous people mover network, designed to facilitate passenger movement across the expansive airport complex. This network will initially feature nine stations and is slated for completion by December 2031, in anticipation of the airport’s first phase opening in 2032. As the airport expands through future phases, the driverless rail system will grow to encompass 14 stations.
Once fully operational, this project is poised to become the world’s largest automated people mover network, surpassing existing systems at major airports like Dallas Fort Worth and New York’s JFK. The development of Al Maktoum International Airport is a substantial undertaking, with plans to eventually accommodate up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually.
The initial phase of the airport will include the construction of the West Terminal, Concourse 1, and the innovative people mover system, boosting the airport’s annual passenger capacity to 130 million. This expansion is part of a broader vision to transform the airport into a major global aviation hub.
Additionally, the airport’s connectivity will be enhanced through planned rail links. An Airport Express Link is set to connect Al Maktoum International Airport with Dubai International Airport, while future plans include integration with Etihad Rail and the Dubai Metro. These connections are expected to further streamline travel and logistics across the region.