Al Maktoum International Airport, commonly referred to as DWC Airport, was opened in 2010 for cargo flights and began accepting passenger flights in 2013. The first phase of the airport is scheduled to finish by 2032. Once completed, the airport is set to replace DXB Airport and will be the largest in the world, offering flights for over 150 million passengers each year. Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum Airport is located around 40 km from Dubai city center and offers flights from airlines such as S7 Airlines, Wizz Air and Luxair.
DWC Airport Services
Fast Track
Dubai World Central Airport (DWC) doesn’t offer its own fast track service, but a couple of reliable third-party providers can help make your airport experience smoother.
Available Fast Track services at DWC Airport:
Marhaba Services – A trusted name in the region, Marhaba offers meet and greet services which include fast track. You can book for both arrivals and departures, regardless of your airline or ticket class.
Airssist – This global meet-and-greet platform provides personalized fast track and VIP assistance at DWC. Their service includes priority processing, dedicated airport agents, and optional add-ons like chauffeur transfers or lounge access.
These services are not run by Dubai World Central directly, but they’re well-integrated into airport operations and can be pre-booked online for a hassle-free start or end to your journey.
Special Assistance
Airport Lounge
Free Wi-Fi
Al Maktoum International Airport Parking
Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) has a large 2,500-space outdoor car park directly in front of the main terminal. Parking is 100% free for all passengers and visitors.
Live Arrivals
Live Departures
Al Maktoum Airport Terminal
Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport currently has one single-level terminal. The terminal offers both international and domestic flights, usually from low-cost airlines.
You’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time in Al Maktoum Airport, thanks to the free Wi-Fi, expansive Dubai Duty-Free store, delicious food and drink options in the food court, spacious bathrooms and premium Marhaba Lounge.
Al Maktoum Airport Terminal
Transportation options from and to Al Maktoum International Airport Dubai
Learn more
By Bus
The F55 public bus runs to Expo 2020 Metro Station 2, where you can take the Red Line metro into Dubai in around 1 hour and 35 minutes.
*The F55 bus leaves every 60 minutes.
By Taxi
Taking a local Al Maktoum Airport taxi to Dubai will take 40 minutes.
*For a more personalized and seamless journey, you can pre-book your Al Maktoum Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
By Car
Al Maktoum Dubai Airport has a few different car rental options. Travel time to Dubai center is 40 minutes.
*Trip durations vary depending on your final destination and traffic.
More connections from Al Maktoum International Airport
Buses
As there is no subway at the airport, the only public transport option is the bus. The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) provide a number of routes from DWC Airport.
Taxis and Private Transfers
Al Maktoum Dubai Airport – Nearby Hotels
Practical Information
Opening Hours
The Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai is open 24 hours a day.
Recommended Arrival Times
For exact arrival times and check-in desk opening hours, it’s important to contact your airline directly.
However, as a guide, you can arrive around 2.5 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic flight.
Airport Codes
Al Maktoum International Airport codes
IATA: DWC
ICAO: OMDW
Contact Information
To contact Al Maktoum International Airport, you can call +971 (4) 224 5555.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are DWC and DXB the same?
No, DWC (Dubai World Central, also known as Al Maktoum International Airport) and DXB (Dubai International Airport) are not the same. They are two separate airports located in different parts of Dubai. DXB is the main and busiest international airport, located closer to the city center. DWC is a newer airport located in the Jebel Ali area, about 50–60 km southwest of DXB, and is primarily used for cargo, low-cost, and regional flights.
Which airlines fly to Al Maktoum Airport?
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