DWC fully prepared for passenger influx when DXB runway closes

Extensive trials have been conducted at Dubai World Central (DWC) to ensure the terminal is ready to handle a sizeable passenger influx during the temporary closure of DXB's northern runway from May 9.

The refurbishment project will run for 45 days, until June 22.

More than 1,000 flights per week will be shifted to DWC during this period with the majority of those being operated by flydubai, Spice Jet, Indigo and Gulf Air.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, told Dubai Eye 103.8's Business Breakfast show that DWC is fully prepared to accommodate the additional traffic.

He also advised passengers to double-check their arrival and departure terminals if they are travelling between May 9 and June 22.

To accommodate the additional passenger traffic, DWC will reopen its guest experience and service touchpoints to ensure a smooth transition.

The airport’s facilities, including restaurants, cafes and retail outlets will be fully operational, and check-in desks, customs and immigration will also be ready to welcome guests returning to the airport.

In an attempt to minimise any inconvenience to guests, Dubai Airports has also confirmed a special series of transport links between DXB and DWC.

These will provide flexible options for those travelling during the 45-day closure, including an inter-airport complimentary 24|7 coach service for transfers between the two airports, free on-site parking facilities for passengers at DWC and special fares for RTA taxis flagged for journeys from DWC.

The northern runway rehabilitation project will involve the placement of approximately 160,000 tonnes of asphalt and 30,000 m3 of concrete to strengthen and resurface the runway and the adjacent taxiways.

Some 264 km of secondary cables will be replaced and over 4,400 runway lights have been upgraded to modern, economic and environmentally friendly technology as part of the project.

DXB’s northern runway previously underwent a similar rehabilitation programme in 2014, and the southern runway was refurbished in 2019.

The upgrade is part of Dubai Airport’s ongoing commitment to enhancing passenger safety and guest experience while helping increase capacity at DXB.