Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC/OMDW) supports cargo, charter and non-scheduled operations in Dubai South. ASM coordinates DWC flight support through its 24/7 operations desk, including landing permission, airport coordination, ground handling, parking, crew logistics and passenger or cargo requirements. ASM also provides Jet A-1 fuel supply through local fuel partners for private and commercial aircraft, subject to the accepted order and local supplier confirmation for each movement.
Table of Contents
DWC IATA · ICAO: OMDW
4,500m Runway length
260M Pax target at full build
24/7 ASM operations support at DWC
Overview and Location
Al Maktoum International Airport is located in Jebel Ali, within the Dubai South development zone, approximately 37 kilometres south-west of central Dubai. It sits at an elevation of 170 feet (52 metres) above sea level and is designed from the ground up to handle the full spectrum of aviation operations — from ultra-long-haul widebody commercial services to dedicated freighters and business aviation charter.
The airport is strategically positioned adjacent to Jebel Ali Port, the busiest container port in the Middle East. This proximity creates a direct sea-air logistics corridor, a significant operational advantage for cargo operators and freight forwarders moving goods through Dubai.
DWC is managed by Dubai Airports alongside Dubai International Airport (DXB/OMDB), giving the emirate a dual-airport system with complementary roles: DXB handles the bulk of scheduled commercial passenger traffic, while DWC focuses on cargo, charter, and will eventually absorb the long-haul growth that DXB cannot accommodate within its physical footprint.
History and Expansion
Opening and early operations
DWC began cargo operations in June 2010, quickly establishing itself as a significant freight hub for the region. Passenger services commenced in 2013, initially serving low-cost and regional carriers. For aircraft suitability, use the current UAE AIP, NOTAMs and confirmed airport requirements rather than runway length alone.
The 2024 expansion announcement
In April 2024, Dubai announced a phased expansion programme for Al Maktoum International Airport. Dubai Airports describes an initial expansion to 150 million passengers annually and an ultimate capacity of 260 million. These are planned capacities, not current passenger throughput. Check the official DWC development overview for the latest phasing. The expansion includes new terminals, additional runways, and substantially enlarged cargo facilities.
This project reflects Dubai’s assessment that DXB, despite its scale, will eventually reach its physical capacity limits, and that DWC must be ready to absorb the emirate’s continued growth as a global transit hub.
Planning note: distinguish the airport’s long-term expansion plans from facilities and services available for the proposed operation today.
Infrastructure and Technical Data
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| IATA code | DWC |
| ICAO code | OMDW |
| Location | Jebel Ali, Dubai South — 37km SW of central Dubai |
| Elevation | 170 ft / 52 m ASL |
| Runway | Main runway: 4,500m (14,764 ft); consult the current UAE AIP for runway details |
| Time zone | Gulf Standard Time (GST) — UTC+4 |
| Current passenger capacity | ~26 million annually (existing terminal) |
| Target capacity (post-expansion) | 260 million passengers / 12 million tonnes freight per year |
| Expansion programme | Phased development; confirm the latest official milestones |
Passenger terminal
The existing passenger terminal at DWC can handle approximately 26 million travellers annually. It includes automated check-in facilities, spacious departure and arrival halls, duty-free retail, multiple dining options, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, and business centre facilities. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. The terminal is equipped to accommodate wide-body aircraft operations, including A380 movements.
Cargo terminal
DWC’s cargo infrastructure is its primary operational strength in its current phase. The cargo terminal includes advanced automated handling systems, temperature-controlled storage for pharmaceuticals and perishables, specialist handling equipment for dangerous goods and oversized freight, and direct road connectivity to Jebel Ali Port. The airport’s efficient customs procedures and its adjacency to a free zone make it a preferred entry point for high-volume freight operators.
Flight Support at Al Maktoum Airport — Operators’ Guide
For non-scheduled operators, charter airlines and cargo carriers, assess DWC against the mission requirements, confirm slot availability and allow forextended lead times.
Dubai landing permission is handled through the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). Applicable GCAA operator registration or acceptance and airport coordination are separate requirements; confirm the current process for the operation type. Local coordination remains essential — particularly for fuel pre-arrangement, crew HOTAC in a location with fewer nearby hotels than central Dubai, and ground handling alignment with DWC’s handler network. ASM’s Dubai team covers DWC 24/7 alongside DXB operations.
Landing & Overflight Permits (OMDW)
ASM coordinates the applicable Dubai landing-permission request, operator documentation and airport arrangements for OMDW. Review the GCAA guidance for the relevant flight category and current DCAA requirements. Submit early; document acceptance, processing time, slots and parking must be confirmed for the proposed schedule.
Ramp, passenger, and cargo handling at Al Maktoum International through ASM’s vetted handler network. GPU, ASU, pushback, lavatory and water services. USD 2M handling insurance. Single point of contact for all ground services.
DWC is ASM’s primary Dubai cargo hub. Full cargo flight support: freighter permits, ramp handling, temperature-controlled storage coordination, dangerous goods facilitation, and AOG logistics support.
Fuel uplift coordination at OMDW and across UAE airports (DXB, SHJ, AUH). Confirm fuel availability, release arrangements and uplift requirements before arrival. USD 1B fuel insurance.
Crew accommodation for overnights at Al Maktoum. ASM coordinates hotel and ground-transport arrangements around the crew itinerary. Confirm hotel availability, journey time, rates and included services before booking.
DWC is increasingly used as an alternate diversion for long-haul operations when DXB is congested or closed. ASM coordinates fuel, handling, HOTAC, and re-permitting at OMDW, using the same response standards as DXB operations.
DWC vs DXB for non-scheduled operators — key differences
- For charter, business aviation and ad-hoc cargo movements, confirm the requested slot, parking and handling arrangements for the actual operating date.
- Confirm DCAA landing permission, applicable GCAA operator requirements and the airport-specific coordination separately. A permit does not establish slot, parking or handler acceptance.
- Plan crew HOTAC in advance and confirm hotel availability, transport and reporting times for the actual itinerary.
- Assess cargo handling at DWC against the shipment, aircraft, equipment and onward logistics requirements; confirm the required facilities with the appointed handler.
- Distance from the city centre (37km, ~45 min by road) is a consideration for passenger charters where client ground logistics matter.
Need flight support, cargo handling, or HOTAC at Al Maktoum International Airport? ASM covers DWC 24/7 from our Dubai operations base. Contact ASM Dubai Ops →
Airlines, Cargo, and Destinations
Passenger carriers
DWC currently handles a mix of low-cost, regional, and charter passenger operations. Check the official DWC airline directory and confirm the operating airport and schedule directly with the airline before travel. Emirates — Dubai’s flagship airline — operates primarily from DXB. As the expansion phases deliver new terminal infrastructure, DWC is expected to absorb long-haul widebody services currently routed through DXB.
Cargo operators
Cargo is DWC’s primary operational activity in its current phase. Major international freight carriers and dedicated cargo airlines use the airport as their Dubai hub, drawn by the dedicated cargo terminal, specialist handling capabilities, and proximity to Jebel Ali Port. DWC’s cargo capacity complements DXB’s, helping Dubai manage the volume of freight that passes through the emirate as a global logistics node.
Destinations
Scheduled destinations vary by airline and season. Check the airline’s current timetable and the Dubai Airports DWC flight-status page for the proposed travel date. Route availability changes with seasonal schedules — always verify current services with your airline or ASM’s handling team before planning operations. For cargo, DWC connects to major freight hubs globally through the airline networks operating from the airport.
Traveller Information
Getting to DWC
Al Maktoum International Airport is located approximately 37 kilometres south-west of central Dubai. Road journey times depend on the starting point and traffic; allow sufficient time for the confirmed reporting schedule. Ride-hailing services (Uber, Careem) operate at DWC. Dubai Airports lists F55 between DWC and EXPO Metro Station and N55 between DWC and Ibn Battuta. Check the official airport bus information and current RTA timetable before travelling. Short-term and long-term parking are available at the terminal — DWC currently offers free parking for visitors.
Check-in and security
Passengers should arrive at least 3 hours before international departures. Online check-in is available for most carriers operating at DWC. Security procedures follow standard UAE protocols: liquids over 100ml are not permitted in carry-on baggage, and electronic devices may require separate screening. Passenger-processing time varies by flight, staffing and traffic; allow for the airline’s confirmed reporting requirements.
Terminal facilities
DWC’s terminal provides free Wi-Fi, duty-free shopping, dining options ranging from cafes to full-service restaurants, prayer rooms, baby care facilities, currency exchange, ATMs, and business centre meeting rooms. The terminal is designed for efficient processing rather than the extensive retail and leisure offering found at DXB — passengers on long layovers should factor this into their planning.
Nearby accommodation
Choose accommodation against crew rest requirements, the reporting schedule, availability and actual road journey times. Confirm rates and transport arrangements before booking. ASM can coordinate crew HOTAC and ground transport; confirm the hotel, transfer arrangements and included services for the accepted booking.
Role in Dubai’s Economy
Al Maktoum International is central to Dubai’s long-term economic strategy. The airport’s cargo infrastructure directly supports Dubai’s positioning as a global logistics and trade hub — particularly for goods moving between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Its adjacency to Jebel Ali Port creates one of the world’s most capable sea-air freight corridors, enabling rapid movement of high-value goods between maritime and air freight networks.
The planned DWC expansion is a long-term development programme; use current official updates when assessing its scope and delivery phases. The Dubai South development surrounding the airport is planned as a self-contained economic zone with logistics, warehousing, light manufacturing, hospitality, and residential components all built around the airport’s operational core.
The two-airport system allows Dubai to maintain continuous growth in air traffic even as DXB approaches its physical limits — ensuring the city’s competitive position as a global aviation hub is protected through the 2030s and beyond.
Operating hours, curfews and noise restrictions at DWC
Operating acceptance at Al Maktoum International Airport should be checked for every movement. Runway availability, local restrictions, noise-abatement procedures and any temporary limitations may vary by aircraft, operation type, schedule and current NOTAM. ASM coordinates these checks with the relevant airport, handler and authority channels; final approval remains subject to their confirmation.
What should operators provide for DWC flight support?
For an efficient review, provide the aircraft type, registration and MTOW; operator and flight-purpose details; route and UTC schedule; passenger and crew numbers; permit status; and requirements for ground handling, parking, Jet A-1 fuel, customs and immigration, cargo, transport or crew accommodation. ASM’s 24/7 operations desk will align the request with the wider flight-support plan and identify items awaiting supplier, airport or authority confirmation.
FAQs: Al Maktoum International Airport
What is the ICAO code for Al Maktoum International Airport?
Al Maktoum International Airport’s ICAO code is OMDW and its IATA code is DWC. It is also referred to as Dubai World Central. It is a separate airport from Dubai International Airport (OMDB/DXB), located approximately 37km south-west of DXB in the Jebel Ali area.
What flight support services does ASM provide at DWC (OMDW)?
ASM provides full flight support at Al Maktoum International Airport including applicable landing permissions and operator-approval coordination, ground handling coordination, Jet A-1 fuel uplift, crew HOTAC, cargo flight support, diversion recovery, and flight planning. Our Dubai team covers DWC 24/7. Contact us at asm.aero/contact-us or call +971 4 409 7755.
Is DWC better than DXB for non-scheduled and charter operations?
Compare DWC (OMDW) and DXB (OMDB) against the proposed aircraft, schedule, handling scope, cargo requirements and passenger or crew programme. Confirm the applicable operator requirements and Dubai landing permission, then assess each airport’s acceptance and service availability separately. Compare onward transfers and crew accommodation for the actual itinerary; road journey times and hotel availability depend on location, traffic and demand. ASM covers both airports — we can advise on the best option for your specific operation.
How do I get a landing permit for Al Maktoum International Airport (OMDW)?
For applicable non-scheduled operations at DWC, landing permission is coordinated through the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, alongside any federal foreign-operator and advance-passenger-information requirements. Required notice and documentation depend on the operator, flight purpose and traffic rights. ASM can review the aircraft, schedule, routing and operator documents before submission; authority approval and airport acceptance remain subject to confirmation.
When will the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport be complete?
Dubai’s announced DWC development programme describes a long-term design capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually, with terminals, runways and cargo facilities delivered in phases. This is planned capacity rather than the airport’s present operating capability. Operators should base each movement on current AIP information, published airport procedures, NOTAMs and confirmed service availability.
How do I get from Al Maktoum International Airport to central Dubai?
Options include taxi, ride-hailing and onward bus connections. Dubai Airports lists F55 to EXPO Metro Station and N55 to Ibn Battuta. Check the official airport bus guidance for current routes and schedules, and allow for traffic and your reporting time.
What airlines operate at DWC (OMDW)?
DWC currently serves low-cost carriers, charter airlines, and cargo operators. flydubai operates selected services from the airport. The airline mix at DWC changes as carriers adjust scheduling — confirm current services with your airline. Major cargo carriers use DWC as their Dubai freight hub. As the expansion phases deliver new capacity, a broader range of full-service and long-haul carriers are expected to transition operations to DWC.
What does the airport code ‘DWC’ stand for?
DWC stands for Dubai World Central — the original development project name for the aviation and logistics zone in Jebel Ali where the airport is located. The airport’s official name is Al Maktoum International Airport. Its ICAO code is OMDW. It is also referred to as Dubai World Central Airport in older publications and by some NOTAM and ATC references.
Does Al Maktoum International Airport have free Wi-Fi and parking?
Yes to both. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout DWC’s passenger terminal with no time limit. The airport also currently provides free parking for visitors — both short-term (close to the terminal) and long-term parking are available. Check with the airport for the latest parking arrangements during expansion works.
Operating cargo, charter, or non-scheduled flights into Dubai? ASM provides 24/7 flight support at both Al Maktoum International (DWC/OMDW) and Dubai International (DXB/OMDB).
Planning information reviewed September 2026 · Consult current Dubai Airports, DCAA and GCAA guidance for the proposed operation · ASM — Aviation Services Management · Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC/OMDW)
· 24/7 ops: +971 4 409 7755 · sales@asm.aero
Keep Your Flight Operations Moving Worldwide
From flight planning and permits to ground handling, aviation fuel, diversion support and crew logistics, ASM coordinates the operational requirements surrounding every sector through 24/7 global support.