Announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, it is the first international expression of interest issued for the project, signaling growing global engagement in what is set to become one of the world’s largest airport infrastructure programs.

During a ceremony at the Dubai South stand, Sir Chris Bryant, the UK’s Minister for Trade, presented the document to Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, and Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

Sir Chris Bryant said the commitment reflects the UK’s longstanding partnership with Dubai and opens new opportunities for British suppliers. Al Zaffin noted that the project is built on advanced engineering standards and long-term planning, adding that international support will help drive Dubai’s next phase of aviation growth.

Suzanne Al Anani, CEO of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, said the Expression of Interest demonstrates global confidence in the project’s structured, engineering-led approach. She added that UK companies will be able to participate through existing procurement frameworks as work accelerates.

Paul Griffiths described the expansion as a rare opportunity to rethink airport design and redefine the future passenger experience, saying the UK’s support adds momentum to a development set to reshape global connectivity.

Designed to meet Dubai’s aviation needs for the next five decades, the expansion is expected to deliver an initial capacity of up to 150 million passengers in the early 2030s, eventually rising to 260 million. The program prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and integrated transport systems, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for travel, commerce, and future mobility.