Dubai World Central expansion builds as UK Export Finance issues US$ 3.5bn EoI letter
A major international boost to Dubai’s aviation future was recently announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025 as the UK Export Finance (UKEF) issued a US$ 3.5bn ‘Expression of Interest’ (EoI) letter to support participation of UK’s businesses in the US$ 35bn expansion of Al Maktoum International – Dubai World Central (DWC).
The Expression of Interest letter was presented at a ceremony at the Dubai South Stand at the Dubai Airshow where Sir Chris Bryant, UK Minister for Trade handed the document to HE Eng. Khalifa Al Zaffin. Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, and Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports.
“This expression of interest for up to US$ 3.5bn announced by UK Export Finance marks another significant milestone and reinforces the UK’s long-standing partnership with Dubai and its pioneering world-class infrastructure projects,” said Sir Chris.
Infrastructure
“Our focus is on creating the infrastructure that will unlock the next stage of Dubai’s aviation growth, reinforcing our leadership’s vision to make Dubai the aviation capital of the world,” stated HE Al Zaffin.
“We welcome the opportunity for qualified UK suppliers to participate through our procurement frameworks as we scale the next phases of works,” remarked Eng. Suzanne Al Anani.
“The long-term vision for Al Maktoum International Airport is clear, and the support announced today strengthens our ability to realise it,” observed Griffiths.
Ministerial delegates
The ceremony was attended by HE Edward Hobart, the British Ambassador to the UAE, senior chief executives from Dubai Airports, DACC, DAEP, and Dubai South, senior officials from the British Embassy in the UAE, visiting ministerial delegates, aviation sector partners and members of the international media.
The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport will deliver an airport designed for the next 50 years of aviation growth. The initial development, planned to come online in the early 2030s, will accommodate up to 150mn passengers annually, with long-term plans extending the airport’s capacity to 260mn passengers.
