Dubai to build world's largest airport automated passenger mover at Al Maktoum International

Dubai is set to introduce the world's largest automated passenger mover (APM) system at Al Maktoum International Airport as part of efforts to strengthen the airport's infrastructure and improve passenger movement between its terminals and key facilities.

Japanese engineering company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has secured a contract to implement the APM system during the first phase of the airport's development, according to a statement published on the company's website.

The automated transport system will have a total length of approximately 50 kilometres, making it the largest airport passenger mover system of its kind globally. It will connect nine stations within the airport, allowing passengers and airport users to move more efficiently between terminal buildings and other major facilities.

The project is scheduled for completion in December 2031.

The system will comprise 165 automated vehicles, supported by a signalling system. MHI and its Dubai-based subsidiary, MHI-MESC, will be responsible for the design, supply and testing of the APM vehicles and signalling system, as well as the overall integration of the system.

The work will be carried out as part of a consortium that also includes Indian engineering and construction group Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The company will handle the design, supply, testing and construction of other subsystems at the airport.

The automated passenger mover is expected to play an important role in supporting passenger mobility as Al Maktoum International Airport expands. By providing connections between terminals and other airport facilities, the system is designed to reduce transfer times, improve accessibility and support smoother airport operations.

The project forms part of Dubai's wider plans to develop Al Maktoum International Airport into one of the world's largest aviation hubs.

Dubai has announced plans for the airport to become fully operational in 2032, with a planned capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually. The airport's capacity is expected to increase gradually as development progresses.

The large-scale automated transport network is therefore expected to become a key component of the airport's infrastructure, supporting the movement of millions of passengers and contributing to the airport's long-term operational efficiency.