Dubai South is an emerging 145 sq. km. master-planned city based on the happiness of the individual. It is The City of You, projected to sustain a population of approximately one million. As an economic platform, it is designed to support every conceivable kind of business and industry, creating 500,000 jobs.
Launched as a Government of Dubai project in 2006, Dubai South falls under the umbrella of Dubai Aviation City Corporation.
Identified as the emirate’s flagship urban project, Dubai South is emerging as Dubai’s preferred location in which to live, work and invest. It is centered on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and reflects the themes of Dubai Plan 2021:
- To become a city of happy, creative and empowered people
- To create an inclusive and cohesive society
- To build a smart and sustainable city
- Become a pivotal hub in the global economy Host to the Al Maktoum International Airport (which will become the world’s largest airport once completed) and key events such as World Expo 2020 and the Dubai Airshow, Dubai South represents the future face of the emirate.
A fully integrated city, Dubai South is well connected to the rest of the country via three arterial roads. RTA buses operate daily to Dubai South, and in the future, the city will be served by Dubai Metro and Etihad Rail.
The city’s masterplan includes the following components:
MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AEROSPACE HUB
The 7 square kilometer Aviation District sits adjacent to the Al Maktoum International Airport and in proximity with the Jebel Ali Port. The District – which also features the upcoming business aviation terminal – meets all the practical aspects of the aviation and aerospace industries, from design and development to operation and use of aircraft. Beyond its aviation focus, the district has well-defined zones for sectors such as hospitality, education, research and development, as well as land for mixed-used developments.
LOGISTICS DISTRICT
The 21 sq. km. Logistics District is designed to enable fast-cycle businesses and provide value-added services such as manufacturing and assembly. The district caters to local, regional and international companies, from SMEs to MNCs, including contract logistics, third party logistics providers, 3PLs, integrators, freight forwarders, agents and traders. As a true multimodal hub spanning sea, land and air, the Logistics District actively contributes to Dubai’s reputation as a global logistics center.
An integral feature of the district is the Dubai Logistics Corridor, a dedicated bridge connecting Dubai South with Jebel Ali Port, forming a single custom-bonded free zone covering an area of over 200 sq. km. The district also comprises zones earmarked for hospitality, education, research and development, and mixed-used development.
BUSINESS PARK
Located at the gateway of Dubai South, the Business Park Free Zone comprises 11 modern buildings offering a versatile range of office spaces suited for the corporate and administrative needs of all kinds of businesses – whether start-ups, SMEs or multinationals. It is situated amidst landscaped gardens and equipped with multiple amenities.
RESIDENTIAL
Dubai South will feature a broad range of freehold properties catering to the high and mid-income segment of homeowners.
EXHIBITION DISTRICT
The 4.38 km2 district is dedicated to the exhibition and MICE (meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry. It is the home of key events, including the World Expo 2020.
HUMANITARIAN DISTRICT
This part of Dubai South is envisioned to become a leading regional hub for the coordination of emergency response and relief operations. Supporting infrastructure includes office buildings, warehouses, conference and training facilities for the United Nations, International Humanitarian City and other aid agencies.
GOLF DISTRICT
The district comprises a high-end residential development built around a world-class golf course. It features villas, townhouses, extensive practice facilities, driving ranges, putting greens, pro shops and a luxury clubhouse.
AL MAKTOUM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Dubai South is home to the world’s largest airport in the making – the Al Maktoum International Airport (‘AMIA’, IATA code: ‘DWC’).
The airport began operating cargo flights in 2010 and passenger flights in 2013. When complete, the airport will be the largest in the world – its five runways capable of transporting 220 million passengers and 16 million tons of cargo annually.
