Dubai Airports has confirmed that runway engineering work will take place at Dubai International from May 1 until July 20.
The project will see the entire 4,000-metre long northern runway resurfaced and the upgrading of runway lighting and construction of additional taxiways and rapid exits on the southern runway.
Each runway will close at alternate times, with the southern runway shut from May 1 to May 31 and the northern runway from May 31 until July 20.
During this period, the number of flights at Dubai International will be reduced by 26 per cent.
A statement from Dubai Airports said: "Flight movements at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central are set to increase dramatically as eight airlines that currently operate into Dubai International have reserved slots to operate into Dubai's second airport during the 80-day period.
"More than 300 flights a week are expected to depart from Dubai's second airport during this period."
Paul Griffiths, Dubai Airports CEO said: "While we regret any inconvenience caused to our airline customers and our passengers, these upgrades are necessary to heighten safety, boost capacity and pave the way for future expansion."
Last week, Heathrow admitted that it can no longer compete with Dubai as the world's busiest international airport (see news, April 11).
Graham Smith
