An impressive plan is taking shape in Al Maktoum Airport (DWC). Dubai Airport is expanding and is set to grow to five times the size of Dubai International Airport (DXB). The ambitious expansion includes five parallel runways, 400 aircraft gates, and innovative aviation technology to make airport travel seamless for the 260 million passengers DWC will welcome annually.
The DWC’s mega redevelopment into the world’s largest aviation hub means you can come from virtually anywhere and have access to the awe-inspiring beauty and thrilling adventures in Ras Al Khaimah.
Here’s what you need to know about going from the Al Maktoum Airport to Ras Al Khaimah.
Key Takeaways
- The Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) is undergoing a massive redevelopment, with five parallel runways, 400 aircraft gates, and aviation technology to accommodate 260 million passengers.
- Once completed, the DWC will absorb all the Dubai International Airport operations, which will then shut down.
- When traveling by public transportation from DWC to Ras Al Khaimah, take a bus to a Dubai metro/bus interchange (such as Ibn Battuta or Al Ghubaiba), then transfer via Dubai Union Station to an intercity bus bound for Ras Al Khaimah.
- Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is also undergoing a major transformation, with a state–of–the–art terminal featuring smart e-gates, automated baggage handling, enhanced customs and security facilities, and a private terminal with luxury hangars.
Which International Destinations Does Al Maktoum Airport Serve?
The international destinations Al Maktoum currently serves are:
- Italy (Milan)
- Germany (Berlin, Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart)
- UK (Newcastle)
- Norway (Oslo)
- Switzerland (Zurich)
- Denmark (Copenhagen)
- Netherlands (Amsterdam)
- Romania (Bucharest)
- Czech Republic (Romania)
- Poland (Katowice)
- Sweden (Stockholm)
- Maldives (Male)
- Luxembourg
- Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah)
DWC also serves select destinations in Asia, Central Asia, Russia, and Africa. When the airport opened in 2010, it primarily served cargo flights. Passenger flights followed in 2013. The aviation hub currently has three terminals serving Al Maktoum Airport arrivals and departures. Once redevelopment is complete, the airport will have five passenger terminals, accommodating 260 million travelers.
Are there Lounges or Sleeping Pods at Al Maktoum Airport?
Al Maktoum Airport features a passenger lounge, although dedicated sleeping pods are currently not available. The Marhaba Lounge offers a relaxing space with comfortable seating, business facilities, a full bar, and a sumptuous buffet serving international cuisine. Facilities also include showers for you to freshen up.
What’s the Difference Between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum (DWC)?
The difference between Dubai International and Al Maktoum Airport is the scale and purpose of each aviation hub. The DXB is the emirate’s main passenger hub, serving more international flights and offering more traveler amenities (including sleeping pods). The DWC, on the other hand, is newer and bigger.
If you have future travel plans, you will fly into and out of DWC rather than DXB. According to expansion plans, the DWC will absorb all operations of the DXB when it’s completed.
The redevelopment of Al Maktoum Airport will happen in intervals. Over the first 10 years, the Dubai aviation hub is expected to welcome 150 million passengers, and the second phase will add capacity for 110 million more.
The Al Maktoum Airport opening date is not definite, but reports indicate that the mega project will be completed in 2050.
What’s the Fastest Way to Get from DWC to Ras Al Khaimah?
The fastest way to get from DWC to Ras Al Khaimah is to drive or pre-book an airport transfer with your hotel or resort. You can also book airport transfers from independent car rental companies.
You can also take a bus from arrivals to a metro/bus interchange, such as Ibn Battuta Metro Bus Station or Al Ghubaiba. Traveling from Al Maktoum Airport to Ras Al Khaimah via public transport requires transfers, from metro stations to buses heading straight to Ras Al Khaimah. To head out of Dubai to a Ras Al Khaimah bus, transfer to a bus toward Dubai Union Station in Central Deira, then catch an intercity bus to Ras Al Khaimah.
If your flight is arriving in the evening, a private airport transfer or a rental car is also more convenient. From DWC, travel time is typically 1 hour and 30 minutes. Transfers or private cars also allow you to request special amenities, such as child seats and wheelchair access.
FAQs About Al Maktoum Airport to Ras Al Khaimah
Are there luxury car transfer options from DWC to Ras Al Khaimah resorts?
Absolutely! You’ll have luxury car transfer options from DWC to Ras Al Khaimah resorts. You can book premium cars and SUVs, including Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Tesla Model, and Cadillac Escalade. You can even book a stretch limousine to arrive in high style. Luxury vehicles generally come with professional chauffeurs, too. Destination management companies can also arrange a posh airport transfer in Ras Al Khaimah.
Is it better to rent a car or book a private airport transfer?
It depends on your preferred travel style. Booking a car rental offers flexibility, giving you a free hand at how you’ll explore the places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah. Booking a private airport transfer presents convenience, especially when you’ve been on a long-haul flight and if it’s your first time visiting Ras Al Khaimah.
An economical alternative to a private car would be a shared shuttle service from Al Maktoum to Ras Al Khaimah. Some car rental companies offer an affordable shared shuttle where passengers split the cost of the ride.
How long does a drive really take (including traffic)?
The drive from Al Maktoum Airport to Ras Al Khaimah generally takes 2 to 2.5 hours during peak travel times, including holidays and weekends. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes only about 1.5 hours or so. This is mainly because you’ll travel along major highways, making the journey predictable.
A Grand Gateway to a Grand Destination
Al Maktoum Airport isn’t the only aviation hub expanding. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is also undergoing a big transformation, with completion targeted in 2028. The redevelopment will include a state-of-the–art terminal with smart e-gates, automated baggage handling, enhanced customs and security facilities, and a private terminal with luxury hangars.
With both aviation hubs being redeveloped, you’ll have the freedom to choose an arrival experience that matches your itinerary. From the growing global connectivity of Al Maktoum to the direct convenience of Ras Al Khaimah, expect a smoother, more flexible journey to Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains, deserts, beaches, and all other gorgeous destinations.
Learn more about how to go to Ras Al Khaimah from Dubai.
