Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has been awarded a significant contract to provide an automated people mover (APM) system for the first phase of the new Al Maktoum International Airport development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The contract, granted by Dubai Aviation City Corporation, a government entity, involves a consortium comprising MHI, MHI Mobility Engineering Services L.L.C. (MHI-MESC), and Indian multinational conglomerate Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T). The APM system, set to be the world's largest at approximately 50 kilometers in length, will connect nine stations, marking an unprecedented size for airport APM systems.
MHI and MHI-MESC, as leaders of the consortium, will oversee the design, procurement, and testing of 165 APM vehicles and the signaling system, along with the overall system integration. L&T will manage the design, procurement, testing, and on-site construction of other subsystems. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2031.
The development of Al Maktoum International Airport is part of a large-scale national initiative by the Dubai government, aiming to establish one of the world's largest hub airports with a target opening in 2032. The airport is expected to serve 260 million passengers annually, with further expansion plans in place.
The APM system will facilitate connectivity between the airport's terminals and major facilities, addressing the travel needs of an increasing number of passengers. This system is anticipated to enhance passenger convenience and reduce travel times, supporting efficient airport operations to accommodate future aviation demand.
MHI has a history of successful projects in Dubai, including leading the consortium that constructed the Dubai Metro in 2011. Currently, MHI provides operation and maintenance services for the Dubai Metro through its affiliate Keolis MHI Rail Management and Operation LLC. Additionally, in 2012, MHI completed the APM system at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport and continues to provide operational services through MHI-MESC.
Through these endeavors, MHI Group continues to play a vital role in the development and operation of Dubai's transportation infrastructure.