Dubai’s airports
- Dubai World Central (OMDW): most business aviation, about 40 minutes by road from the city centre.
- Dubai International (OMDB): about 15 minutes from the centre, with a private terminal but tighter slots.
- Sharjah (OMSJ): an alternative about 30 minutes by road.
What to plan for
Check visa and entry requirements for the United Arab Emirates for each passenger. High season in winter makes slots scarcer, so book early.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Which airport | Al Maktoum (DWC/OMDW) is the usual choice for business jets; Dubai International (DXB/OMDB) is also open to them but is slot-coordinated |
| Al Maktoum | Open 24 hours; slots under a facilitation regime, not coordinated; runway 12/30 of 4,500 m; about 40 minutes by road from central Dubai |
| Private terminals | Five at Al Maktoum: DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, ExecuJet, Jet Aviation, Falcon Aviation and Jetex |
| Dubai International | IATA Level 3 slot-coordinated since 2010: every movement needs a slot, and peak-hour slots carry a 50% premium; two designated FBOs, ExecuJet and Jet Aviation |
| Permits | Non-scheduled flights need a UAE landing permit (GCAA / DCAA) |
| Parking | Ramp space at Al Maktoum allows night stops and multi-day stays, but it is tight during events: the MEBAA Show (8–10 December 2026) and the Dubai Airshow (15–19 November 2027) call for booking weeks ahead. At Dubai International, an aircraft of ICAO code C or above with a wingspan of 24 m or more, staying over 24 hours, must be towed to the FBO apron or moved to Al Maktoum |
| Alternative | Fujairah (OMFJ), about 130 km away, open 24 hours |
Sources and last check
Checked on 3 November 2026. Sources: Icarus Jet, Al Maktoum (updated September 2026); Icarus Jet, Dubai International (updated September 2026); IBC Aviation, Dubai charter guide (2026). These are broker guides, not official publications, and customs hours are not stated in them: Rules and conditions change: we confirm them for your actual flight.
Routes from and to this airport
FAQ
Which Dubai airport for a private jet?
Dubai World Central handles most business aviation. Dubai International is closer to the city but its slots are tighter.
Which Dubai airport should a private jet use?
Most business jets use Al Maktoum, which is open 24 hours with flexible slots. Dubai International is closer to the city but every movement needs a coordinated slot, and peak slots cost more.
Can the jet stay in Dubai during our trip?
Usually yes at Al Maktoum, where ramp space is available, except during major events when parking must be booked weeks ahead. At Dubai International, larger aircraft staying more than 24 hours must be moved.