Dubai’s Mega Airport Transformation Explodes Into Action As L&T Brings Advanced Mobility Technology

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L&T’s Transportation Infrastructure business, in partnership with Japan-based Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), has won a major contract to design and construct the Automated People Mover (APM) System for Phase 1 of Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai.

The landmark project is being developed by Dubai Aviation City Corporation and executed through Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects as part of the airport’s ambitious long-term expansion strategy. The multi-stage development is planned to transform Al Maktoum International Airport into the world’s largest aviation hub upon completion, with the capacity to handle up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo every year.

The MHI-L&T consortium will deliver a complete turnkey Automated People Mover solution, covering the full lifecycle of the system. The project scope includes detailed design, construction, equipment supply, installation, testing, commissioning and preparation for operational readiness of the entire APM infrastructure.

As part of the Design-and-Build agreement, L&T will be responsible for developing and integrating several critical components required for the advanced airport transit system. These include APM guideways, DC traction substations, power distribution networks, signalling and communication systems, onboard vehicle communication technology, platform screen doors and specialised depot facilities.

The project represents a significant step in Dubai’s vision to create a next-generation airport ecosystem supported by advanced technology, efficient passenger movement and world-class infrastructure. The Automated People Mover system will play a crucial role in improving connectivity within the future airport complex, enabling smooth and seamless movement of passengers between key airport facilities.

Through this partnership, L&T and MHI will combine their engineering expertise and technological capabilities to support one of the most ambitious airport expansion programmes in the world. The development of Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global aviation leader while creating a highly integrated and future-ready transportation network.

Commenting on this, Ramkumar S, Executive Vice President & Head – Transportation Infrastructure, L&T, said: “With challenging execution milestones, advanced technologies and multiple system interfaces including guideway, power supply, state-of-the-art telecom, platform screen doors and depot equipment, this project exemplifies the scale and complexity of integrated APM Rail Systems that L&T is uniquely positioned to deliver. With MHI’s proven APM Systems and L&T’s extensive integrated systems experience supported by world-class Engineering Designs Centre, enables us to execute such projects with a strong focus on safety and quality”.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has emerged as one of India’s most prominent providers of turnkey Design-Build and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) solutions for railway and metro infrastructure projects. The company delivers complete project execution capabilities, covering every stage from conceptual design and engineering to procurement, construction planning, quality management and final implementation through a single-point responsibility approach.

With extensive experience in complex urban transportation systems, L&T is currently involved in major integrated rail projects across international networks, including Mumbai Metro, Dhaka Metro and Jakarta MRT. These projects highlight the company’s ability to deliver advanced mobility solutions while meeting demanding standards of safety, efficiency and technological innovation.

As countries across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) continue accelerating investments in modern transportation infrastructure, urban mobility networks and sustainable public transit systems, the railway sector in the region is expected to witness significant expansion. L&T’s successful involvement in the Al Maktoum International Airport Automated People Mover (APM) System project strengthens its presence in West Asia’s growing transit market and enhances its ability to pursue future opportunities in rail and metro development.

The company’s growing portfolio reflects its commitment to supporting next-generation transportation solutions that improve connectivity, reduce urban congestion and promote sustainable mobility. With governments across the GCC focusing on smart cities and advanced infrastructure, L&T is positioned to play a larger role in shaping the future of regional transportation.

Larsen & Toubro is a USD 32 billion Indian multinational organisation engaged in EPC projects, high-tech manufacturing, products and services across multiple industries and global markets. Over eight decades, the company has built a strong reputation through continuous innovation, customer-focused strategies and a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.

Driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, digital technologies and engineering excellence, L&T continues to strengthen its leadership position across key business sectors. The company’s expertise in large-scale infrastructure development, combined with its focus on technology-led solutions, enables it to undertake complex projects that support economic growth and modernisation worldwide.

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