Sharjah CP reviews expansion project updates at Sharjah International Airport

Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, accompanied by Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, reviewed on Tuesday morning, at the Ruler’s Office, the latest developments of the expansion project and future plans for Sharjah International Airport.

Sheikh Sultan received a detailed briefing on the airport’s passenger terminal expansion project, which is designed to enhance capacity to accommodate 20 million passengers annually.

The recent update showcased a number of completed projects that were carried out on schedule. These include the project and public services building, the new aircraft parking stands, the design of the road network, and the vehicle parking areas.

In a recent visual presentation, the Crown Prince received an update on various ongoing construction projects, including details on supply phases, packages currently in the design stage, and those projects that are under tendering. The review highlighted significant ongoing projects, related packages, and prospective development strategies for the facilities at Sharjah International Airport, accompanied by a timeline for forthcoming initiatives.

Sheikh Sultan reviewed plans for building an additional runway, designing a new passenger terminal, and developing a road network to link the new terminal with existing airport facilities. These projects are integral to the ambitious strategy aimed at increasing the airport’s capacity.

The expansion of the passenger terminal stands out as the most significant part in an extensive range of development initiatives, with an overall investment totalling Dhs2.4 billion. Completion of the entire expansion is anticipated by the close of 2027.

The Sharjah Airport Authority has launched a series of projects designed to improve logistics operations. Efforts are underway to enhance infrastructure, buildings, and systems to align with environmental sustainability standards. Key initiatives focus on reducing carbon emissions while also enhancing service quality and operational efficiency. The Authority’s strategy is to improve the airport’s status, targeting a position among the top five regional airports renowned for travel experience and customer service.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation; Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department; Ali Salem Al Madfa, Chairman of Sharjah International Airport Authority; along with several project engineers.

Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) is participating in the Air Cargo Africa Exhibition, which commenced last Wednesday in Nairobi, Kenya.

The event brings together major global airports, leading airlines, and air cargo companies, alongside experts and specialists from international aviation and logistics organizations.

Strengthening Air Cargo Partnerships Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, emphasized the SAA’s commitment to maintaining a strong and active presence at key regional and international events that explore the latest developments in the air cargo industry and best practices in the sector. These gatherings provide an important platform to strengthen strategic partnerships between global airports, aviation, and air cargo companies, fostering collaboration to enhance Sharjah Airport’s services and support its growing cargo operations.

He further highlighted that such events offer valuable opportunities to explore advanced solutions and technologies in supply chain development and logistics services, particularly across Africa and globally. In addition, they enable the establishment of new partnerships that align with mutual business objectives and drive innovation in cargo handling and logistics operations.

Knowledge Exchange and Showcasing Services Ali Salim Al Midfa added that the exhibition serves as an ideal platform for direct engagement, allowing for bilateral coordination meetings with industry experts and decision-makers. It also facilitates knowledge exchange and discussions on the future of air cargo and its role in supporting global trade. Additionally, Sharjah Airport Authority is showcasing its comprehensive aviation and cargo services, highlighting the latest developments in its facilities, particularly in its air cargo centre, which plays a crucial role in supporting logistics operations.

A Growing Market with High Potential The African market is one of the fastest-growing emerging markets, driven by diverse economies, expanding trade sectors, and a strategic geographic location that connects continents worldwide. The increasing trade exchanges, export and re-export activities between Africa and the UAE, along with growing tourism and aviation links, have significantly contributed to the rise in passenger and cargo traffic between Sharjah and various African cities. Many of these cities consider Sharjah Airport as a key aviation hub, reinforcing the airport’s role in boosting Sharjah’s economic growth.

Record Growth in Air Cargo Operations In 2024, Sharjah Airport recorded a remarkable 38.5% increase in cargo handling volume, reaching 194,907 tonnes, compared to 141,501 tonnes in 2023. Additionally, the airport processed 14,035 tonnes of sea-air cargo shipments, further demonstrating its growing role as a major logistics hub in the region.