Dubai Airports seeks global brands for A380 hub

Eugene Barry, Vice President – Commercial, Dubai Airports said: “Dubai Airports’ commercial direction has changed in recent times. As we continue to emerge as a leading global hub, the available brand concepts, and calibre of services, at our airports have to match, and even exceed, the rising expectations of an increasingly international clientele.

“Our experience and success at Concourse 1 and 2 are the result of a similar customer-centric approach, but Concourse 3 gives us a blank canvas that will help us set a new and higher standard.”

A part of the Terminal 3 complex dedicated for use by Emirates Airline, Concourse 3 will increase Dubai International’s total passenger capacity from the current 60 million per annum to 75 million passengers. It represents an important part of the airport’s infrastructure expansion plan that is driven by rising passenger numbers, which are expected to reach 51 million in 2011.

Dubai International is expected to achieve a cumulative annual growth rate of 7.2%, outstripping industry average forecast of around 5% and in the process taking the top spot as the busiest hub for international passengers by 2015.

On course to be complete by the end of 2012, Concourse 3 will be the only facility of its kind with all its 20 aircraft contact gates dedicated to the A-380, in addition to 13 remote stands.

The 528,000 square-metre Concourse 3 offers numerous opportunities for food and beverage operators, service providers and innovative brands.

The final submission date for Expression of Interest is Sunday, October 16, 2011. Based on the prequalification criteria included in the application, Dubai Airports will issue the Request for Proposal (RFP) documents in Q4 2011.