Our regular feature, brought to you in association with Duty Free Global from Ireland, celebrates memorable scenes, moments, launches and campaigns related to the global aviation and travel retail sphere.
UAE. Today’s selection of images comes from Dubai International Airport, which has transformed one of its most recognisable landmarks into a striking symbol of national pride.
Dubai Airports has unveiled a new design for the travel hub’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower, placing the UAE flag at the heart of the airport’s visual landscape.
The unveiling was marked by a special airside ceremony featuring a Dubai Police parade set against the backdrop of the tower. Senior leaders from Dubai Airports, operational teams and oneDXB partners gathered to commemorate the occasion.
Standing 89 metres tall, the tower has been integral in Dubai International’s operation since the airport’s expansion in 2000. The structure features a unique buttressed centre column and arched wings, resembling a futuristic avian sculpture.
At the top, a sophisticated multilevel control centre forms the tower’s defining feature and is where Dubai Air Navigation Services operates and ensures the smooth running of the world’s busiest international airport.
The tower’s transformation also honours Dubai International’s extraordinary journey from a single-runway airport in 1960 to a global aviation hub connecting millions of travellers each year.
As the images and video illustrate, the newly adorned ATC tower now stands as a powerful expression of national pride at Dubai’s global front door.
Dubai Airports Chief Operational Officer Majed Al Joker said: “The ATC tower is one of the most important and symbolic structures at DXB. It’s where thousands of critical decisions are made every day, helping to keep aircraft, guests and operations moving safely and efficiently through Dubai.
“Aviation is a fundamental pillar of the UAE’s economy, and we are committed to the continuous development of this great nation.
“By bringing the colours of the UAE flag to this iconic landmark, we are celebrating the ambition of the nation we serve, while recognising the extraordinary teams and partners who ensure DXB is always Flying the Flag, Connecting the World.” ✈
