By Sharmila Dhal, Chief Reporter, XPRESS www.gulfnews.com
Dubai: The opening of the new passenger terminal at Dubai World Central (DWC) on October 27 has raised several questions about the cost and convenience of travel to and from Al Maktoum International Airport.
Allaying fears about the huge distance of DWC from the city, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “For those living on the Palm or south of the Palm, it is equidistant to travel to DWC as it is to Dubai Airport.”
He said the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has provided adequate bus and taxi services from the new airport for the convenience of the public.
But Sharjah-based Diana, who took two taxis on October 27, said she paid Dh65 on the first trip to reach Dubai and Dh105 more from Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to DWC. “That’s a lot of money. It took me a lot of time as well.”
Taxi drivers at the airport bay said the return trip from the airport would cost an additional Dh20 as the minimum airport charges would apply.
One visitor said it took him 45 minutes to reach DWC from the Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout through Shaikh Zayed Road — a distance of about 55km.
Dubai-based Mohammad Julfar and Munther Juma, who were all set to take the first Wizz Air flight out of DWC, said it took them just 35 minutes from Deira on Emirates Road. “We are going to Budapest on the first direct flight from DWC. We didn’t mind the travel at all — these days, airports in most major cities are located outside the city limits.” More info
