Travellers passing through Dubai International (DXB) will now see the UAE flag wrapped around one of the airport’s tallest structures, after Dubai Airports revealed a redesigned look for its Air Traffic Control tower that turns the working landmark into a national emblem greeting arriving and departing passengers.
The reveal took place at an airside ceremony staged in front of the tower, where a Dubai Police parade performed against the structure as its backdrop. The gathering drew Dubai Airports executives, operational staff and members of the oneDXB partner network, brought together to mark the coordination that keeps the airport running each day.
Standing 89 metres tall, the tower has anchored DXB’s operations since entering service after the airport’s expansion in 2000. Its design carries a buttressed central column flanked by arched wings, giving it the appearance of a futuristic bird in sculpted form. The control centre crowning the top spreads across multiple levels and houses Dubai Air Navigation Services, the team responsible for managing movements at what is now the busiest international airport in the world.
Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, framed the structure as far more than a visual centrepiece. “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.”
That daily rhythm rests on constant exchange between airside crews, carriers, ground handlers, safety personnel, service partners and the broader oneDXB community, with each landing, take-off and aircraft movement depending on their alignment. The airport’s reach stretches back to 1960, when a lone runway marked its beginnings before it grew into the global hub it is today.
