Emirates to Develop Village for Cabin Crew in Dubai

Emirates airline has announced an ambitious multi-billion-dirham development to build a dedicated Cabin Crew Village in Dubai, aimed at housing up to 12,000 of its cabin crew members as part of a long-term investment in its workforce and operational growth.

The airline signed a land acquisition agreement with Dubai Investments Park (DIP) to secure the site for the project, located strategically between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC). Construction is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with the first phase slated for completion in 2029.

Designed as more than just staff accommodation, the Cabin Crew Village will be a mixed-use residential community comprising 20 contemporary residential buildings, each rising 19 floors and offering a variety of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments tailored to the needs of Emirates’ internationally diverse cabin crew.

Officials say the development will provide a thoughtfully planned lifestyle environment that supports both the physical and social well-being of its residents. The project will include a multi-purpose hub with retail outlets, restaurants, leisure facilities, clinics, parks and public spaces, encouraging an active and balanced lifestyle for crew members between flights.

Ali Mubarak Al Soori, Emirates’ Chief Procurement and Facilities Officer, described the village as part of the airline’s broader commitment to prioritising the welfare and quality of life of its cabin crew, key contributors to the airline’s global service reputation. He noted that the planned community will centralise essential services and amenities within walking distance, minimising commute times and fostering a sense of community.

The site’s positioning between DXB and DWC supports Emirates’ long-term operational roadmap, including its phased transition to the new Al Maktoum International Airport at DWC, reinforcing the airline’s strategy to enhance connectivity and operational resilience as it expands both passenger and cargo services.

The Cabin Crew Village underscores a broader trend among global aviation companies towards integrated workforce infrastructure, recognising that high-quality living standards and community amenities play a vital role in staff recruitment, retention and overall wellbeing.

As Emirates continues to grow its fleet and network, this pioneering residential project positions the airline at the forefront of employee-centric development in the Middle Eastern aviation sector, enhancing Dubai’s status as a global hub for talent, aviation and lifestyle.