Amaala, has unveiled plans for an international airport with a design inspired by a desert mirage. The terminal and control tower design is developed by UK-based architectural and design firm Foster + Partners, while the airport master plan is overseen by international consultancy and engineering group Egis. The airport is due for completion in 2023 and is expected to cater for 1 million travelers per year. On approaching the airport, travelers will see stunning land art from the air. Entering the terminal, visitors will be greeted with a sleek mirrored edifice rising from the desert. The structure takes its inspiration from the surrounding environment, resulting in a mesmerizing mirage effect. A spacious courtyard will be complemented by contemporary interiors featuring unique artwork. Among the list of amenities provided by the airport are climate-controlled hangars that will be available for private jets as well as a ground transfer service accessible from inside the arrival hangar. Responding to the surrounding landscape, the terminal building will form an exclusive gateway to the Amaala resort. The passenger experience through the entire building will be akin to a private members club, luxurious and relaxing. The airport design seeks to establish a new model for private terminals, delivering a seamless experience from resort to aircraft. The airport meets the highest environmental design and sustainability standards, is operationally versatile, and incorporates the latest airport technology and best practice standards on offer.

A local/Lebanese contractor has been confirmed to deliver package 1 of the airport. Package 1 of the airport, covering airside civil works, has been awarded to Rawabi Butec, which is understood to be a 50:50 joint venture of the local Rawabi Holding and Lebanon’s Butec. The package’s scope includes runways, taxiways, aprons, lighting and airside/landside security fences. Prequalification and tendering for the second airport package is expected in the fourth quarter of 2020. The second work package covers the landside main terminal, control tower and all ancillary buildings, and its contract will be awarded in the second quarter of 2021.

Construction works are currently in progress on this scheme.