Dubai International Airport’s iconic ATC tower gets striking UAE flag makeover
New design highlights aviation, connectivity and national identity
DUBAI – Travellers passing through Dubai International Airport will now notice a striking change to one of its most recognisable structures.
Dubai Airports has unveiled a newly rebranded Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower featuring the colours of the UAE flag, turning the landmark into a visual symbol of national identity at the heart of the aviation hub.
The transformation places the iconic tower at the centre of a celebration of the UAE’s colours while highlighting its vital role in supporting the safe and smooth movement of aircraft, passengers and airport operations every day. The unveiling took place during an airside ceremony, bringing together Dubai Airports teams and oneDXB partners to mark the updated appearance of the landmark.
One of #DXB’s most iconic landmarks is now flying the flag ????????✈️
— DXB (@DXB) June 24, 2026
Our air traffic control (ATC) tower has been rebranded with the #UAE flag, transforming it into a visible expression of national pride at the gateway to Dubai.
Spot it from the terminal or your window seat! Tag @DXB… pic.twitter.com/y3TOGohCk4
DXB ATC tower
The ATC tower remains one of the most important operational points at Dubai International Airport, where controllers coordinate aircraft movements and help maintain the airport’s continuous flow of global connectivity.
Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths shared the transformation, describing the tower as a major part of the airport’s identity and its role as a gateway connecting people, places and opportunities worldwide.
The tower, which stands at the centre of the world’s busiest international airport, represents more than infrastructure, serving as one of the first and last impressions for millions of travellers arriving in or departing from Dubai.
مطارات دبي تكشف عن التصميم البصري الجديد لبرج مراقبة الحركة الجوية في مطار دبي الدولي، ليكتسي أحد أبرز معالم المطار وأكثرها حضوراً بحلّة جديدة تجسّد الفخر الوطني عند بوابة دبي إلى العالم. @DubaiAirports | @DXB pic.twitter.com/vgiw2DZwwn
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 24, 2026
The 89-metre ATC tower has been a key part of Dubai International Airport’s operations following its expansion and has become a familiar feature of the airport landscape.
Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said the tower is among the most symbolic structures at Dubai International Airport, with thousands of critical decisions made there every day to keep aircraft, passengers and operations moving safely and efficiently.
He added that aviation remains a major pillar of the UAE’s economy, with the new UAE flag-inspired design reflecting the ambition of the country while recognising the teams and partners supporting the airport’s operations.
Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport has grown from a single runway operation in 1960 into a major global aviation hub, with the ATC tower playing a central role in managing its daily rhythm.
The airport continues to serve as a key connection point between continents, supporting international travel, trade and tourism through its extensive network. Dubai Airports operates both Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central, with Dubai International Airport remaining one of the busiest international passenger airports in the world.