Paul Griffiths CEO of Dubai Airports Interview Video

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths on Building the World’s Largest Aviation Hub

In the debut episode of The National’s new video-first podcast, The Inside Brief, host Manus Cranny interviews Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, about the emirate’s bold vision to create the world’s most advanced aviation hub. Griffiths outlines Dubai’s plan to grow from managing 95 million passengers a year at Dubai International Airport to operating a new mega-airport capable of handling 260 million passengers annually by 2050.

He discusses how innovation, digital transformation, and precision planning underpin Dubai’s global connectivity and long-term success. From deploying biometric technologies that will redefine the passenger journey to ensuring aviation remains affordable and efficient, Griffiths explains how Dubai is setting new global benchmarks. He also reveals the immense logistical challenge of relocating the world’s busiest international airport 40 kilometers south to Al Maktoum International while maintaining seamless operations.

Reflecting on his 18 years of leadership, Griffiths shares his unwavering KPI — to never constrain Dubai’s aviation growth — and the lessons learned through global crises. Beyond aviation, he offers rare insights into his personal passions for music, engineering, and his extensive collection of motorcycles and cars, describing how creativity and discipline continue to shape both his artistry and executive leadership.