Dubai World Central, the planned 145 square kilometer city around the new airport, has been rebranded as authorities push ahead with what they describe as the emirate’s “flagship urban project”.

The city, which is expected to generate over 500,000 jobs and sustain a population twice that number, will now be known as ‘Dubai South’.

It is being built around the new Al Maktoum International Airport, and will also house the World Expo 2020 venue as well as the Dubai Airshow.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation said, “Dubai South is the emirate’s flagship urban project that will set benchmarks for the rest of the emirate in terms of manifesting the themes of happiness as set out in Dubai Plan 2021.”

“Over the decades, Dubai’s leadership and its people have worked together to transform the emirate into one of the world’s most desirable destinations.

“A vibrant economy, excellent roads, landmark buildings, and attractive recreational facilities are outstanding accomplishments we are proud of – but they are simply the means to a higher end, which is to facilitate the happiness of people.”

Dubai World Central, a subsidiary of Dubai Aviation City, will continue to be the administrative authority for Dubai South.