Dholera International Airport & Cargo
Dholera Smart City is quickly emerging as one of India’s most ambitious urban and industrial hubs. At the heart of this transformation is the Dholera International Airport, an under-construction greenfield airport near Navagam in the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), Gujarat. Designed to reduce congestion at Ahmedabad’s existing airport, this project is poised to revolutionize air connectivity while boosting industrial cargo and smart city investments.
Prime Location and Connectivity
Strategically situated near Navagam, the airport is approximately 80–100 km from Ahmedabad, ensuring easy access for passengers and businesses. Its location is a major advantage for Dholera’s growth along the DMIC corridor.
Key connectivity highlights:
- Direct linkage with the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway for fast passenger and cargo movement
- Seamless integration with Dholera’s industrial and residential zones
- Support for the overall Dholera smart city project and future urban expansion
This connectivity not only benefits travelers but also strengthens Dholera’s position as a preferred destination for property investment in India and land investment in India.
Infrastructure and Phase 1 Development
Dholera International Airport spans 1,426 hectares, featuring world-class infrastructure to handle both passenger and cargo traffic efficiently.
Phase 1 highlights include:
- Capacity: Designed for 1.2 million passengers per year
- Runways: Two fully prepared runways - 3,200 meters and 4,000 meters
- Terminal infrastructure: 20,000 sq m passenger terminal and 3,000 sq m cargo terminal
- Support facilities: Taxi lanes, a fire station, and 12 parking bays ready
- Contractor: Developed by Varaha Infra Limited, ensuring quality construction and timely execution
The first phase of the airport is expected to be operational by December 2025, with runway testing scheduled by June 2026, paving the way for full commercial operations in 2026
Stakeholders Driving the Project
The airport is developed by the Dholera International Airport Company Limited (DIACL), a joint venture between:
- Airports Authority of India (AAI)
- Government of Gujarat
- National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT)
This collaborative model ensures that both public and private interests are aligned, accelerating Dholera Smart City Progress and delivering an airport capable of handling international passenger and cargo operations.
Economic Impact and Investment Opportunities
The airport is more than a transport hub - it is a catalyst for smart city investments and industrial growth, with a total project investment of around ₹25 crore.
- Facilitates industrial cargo operations along the DMIC corridor
- Enhances regional trade, exports, and logistics efficiency
- Encourages property investment in India near the airport and along the expressway
- Positions Dholera as one of the best cities to invest in India, particularly for long-term industrial and real estate opportunities
By integrating air connectivity with Dholera’s residential, commercial, and industrial infrastructure, the airport strengthens the city’s reputation as a smart city with sustainable growth potential.
Future Outlook
Once fully operational, Dholera International Airport will transform air travel and logistics for western India:
- Phase 1 will support 1.2 million passengers yearly, with future expansions increasing capacity substantially
- Cargo terminals and industrial hubs will enable efficient import/export operations
- Proximity to the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway will enhance travel and business connectivity
- The airport, combined with solar, industrial, and residential projects, will showcase Dholera as a model smart city investment destination
With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and integrated connectivity, Dholera International Airport is set to become a landmark in India’s aviation and urban development landscape, marking a new chapter in Dholera Smart City Progress.
