Dubai International Airport is closing its southern runway for 45 days, it has been announced.

Officials have announced that the closure will happen from April 16th-May 30th next year while maintenance and upgrades take place.

Flights will be diverted via Al Maktoum International, which is approximately 60km away at Dubai World Central.

The airport said the maintenance is being scheduled during a "seasonal lull" when there are fewer passengers.

More than 1,100 aircraft pass through each day. The upgrades have been planned to increase safety and boost capacity for the future.

Concrete will be used to strengthen the runway and taxiways, while 60,000 tonnes of asphalt will be placed on the surface.

Dubai Airports chief executive Paul Griffiths said: “In the months ahead we will be working closely with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, airlines and other stakeholders to ensure we optimise service and capacity during this period next year and minimise the impact on our customers.

"While we regret any inconvenience this may cause to our airline customers and our passengers, these upgrades are absolutely necessary to heighten safety, boost capacity and pave the way for future growth.”

In more exciting airport news, British Airways has launched a massive sale for UAE residents.

The airline is offering return flights to London starting at Dhs2,375 and to Paris for as little as Dhs2,525.

Of course, if you're looking for a break with a shorter flight time, we've also got plenty of suggestions here at Time Out Dubai.