Adani Airports Launches ₹20,000 Crore Cityside Development Drive, Anchored by Mega Projects in Mumbai Region

In a bold move to reshape India’s airport infrastructure and revenue model, Adani Airports has unveiled a ₹20,000 crore cityside development programme, with nearly ₹14,000 crore earmarked for large-scale real estate ventures near Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports. The initiative marks a strategic pivot toward boosting non-aeronautical revenues, which the group aims to grow to 70% of total income by 2030, up from the current industry average of 50%.

Mixed-Use Airport Cities Inspired by Global Models

The centrepiece of this transformation is a 240-acre mixed-use development at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, scheduled to begin operations in October. The first phase, spanning 50 acres, will feature:

• Five hotels with a combined 1,000 rooms
• A high-capacity shopping mall
• Three premium office towers
• Service apartments integrated with hotel facilities

Inspired by global airport cities like Amsterdam’s Schiphol, Zurich’s The Circle, and Sydney Airport, Adani’s model aims to create walkable business districts that serve both travelers and local residents.

Strategic Shift Toward Commercial Real Estate

The cityside programme spans 655 acres across eight airports, but Mumbai and Navi Mumbai will receive nearly 70% of the total investment. According to Amit Grover, CEO of City Side Development at Adani Airports, the goal is to flip the traditional airport revenue model, making retail, hospitality, and real estate the primary growth drivers.

Financing and Growth Momentum

To fund the expansion, Adani Airports recently raised $750 million through external commercial borrowings, aimed at refinancing debt and scaling up its retail, F&B, and duty-free operations. The airport business reported ₹2,715 crore in revenue for Q1FY26, marking a 25% year-on-year growth, driven by higher passenger footfalls and stronger commercial leasing.

Urban Impact and Future Outlook

Industry analysts suggest that Adani’s cityside developments could transform surrounding regions into high-demand real estate corridors, positioning airports as economic and cultural anchors rather than mere transit hubs. The projects are expected to integrate green building standards, pedestrian-friendly layouts, and long-term lease opportunities for corporate tenants and hospitality brands.

With construction advancing rapidly, Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are poised to lead India’s evolution toward global-style airport business hubs, redefining how cities interact with transport infrastructure.