Aviation sector boosts UAE economy with $92 billion contribution and job creation

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Muhammad Albakri Senior Vice President, Financial Settlement & Distribution Services | International Air Transport Association

By Sky Industry News

Apr 16, 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a study documenting the economic contribution of aviation to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during 2023. According to the study, aviation and related tourism activities generated $92 billion for the UAE, accounting for 18.2% of the nation's GDP. Furthermore, the sector supported around 992,000 jobs, including those related to the supply chain, employee spending, and tourism.

IATA's Director General Willie Walsh emphasized the sector's significant economic and cultural impact on the UAE. "The UAE is a critical hub for global connectivity. And the benefits of its super connector role bring trade, tourism, investment, and jobs to the UAE. The leadership of the UAE has a strategic vision for aviation, supported by smart regulation and investment in world-class infrastructure. Supporting nearly a million jobs and 18.2% of GDP, aviation makes an enormous contribution to the UAE’s prosperity—both culturally and economically. And we can be confident that this contribution will strengthen as the UAE continues to facilitate opportunities for aviation to thrive," Walsh stated.

The UAE is positioned to strengthen its leadership in the aviation sector by focusing on three key priorities:

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In sustainability, the country aims to produce 700 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually by 2030. The UAE has been proactive in the development of Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and has recently launched a SAF Registry, operated by CADO.

In terms of infrastructure, the UAE continues to invest in new developments such as Al Maktoum International Airport and Zayed International Airport. These investments are intended to maintain the competitiveness of the UAE as a hub for airlines and passengers.

The country is also investing in aviation training to ensure a sustainable pipeline of professionals capable of supporting future growth. A new IATA training center has been opened in Abu Dhabi as part of these efforts.