Civil aviation contributes about 18% to UAE’s GDP

The Dubai Airshow has cemented its status as a premier global platform for advancing trends and innovations in aviation, space, and defence, underscored by the remarks of Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Addressing industry leaders at the 19th edition of the Dubai Airshow—held under the theme “The Future Starts Here”—Bin Touq emphasised the sector’s pivotal role in the nation’s economy.

“Civil aviation is a cornerstone of the UAE’s future economic growth,” Bin Touq said. He highlighted that the sector currently accounts for about 18 per cent of the UAE’s GDP, driven by robust contributions from national airlines, airports, logistics, and tourism.

Ongoing investments in advanced technologies—from electric aircraft to sustainable systems and advanced air mobility—are expected to further spur industry growth and global competitiveness.

This year’s Airshow gathers over 1,500 exhibitors from 115 countries and aims to promote international collaboration and knowledge-sharing to support a more innovative and resilient aviation sector.

A strategic arena

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, noted that the event serves as a strategic arena for forging new cooperation agreements and fostering partnerships focused on safety, innovation, advanced air mobility, and sustainability.

The UAE’s leadership in international aviation, particularly within bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), remains central to promoting global green aviation and best regulatory practices.

The GCAA’s agenda at the Airshow includes signing international agreements in civil aviation and air navigation, as well as hosting bilateral meetings with delegations and companies to discuss future partnership opportunities.

The Authority’s pavilion showcases projects on human capital development, air accident investigation, and the adoption of advanced technological solutions—all core to the UAE’s ambition to enhance its global aviation ecosystem.