Aviation driving Dubai’s economic growth

Emirates Group and Dubai Airports have released an economic impact study that reaffirms the central role aviation plays in Dubai’s economy, by quantifying its contributions and forecasting the sector’s upwards trajectory, based on financial and passenger growth projections for the sector.

The study, compiled by global research firm Oxford Economics, includes an assessment of direct economic activity generated by the aviation sector, indirect activity generated through the sector’s supply chain, and induced activity supported through wage-funded consumption by the local aviation workforce. The study also assesses the catalytic impact of tourism spending facilitated by the aviation sector in Dubai.

Highlights of the study include:

• The aviation sector supported 27% of Dubai’s GDP in 2023, with an economic contribution of AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) – which is set to rise to almost a third of Dubai’s GDP by 2030. The total aviation sector impact includes the sector’s core impact as well as the catalytic impact of aviation-facilitated tourism
• The aviation sector supported over 630,000 jobs in 2023 and is forecasted to add another 185,000 jobs by 2030
• The catalytic impact of tourism facilitated by aviation contributed AED 43 billion (USD 11.8 billion) to the local economy in 2023, with its GDP contributions expected to grow by more than 40% by 2030

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports said: “Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s aviation sector has been a core pillar of our city’s economic growth strategy to date, and it will continue to play a key role in the D33 Economic Agenda.

He continued: “Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for trade, investments, tourism, and is a leading player in aviation and logistics. Our ambitious plans for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International airport, and our ongoing investments to expand capacity at Dubai International, will unlock further economic opportunities by supporting the projected demand for air transport. Our growth plans will generate even more skilled jobs, and also help drive innovation as we work with leading technology partners to develop future solutions to enhance travel experiences and make operations more efficient and secure.”

For the full Oxford Economics report, The Economic Impact of Aviation In Dubai, CLICK HERE.