According to forecasts, aviation activity in Dubai will gradually increase, while aviation events conducted by Emirates and Dubai Airports will contribute 196 billion dirhams to the GDP by 2030, which constitutes 32% of Dubai's projected GDP in 2030 (at 2023 values). The aviation sector also played a key role in creating 631,000 jobs in Dubai in 2023, which equates to one-fifth of all jobs in the emirate at this moment.
By 2023, the aviation sector of Dubai, including Emirates Group, Dubai Airports (including Dubai International and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum) and other aviation industry organizations, is estimated to support AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) in value-added GDP, which makes up 27% of Dubai's GDP. Tourism in Dubai is also projected to grow significantly over the next six years, with tourist spending, conditioned by aviation, expected to sustain AED 63 billion in value-added GDP, which accounts for 10% of Dubai's projected GDP and one-eighth of all jobs in Dubai.
"Our growth plans will create even more qualified jobs, while also helping to stimulate innovation, as we work with leading technology partners to develop future solutions aimed at enhancing the travel experience and improving operational efficiency and safety," said the representative of Emirates Group.
Recent research from leading global research firm Oxford Economics shows that the aviation sector contributes the lion's share to the economic activity in Dubai, supporting more than 630,000 jobs in 2023, which makes up one-fifth of all jobs in the emirate today. According to estimates, the number of jobs related to the aviation sector will increase by 185,000 by 2030.
As part of the economic research by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports, the crucial role of aviation in the economy of Dubai is reaffirmed, projecting further growth in the sector based on financial and passenger traffic indicators. The study includes an evaluation of direct economic activity generated by the aviation sector, indirect activity through the supply chain in the sector and induced activity supported by local aviation personnel consumption.
The Chairman of Emirates Airline & Group, and also the chairman of Dubai Airports, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, noted: "Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the aviation sector of Dubai has been one of the main pillars of our emirate's economic growth strategy, and it will continue to play a key role in the Economic Agenda D33."
According to the forecast, another 185,000 jobs associated with the aviation sector will be created by 2030, with total jobs supported by Dubai's aviation sector expected to grow to 816,000. In total, aviation-tourism spending is estimated to contribute to the support of 329,000 jobs.
Plans for further development of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International, as well as investments in the expansion of capabilities and operations at Dubai International, will create new economic opportunities, satisfying the projected increase in air transport demand.
