Aviation ‘supports more than a quarter of Dubai’s GDP’
The aviation sector currently supports more than a quarter of Dubai’s GDP, a figure that will increase to nearly a third by the end of the decade, according to a study released by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports.
The economic impact report highlights the crucial role of aviation in Dubai’s economy, and forecasts significant growth in the sector over the coming years.
The study, conducted by Oxford Economics, examines the economic contributions of the aviation sector, including direct output from aviation companies, indirect contributions through supply chain activities, and induced effects from local aviation employees’ spending. Additionally, the report evaluates the economic impact of tourism generated by Dubai’s aviation network.
In 2023, the aviation sector, led by Emirates Group, Dubai International Airport, Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum Airport, and other aviation entities, contributed an estimated AED 137 billion ($37.3 billion) to Dubai’s GDP, representing 27% of the emirate’s total economic output.
Of this figure, AED 94 billion was attributed to direct aviation activities, while AED 43 billion came from tourism spending facilitated by the sector. By 2030, these figures are projected to rise to AED 196 billion, or 32% of Dubai’s GDP.
The sector also supports extensive employment, generating 631,000 jobs, equivalent to one in five jobs in Dubai. By 2030, the aviation industry is expected to add an additional 185,000 positions, reaching a total of 816,000 jobs.
Compared to a 2014 report, the current study shows steady contributions to GDP, with an increase in aviation’s absolute economic value, driven by Dubai’s overall economic growth and diversification.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and chairman of Dubai Airports, said: “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.
“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.”
