The Middle East is experiencing significant investment in aviation, with a projected 300 per cent increase in air passengers, reaching 1.1 billion by 2040.
To accommodate this growth, airports will require USD$151 billion in capacity expansions.
By 2029, the Middle East aviation market is expected to reach USD$33.70 billion, and global passenger traffic could hit 20 billion by 2042.
The Airport Show, taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will highlight regional airport upgrades and developments, attracting industry players to showcase innovative technologies for improved operations and passenger experiences.
Currently, 48 airport renovation and expansion projects worth US$182.6 billion are underway in the Arabian Gulf region. Major developments include Dubai’s USD$35 billion airport terminal and Saudi Arabia’s King Salman International Airport, which aims for 300 million passengers by 2030.
These two projects account for nearly 80 per cent of airport development spending in the MENA region.
In addition, numerous projects across the region include the New Abha Airport, Musandam Airport in Oman, and expansions in Iraq and Bahrain, all aimed at increasing passenger capacity significantly in the coming years.
Cirium, the world’s most popular source of aviation analytics, said in the latest report: “The region’s aviation industry, long a symbol of ambition and growth, is undergoing a remarkable transformation that promises to reshape the future of air travel. With a commitment to passenger experience, the Middle East is poised to set new standards for the global aviation community.” It added: “Innovation is not limited to the development of new technologies. The Middle East’s aviation industry is also pioneering new approaches to training and passenger experience. In the coming years, expect to see even more groundbreaking advancements emerging from the region.”
It added: “From the development of hydrogen-powered aircraft to the implementation of seamless, touchless travel experiences, the Middle East’s aviation industry is pushing the boundaries. The Middle East’s aviation success story is a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and innovation. As the region continues to invest in its infrastructure and technologies, it is laying the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future. With its eyes fixed firmly on the horizon, the Middle East is ready to take the global aviation industry to new heights.”
