Dr Mariam Ketait, Regional Lead (META) at Aerospace Xelerated and Regional Lead (META) Global Accelerators & Innovation Programmes (GAIP) team at Boeing assesses the future prospects for  the aviation sector the Middle East

The aviation industry has rapidly become a critical driver for economic growth, tourism, and global connectivity for the UAE and the broader MENA region.

The strategic geographical location positions these nations as a natural hub for global air traffic.

The region’s connectivity enhances its role in the global aviation ecosystem, offering extensive international routes, boosting global connectivity and making the region a key player in international travel.

In 2019, Middle Eastern airports accounted for approximately 180.5 million passengers. By 2040, that number is expected to double to an impressive 1.1 billion passengers.

In the UAE alone, the sector contributes 13.3% of the GDP ($47.7 billion) and employs over 770,000 people.

Prioritising aviation as a strategic asset could lead to an additional 620,000 jobs and an extra $80 billion in GDP for the UAE’s economy by 2037.

Looking to the future, these nations seek to establish themselves as industry leaders – a vision supported by progressive regulatory frameworks and policies, cross-sector partnerships, and investments in technology, infrastructure, and human capital.

In this article, we will explore how these factors and trends are shaping the future of the aviation industry in the UAE and the MENA region.

Regulatory Frameworks & Policies Supporting Industry Growth

Across the region, governments and regulatory bodies have been proactive in creating frameworks and policies that facilitate the growth and modernisation of the aviation industry.

For instance, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in the UAE has implemented regulations and pursued initiatives that have brought the nation in alignment with international standards in terms of safety, security, and sustainability set by organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Such regulations and policy initiatives have also supported the development of advanced air traffic management systems, the promotion of sustainable aviation practices, and the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into commercial airspace, helping to establish the nation as a leader in the sector.

Progressive regulations and policies have also helped to promote gender equality, inclusion, and diversity in the workplace, motivating more female talents across the region to join the workforce to support the industry’s rapid growth.

New Tech is Revolutionising the Aviation Industry

Additionally, governments have actively implemented regulations and policies designed to encourage research & development, incentivise foreign investment and partnerships with global aviation giants, and promote sustainability, driving technological advancements that are revolutionising the industry.

Across the region, there has been a focus on expanding and modernising airport infrastructure to accommodate increasing passenger and cargo traffic. State-of-the-art facilities are enhancing capacity and efficiency, ensuring the region can meet global demands and maintain its competitive edge.

Likewise, the implementation of digital technologies, including IoT devices, AI-driven security systems, and automated check-in processes, are helping to enhance security, streamline operations, and improve passenger experiences.

The region is also investing in the development and adoption of autonomous systems and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) solutions, such as drone taxis and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, offering safe, sustainable, and accessible transport options linking densely populated cities and rural areas.

In the future, we expect to see greater adoption of new technologies, such as sustainable aviation fuels and electric aircraft, reflecting the region’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

At the end of 2023, the UAE unveiled details of the General Policy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel that aims to reduce carbon emissions by 5% by 2030, encouraging innovation to help increase local production of SAFs.

Initiatives like these are crucial for aligning with global environmental goals and ensuring long-term industry viability.

Space: The New Frontier

Space is rapidly emerging as the next frontier for aviation, presenting new opportunities for exploration, commercial travel, and technological advancements beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

The UAE & other MENA countries historically have not been leaders in space technology and exploration; however, this is expected to change.

Since 2015, seven Middle Eastern countries have passed new space policies or created their own space agencies. According to a recent report by Euroconsult, $1.4B was invested in the regional space sector in 2023 alone, with projections that annual investment will nearly double by 2032.

Collaborations between governments and foreign entities have played a critical role in advancing development within the space sector.

For example, the UAE’s Mars mission (Hope Probe) underscored the benefit of effective public-private partnerships in achieving mission success, with similar models being pursued for future missions.

These cross-sector partnerships will continue to play a critical role as regional actors seek to develop their local assets and capacity.

Universities and other academic institutions increasingly offering space-focused programs will play a key role in funnelling new talent into this burgeoning sector, seeking to ensure that the region achieves its goal of capturing 7.5% of the global space market by 2030.

The future of aviation in the UAE and MENA region is bright, characterised by sustainability, technological advancements, and a commitment to innovation.

By embracing gender balance, diversity, and cross-sectoral collaboration, the region can position itself as a leader in the global aviation ecosystem.

The convergence of aviation and space exploration further expands the possibilities, paving the way for a transformative era in the industry.

With strategic investments and a forward-thinking approach, the UAE and MENA region are set to soar to new heights in the world of aviation.