Dubai's aviation sector: A vital engine driving economic growth

Dubai’s aviation sector is soaring as Emirates Group and Dubai Airports release a comprehensive economic impact study, revealing aviation’s critical role in Dubai’s growth trajectory.

Compiled by Oxford Economics, this study quantifies the sector's current contributions and highlights its future potential, affirming aviation's importance in Dubai’s economic landscape and the city’s long-term ambitions.

The economic backbone of Dubai's aviation sector

In 2023, Dubai’s aviation industry—including Emirates Group, Dubai Airports, and other associated entities—contributed an impressive AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) to the economy, making up 27% of Dubai's GDP.

This substantial impact is broken down into AED 94 billion in core economic activity, with an additional AED 43 billion arising from aviation-linked tourism.

The sector’s significance is expected to rise, with projections indicating that by 2030, aviation will contribute AED 196 billion, or 32% of Dubai’s GDP, solidifying its foundational role in the emirate’s economy.

Employment within the sector is also robust, with aviation supporting 631,000 jobs—or one in five roles in Dubai. By 2030, an additional 185,000 aviation-related jobs are anticipated, bringing the total to 816,000.

Strategic investments to propel future growth

Dubai’s commitment to aviation is evident through its major ongoing investments. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Group and Chairman of Dubai Airports, emphasizes the sector’s role in Dubai’s economic future as part of the D33 Economic Agenda.

Expansion plans for Dubai International Airport and the upcoming Dubai World Central (DWC) – Al Maktoum International Airport, are positioned to meet rising air travel demand.

With an investment of AED 128 billion, Dubai World Central aims to become the world’s largest airport, featuring 400 aircraft stands and an annual capacity for 260 million passengers. Once operational, this mega-airport is expected to add AED 6.1 billion to Dubai’s GDP and create 132,000 jobs.

Catalyzing growth in tourism and hospitality

The aviation sector is a cornerstone of Dubai’s booming tourism industry, underpinning the city’s position as a global travel destination. In 2023, visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights, spending approximately AED 4,300 across hotels, dining, attractions, and shopping.

Aviation-linked tourism generated AED 43 billion in economic activity and supported 329,000 jobs. Of this, AED 23 billion was attributed to Emirates passengers alone. By 2030, aviation’s contribution to tourism is expected to reach AED 63 billion, equal to 10% of Dubai’s GDP and supports one in eight jobs.

Vision for global connectivity and economic leadership

Dubai’s aviation sector is integral to the D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to strengthen the emirate’s position as a global trade and tourism hub.

The D33 plan aims to connect Dubai with 400 destinations worldwide, solidifying its position as a top-five global logistics hub.By expanding its network and fostering integration, Dubai’s aviation sector remains crucial to the city’s economic leadership.

In sum, Dubai’s investment in aviation positions the city as a global leader in both air travel and economic connectivity. With a strategic focus on growth, innovation, and sustainable development, Dubai’s aviation industry is not only a key economic contributor but also a catalyst for broad-based prosperity across sectors.

Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to aviation will secure its place as a leading global hub, ensuring economic resilience and expanding international appeal well into the future.