Dubai's aviation sector’s contribution to increase to Dh196 billion by 2030

Contribution of the aviation sector in Dubai is projected to increase to Dh196 billion by 2030, accounting for 32 per cent of the emirate’s GDP, according to a new study released by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports.

In 2023, Dubai’s aviation sector – which consists of Emirates Group, Dubai Airports (including Dubai International and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum airports), and other aviation sector entities – are estimated to have supported Dh137 billion in gross value added (GVA), which is equivalent to 27 per cent of Dubai’s GDP, said the report which was compiled by Oxford Economics on the impact of aviation on Dubai’s economy.

This included the core economic impact of Dh94 billion and Dh43 billion from the catalytic impact of aviation-facilitated tourism. These figures are projected to increase steadily, with aviation activities facilitated by Emirates and Dubai Airports contributing Dh196 billion, or 32 per cent of Dubai’s forecasted GDP by 2030.

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The study covered three aspects – direct, indirect and induced impacts – in its analysis.

The core impact of Dubai’s aviation sector comprised a direct gross value-added contribution of Dh70 billion and a further Dh24 billion stimulated through the sector’s supply chain spending and wage-funded consumption by employees.

“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,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and chairman of Dubai Airports.

“Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for trade, investments, and 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,” he said.

Travel and tourism

Aviation is also the driving force behind the growth of international tourism to Dubai. As one of the most frequented destinations in the world, visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights in 2023, spending an average of Dh4,300 on hotels, restaurants, attractions and shopping. According to the report, international visitors flying to Dubai spent an estimated Dh66 billion last year.

The study noted that the catalytic impact of tourism facilitated by aviation contributed Dh43 billion to the local economy in 2023, with its GDP contributions expected to grow by more than 40 per cent by 2030.

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