Tourism spending spurred by the aviation industry has generated significant economic benefits, contributing AED 43 billion in GVA and creating 329,000 jobs
A recent economic impact study by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports, conducted with Oxford Economics, has underscored the pivotal role of the aviation sector in Dubai’s economy.
According to the study, The Economic Impact of Aviation In Dubai, aviation contributed AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) in gross value added (GVA) in 2023, representing 27 pc of Dubai’s GDP. The airline says that this impact includes direct aviation activity, supply chain interactions, and consumption by employees within the sector.
Tourism spending spurred by the aviation industry has generated significant economic benefits, contributing AED 43 billion in GVA and creating 329,000 jobs.
The study says that aviation’s role in economic development aligns with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, with plans to boost air connectivity and logistics capabilities.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
“Under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, 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,” says Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports.
The statement adds that future projections estimate the sector will contribute AED 196 billion or 32 pc of Dubai’s GDP by 2030, supporting 816,000 jobs.
The report adds that by 2030, aviation-facilitated tourism spending is forecast to add AED 63 billion in GVA, equivalent to 10 pc of projected GDP, reflecting Dubai’s continued growth as a top tourist destination.
It says that key investments are underway to expand Dubai’s aviation infrastructure. Dubai World Central Al Maktoum International Airport is set to add 400 aircraft stands, supporting an annual capacity of 260 million passengers when fully completed.
The first phase, scheduled for completion within a decade, aims to significantly enhance the emirate’s connectivity and drive economic growth.
“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,” Maktoum adds.
The study says that in addition to direct contributions, the aviation-driven tourism industry remains a major economic force, with international visitors spending AED 66 billion in 2023.
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