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10/17/24, 9:45 AM Aviation sector shines with positive growth indicators on 'UAE Civil Aviation Day' - Eye of Dubai
The UAE is globally recognised for the rapid growth of its aviation infrastructure, which accounted for less than 1 percent of
the GDP at the founding of the country in 1971, while today the sector contributes up to 13.3 percent of the GDP. According
to estimates from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the air transport market in the UAE is expected to grow
by 170 percent over the next twenty years, resulting in an addition of 101 million passenger flights by 2037. This growth will
also support the national economy by contributing approximately $127.7 billion and will create 1.4 million jobs.
Bin Touq continued: “Our national efforts are ongoing in developing the aviation industry in the country, relying on innovation,
sustainability, and the best global practices in this regard. We aim to provide high-quality services in the transportation, travel,
and logistics sectors, contributing to enhancing the country's global standing as a major hub for air transport, in line with the
targets of the “We the UAE 2031” vision.”
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Chairman of Dubai Airports,
and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and a member of the Board of Directors of the GCAA: “The
aviation sector in the UAE is a vital artery connecting us to the world, with Dubai International Airport standing as a global
model for growth and quality. The airport serves over 90 million international passengers annually, and through our
partnerships with global airlines, we strive to enhance air connectivity between the UAE and countries around the world.
Today, we celebrate our achievements, which would not have been possible without the visionary leadership of our wise
government.
We remain committed to delivering excellence to ensure the UAE's continued role as a global hub for civil aviation."
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi, and a member of the
Board of Directors of the GCAA, stated: "This day is an opportunity to celebrate what we have achieved in the civil aviation
sector in Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a whole. The country today boasts an infrastructure that ranks among the best in the
world, with Zayed International Airport serving as a world-class example of modern airport design.
Zayed International Airport is a model of sophisticated, sustainable infrastructure that supports the growth of the aviation
sector, ensuring exceptional services for millions of travelers who come to our city from across the globe and call it home.
The developments witnessed in the civil aviation sector in the UAE not only enhance the travel experience, but also contribute
to driving the national economy. We understand what businesses need to thrive, and we are committed to continuing to
empower Abu Dhabi as a hub for air transport in the region."
Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qasmi. Chairman of Sharjah Department of Civil Aviation and a member of the Board of Directors of
the GCAA, stated: "We take pride in the pivotal role played by the Emirate of Sharjah in enhancing the UAE's civil aviation
sector, as the emirate is historically significant for being the site of the first aircraft landing in the country. Today, Sharjah
International Airport stands as a key hub in the air transport network of the UAE and the region as a whole. Efforts are
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