The aviation sector supported 27% of Dubai’s GDP in 2023, amounting to Dh137 billion ($37.3 billion). This percentage is set to increase to 32% of the emirate’s GDP by 2030.
The findings are the result of an economic impact study released by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports and conducted by Oxford Economics. The research assessed the sector’s direct, indirect and induced economic activities and the tourism spending it facilitates.
The aviation industry supported 30,000 jobs in 2023 and is forecasted to add another 185,000 jobs by 2030, reaching a total of 816,000 jobs and making up one-quarter of the emirate’s total jobs by the end of the decade.
The study further found that the impact of tourism facilitated by aviation contributed Dh43 billion ($11.8 billion) to the local economy in 2023, with its GDP contributions expected to grow by more than 40% by 2030.
The construction of the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) alone is expected to contribute Dh6.1 billion to Dubai’s economy in 2030, equivalent to one per cent of its forecast GDP, and to create 132,000 jobs, the report said.
“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,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports.
“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.”
The new Dh128 billion airport will be five times the size of Dubai International, with the first phase to be completed in 10 years. When fully completed, Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International will consist of over 400 aircraft stands and boast the capacity to serve 260 million passengers annually.
In 2023, visitors spent an average of 3.8 nights and Dh4,300 on hotels and attractions, contributing Dh66 billion to the economy, the report found. By 2030, aviation-facilitated tourism spending is expected to support Dh63 billion in gross value or 10% of Dubai’s GDP.
