Dubai’s Aviation Sector Contributes 27% to GDP in 2023, Expected to Rise to 32% by 2030

Dubai’s aviation sector contributed a remarkable 27% to the emirate’s GDP in 2023, translating to an economic value of AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion). This contribution, covering both the core operations of aviation and the indirect effects of aviation-supported tourism, is expected to grow substantially. By 2030, aviation’s share of Dubai’s GDP is projected to reach 32%, demonstrating the sector’s increasing importance to the local economy.

Significant Employment Impact and Future Growth

In addition to its economic impact, the aviation sector played a substantial role in job creation, supporting over 630,000 jobs in 2023. As the industry continues to expand, it is anticipated to add another 185,000 jobs by 2030, bringing the total to 816,000. This growth reflects the broader impact aviation has on employment across Dubai, where one in five jobs is tied to this sector.

Tourism’s Catalytic Role in the Economy

Aviation is a powerful driver of tourism in Dubai, with tourism-related economic activity in 2023 contributing AED 43 billion (USD 11.8 billion) to the GDP. Tourists arriving by air played a critical role in supporting the local economy through spending on accommodations, dining, attractions, and shopping. This tourism impact is expected to grow by over 40% by 2030, further boosting Dubai’s economy through aviation-supported visitors.

Economic Insights from Emirates Group and Dubai Airports Study

The Emirates Group and Dubai Airports recently released a comprehensive economic impact study conducted by Oxford Economics. This report highlights the diverse contributions of the aviation sector, including direct, indirect, and induced economic activities as well as the catalytic benefits of tourism. In 2023, Dubai’s aviation sector, incorporating Emirates Group and Dubai Airports (managing Dubai International and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum airports), generated AED 137 billion in GDP, with AED 94 billion from aviation operations and AED 43 billion from tourism.

Sheikh Ahmed’s Vision for Dubai’s Aviation Future

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group and Chairman of Dubai Airports, emphasized the critical role of aviation in Dubai’s economic strategy. Under the D33 Economic Agenda, Dubai aims to strengthen its global influence in trade, tourism, and logistics. Sheikh Ahmed noted that the expansion of Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport will further elevate the emirate’s status, with a AED 128 billion investment enhancing its capacity to serve 260 million passengers per year.

Expanding Aviation Infrastructure and Global Connectivity

The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to add AED 6.1 billion to Dubai’s GDP by 2030 and create 132,000 new jobs. Although this project’s impact is not yet reflected in 2023 data, its future contributions will significantly bolster Dubai’s economy. In 2023, international visitors added an estimated AED 66 billion to Dubai’s economy, spending on hotels, dining, and entertainment. This tourism, facilitated by aviation, contributed AED 43 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the GDP and supported 329,000 jobs.

Strengthening Dubai’s Global Position

Dubai’s commitment to aviation infrastructure, including the continuous expansion of Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International, will be essential to the emirate’s growth under the D33 Economic Agenda. These investments will connect Dubai to 400 new destinations, positioning it among the top five global logistics hubs. The study highlights the indispensable role aviation plays in sustaining Dubai’s economic resilience, reinforcing the sector’s integral part in the emirate’s growth and future prosperity.