UAE Sets Global Benchmark In Aviation With Ninety-Two Billion US Dollars Economic Value, Strong Employment, And Industry-Wide Commitment To Sustainability

Published on April 16, 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) solidified its position as a global aviation powerhouse in 2023, with the industry contributing a remarkable ninety-two billion US dollars to the national economy—accounting for eighteen percent of the country’s GDP. Backed by data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the report reveals that nearly one million jobs were supported through direct aviation roles, associated sectors, and tourism-related employment. The UAE also handled one million tons of air cargo, demonstrating its critical role in global trade and logistics. With bold goals including the production of seven hundred million liters of sustainable aviation fuel by 2030, large-scale infrastructure projects like Al Maktoum and Zayed International Airports, and the launch of a new IATA training center in Abu Dhabi, the country is strategically investing in workforce development, green aviation, and global competitiveness—paving the runway for a more sustainable and prosperous future in air travel.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has revealed impressive figures showcasing the critical role aviation played in the United Arab Emirates’ economy in 2023. According to the latest study, aviation—including related tourism activities—contributed an astounding USD 92 billion to the UAE’s economy, representing 18.2% of the national GDP. The sector supported a total of 992,000 jobs, reflecting its vast reach across direct and indirect employment channels.

Of this total workforce, 74,500 people were directly employed by airlines, while 132,300 held roles in other aviation-related sectors. Additionally, 297,300 jobs were linked to aviation-driven tourism, underlining the industry’s far-reaching influence. The UAE also handled 1 million metric tons of air cargo in 2023, underscoring its position as a key global logistics hub.

UAE’s Strategic Priorities in Aviation

Building on its status as one of the world’s premier aviation centers, the UAE is advancing efforts across three critical pillars:

Sustainability
The UAE has emerged as a frontrunner in the shift toward greener aviation. The country is championing the development of Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and has set an ambitious target of producing 700 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually by 2030. IATA also highlighted the UAE’s leadership role in global sustainability initiatives, including its collaboration on the recently introduced SAF Registry managed by CADO, supporting the industry’s net zero emissions target by 2050.

Infrastructure
The UAE continues to enhance its aviation infrastructure with major developments such as Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) and Zayed International Airport (AUH). These expansions aim to future-proof the nation’s capacity to meet growing demand. IATA emphasized the importance of maintaining cost-efficiency and competitiveness, working closely with the industry to ensure the UAE remains a top-tier hub for both passengers and cargo.

The UAE’s aviation industry contributed ninety-two billion US dollars to the national economy in 2023, supporting nearly one million jobs and driving eighteen percent of GDP. With major strides in sustainability, infrastructure, and training, the country is reinforcing its global aviation leadership.

Workforce Development
To secure long-term growth, the UAE is heavily investing in training and education to build a highly skilled aviation workforce. This includes the launch of a new IATA Training Center in Abu Dhabi, designed to help cultivate the next generation of aviation professionals. By fostering talent and expertise, the UAE aims to fortify its role as a global aviation powerhouse for years to come.