Emirates and aviation set to power Dubai's economy by 2030
By:
Pilotcenter.net
According to a study conducted by global research firm Oxford Economics, Emirates and Dubai's aviation sector are anticipated to make up more than one-third of the region's GDP by 2030, along with one in every four jobs. Pilotcenter.net News reports that in 2023, key players such as Emirates Group, Dubai International Airport (DXB), Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), and other aviation entities significantly contributed to Dubai's GDP, accounting for 27%, with a projection to rise to 33% within the next six years.
The study, commissioned by Emirates and Dubai Airports, highlights that the aviation sector brought in around AED 137 billion ($37.3 billion) in gross value added in 2023 and is expected to increase to AED 196 billion ($53 billion) by 2030. This impact encompasses both the core economic effects and the catalytic influence of aviation-facilitated tourism. Notably, aviation-related activities created 631,000 jobs in Dubai in 2023, which equated to one-fifth of the emirate's workforce. Looking ahead, an additional 185,000 jobs are projected to be generated by 2030, bringing the total number of jobs supported by Dubai's aviation sector to 816,000.
Emirates specifically contributed AED 75 billion ($20 billion) in gross value added in 2023, making up 15% of Dubai's GDP and supporting around 236,000 jobs. Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Group and Chairman of Dubai Airports, emphasized Dubai's significant global presence in trade, investments, tourism, aviation, and logistics. Al Maktoum expressed confidence in the expansion plans for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport and ongoing investments to boost capacity at Dubai International Airport, aiming to create more economic opportunities by meeting the increasing demand for air travel.
Furthermore, the growth strategies laid out by Emirates are expected not only to create more skilled jobs but also to foster innovation by collaborating with leading technology partners to enhance travel experiences and operational efficiency. While the study does not account for the economic impact of Al Maktoum International Airport's expansion, the construction project is projected to contribute approximately AED 6.1 billion ($1.6 billion) to Dubai's GDP by 2030 and support an additional 132,000 jobs.
Tourism in Dubai is set to witness significant growth in the coming years, with aviation-facilitated visitor spending projected to contribute AED 63 billion ($17 billion) in gross value added by 2030, representing 10% of Dubai's estimated GDP and one in eight jobs in the city. Being one of the most visited destinations globally, visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights in 2023, spending an average of AED 4,300 ($1,171) on accommodations, dining, attractions, and shopping.