Air Transport Accounts for 18.2% of UAE's GDP in 2023, Employs Close to a Million Workers: IATA (Reworded)
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has revealed the economic footprint of aviation in the UAE, shedding light on its significant impact on the nation's economy and workforce.
In 2023, the aviation sector, including aviation-related tourism, generated a staggering US$92 billion for the UAE. This sector accounted for 18.2% of the country's GDP, underscoring its crucial role in the nation's economic growth.
The UAE handled 1 million tonnes of air cargo in 2023, cementing its status as a global logistics hub. Major developments such as Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) and Zayed International Airport (AUH) will meet rising demand, ensuring the UAE's continued dominance in this sector.
The aviation sector supported a total of 992,000 jobs in the UAE in 2023. Of these jobs, 74,500 were directly employed by airlines, 132,300 worked in related aviation roles, and 297,300 jobs were tied to aviation-related tourism.
Recognising the importance of sustainability, the UAE aims to produce 700 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually by 2030. Initiatives like the SAF Registry are set to boost the industry's transition to net-zero emissions by 2050.
The UAE is also investing in talent development with the opening of a new IATA training centre in Abu Dhabi. Collaboration with industry players remains key to keeping the UAE cost-competitive.
While the specific priority areas identified by IATA for the continued growth of aviation in the UAE were not directly mentioned, global trends and challenges, such as sustainability, infrastructure, and workforce development, are likely to be relevant. These areas are crucial for positioning the UAE as a global aviation leader.
Momentum in the UAE's aviation sector is expected to continue growing, making it an exciting time to be part of this dynamic industry. The UAE's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth makes it a hub of opportunity for those interested in aviation.
In 2023, the aviation sector, including aviation-related tourism, played a significant role in the UAE's economy, generating $92 billion and accounting for 18.2% of the country's GDP. The UAE handled 1 million tonnes of air cargo, positioning itself as a global logistics hub, and plans to expand with projects like Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) and Zayed International Airport (AUH). The sector supported 992,000 jobs in 2023, with various roles in aviation, related tourism, and direct airline employment. The UAE recognizes the importance of sustainability and aims to produce 700 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually by 2030. To foster talent development, the UAE is investing in an IATA training center in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing collaboration with industry players to maintain cost-effectiveness. The UAE is poised to remain a vital player in the global aviation industry due to its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth.
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