In the first half of 2024, a total of 8,500 flights were recorded at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) in south Dubai, representing a 7% growth compared to the same period last year. This increase not only highlights the growing maturity of commercial aviation services in the region but also consolidates the status of Al Maktoum International Airport (OMDW) as the leading airport in international commercial aviation movements in the Middle East, according to a Dubai government report.
This growth in the number of flights reflects the robustness of the private aviation sector in Dubai, a market that has shown steady growth over the years. In 2023, a record 16,657 private jet movements were reached, and this figure is expected to increase to 18,000 by the end of 2024, implying an annual growth rate of 8%.
Key factors of the growth in dubai south
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) has been a fundamental pillar in the development of business aviation in Dubai. The presence of renowned FBOs (Fixed Base Operators), such as Jetex, Jet Aviation, Falcon Aviation and DC Aviation Al Futtaim, has been crucial for this growth. Jetex, in particular, handles over 70% of business flights at OMDW, highlighting its dominant position in the market.
The success of these FBO operators is not only due to the quality of the services offered but also to the advanced infrastructure and the focus on customer satisfaction. These operators have played a decisive role in attracting a global clientele that values efficiency, comfort and privacy, three essential elements in private aviation.
In addition to FBOs, MBRAH has benefited from the addition of new MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) facilities, such as the one from ExecuJet MRO Services, a subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, which inaugurated its facilities last year. This expansion of services has allowed MBRAH to offer a full range of aviation solutions, from landing to maintenance, making it a comprehensive hub for business aviation in the region.
Expectations and challenges for the rest of 2024
With an expected 18,000 private jet movements by the end of 2024, expectations are high for the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub. However, this growth also poses challenges, such as the need to efficiently manage the increase in demand without compromising service quality.
Al Maktoum International Airport’s capacity to handle this surge in flights will be crucial. While the current facilities are equipped to support increased traffic, continuous expansion and modernization will be necessary to keep pace with the projected growth. The arrival of new technologies and improvements in airport infrastructure will also be a determining factor in ensuring Dubai remains a leader in the field of business aviation.
Preparations for the MEBAA Aviation Fair 2024.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub will also host the upcoming Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) show in December 2024. This event, one of the most important in the business aviation calendar, will attract industry leaders, FBO operators, and aircraft manufacturers from around the world. The MEBAA show will be a key platform to showcase technological advances and innovations in the sector, as well as to discuss emerging trends and challenges facing the industry.
These types of events not only boost Dubai’s prestige on the international stage, but also generate significant economic opportunities for the region. MBRAH’s ability to host this event and manage the influx of flights and visitors will be a testament to the success of recent investments and expansions.
In conclusion, the sustained growth of commercial flights at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub during the first half of 2024 is a clear indicator of the strength and potential of the private aviation sector in Dubai. With expectations of continued growth and key events on the horizon, MBRAH is positioning itself as a central player in international business aviation.
