Dubai’s aviation industry is set to create 185,000 new jobs by 2030, pushing total employment in the sector to 816,000, according to a report by Emirates Group and Dubai Airports, conducted by Oxford Economics. Currently, 631,000 individuals, representing one in five Dubai jobs, work in aviation-related roles. This will increase to one in four jobs by 2030, highlighting the sector’s expanding influence on Dubai’s economy.
Core and Catalytic Impacts of Aviation on Employment
Of the 631,000 current jobs, 103,000 are direct aviation roles, while 200,000 stem from supply chain support and employee spending. Additional 329,000 jobs arise from tourism and other sectors influenced by aviation. By 2030, the sector aims to increase direct employment by 24,000, supporting a significant rise in indirect jobs due to growing demand and infrastructure expansion.
Role of Al Maktoum International Airport
The Al Maktoum International Airport expansion, anticipated to be the world’s largest, will play a key role in future employment, generating 132,000 jobs and contributing Dh6.1 billion to Dubai’s GDP by 2030. Plans to expand Dubai International Airport further reflect the city’s commitment to meeting projected air transport demands.
Emirates Group’s Growing Workforce
Emirates, Dubai’s flagship airline, employed 81,000 people by 2023, with numbers expected to rise to 104,000 by 2030. Additionally, Dubai Airports and associated entities, employing 21,000 in 2023, are projected to increase their workforce to 23,000.
With its substantial impact on employment, trade, and tourism, Dubai’s aviation sector will continue to be a driving force in the city’s economic landscape.