UAE Aviation Sector Records Historic Growth Between 2015-2024
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) aviation sector experienced remarkable growth between 2015 and 2024, strengthening its position as a global leader in aviation. Passenger traffic exceeded one billion, while total aircraft movements surpassed 6.4 million.
Sector Performance
According to data from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre:
UAE airports served 114.8 million passengers in 2015, rising to 147.8 million in 2024.
Total aircraft movements exceeded 800,000 annually, with the number of take-offs and landings over the decade surpassing 6.4 million.
The country ranked first globally in the Air Transport Quality Index and placed in the top 10 in five other indicators.
First Half of 2025 Data
UAE airports handled 75.4 million passengers in the first six months of the year (2024: 71.7 million; +5%).
In January alone, passenger numbers exceeded 13.7 million, setting a new record.
National carriers added 15 new destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, including Russia, Turkey, Poland, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Egypt.
Statements from Minister Abdullah Bin Tuk El Marri
Abdullah Bin Tuk El Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA, commented on the sector’s growth: “Thanks to the directives of our smart leaders, the UAE is achieving unprecedented growth rates supported by innovative national strategies. This is a key factor driving economic growth and generating trade, tourism, investment, and employment across all aviation-related sectors.”
The Minister emphasized that the aviation sector is a cornerstone of the country’s national economic sustainability and that the UAE continues to enhance its competitiveness regionally and globally.
Technology and Sustainability
The UAE integrates technological innovations in aviation systems with safety and service quality standards, offering a sustainable model. This approach strengthens the country’s position as an international aviation hub.
