Dubai Airport Show Opens to Spotlight Regional Aviation Boom
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the event runs until May 8 and remains the region's largest B2B platform for the airport industry. With over 140 exhibitors from 20+ countries and more than 6,000 visitors expected, the show will spotlight innovations in passenger experience, carbon reduction, air traffic management, and urban air mobility.
Sheikh Ahmed highlighted Dubai's leadership in aviation, citing Dubai International Airport's 11-year streak as the world's busiest for international passengers. He also emphasized the transformational expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, set to redefine airport infrastructure benchmarks.
The show comes as regional airport development surges. The MEASA region represents a US$1 trillion opportunity, with the Middle East alone expected to handle 1.1 billion passengers annually by 2040. Major investments include Saudi Arabia's $50 billion Riyadh airport project and Dubai's $35 billion Al Maktoum expansion—together accounting for nearly 80 percent of MENA's airport spend.
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority Director-General Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi reaffirmed the city's commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability, noting the show's role in shaping global aviation dialogue.
Key features this year include the Global Airport Leaders' Forum and the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference, alongside new exhibition zones for ground support equipment, smart airport tech, and design. Industry giants like Honeywell, Siemens, and Schneider Electric will showcase the latest in airport systems and infrastructure.
Backed by strong institutional support and strategic partners, the Airport Show continues to position Dubai at the forefront of aviation's next chapter.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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