The UAE now commands 40-45% of the MENA region’s business aviation market, a substantial increase from 30-35% in 2023. The broader MENA market has seen 7% year-on-year growth in flight movements, traffic, and registered aircraft in 2024, as the sector continues to outperform pre-pandemic levels by nearly 30%.

“Everybody knows that real business happens in the Middle East and North Africa,” said Ali Ahmed Al Naqbi, founder and executive chairman of Mebaa. Speaking ahead of the 10th Mebaa Show, which runs from December 10-12, he emphasised the UAE’s strategic role as a business aviation hub and highlighted ongoing efforts to simplify aircraft registration processes.

Innovation Takes Center Stage at Mebaa Show

This year’s Mebaa Show features a variety of innovations, including an Advanced Air Mobility Pavilion showcasing air taxi mock-ups from Joby Aviation and Lilium. These electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) are expected to complement business aviation by facilitating seamless connections between jet arrivals and city destinations, reducing travel time.

Other new highlights include a start-up pavilion and the “NextGen Programme,” which aims to introduce over 500 students to the aviation industry, inspiring the next wave of talent. The event will host more than 145 exhibitors, including 64 newcomers, and is expected to draw over 10,000 visitors from 95 countries—a 43% increase in international participation.

Static displays on the tarmac will feature 25 aircraft from leading manufacturers like Airbus ACJ, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier, and Dassault Aviation. Mebaa anticipates numerous deals to be signed during the show, further cementing the UAE’s role as a business aviation leader.

Wealth and Aviation: A Symbiotic Growth

The UAE’s prominence in the business aviation sector mirrors its status as a global magnet for HNWIs. The Emirates welcomed over 6,700 millionaires in 2024, according to Henley & Partners, and billionaire wealth in the country grew by nearly 40% to $138.7 billion. The UAE’s appeal lies in its tax-free environment, high quality of life, and robust financial and legal frameworks.

Dubai’s global standing also continues to rise. It ranked 14th in Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2024 and fifth among the Top 10 Cities for Tourism Performance. With flexible visa policies and growing tourism from Asia-Pacific regions, Dubai remains a pivotal gateway for international business and leisure.

As the UAE’s economy diversifies, the aviation industry exemplifies its dynamic growth trajectory. Business aviation, supported by cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, will remain a cornerstone of the nation’s economic and strategic vision.