Airbus Reaffirms Commitment To Supporting UAE Aviation Growth And Local Manufacturing Initiatives

Gabriel Sémelas, President of Airbus in Africa and the Middle East, highlighted the company's dedication to boosting the UAE's industrial ecosystem. This includes focusing on complex aerostructure production. During the Make it in the Emirates forum, he mentioned Airbus's plans to localise A400M aircraft production in the UAE and enhance related training capabilities.

Sémelas expressed pride in showcasing a significant component of the A350 aircraft, specifically an internal wing part, manufactured locally through Airbus' partnership with Strata. This collaboration began 17 years ago, ensuring every A350 aircraft includes UAE-made components. The relationship between Airbus and the UAE extends beyond manufacturing to commercial aircraft, helicopters, and defence sectors.

Airbus has maintained a presence in the UAE for over four decades. The company is continuously evolving its ties with local stakeholders. Local manufacturing started nearly 17 years ago, and today Airbus is working on new projects like the A400M aircraft with partners such as Strata, EDGE, EPI, and others.

Sémelas noted that approximately 800 Airbus commercial aircraft currently operate within Middle Eastern airspace. Over the next two decades, demand for around 3,700 additional aircraft is expected in this region. Of these, 42 percent will be wide-body models. This underscores Airbus' essential role in meeting future growth needs.

The UAE remains a crucial market for Airbus’ future orders. Agreements with local carriers like Etihad Airways, Emirates Group, and Air Arabia highlight this importance. Sémelas reaffirmed Airbus’ commitment to supporting aviation sector growth by investing in industrial partnerships and localising advanced skills and technologies.

Strengthening UAE's Aerospace Position

Airbus aims to strengthen the UAE’s position as a global aerospace and technology hub through these efforts. By investing in local partnerships and enhancing technological capabilities, Airbus supports both regional growth and its own strategic interests.

The company's participation in the Make it in the Emirates forum was particularly noteworthy as it marked their first involvement. This event provided an opportunity to demonstrate their extensive industrial partnership with the UAE.

With inputs from WAM