Dubai Gears Up To Host World’s Largest Airport Industry Show In May 2024

The civil aviation sector is poised for a significant resurgence, with airports globally preparing for a surge in air travel projected to last until 2030. This comes after the industry's recovery from the unprecedented decline in passenger numbers caused by the second pandemic of the 21st century. The Middle East Aviation Market, currently valued at US$60 billion in 2023, is expected to experience a substantial increase by 2030. This growth is underscored by a remarkable 26 percent increase in air connectivity in the region in 2022 compared to 2019 figures.

Forecasts suggest that Middle Eastern airports will accommodate 1.1 billion passengers by 2040, more than doubling the passenger volume of 405 million recorded in 2019. To manage this influx, an estimated investment of $151 billion will be necessary for capacity expansion. The region, home to over 110 airports, stands as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally.

In May 2024, Dubai will host the world's largest annual airport industry event, marking the 23rd edition of the three-day B2B Airport Show at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The event is set to attract more than 150 exhibitors from over 20 countries and 7,500 visitors from more than 30 countries. Co-located events include the ATC Forum, Airport Security Middle East, and the 11th edition of the Global Airport Leaders Forum (GALF).

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum highlighted the significance of the Airport Show, emphasizing its role in showcasing innovations in airport sustainability, digitalisation, and urban air mobility to industry professionals from the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa.

The event is organized by RX, part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools. It enjoys support from key aviation industry players such as the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Dubai Airports, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), and dnata. Event Manager at RX, May Ismail, commented on the renewed momentum in airport industry growth and expansion post-pandemic.

A CAPA report revealed that there are currently 425 major construction projects underway at existing airports worldwide, with investments totaling $450 billion. Additionally, there are 225 new airport projects with over 70 percent of investment concentrated in the Asia Pacific region.

The global airport construction market has grown to $1.14 trillion in 2023 and is expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2030. Dubai International Airport (DXB), renowned as the world’s busiest airport for international travelers for nine consecutive years, has embarked on expansion plans involving investments up to $2.7 billion to enhance capacity and facilities over the next decade.

Sharjah has initiated an AED1.2 billion ($327 million) terminal expansion project at its airport to increase passenger capacity to 20 million annually by separating arrivals from departures areas and upgrading systems and amenities. This expansion is part of a larger AED2.4 billion project slated for completion in 2027. Sharjah Airport also introduced six new passenger destinations and three air cargo routes in 2023.

With inputs from WAM