The UAE has firmly established itself as a premier aviation hub on the global stage in 2024, thanks to substantial advancements that encompass increased investments in infrastructure, initiatives for clean energy, and expanded seating capacity at major airports.
Commitment to economic growth
The performance of the aviation sector underscores the UAE’s unwavering dedication to nurturing this industry as a vital contributor to the national economy, WAM reported. Through ambitious projects and significant announcements, the nation has demonstrated its forward-thinking vision.
Capacity recovery and growth
UAE carriers have fully regained their capacity, exceeding pre-pandemic levels from 2019 last year, and further boosted their capacity in 2024 to 87.1 million seats—a 10.5 percent increase over 2023 and a 15 percent rise compared to 2019.
Outpacing global averages
According to global aviation data provider OAG, the growth in seat capacity for UAE carriers outpaced the global average growth rate of 2.4 percent when compared to 2019 and 6.4 percent relative to 2023.
Projected passenger traffic
In November, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) projected that passenger traffic at the nation’s airports would approach approximately 150 million by the end of 2024, up from 134 million the previous year.
Daily operations and cargo management
The UAE’s civil aviation network accommodates over 400,000 passengers daily, averaging more than 12 million passengers each month. It also manages over 10,000 tonnes of cargo every day.
Expansion of national carriers
Prominent national carriers, such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia, continued to broaden their global reach. Together, these airlines provided more than 6.39 million seats in December 2024.
Strategic developments in aviation
Moreover, this year featured significant strategic announcements that promoted the aviation sector’s performance. Notably, construction commenced on a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, with a budget of AED128 billion. Upon completion, this terminal will become the world’s largest airport, designed to handle 260 million passengers and equipped with 400 aircraft gates, significantly surpassing the current capacity of Dubai International Airport.
Read more: UAE aviation sector sees 14.7 percent passenger growth in Q1 2024 at 36.5 million
Inauguration of Zayed International Airport
In 2024, the newly named and branded Zayed International Airport, celebrated for its innovative and seamless passenger experience, was officially opened. Abu Dhabi Airports received the esteemed “World’s Leading Airport Operator” award at the 2024 Aviation Achievement Awards.
Recognition for architectural excellence
Zayed International Airport (AUH) was awarded the title of “World’s Most Beautiful Airport” at the prestigious Prix Versailles, recognizing its exceptional architectural design in the Airports category.
Dubai International Airport’s leadership
Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport upheld its status as a global leader in international flight capacity throughout 2024, surpassing Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in combined international and domestic seat capacity rankings in both January and December, according to OAG.
Accolades for Emirates Airlines
Emirates Airlines secured four accolades at the 2024 World Travel Awards for its diverse products and services. It was also honored as the best airline in the world at the Ultras Awards 2024 and received a total of seven commendations at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
Top rankings and awards
Furthermore, Emirates topped the Telegraph’s list of the best global airlines for 2024. Etihad was similarly recognized for excellence, winning awards for the best Economy Class, best in-flight entertainment, and best First Class Lounge.
Commitment to sustainability
The UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability within the aviation sector, with 2024 witnessing various initiatives aimed at driving sustainable practices in the industry. These initiatives include the expanded use of sustainable aviation fuel, sustainability efforts in ground operations at airports by service providers like dnata, and airport-led projects.
Innovations in renewable energy
Dubai Airports announced the launch of the world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation at any airport, generating solar energy to meet 6.5 percent of Dubai International Airport’s energy needs and 20 percent of Al Maktoum International Airport’s requirements.
Modern fleets and environmental impact
The General Civil Aviation Authority also emphasized that the fleets of UAE airlines are among the newest globally, with an average aircraft age of 12–15 years, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.
