The Dubai Airport Show 2025 kicked off this week and is shaping up to be a major event in aviation, with projections suggesting a $1 trillion boost in the industry’s future. Held at Dubai’s World Trade Centre, this is the 24th edition of the show, and it brought together thousands of leaders from around the globe. Over 6,000 people—from government officials and airport operators to tech innovators—from more than 30 countries gathered to discuss the future of air travel. The focus was on creating smarter airports, accepting sustainability, and using artificial intelligence to improve infrastructure across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, known as the MEASA region.
Dubai’s role in the huge airport development market was a major emphasis, especially as passenger numbers in the region are expected to reach around 1.1 billion by 2040. Big projects like the $35 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, which aims to serve 260 million flyers, and Saudi Arabia’s $50 billion Riyadh mega-hub, show how the Gulf countries are aiming to lead global aviation growth. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum emphasised that “Dubai’s airports are gateways to economic progress,” emphasising their importance in connecting the UAE to the world. Innovation and sustainability took centre stage this year.
Schneider Electric introduced energy-efficient systems designed to lower airports’ carbon emissions, while WAISL displayed AI-powered tools like AEROWISE that help manage airport operations in real-time. Amel Chadli from Schneider Electric pointed out that “The future of aviation lies in balancing growth with environmental responsibility,” reflecting how the industry is shifting toward greener solutions. The event also put a spotlight on Africa’s growing aviation scene, with investments of around $2.3 billion going into upgrades such as Rwanda’s $650 million Kigali Airport and a new $60 million hub in Ethiopia.
Meanwhile, India plans to build more than 220 new airports by 2035, with over $12 billion in investments, displaying the region’s fast development. Looking ahead, innovations like urban air mobility (UAM) and using AI in airport operations are expected to become more common. Experts predict that by 2040, the MEASA region could account for about 58% of new global air passengers. As the show previewed its 25th anniversary in 2026, forecasts indicate that the region will need around $151 billion in airport investments to keep up with growing travel demands.
May Ismail from RX Middle East noted that “This is where innovation meets execution,” emphasising how the show connects stakeholders with exciting investment opportunities in Middle Eastern airports. Supported by major players like Emirates, dnata, and global tech firms such as Amadeus, the Dubai Airport Show 2025 is cementing its reputation as a leader in shaping the future of aviation, combining sustainability, technology, and incredible growth.
(Source: Zawya)
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