Released on Dated : Nov 17, 2025

Khalifa Al Zaffin, CEO of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, confirmed that the total investment in the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, including partner investments, will exceed AED 6 billion by the end of 2027, which will contribute to the continued development of aviation infrastructure in Dubai and consolidate the emirate’s position as a global center for aviation and related services.

Al-Zaffin explained in exclusive statements to Al-Bayan that the completion rate of the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, which extends over a total area of ​​8.5 square kilometers, is expected to exceed 80% by the end of 2027, stressing that the completion rate of the project is progressing at an accelerated pace that supports the future ambitions of the aviation sector in Dubai.

He said that Dubai South “embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, to be a global center for aviation and logistics, through an integrated urban project designed to be a model for the future of smart cities based on the integration of advanced infrastructure and vital growth sectors,” noting that since the establishment of Dubai South, its identity has been based on aviation and logistics, supported by modern residential and commercial projects that provide an integrated environment that supports the system of work, living and prosperity.

Global Center

Khalifa Al Zaffin said that the Dubai Airshow 2025 represents an important strategic platform to enhance Dubai’s position as a global center for aviation and aerospace innovation, noting that the exhibition brings together major international companies specializing in the aviation and space industry, which provides broad opportunities for partnerships, investments and business growth.

He added that the exhibition is not limited to showcasing the latest technologies and developments in the sector, but also constitutes a meeting place for talents, expertise and innovation, and reflects Dubai’s ability to integrate technological development with economic opportunities, which supports the emirate’s direction towards achieving global leadership in the aviation industry and advanced logistics services.

Al Zaffin explained that the scale of investments in Dubai South reflects a balance between government spending on developing strategic infrastructure and private investments in the logistics, aviation, real estate, and e-commerce sectors. He noted that these investments contribute to creating direct jobs concentrated in logistics, e-commerce, civil aviation, and support services, with a clear priority on empowering Emirati talent in specialized roles. This aligns with the objectives of Dubai's Economic Agenda D33 to attract investments, increase productivity, and solidify Dubai's position among the world's leading logistics hubs.

Multiple sectors

Khalifa Al Zaffin, CEO of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, confirmed that the total number of companies operating in “Dubai South” reaches more than 4,200 companies, across multiple sectors, most notably logistics and supply chains, e-commerce, civil aviation, business aviation, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul services, in addition to light and advanced industries.

Al-Zaffin emphasized that “Dubai South” contributes to diversifying the economic base away from oil by enabling high-value sectors such as aviation, logistics, e-commerce, real estate development and support services, noting that this integration attracts foreign direct investment, raises the efficiency of supply, export and re-export chains, and promotes entrepreneurship and small and medium enterprises, in line with national objectives.

Private aviation

Khalifa Al Zaffin said that the continued rise in private aviation traffic reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, to consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading center for investors, businessmen and wealthy people, noting that the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub is committed to providing world-class infrastructure and services that enhance Dubai’s position on the international stage in the aviation sector.

He added that the list of partners from private aviation ground operators includes industry-leading service providers such as Jetex, Falcon Aviation Services, Al Futtaim DC Aviation, Jet Aviation Services and XQJet, where the highest levels of luxury service are combined with the highest standards of safety and technical expertise.

Regarding private aviation, he said that private aviation traffic at Dubai South increased by 15% during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. This reflects the continued growth of the private aviation sector and reinforces Al Maktoum International Airport's position as the leading airport for private aviation in the Middle East region.

Regarding the importance of the Private Aviation Boulevard project, Al Zaffin said: “The significance of the Private Aviation Boulevard lies in its being a qualitative addition to the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South. It responds to the rapid growth in private aviation and attracts international airlines and luxury brands to a business environment directly connected to the private aviation terminal. The boulevard stretches 769 meters and includes 16 buildings with a total development area of ​​204,000 square meters.”

Construction has begun on the “Aviation One” building, which will be a hub for leading aviation and support services companies, with a modern design and practical spaces that reflect the project’s vision, with a phased delivery plan starting in 2026, with subsequent phases to be completed according to a specific timetable.