Emirates Announces $950 Million Investment in State-of-the-Art Engineering Facility at Dubai World Central
Emirates, the world’s leading international airline, unveiled plans today for a groundbreaking $950 million investment in a cutting-edge engineering facility at Dubai World Central (DWC).
This colossal project, spanning over 1 million square meters, is set to become the largest and most advanced engineering complex in commercial aviation, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub.
The new facility, purpose-built to cater to Emirates’ expanding fleet and operational needs up to the 2040s, is poised to be a game-changer in the aviation industry.
It will not only serve as a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center for Emirates’ aircraft but will also function as a center of excellence for commercial aviation engineering services in the Middle East.
Notably, the facility may offer spare capacity to other airline operators, further enhancing Dubai’s aviation infrastructure.
Speaking at the Dubai Airshow, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group, emphasized the strategic significance of this investment.
Sheikh Ahmed said that this significant investment signals our confidence in the future growth of Emirates and the aviation sector.
The new facility will enable Emirates to be entirely self-sufficient, providing operational stability, flexibility, and quality assurance.
The facility is expected to be equipped with a comprehensive range of specialist aircraft engineering services, covering routine checks, bespoke paint jobs, light to heavy maintenance programs, engine repairs and testing, and full cabin interior fit-outs and conversions.
Ali Mubarak Al Soori, Emirates Group Executive Vice President, highlighted the sustainability aspects of the project.
He explained that the new Emirates Engineering complex will incorporate green building materials, solar panels, and recycling systems for oils and wastewater, demonstrating our commitment to environmental responsibility.
Construction on Phase 1 is slated to commence in 2024, with completion expected in 2027. The first phase will deliver eight maintenance hangars, a paint hangar capable of handling Code F aircraft (including the A380), an engine run-up facility, support workshops, storage facilities, and administration offices.
Provisions have been made for Phase 2, allowing for potential doubling of capacity in line with Emirates’ fleet growth.
The project is set to create thousands of skilled technical jobs, further contributing to Dubai’s economic growth. ADP Ingénierie has been appointed as project consultants, ensuring the facility meets the highest industry standards.
Emirates’ existing Engineering Centre at Dubai International (DXB) will continue to support day-to-day operations, with the new complex at DWC initially addressing overflow work and heavy maintenance programs requiring extended aircraft ground time.
This ambitious venture is expected to elevate Dubai’s position in the global aviation landscape while fostering sustainable and innovative practices within the industry.
