The Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) at Dubai South has recorded strong growth in private jet traffic in the first half of 2025, underscoring Dubai’s rising profile as a global centre for business aviation.
According to newly released figures, MBRAH registered 9,753 private jet movements between January and June, representing a 15% increase compared with the same period in 2024. The results strengthen Al Maktoum International Airport’s position as the busiest hub for international business aviation movements in the Middle East.
Strategic role for Dubai
The steady rise in movements highlights Dubai’s role in attracting global investors, entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals, many of whom rely on private aviation for flexibility and connectivity.
H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, said the growth is in line with the emirate’s wider ambitions.
“The consistent rise in business aviation movements reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to establish the emirate as a global hub for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals,” Al Zaffin said.
He added: “At MBRAH, we remain committed to delivering world-class infrastructure and services that strengthen our position as a vital gateway for international business aviation. This momentum also reflects the trust our partners place in Dubai’s vision and its readiness to cater to future demand.”
Growing ecosystem
MBRAH has positioned itself as a free-zone destination offering high-level connectivity for global aerospace players. The hub is home to major private jet companies, maintenance centres, and training campuses, creating an integrated environment for aviation services.
The aerospace hub’s strategic location within Dubai South gives operators direct access to Al Maktoum International Airport’s expanding facilities, with the infrastructure designed to accommodate future demand. The airport’s positioning at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa continues to attract business aviation operators looking for a central base in the region.
Industry observers point out that demand for private aviation in the Middle East has remained resilient, driven by growth in wealth creation, expanding trade ties, and Dubai’s reputation as a safe and business-friendly environment.
Regional leadership
Al Maktoum International Airport has consistently ranked as the leading airport in the Middle East for international business aviation movements. Its ability to provide seamless access to Dubai’s financial and commercial districts, alongside purpose-built infrastructure, has positioned it as a preferred choice for private jet operators.
With a mix of state-of-the-art facilities and supportive regulatory frameworks, MBRAH has played a central role in capturing this market. The continued double-digit growth indicates that demand for private aviation in Dubai is likely to remain strong, even as the global aviation industry faces broader challenges.
The results for the first half of 2025 are expected to further strengthen Dubai’s standing as a global hub not only for commercial aviation but also for high-value private and business aviation sectors.
