As the Middle East cements its position as a global aviation hub, GE Aerospace’s regional head reflects on growth drivers, sustainability, and the future of flight innovation
In a region experiencing one of the most dynamic transformations in the aviation sector, GE Aerospace stands at the forefront of innovation, partnership, and progress. Marking its first year as an independent company, GE Aerospace is doubling down on its commitment to the Middle East — a region rapidly evolving into a global aviation powerhouse. In an exclusive conversation with Gulf Business, Aziz Koleilat, President and CEO of METCIS at GE Aerospace, sheds light on what’s fueling the region’s aviation momentum, the challenges ahead, and how the company plans to shape the future of flight across the Gulf and beyond.
A Region in Ascent
“The Middle East’s aviation story is one of incredible transformation,” Koleilat reflects. Once a stopover between East and West, the region has become a destination in its own right — home to award-winning carriers, vast airports, and aggressive fleet expansions. With a long-term average annual growth rate of 6.8% — consistently outpacing global trends — the trajectory appears both remarkable and sustainable.
From the rise of budget airlines to substantial aircraft orders and increasing travel demand, the regional fleet is expected to grow by 5.1% annually from 2025 to 2035, especially driven by narrow-body aircraft. However, Koleilat notes, “Long-term success hinges on embracing efficient practices and fostering innovation.”
Diverse National Strategies, Shared Ambitions
Three Gulf nations — Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE — are each defining unique paths toward aviation leadership.
In Qatar, the rise of Qatar Airways has transformed Doha into a critical global aviation node. Koleilat highlights the carrier’s rapid ascent, with its available seat kilometres ranking it the 6th largest airline in the world by 2024. A recent GE Aerospace agreement with Qatar Airways marked the company’s largest ever.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, is reshaping its aviation landscape through Vision 2030, with tourism and infrastructure investments as pillars. Massive developments such as new airports and a national airline underscore its intention to become a major global gateway.
The UAE, anchored by Emirates and Etihad, continues its aviation-driven growth strategy. The sector now contributes a staggering $92 billion — or 18.2% — to national GDP, according to IATA. Nearly a million jobs are supported directly and indirectly by aviation, through supply chains and tourism.
Rising MRO Opportunities
The region’s substantial aircraft backlog — with 795 new planes on order across the 10 largest Middle Eastern airlines — is also setting the stage for the Middle East to emerge as a global MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) hub.
This growth offers tremendous opportunity, but also presents operational and talent challenges. “Skilled talent, advanced technologies, and efficient processes are key to meeting this MRO demand,” Koleilat emphasizes.
Sustainability and Talent: The Future’s Flight Plan
Digital innovation and a future-ready workforce are vital to the region’s long-term aviation sustainability. “Data analytics can optimise flight operations, improve maintenance schedules, and elevate passenger experiences,” he notes. Just as critical is a pipeline of skilled professionals — which will depend on robust STEM education and partnerships between industry and academia.
A New Chapter for GE Aerospace
As GE Aerospace celebrates its first anniversary as an independent entity, its focus remains clear: “Our commitment to the Middle East is unwavering,” says Koleilat. The company aims to be a technology and innovation partner to governments, airlines, and infrastructure developers. “We understand the region’s unique needs and ambitions — and we’re here to help realise them.”
In a sky full of possibility, the Middle East’s aviation boom shows no signs of slowing. And as Koleilat makes clear, GE Aerospace intends to power that journey every step of the way.
