The Middle East’s in-service fleet will surge from 1,480 aircraft in 2024 to 3,700 by 2044, driven by rapid population growth, expanding global connectivity and sustained investment in tourism, trade and economic development, according to Airbus’s Global Market Forecast 2025.
Over the same period, Airbus projects demand for 4,080 new passenger aircraft across the region, including 2,380 single-aisle jets and 1,700 widebodies.
Widebody aircraft will account for 42 per cent of total demand — the highest share globally and more than double the world average of 20 per cent.
Airbus forecasts
Airbus said this positions the region as the leading driver of global widebody growth, supported by its strategic geographic role as the world’s air traffic flows shift eastwards.
Passenger traffic in the region is expected to grow at a 4.4 per cent compound annual rate over the next two decades.
At the same time, the Middle East’s population is forecast to rise by 240m, further strengthening aviation demand.
Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in Africa and the Middle East region, said: “The Middle East is transforming global aviation, and the forecast fleet expansion is truly significant, particularly when it comes to widebodies. This region is becoming the long-haul hub now and into the future.
“Airbus is proud to be partnering closely with customers in the region, delivering the most efficient, latest-generation aircraft, end-to-end support, and sustainable solutions.”
Aviation demand
Airbus forecasts that more than 265,000 people will be employed in the regional aviation sector over the next 20 years, including:
- 69,000 new pilots
- Nearly 64,000 new technicians
- 132,000 Cabin Crew
The regional commercial aviation services market is valued at $30bn over the next two decades. Growth will be driven by:
- Aircraft availability and maintenance
- Pilot and technician training
- Flight operations optimisation
- Air traffic management solutions
- Cabin upgrades
- Connectivity and digital services
Airbus said these trends reflect the region’s sustained investment in fleet modernisation and next-generation technologies.
