The United Arab Emirates has ranked first regionally and ninth globally among the world's largest aviation markets, with the aviation sector's contribution to the country's gross domestic product reaching approximately $92 billion, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual Report 2026.
The achievement reflects the advanced standing the UAE has attained as a global aviation and logistics hub, supported by sophisticated infrastructure, world-class airports, and leading airlines, making it a key link between East and West and an important driver of economic and tourism growth.
At the global level, the United States led with a contribution of $1.37 trillion, followed by China at $253.6 billion and Spain at $172.9 billion.
The United Kingdom came in at $160.7 billion, Germany at $144.7 billion, Japan at $116.4 billion, Italy in eighth place at $103.6 billion, then the UAE at $92 billion, followed by Saudi Arabia at $90.6 billion.
The aviation sector in the UAE is experiencing sustained growth driven by continued investments in airport expansion and fleet development, alongside the adoption of the latest technologies in operations and services. This reflects the country's commitment to enhancing its global competitiveness in the aviation sector and increasing its capacity to attract greater volumes of passenger travel and air cargo, supporting its long-term economic objectives and reinforcing its standing as a major global aviation hub.