Aviation generated 18.2% to UAE Economy: IATA

A new study by IATA reveals the aviation sector contributed US$ 92 billion to the UAE’s economy, accounting for 18.2 per cent of GDP, said Willie Walsh, Director-General, IATA.  “The UAE is a hub for global connectivity. And the benefits of its super connector role bring trade, tourism, investment, and jobs to the UAE. The leadership of the UAE has a strategic vision for aviation, supported by smart regulation and investment in world-class infrastructure. Supporting nearly a million jobs and 18.2% of GDP, aviation makes an enormous contribution to the UAE’s prosperity—both culturally and economically. And we can be confident that this contribution will strengthen as the UAE continues to facilitate opportunities for aviation to thrive,” he added. The sector supported 992,000 jobs, including 74,500 directly employed by airlines, 132,300 in other aviation roles, and 297,300 in tourism. The UAE handled 1 million tonnes of air cargo last year.