International airline Emirates has revealed its plans to construct a new engineering facility at Dubai World Central in the United Arab Emirates.
The company will make an investment of approximately $950m for this project.
The engineering complex is set to cover more than one million square metres and is said to be the largest and most advanced facility to be operated by any airline, thereby contributing significantly to Dubai’s aviation infrastructure market.
The facility will be a centre for commercial aviation engineering services in the Middle East, potentially providing any spare capacity to other airline operators. It is primarily designed to serve Emirates’ aircraft fleet and operational requirements into 2040.
Emirates Group chair and CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “The new facility will enable Emirates to be entirely self-sufficient when it comes to maintenance, repairs, overhaul (MRO) and all engineering requirements for our aircraft fleet.
“It gives us operational stability and flexibility, and quality assurance. With the projected growth of the region’s aviation sector, Emirates’ new engineering facility will also play a key role as a centre of excellence, attracting the involvement of global players across the aviation supply chain.
“It’ll create thousands of skilled technical jobs and add value to Dubai’s economy.”
The site will be capable of handling a wide range of professional aircraft engineering services, including routine aircraft checks, bespoke paint jobs, light to heavy maintenance programmes, engine repair and testing, complete cabin interior fit outs, and aircraft conversions.
Phase 1 works are anticipated to start in 2024, with completion set for 2027.
Phase 1 of the project will encompass eight maintenance hangars and one paint hangar capable of handling any size commercial aircraft up to Code F (A380), as well as an engine run-up facility, 20 support workshops, storage facilities, and administrative offices.
ADP Ingénierie has been hired as the project's consultant.
