August 2021

News, Reviews and Analysis.

August Issue 2021

MEBAA CELEBRATES ITS

15TH ANNIVERSARY A word from the Founding & Executive Chairman, Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi regarding the 15th Anniversary of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA)

Scan to view AR Front Cover

Introduction

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he editorial staff of MEA Business are committed to reporting the positive business developments in the Middle East and Africa, as well as highlighting the business opportunities that already exist in the two regions. We also want to provide a platform for business leaders to share ideas, engage in constructive debates and form strategic partnerships. Our ultimate aim is to equip business leaders and professionals with the practical and tactical skills to thrive in the Middle East and Africa. With an emphasis on positive news stories, case studies and inspirational interviews, MEA business will inspire readers towards personal development and overall business success.

The magazine is arranged to provide clear and concise informative sections including news sections on the Middle East and Africa, CEO interviews and market updates. The magazine and news service we offer are available on a variety of platforms, these include our printed magazine, e-magazine, website, and social media. Furthermore, we include augmented reality elements in some of our features to provide our readers with unparalleled coverage on the latest developments.

Kenneth Mitchen

Publisher, MEA Business

Interactive Cover

CONTENTS

NEWS MIDDLE EAST 6 Emirates re-opens dedicated First Class Lounge at DXB to serve increased premium demand 7 D r Mark J. Pierotti’s new book entitled Aviation Leadership; The Accountable Manager is now available 7 Air Arabia Abu Dhabi expands its route network with a new service to Baku 8 Aviation industry leaders sign agreements at MRO Middle East and highlight increased innovation and opportunities for growth NEWS AFRICA 9 National Aviation Services (NAS) and Colossal Africa close on acquisition of BidAir Services WOMEN IN AVIATION 10 W omen in Aviation (WIA) in Dubai awards scholarships to rising stars

20 MEA Business WEB: www.mea-biz.com EMAIL: info@cme-media.com PUBLISHED BY: Creative Middle East Media FZ LLE, 19th Floor, Creative Tower, Fujairah Creative City, PO Box 4422, Fujairah, UAE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND PUBLISHER : Kenneth Mitchen Email: ken.mitchen@mea-finance.com

VIP LOUNGE 12 Royal Jet enters a new era OPINION 14 Call me old fashioned but….

INTERVIEW 16 Inmarsat: The future of aircraft connectivity COVER STORY 20 MEBAA celebrates its 15th Anniversary DAFZA 25TH ANNIVERSARY 27 DAFZA celebrates its Silver Jubilee Year and announces positive results in 2020 30 Aviation and Logistics companies based at DAFZ send messages of congratulations 30 Air France KLM congratulates the DAFZA on their 25th Anniversary 32 Empire Aviation congratulates DAFZA on its 25th Anniversary 33 UAS International Trip Support congratulates DAFZA on 25 years of success 33 DANZAS congratulates DAFZA on its 25th Anniversary

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EDITORIAL PROFILE 34 Global private jet sales firm Stanton & Partners Aviation launches international headquarters in DIFC AIR CARGO 36 Etihad Cargo and EFL Global successfully deliver vital antiretroviral drugs to Brazil 37 Emirates transports 100 tonnes of COVID-19 relief cargo free of charge to India in May 2021

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ENGINE 38 GE Aviation and Safran launch new aircraft engine sustainability initiative DUBAI AIRSHOW 40 Business Aviation at Dubai Airshow 2021: a thriving industry despite the challenges AVIATION ANNUAL GALA EVENING 2021 42 The Aviation Annual Gala Evening is Back TRAVEL AND TOURISM 44 Dubai Tourism welcomes support of stakeholders to accelerate momentum in year of EXPO and UAE Golden Jubilee

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Middle East News

Emirates re-opens dedicated First Class Lounge at DXB to serve increased premium demand The re-opened Emirates First Class Lounge also features refreshed and spacious seating in the dining, rest, and social areas

nologies and services that optimise passenger processing to minimise queues, for a fast-tracked experience that prioritises safety and efficiency.

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mirates has re-opened its dedicated First Class Lounge at Dubai International (DXB’s) Concourse B to serve the growing volume of premium customers travelling from and through Emirates’ hub, as more markets around the world ease restrictions and put in place protocols that enable international travel.

Emirates will also continue to operate its Business Class Lounge in Concourse B which has been opened since July 2020 for First and Business Class travellers as well as eligible Skywards members.

With comprehensive bio-safety protocols in place, customers can enjoy a full complement of trademark services located within the Emirates First Class Lounge.

These include complimentary facial treatments at the Timeless Spa, complimentary premium beverages, and limited-edition tea blends with Dilmah Tea. The re-opened Emirates First Class

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Lounge also features refreshed and spacious seating in the dining, rest, and social areas. Catering to customers flying in from different time zones, the Lounge offers all-day breakfast and lunch options, round the clock. The re-opening of Emirates’ First Class Lounge in Concourse B is the latest in a phased programme where the airline has steadily and safely restarted its exclusive ground services for premium customers over the past year. This includes complimentary Chauffeur Drive in 70 cities, and Emirates Lounge operations in Dubai, Cairo, New York JFK, Manchester, Boston, Milan, and Los Angeles.

A touchless, paperless experience for smoother journeys Emirates customers can look forward to an easier and hassle-free airport experience with contactless check-in, its biometric path and enhanced digital verification of Covid-19 medical information. The airline has sharpened its focus on tech-

Business News for the MEA region

Significantly reducing wait times, Emirates’ contactless kiosks are completely controlled by personal mobile devices without the need to touch the screens; providing another way passengers can enjoy a safe and efficient pre-boarding experience.

Customers can also utilise Emirates’ biometric path for a contactless journey via 18 check-in desks and 7 biometric boarding gates, with virtually no document checks and less queuing.

Emirates is also leading the way in providing more ways for its customers to fulfil their pre-departure health requirements through digital verification.

Customers flying between Dubai and London, Barcelona, Madrid, Istanbul, New York JFK, Moscow, Frankfurt, Charles De Gaulle, and Amsterdam can also now use the IATA Travel Pass to manage their COVID-19 travel documentation, including vaccination and latest PCR test results.

The airline is progressing on plans to rollout the IATA Travel Pass solution across its global network this summer.

Middle East News

Dr Mark J. Pierotti’s new book entitled Aviation Leadership; The Accountable Manager is now available

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r Mark J. Pierotti’s new book addresses the leadership challenges of top aviation executives in the regulatory territories of the FAA (USA), the EASA (EU) and the GCAA (UAE). It identifies the daily challenges of leadership in relation to regulatory obligations, compliance, safety, and security.

He breaks down each responsibility needed to obtain success into understandable and achievable elements. This includes methods, systems and techniques that can be applied to ensure the role holder is knowledgeable, accountable, and compliant with the civil

Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. He also holds an Aircraft Maintenance License & a Private Sports Pilot’s License. He has held senior executive positions in airlines & aviation companies having been both a Post Holder & an Accountable Manager.

Dr Pierotti is also an adjunct Professor at USW, UWS & ADU lecturing in aviation & leadership subjects. He is currently the MD of ADA Millennium

aviation regulations. The book aims to help the role holder achieve sustainable profitability, compliance with civil aviation regulations and operational safety and efficiency.

This book will be of interest to leaders who hold senior posts in regulated aviation organizations, such as airlines, charter operators, MRO providers, flying schools, aircraft manufacturers, engine manufacturers, leasing companies, etc.

Dr. Mark J. Pierotti has a PhD in Aircraft Engineering from ADD City University, an MBA from Edinburgh Business School. He is a

D r Mark J. Pierotti

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi expands its route network with a new service to Baku Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will fly twice a week to Azerbaijan’s capital an emerging hub for leisure tourism and global sporting events

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ir Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital’s first low-cost carrier, has expanded its international route network with a new service to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan with flights starting July 15th, 2021.

Sitting on the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan’s largest city also serves as the country’s financial business centre.

Baku provides business and leisure travelers with an urban setting where ancient stone mansions co-exist with newly developed skyscrapers and mosques that stand as architectural marvels.

Customers can now book their direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Baku by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call centre or through travel agencies.

Since COVID-19 outbreak, Air Arabia’s customer journey has been upgraded to include all safety measures that are in line with the highest international measures.

Air Arabia’s entire fleet is fitted with HEPA cabin air filters, which help to provide a safer and healthier environment for passengers.

Customers are always requested to comply with the conditions and requirements of the

countries of departure and destination.

Air Arabia has also added to the convenience and confidence of passengers by introducing free COVID-19 insurance coverage. The insurance is automatically included as part of the booking and no additional documents are required from passengers. mea-biz.com

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Middle East News

Aviation industry leaders sign agreements at MRO Middle East and highlight increased innovation and opportunities for growth Among the agreements made at the show were Joramco and VD Gulf (UAE), signing a framework agreement on MRO cooperation

the pandemic, particularly for planning and development of solutions for MRO. The period gave us the time to install cargo configuration on our aircraft at Royal Jet for example, something we had not done before. We had the support of civil aviation and original equipment manufacturers to fast track the operations and achieve new results in record time. With the gradual opening up of the industry that we have witnessed recently, much of the planned maintenance will now be implemented.

Many operators have deferred engine maintenance to 2022. There will be full facilities available in the next year or two.”

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RO Middle East, which took place mid-June 2021 highlighted positive sentiment as the aviation industry continues to recover and plan for growth with a number of agreements being signed during the event.

The industry leading event returned to an in person live format, one of the first of its kind for the aviation community in the region. The premier gathering included leaders, buyers and specialists from across the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) industry.

Among the agreements made at the show were Joramco and VD Gulf (UAE), signing a framework agreement on MRO cooperation. Both independent MROs

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aim to expand their existing capabilities and capacity and optimize their synergies for a one-stop-shop upscaled customer experience. Boeing and Turkish Technic also announced a renewed tailored parts package agreement, extending the MRO provider’s current contract by three years.

The contract will enable Turkish Technic to reinforce its efficiency, reliability and access to a global network of parts and component services.

The signings highlight the upward swing in the industry as organizations look to collaborate and use innovative methods to drive positive results.

Husham Osman, Technical Director at Royal Jet commented: “Many companies have enhanced their innovation during

Business News for the MEA region

Damon Seksaoui, General Manager at Liebherr Middle East added: “There has been an outstanding attendance at this year’s MRO Middle East and it is great to see so many customers and businesses here, some of whom have travelled all the way from the U.S. We hope this is the start of many events of this type for the industry as we return to normality. Dubai has provided an excellent infrastructure for testing, clear travel rules and procedures and the UAE government deserves to be praised for enabling business and safe travel.”

MRO Middle East will next take place on 22-23 February at the Dubai World Trade Center, once again co-located with Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME).

The 2022 event will look to build on the success of this year’s show, developing on the relationships made between buyers and suppliers from around the world.

News Africa

National Aviation Services (NAS) and Colossal Africa close on acquisition of BidAir Services

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The acquisition of BidAir Services, South Africa’s largest ground handling company from the BidVest Group was announced recently. National Aviation Services (NAS), Colossal Africa and a consortium of current executive management from BidAir Services announced the closing after the fulfillment of all final requirements from the Airports Company of South Africa and other regulatory approvals.

Following the acquisition, BidAir Services becomes NAS Colossal Aviation Services and is part of NAS, the largest airport services network in Africa. The company will continue to provide ground handling services to nine South African airports and serve 28 airline customers in the country.

This includes the three main international airports; O.R. Tambo International in Johannesburg, Cape Town International and King Shaka International in Durban as well as international carriers including Emirates, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and RwandAir. NAS and Colossal are committed to the overall development of NAS Colossal Aviation Services while reinforcing its capabilities and service to customers.

Training, technology and sustainability initiatives also feature prominently on the priority list for further investments.

All the partners are currently driving efforts to ensure a smooth transition without any disruption of customer operations, services or employees.

Damon Seksaoui, General Manager at Liebherr Middle East added: “There has been an outstanding attendance at this year’s MRO Middle East and it is great to see so many customers and businesses here, some of whom have travelled all the way from the U.S. We hope this is the start of many events of this type for the industry as we return to normality. Dubai has provided an excellent infrastructure for testing, clear travel rules and procedures and the UAE government deserves to be praised for enabling business and safe travel.”

MRO Middle East will next take place on 22-23 February at the Dubai World Trade Center, once again co-located with Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME). The 2022 event

will look to build on the success of this year’s show, developing on the relationships made between buyers and suppliers from around the world.

Air Botswana’s Peter Kgomotso appointed to The IATA Industry Financial Advisory Council

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ir Botswana recently announced the appointment of Mr. Peter H. Kgomotso to the IATA Industry Financial Advisory Council (IFAC), until 2022. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), is the trade association for the world’s airlines representing at least 290 airlines, including Air Botswana.

Mr. Kgomotso who is currently employed

by Air Botswana as the Finance Director, will form part of the IFAC team that plays an advisory role to the Board of Governors and the IATA Director General, on matters concerning industry financial services, standards and policy aspects related to international air transport.

Peter Kgomotso is a Finance executive and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), with over 20 years of experience gained in the banking, FMCG, Service, Consulting and now Airline industry.

Outside Botswana, he has worked in Nairobi-Kenya and Johannesburg-South

M r. Peter H. Kgomotso, Air Botswana as the Finance Director Africa. Over the years, he has been building, leading and advising corporates through various trading markets in Africa.

Kgomotso has further led international expansion and reconciled capital supply with demand plans for various organisation.

mea-biz.com

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Women in Aviation

Women in Aviation (WIA) in Dubai awards scholarships to rising stars The Awards are the first of their kind in the MENA region

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he fifth edition of the Women in Aviation (WIA) Middle East Chapter’s General Assembly, held as a co-located event of the 20th edition of the Airport Show at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), has awarded scholarships worth over US$50,000 and honoured women who are helping the aviation industry gain gender diversity.

For the first time, an exclusive awards programme had been conducted to honour the rising stars in aviation. The WIA General Assembly featured the first of its kind awards in the MENA region designed to recognize the achievements of organizations and individuals working in the aviation and aerospace domains in more than 19 countries. The recognition includes honouring key women who have been helping gender diversity in the aviation industry.

This year’s winner is Lilit Tshughuryan who established and runs Akademikka Training Institute in Dubai. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)approved institute offers professional development courses in aviation and other domains. The award in the Educational Institution category for attracting the maximum number of students went to Alpha Aviation Academy which is managed

by Air Arabia and has state-of-the-art facilities for the pilots training. It is the Middle East’s leading pilot training provider and one of the largest providers of the Multi-Crew Pilot License in the world. It has trained over 650 students with more than 400 graduates who went on to fly with MENA’s first LCC based out of Sharjah.

women in aviation in the Middle East region remains a continuous endeavour and this year’s event has been a big hit.

Sultan, an executive at RamJet Aviation, an aviation support company, said this year WIA Middle East Chapter provided scholarships worth over US$50,000.

Nasima Harraq, Michelle Troccoli and Chelsea R. Montgomery received Crew Resource Management training course from Wolston Sky founded in Ras Al Khaimah to empower and educated aviation professionals by Captain Christina Tervo. Zineb Mohamed Sharif received two-year-duration full scholarship for the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering from Vision Concept Aviation Training Institute, a leading aviation learning hub founded in 2013 by Captain Mohammed Al Suwaidi, a former Flight Operation Inspector at UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Captain Mohamed Al Suwaidi, CEO of VCATI, said: “Our institute is open to

Mervat Sultan, Co-founder and President of WIA Middle East Chapter and one of the first women in the Arab world to obtain an FAA-GCAA flight dispatch license, says the movement towards enlisting more

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Business News for the MEA region

students from all nationalities. In line with our policy to support the local community, we will start from the beginning of the next academic year giving a free scholarship annually to one of the deserving students to enrich new competencies in the aviation engineering sector that has huge potential.”

The Middle East will have demand for 2945 new commercial aircraft over the next two decades, according to the Boeing. The American company’s Pilot and Technician Outlook 2020-2039 says the Middle East region will require 63,000 pilots, 63,000 technicians and 108,000 Cabin Crew members during this period. A report by Oliver Wyman says the Middle East airlines fleet size is projected to grow 2.1 per cent over the coming five years. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are the two key aviation markets in the region, together constituting approximately 73 per cent of the total fleet size in the AGCC aviation sector.

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VIP Lounge

Royal Jet enters a new era RoyalJet launches its new brand and customer experience transformation

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oyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-owned and operated, award-winning premium private aviation company recently launched its new brand and its customer experience transformation project by revealing its entirely redesigned VIP lounge and its newly refurbished and upgraded BBJ aircraft.

“Since prior to this global pandemic we have been undergoing a deep internal transformation in order to even more consistently deliver exceptional

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experiences to our guests every time they fly,” said Rob DiCastri, CEO, RoyalJet. “Our vision is to be the global reference at the top end of the private aviation industry, particularly via our exceptional Boeing Business Jet fleet, by delivering personalized delight to the leaders who fly with us. As an Abu Dhabi company we also strive to project the values and identity of Abu Dhabi and the UAE across the globe by ensuring our product and the experience is consistent with the new vision of our emirate and our country” he

Business News for the MEA region

further added.

To accomplish this, every little detail has been designed and created with the objective to reflect the rich heritage of the emirate, including featuring various pieces from local artists in the VIP lounge, utilizing locally made products throughout the experience, and serving meals on the ground and on board which are made from locally sourced ingredients.

The new VIP lounge provides an

immersive experience within a restful and refined environment. The colours, the sounds and even the scents have been carefully chosen in order to provide a clean and calm environment for passengers from the moment they set foot in the lounge to when they board the aircraft.

Furthermore, in line with the company’s commitment to deliver personalised delight to its guests, passengers will soon be able to configure their entire journey; starting from the moment they decide to travel, through their experiences in the lounge and on board the aircraft and even at their destination. They will be able to choose the perfect aircraft from the diverse and growing RoyalJet fleet, define well ahead of time their meal, entertainment and service preferences in the lounge and on board and ensure that the journey is tailored to each of their family members or colleagues who are travelling with them.

In addition, the lighting, cabin control systems and inflight entertainment on this aircraft have been fully modernized and it has also been outfitted with Ka band high-speed internet connectivity.

This is now the sixth aircraft in the RoyalJet fleet to be equipped with the highest internet speed available on the market, which allows customers to stream their favorite programs straight from the internet either on their own devices or over the cabin WIFI system.

THE NEW VIP LOUNGE PROVIDES AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE WITHIN A RESTFUL AND REFINED ENVIRONMENT.

The newly refurbished and upgraded BBJ on display today boasts a modern and refined interior design which is purposefully consistent with the look and feel of the lounge. The environment is again intended to be calm, with clean lines and a streamlined set up in keeping with the company’s new set of guiding principles.

mea-biz.com

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Opinion Opinion

Call me old fashioned but….

Nick Maynard, founder of Leading Edge Aviation Marketing, shares his opinion on the fundamentals of marketing.

I

remember a time when holding open a door for a woman was an act of courtesy – not a form of sexism, when history was something to learn from, not cancel, when politicians served people – not themselves (ha - who am I kidding) and England never ever made it to the final of a major football tournament!

I also remember a time when the role of marketing was primarily to inform, educate and sell – but also importantly to entertain. I know the world has changed, but seriously when did it all go mad!

The fundamentals of marketing haven’t changed. The 4Ps (Price, Product, Promotion and Placement) are as relevant today as ever, as is the Pareto 80/20 principle. Some argue that while the 4Ps are still important they’re no longer enough. And on this point, I do agree. I would add two additional Ps – Pain and People. As marketers we need to be addressing our consumers Pain Points – and we need to put the customer (i.e. People) at the centre of everything we do.

What has changed however is the technology behind marketing – and I believe this has made us lazy.

When I first embarked on my marketing career, direct mail was the go-to form of communication and distribution of our marketing messages. Antiquated as this might now seem, the channel did at least require the marketer to demonstrate judgement. The simple cost involved in printing, fulfilling and posting direct mail packs meant that campaign owners (and agencies) needed to give serious consideration not only to which messages

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were distributed, but more importantly who was going to receive them.

Many of the technologies available to marketers today such as email, web-based content and social media are in essence free. As a result, there is little need for debate or restraint in determining what messages are being communicated and to who. We used to talk about cutting through the clutter, now we seem to be creating the clutter. In a previous role, my team and I were each tasked, in our annual goals, to create 96 pieces of content! Allowing for holidays and such - that’s about 2 pieces of content a week each. With the best will in the world and the most creative of minds – that’s a lot of clutter.

let’s all make a post-pandemic promise, a mid-year resolution to try and be better marketers. Let’s not just bombard our audiences with bland messages simply because we can. Let’s use our judgement and ask ourselves whether the message is relevant, timely and targeted – and let’s try and entertain our audiences. Call me old fashioned, but that’s our job – isn’t it?

I’m not advocating a return to ‘snail mail’, though I believe it does still have a role to play, and I am certainly not a luddite and anti-new technology. What I am suggesting is that as marketers we take responsibility and adopt some of the good practices that direct mail campaigns required us to follow – messaging relevance, accurate targeting.

In our attempts to push out ever more content, we also seem to be forgetting our marketing campaigns should also engage with our audience – and ideally entertain them. Some experts estimate that the average person is exposed to over 5,000 marketing messages and advertisements every day! When was the last time you saw a TV commercial, heard a radio ad, or received an email that really inspired you, made you smile, or made you think?

As we thankfully emerge from the pandemic and look forward with renewed optimism,

Business News for the MEA region

Nick Maynard, is the founder of Leading Edge Aviation Marketing, an independent marketing consultancy focused on helping aviation companies, operators, MRO facilities and other aviation-related businesses to communicate effectively with customers to build awareness, improve loyalty and drive growth.

For more information visit https://www.leadingedgeaero. co.uk/ or email Nick directly at nick@leadingedgeaero.co.uk

THE

FUTURE OF THE

AEROSPACE INDUSTRY

14-18 November 2021

Join us as we launch a range of new features including new content streams, emerging technologies showcase, intelligent matchmaking platform, enhanced networking and much more in a live format.

DWC, Dubai Airshow Site

www.dubaiairshow.aero Book your space today: sales@dubai.aero

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Interview

Inmarsat: The future of aircraft connectivity Interview with Neale Faulkner, Inmarsat Aviation Regional Vice President Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA)

Tell us about your organization, in particular the services you provide to the Aviation Sector?

Inmarsat Aviation is the leading provider of global satellite communications to airline and business aviation markets across the world. With 30 years’ of specialist aviation experience, we offer a range of powerful connectivity solutions, from vital operations and safety communications for pilots and crew, through to reliable, high-speed inflight broadband for passengers.

Our solutions are renowned for their innovation and performance. The awardwinning GX Aviation, for example, has set the industry benchmark for passenger inflight broadband, allowing users to stream, browse, game, shop and more, using their own personal devices whilst travelling on a flight.

passenger experience. Today, we provide inflight connectivity services to many of the world’s leading airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Kuwait Airways, AirAsia, Air New Zealand and Lufthansa, in addition to thousands of business jets throughout the world.

Our aircraft safety and operations services are also trusted by over 200 airlines and are used onboard more than 13,000 aircraft around the world.

ho are your target customers in the W Aviation Sector?

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here is your biggest opportunity for W growth in the Aviation Sector?

In terms of regions, the Middle East is a major area of growth. The Middle East is not exactly a new adopter of inflight connectivity, in fact, the region has acted as a trend setter for the inflight connectivity during its infancy some ten years ago. But with the next generation of satellites and related technology, airlines in the region are ready to “upgrade” the experience for their passengers.

We’ve been named the ‘World’s Leading Inflight Internet Service Provider’ for four consecutive years at the World Travel Awards and for specifically to the Middle East, we were also named ‘Satellite Network Provider of the Year’ at the Aviation Achievement Awards 2021 in Dubai.

Over the past decade, airlines and business jet operators have recognised how fundamental high-speed and reliable connectivity is to enhance their

This means that we process tens of thousands of aircraft position reports in a single day and over 50 million position reports annually. These services also maximise operational efficiencies in a number of different ways, from optimising flight planning and reducing fuel burn to minimising risk and avoiding unscheduled maintenance, making aviation safer, more efficient and less expensive.

N eale Faulkner, Inmarsat Aviation Regional Vice Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) President

Business News for the MEA region

Our Passenger Confidence Tracker - which is the largest global survey of airline passengers since the pandemic began - found the COVID-19 crisis has accelerated digital appetite in the region more so than elsewhere in the world. Half (50%) of UAE passengers agreed that onboard Wi-Fi matters more today than ever before, compared with 39% globally.

This shift in passenger behaviour will undoubtedly have a knock-on effect on carriers in the region.

THE DEPLOYMENT OF WI-FI

BY LOW-COST CARRIERS (LCCS) IS A HUGE GROWTH OPPORTUNITY.

Airlines are finding increasingly clever ways to not only recoup the initial cost of the investment, but also to turn it into a revenue stream. Some are earning ancillary revenues by sharing passenger usage data with third-party advertisers, which allows for tailored and targeted inflight offers. Others are working with sponsors to offset access costs and allow passengers to access Wi-Fi free of charge, driving uptake rates and passenger satisfaction.

Qatar Airways, for example, has enjoyed the benefits of offering free-of-charge Wi-Fi, and the positive impact it can have on take up rate of the service. There is a lot that LCCs can learn from this to turn Wi-Fi into both a revenue generator and a point of difference from their competitors.

The deployment of Wi-Fi by lowcost carriers (LCCs) is a huge growth opportunity. Traditionally it has been challenging for connectivity providers to demonstrate the value of onboard Wi-Fi to LCCs, which must work within tight margins to keep customer costs low.

However, this is now starting to shift as airlines and connectivity providers, like us, continue to find new and effective ways to monetise the service without passing on access costs to passengers.

What will be the post-COVID-19 impact on your company and industry?

Encouragingly, we’ve not noticed a downturn in the appetite for inflight connectivity over the last 18 months from our customers. Many leading airlines are continuing with their inflight connectivity plans - such as Qatar Airways, which marked the rollout of its 100th aircraft with our GX Aviation inflight broadband

last year.

We believe connectivity is an essential tool for airlines looking to rebuild passenger confidence. Health and safety will continue to remain at the foremost in passengers’ minds, even as we look beyond the pandemic. Offering digital services, underpinned by connectivity, is a great way of reassuring passengers that their safety is paramount.

Our Passenger Confidence Tracker revealed that destination status alerts, real time luggage tracking and preclearing immigration on the plane are amongst the most cited passenger demands of the post-COVID onboard experience. These are all enabled by cabin Wi-Fi. Airlines can therefore demonstrate their appreciation of a ‘new normal’ by bolstering digitisation in these areas as they look to rebuild loyalty and trust.

What are the key projects you are working on this quarter?

We are working on a major new project that will allow passengers to explore a range of digital services, including dutyfree shopping, secure online payments, and content streaming – from the comfort of their own device. As well as bolstering the passenger experience, the project will critically help airlines monetise inflight connectivity in new and

innovative ways.

We also have a few exciting projects in the pipeline with new and existing airline customers in the Middle East, but you will have to wait to find out more about that.

Watch this space!

What is the vision for your company over the next 5 years?

We’re investing more than ever to develop the most advanced satellite network in the world. Our ambitious technology roadmap will ensure that we stay ahead and consistently meet the needs of our global aviation customers for decades to come.

Today we own and operate 14 satellites powering seamless safety and missioncritical communications around the world. To meet ever more complex demands, we will launch a further seven satellites by 2023 and significantly expand our ground network. This includes five in geostationary orbit – mea-biz.com

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Interview

adding speed, capacity, and resilience – and two in highly elliptical orbit, which will deliver the world’s only commercial mobile broadband service in the Arctic region.

We are working in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA) on the Iris programme to modernise the global aviation industry by paving the way for more efficient air traffic management.

Our next satellite launch, GX6A, is scheduled to take place later this year.

GX6A is the first satellite in the Inmarsat-6 L-band fleet - the most powerful and flexible satellites ever developed.

By enabling better communications between flight and ground crews, Iris allows airlines to minimise delays, save fuel and reduce the environmental impact of their operations. For example, pilots and controllers using the service can collaborate on flight trajectories, calculate the shortest available routes in real-time, cruise at optimum altitudes, and use continuous climb and descent paths.

hat Sustainability/ESG initiatives do W you have planned?

Sustainability is no longer a choice; a thriving aviation industry is dependent on us being able to quickly minimise the environmental impact of travel.

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The project is currently being tested

Business News for the MEA region

as part of Boeing’s ecoDemonstrator programme, to assess the service in a commercial flight environment. The full rollout of Iris will commence by 2023 and will initially benefit Europe’s congested skies, with a global rollout expected over the next decade.

We are also one of nine organisations that are part of The Airspace of the Future (AoF) Consortium in the UK. The group works to integrate drone services within the wider UK transport ecosystem.

Advances in electric and autonomous flight technology (drones), are expected to increase mobility and reduce road congestion, further helping reduce the environmental impact of aviation across the globe.

Cover Story

MEBAA celebrates its 15th Anniversary A word from the Founding & Executive Chairman, Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi regarding the 15th Anniversary of MEBAA

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EBAA Founding & Executive Chairman, Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi message to the Business Aviation Industry on MEBAA 15th Anniversary.

When I wanted to create and establish MEBAA 15 years ago, many of my industry colleagues and partners objected to the idea and affirmed that my passion alone, will not be enough to have a successful project.

This is due to a several industry challenges, especially in the region of the MENA countries. I, however, took their valuable comments & views into consideration, but my vision of establishing an umbrella where all Business Aviation stakeholders come under one remained strong. I believed this would enhance the safety and acceptance of the industry within the entire region.

THE MEBAA FAMILY HAS NOW MORE THAN 270 MEMBERS WITH WHOM WE SHARE THE SAME PASSION, IDEA, AND VISION. 20

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Business News for the MEA region

Today we proudly mark the 15th Anniversary of MEBAA. The MEBAA family has now more than 270 members with whom we share the same passion, idea, and vision. We hold a strong Business Aviation community in the MENA region and worldwide, founded on a synergy of great experience and advanced technologies. We want to evolve our business beyond the highest levels of the current worldwide standards, and the pandemic time gave us a break to reconsider and upgrade our present mechanisms and approaches, to reshape the industry and lift it up for good. Business Aviation has a louder voice now with a very strong presence within the ICAO and stronger bonds amongst authorities. In the challenging time of the pandemic, we were the first to open our sky in the MENA region, taking into consideration the safety and health measures of both staff and passengers. We kept supporting our members during the COVID-19 situation by presenting their main concerns to the General Civil Aviation Authority is each country of our region, seeking immediate and instant resolutions.

We even introduced considerable dis-

counts of the membership fee to maintain our members and keep them under one umbrella. These are the values and ties that separates us from the others and secures a prosperous future for our industry.

A big Thank You to the board members of MEBAA, the main believers in the Association’s mission since the inception. Thank you, General Civil Aviation Authorities in the MENA region, industry partners, and loyal members who continued supporting us even during the difficult time of the pandemic. Without your continuous support we would not be able to flourish, grow and prosper.

MEBAA continues to work closely with governments and General Civil Aviation Authorities across the MENA region, providing our community with consistent updates and solutions.

During the pandemic most of the carrier’s activity paused, and the only mean of transport was Business Aviation. We have been in communication with several authorities in our region to set procedures and ease process of transportation. Those procedures were agreed on with the National Emergency Crisis and

Disasters Management Authorities set up during the Pandemic, as well as the General Civil Aviation Authorities. We work very closely with these crisis agencies in several countries in our region to be able to sustain business in our sector and support our community to maintain their activities.

MEBAA Planning and Operation Committee (POC) – This initiative was launched in the first quarter of 2020 with the objective of creating a platform for members to discuss issues and challenges facing the current general and business aviation market and establish committees per each segment of the industry and provide detailed attention to various areas of operations. The POC will be replicated in the neighbouring countries of the Middle East & North Africa region.

We are waiting for the COVID-19 restrictions to be lifted and the situation to ease to call a follow-up meeting.

MEBAA is present at the Dubai Airshow this year, and will have a press conference to talk about the MEBAA Show planned to take place on December 06-08, 2022. mea-biz.com

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MEBAA AT NBAA

DAFZA 25th Anniversary

DAFZA celebrates its Silver Jubilee Year and announces positive results in 2020 The results achieved by DAFZA and its business community during 2020, the investors’ confidence and other various indicators give a positive outlook on the short and long term for economic recovery in the country.

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ubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) is celebrating its Silver Jubilee year, highlighting its success as one of the leading Free Zones in the UAE, following outstanding financial and operational results last year. The Free Zone’s results affirm the effectiveness of its strategic initiatives and economic incentive packages that were launched to overcome the challenges caused by COVID-19. The results are a direct reflection of the return of the economic activities and positive performance in the emirate of Dubai.

During this period, confidence in the Free Zone’s capabilities remained strong due to DAFZA’s ability to combat the economic slowdown while leading operations towards a full economic recovery. The Free Zone recorded an increase in the number of businesses that have commenced operations within DAFZA or moved operations to the Free Zone, during a period of rapid changes in business and trade sectors.

DAFZA achieved a series of remarkable

financial results in the first 9 months of 2020 in comparison to the same period in 2019 including: • T rade amounting to AED 87.4 billion • 1 0% contribution to Dubai’s trade • A trade surplus amounting to AED 10.6 billion The most notable results achieved by DAFZA during the first 9 months of 2020 include: • I ncrease of 7.62% in sales revenues • 1 1 % increase in the number of registered companies Commenting on the 2020 results, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), expressed that 2020 was an extraordinary year that posed major challenges for various vital sectors. During the end of 2020, as a response to the crisis and the need to adapt to the new norm imposed by the social distancing measures, we are committed to the directives of our wise leadership to provide an impetus to

a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “We are proud of the exceptional approach the government of Dubai took under its wise leadership to provide all kinds of support, which reaffirms the emirate’s reputation in terms of challenging the impossible to adjust and revitalize commercial and economic movement. This comes in line with its role and position as a global economic and trade hub that attracts foreign investments and enhance its presence in the region. This support came in the form of a series of economic stimulus packages and financial incentives for those impacted by the pandemic to help them find the right path towards the economic recovery.

“The results achieved by DAFZA and its business community during 2020, the investors’ confidence and other various indicators give a positive outlook on the short and long term for economic recovery in the country. This is also supported by the return of the economic

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DAFZA 25th Anniversary

DAFZA IS CURRENTLY HOME TO MORE THAN 1,800 COMPANIES. IN 2020, THE FREE ZONE RECORDED A GROWTH OF 64.11% IN THE NUMBER OF NEW REGISTERED COMPANIES. sectors to high production levels after overcoming the challenges, which was reinforced by several government initiatives that aimed to accelerate economic recovery and enhance movement of supply chains and global trade.”

“DAFZA is currently home to more than 1,800 companies. In 2020, the Free Zone recorded a growth of 64.11% in the number of new registered companies.”

His Highness added.

The group of electronics, electrical & ICT accounted for the largest number of the total number of companies registered in DAFZA, with a rate of 28.4%, 20% of which were multinational companies (MNCs). This sector was the main contributor to DAFZA’s trade during the first nine months of the year, with a rate of 75.8% for exports and re-exports and a rate of 74.1% for imports. The group witnessed strong growth during the first nine months of the year by 13% in terms of imports and 2.5% in terms of total trade compared to the same period in 2019.

H is Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. Chairman, Dubai Airports. Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group. Chairman of Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA)

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Business News for the MEA region

The group of logistics and freight companies accounted for 11%, 23.71% of which were multinational companies (MNCs). Followed by consumer products companies that accounted

for 7%, 34.42% of which were MNCs. Consultancy and Business development companies accounted for 7%, and multinational companies constituted 21.31%. The companies specialized in aerospace, aviation & related services accounted for 6.3% of the total number of companies, 33% of which were MNCs. The group of pearls, semi/precious stones and metals came second with 17.1% for exports and re-exports and 18.7% for imports. The group of electronics, electrical & ICT along with this group constitute 93% of the total trade of DAFZA. As for the nationality of companies, the Middle Eastern companies accounted for the largest percentage of the total number of companies in DAFZA by 54%, followed by European companies by 21.5%, and Asian companies by 15%.

China ranked first in terms of major trading partners during the first nine months of the year with a percentage of 25% and a value of 22 billion dirhams. China strengthened that position with DAFZA by growing its trade with a stimulus of 18% during the same period, and Iraq came second with 10% with an estimated value of 9 billion dirhams, followed by India with 8% and a value of 7 billion dirhams. In terms of imports, China ranked first with a rate of 57%, followed by India with 18% and the United States of America by 8%, while Iraq ranked first in terms of exports and re-exports by 18.2%, and the UAE’s exports by 11.9%, followed by Switzerland with 10%.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General of DAFZA said: “The many challenges posed by COVID-19 in 2020 brought to light the strength and value of DAFZA’s foundations. During this period, the Free Zone played a critical role in containing the impact of economic fluctuations on global markets, maintaining a flexible investment environment and supporting companies in sustaining their resources, competencies and opera-

tions throughout this difficult stage. We have witnessed growth in different key indicators as a result of these efforts and we entered the new year reassured about the future and ready for the economic recovery stage.

“In 2021, DAFZA is committed to the government directions aimed at easing the challenges of the pandemic on the economic sectors and supporting companies towards economic recovery. That will be achieved with the return of economic activities and the opening of more global markets. This year, we will also continue to enhance the incentives to attract new companies, especially small and medium-sized companies, which see DAFZA as the right environment for growth. They will be able to establish their companies by leveraging the flexibility, strategic location and other advantages that DAFZA provides. There is also a big focus on a number of sectors that are witnessing a strong momentum during the current period such as technology, logistics, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals,” H.E. Al Zarooni added.

In light of the increasing demand and the acceleration of foreign companies to establish their businesses in DAFZA, the Free Zone witnessed an increase in the office-leased areas by 39.4%. As part of its efforts to meet this demand by companies for new lease areas, DAFZA completed the construction of the “9W” building with a total built up area of 64,285 square meters within its strategic location near the Dubai International Airport runway. This project provided a new leasable area of 23,510 square meters. 29% of which are leased of which 60% was leased to multinational companies.

The year 2021 will witness the launch of a set of economic initiatives and incentives within DAFZA’s plan to accelerate the economic recovery from the pandemic, which will include more than 22 strategic initiatives that will be implemented during the next two years. The initiatives cover various dimensions

including the commercial and promotional dimension, services, customer experience and the diversification of investments. These initiatives aim to provide value and a high investment return at the economic and institutional level, which will have a big impact on strengthening DAFZA’s position as a vital and growing economic contributor in the emirate of Dubai.

DAFZA has accomplished several distinguished achievements in the field of sustainability during 2020 such as: • R educing carbon dioxide emissions by 4.9% from 19,700 Ton to 18,600 Ton • R educing power consumption by 4.9% from 38 million kWh to 36 million kWh • R educing power consumption in built-up area by 8.7% from 95 kWh per square meter to 82 kWh per square meter • R educing water consumption by 14% • C hiller Plant Optimization from 1 kW/ ton to 0.7 kW/ton In 2020, DAFZA implemented more than 25 initiatives that fall in line with its national social responsibility efforts, including cooperation with the Faraj Fund to help 620 students from among the inmates of correctional and penal institutions. It also includes a fundraising campaign in cooperation with the High Commissioner for Refugees, and other initiatives such as eye check-ups for clients, blood donation campaigns and disease awareness.

In terms of customer services, DAFZA has succeeded in obtaining the ISO 10002 certificate for the quality of the complaints handling system and the ISO for quality in managing customers’ complaints and measuring customers’ satisfaction, which assures the quality of services it provides to customers and consolidating its pioneering reputation as one of the most important Free Zones to provide world-class services mea-biz.com

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DAFZA 25th Anniversary

Aviation and Logistics companies based at DAFZ send messages of congratulations

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ubai Airport Free Zone has always been a popular choice for aviation companies looking to setup operations in the region. One of the main benefits for Aviation Organizations is the Free Zone’s location next to Dubai International Airport, one of the largest Airports in the world. In addition, it offers first class infrastructure, a broad range of setup options and a wide selection of operational units.

We talked to a selection of Aviation/Logistics organization located onsite to get their thoughts on the 25th anniversary of Dubai Airport Free Zone.

Air France KLM congratulates the DAFZA on their 25th Anniversary Yeshwant Pawar, Air France KLM, General Manager, Middle East congratulates DAFZA on its 25th Anniversary

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ir France KLM Group set up our new regional headquarters at Dubai Airport Free Zone in 2020. We were delighted to inaugurate the new offices in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; and His Excellency Dr. Mohammad Al Zarooni, Director General of DAFZA. Over the last 25 years, DAFZA has created a unique aviation hub and community with high quality facilities, services and support. Our headquarters at DAFZ brings us closer to our customers, at the centre of the aviation community. The offices provide high levels of flexibility and comfort for staff and support our broader sustainability aims thanks to the building’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification with Gold Rating, helping reduce impact on the environment.

Just as importantly, the new office part of the sustainability and CSR programme, which is at the top of the our global agenda.

Congratulations to DAFZA on their 25th anniversary.

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Business News for the MEA region

P icture taken outside the Air France KLM Group regional headquarters at Dubai Airport Free Zone.

In picture, Yeshwant Pawar, General Manager, Air France KLM, Gulf, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Pakistan, received an Aviation Achievement Award for Sustainability in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General of Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA).

We are reducing our environmental footprint Considering the continued growth of the aviation industry and related carbon emissions, our sector needs to become more sustainable.

So as KLM, we are taking responsibility for making our business more sustainable. How? By ADD flying on sustainable fuel, with more efficient routing, with cleaner planes and by recycling our waste.

Learn more about our journey to more sustainable aviation on klm.com/flyresponsibly

DAFZA 25th Anniversary

Empire Aviation congratulates DAFZA on its 25th Anniversary Empire Aviation Group Managing Director, Paras P. Dhamecha congratulates DAFZA

Tell us about your organization?

Empire Aviation Group is an integrated private aviation business. We operate across three different pillars; sales and acquisitions of private airplanes, management and operations, and aircraft charter services.

How long have you been operating from Dubai Airport Free Zone?

Empire Aviation Group has been operating from Dubai Airport Free Zone since our inception in 2007. It’s been a great experience growing with the Free Zone over the past several years and we want to congratulate the team on its 25th anniversary.

What made you chose DAFZ? Dubai Airport Free Zone was a natural choice for us. Most private airplanes have been based here at Dubai International since the inception of DAFZ, and this is where some of our managed business jets are based, as well. The location also gives us the closest proximity to all the industry service providers, including flight support, aircraft maintenance, in addition to the great facilities that we operate from including office space and the storage facilities in the light industrial units.

What are the key benefits for companies operating out of DAFZ? As is the case with any Free Zone, we benefitted from the 100% foreign ownership when we first launched the company. Also, the flexibility and the support offered by the airport authorities and the Free Zone authorities have been second to none since we’ve been here.

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P aras P. Dhamecha, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Empire Aviation Group How has your growth been with DAFZ? We’ve been very impressed and pleased to witness the growth of Dubai Airport Free Zone. We have grown alongside DAFZ thanks in part to the industry ecosystem that it has built for the benefit of all the businesses that operate here, and the high quality facilities and convenience that it has created for all partners and their staff. Our thanks to all the senior management and staff at DAFZ who have always been supportive of our business and aviation in general.

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WE’VE BEEN VERY IMPRESSED TO WITNESS THE GROWTH OF THE DUBAI AIRPORT FREE ZONE

UAS International Trip Support congratulates DAFZA on 25 years of success

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ongratulations to Dubai Airport Free Zone as it celebrates its 25-year anniversary; a quarter of a century supporting aviation activities in the UAE and the wider Middle East region. DAFZA has been home to the Middle Eastern headquarters of UAS for the past twenty years and from our roots here, our organization has grown to span four continents and 31 global locations.

We are immensely proud to be part of the DAFZA community – and not surprised that it is one of the fastest growing Free Zones in the region and currently home to more than 1,800 companies.

DAFZA was a great support to organizations during the unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s leadership and pragmatic optimism was just what was needed.

The results it achieved for 2020 illustrate the quality of its operational activity and its commitment to recovery and sustainability. In the first 9 months of 2020, trade amounted to over 85 Billion AED, sales revenue also Increased by 7.62% last year. 2020 also saw DAFZA contribute 10% to Dubai’s trade during the first 9 months, as well as the launch of 22 initiatives to accelerate economic recovery from the pandemic.

2020 also saw DAFZA improve its sustainability by significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions, power consumption, and water consumption.

These are many great achievements in an incredibly challenging year … From all the team at UAS, I wish DAFZA continued success over the course of many more decades to come.

M ohammed Al Husary | Co-Owner/Founder and Executive President

DANZAS congratulates DAFZA on its 25th Anniversary

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ver since DAFZA opened their Free Zone gates, they have been an integral part of the growth and development of Dubai, the U.A.E. and many companies from across the globe. Being strategically located close to Dubai International Airport and in the heart of Dubai, it is easy to connect businesses across the city to other Emirates and around the Middle East region, truly making Dubai the gateway of the Middle East.

Both foreign and local companies have set up their base in DAFZA with a variety of industries. From electronic to pharmaceutical, aviation to IT, food & beverage to high value jewellery & luxury items, not to forget logistics & freight, all

have been welcomed and can be found there.

We at Danzas, the leading logistics provider in the world, have been fortunate and enjoyed having a long and mutually fruitful partnership with DAFZA. Having a home in DAFZA for over 20 years, with both offices and warehouses situated on 10,000+ square meters, DAFZA has helped us to constantly grow and deliver on our purpose of Connecting People and Improving Lives.

We take this opportunity to congratulate DAFZA on this fantastic milestone of 25 years with many more prosperous years to come and thank them for their continuous support.

S atheesh Chundayil our Head of Air Freight, Road Freight, Customs & VAS

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Editorial Profile

Global private jet sales firm Stanton & Partners Aviation launches international headquarters in DIFC With its exclusive global network of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, Stanton & Partners Aviation brings together a stellar team of industry heavyweights to lead the charge in this new era of private aviation

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s the world is on its way to recovery and mitigating the COVID-19 impact, investors are focused on maintaining the integrity of their assets while acquiring meaningful new ones. With its exclusive global network of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, Stanton & Partners Aviation brings together a stellar team of industry heavyweights to lead the charge in this new era of private aviation.

network and expertise will be instrumental in delivering private aircrafts; when listing an aircraft, we typically receive two strong offers within the first 30 days prior to it being advertised. This quick turnaround is testament to our in-depth industry knowledge, ability to navigate the nuances of complex contracts, proficiency in creating optimised buyer profiles along with the skills & reach of our global network.

With over 100 years of cumulative aircraft sales experience including new and preowned aircraft for some of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers across the USA, UK, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia, the firm has a proven track record in leveraging the true potential of jets for owners and buyers.

According to Forbes, India has the third highest number of billionaires in the world, housing 140 billionaires, and Billionaires Insight’s Report estimates their cumulative wealth of USD 423 billion. Furthermore, according to Hurun India Wealth Report 2020, India has 412,000 dollar-millionaires with an estimated USD 70 million each.

Upon this, Allan Stanton stated, “Since safety, security and ease of movement have become of great importance in the post-COVID world, we predict a surge in the purchase of private aircraft with more exacting requirements; and Knight Frank survey clearly proves this by stating that 43% of India’s ultra-wealthy travellers are more likely to consider private aviation in future.”

The Stanton & Partners Aviation approach is built on an exceptional pedigree of unprecedented trust and a network of on-ground partners and industry professionals worldwide. With over USD 4 billion in successful aircraft transactions, the firm understands the criticality of protecting the value of assets while being equitable and ethical to all parties.

Upon launching the International headquarters for Stanton & Partners Aviation in Dubai’s DIFC, Founder Allan Stanton stated, “We are honoured to announce our presence in Dubai; a wellrenowned destination for ultra-high-networth individuals from across the globe and a mature hub for regional private aviation.

Our global network spans with the US & Latin America headquarters located in Florida, and offices in Geneva, Johannesburg, Hong Kong and London. We believe our global

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Stanton & Partners Aviation is at the forefront of using data-driven metrics, actionable intelligence and first-hand aircraft knowledge complemented with its global network to successfully connect owners and buyers around the world. With over two decades of experience delivering both inventory and opportunity, Allan Stanton identified a need for bespoke private aviation services and established Stanton & Partners Aviation to fill this gap in the private aviation industry.

Business News for the MEA region

WE PREDICT A SURGE IN THE PURCHASE OF PRIVATE AIRCRAFT WITH MORE EXACTING REQUIREMENTS “Our ultra-high-net-worth clients have always requested a very distinctive set of specifications for their jets, befitting their personal and professional needs. Our in-house analysis, proprietary information and on-ground team’s close relationship with partners including inspectors has been instrumental in meeting every client’s individual criteria” stated Allan Stanton.

A llan Stanton, Founder, Stanton & Partners Aviation

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Air Cargo

Etihad Cargo and EFL Global successfully deliver vital antiretroviral drugs to Brazil More than 55,000kg carried on single Boeing 777 through Abu Dhabi

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tihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Aviation Group, and global supply chain company EFL Global, have successfully carried a vital consignment of antiretroviral drugs from India to Brazil.

The shipment, which weighed more than 55,000kg, was transported on behalf of a leading manufacturer head quartered in Hyderabad and delivered to SãoPaulo-Guarulhos International Airport in Brazil.

“The sheer size of the consignment and the need for stringent product integrity over such a long distance had seen other carriers turn down the shipment.

Utilising Etihad Cargo’s pharmaceutical logistics capabilities and EFL’s extensive industry expertise, the shipment was successfully delivered, maintaining strict controls across the entire journey,” explained Martin Drew, Senior Vice President Sales and Cargo, Etihad Aviation Group. “The cargo was carried from origin to destination in the same flight, with no vessel change in order to preserve the consignment’s condition.”

data tracking and real-time status monitoring throughout the journey.

Etihad Cargo leveraged its IATA CEIV certification for pharmaceutical logistics and capability to facilitate temperature-sensitive cargo shipments between +25⁰C and -80⁰C, and EFL’s CEIV and GDP compliance.

“Customers trust our capability to move lifesaving medications across continents in the best way possible. And we take this responsibility very seriously,” explained Rooso Ramachandran, Chief Commercial Officer of EFL Global – India. “Being a global supply chain service provider, we are heavily invested in having the right partnerships and compliance in place to uphold our promise.

Each step of the operation is stringently planned with the best possible resources that ensure a seamless delivery, regardless of the complexities.”

Maintaining the shipment’s integrity, EFL handed the consignment to Etihad Cargo in Hyderabad, with the UAE’s national carrier transiting the shipment through Abu Dhabi International Airport and Milan’s Malpensa International Airport en-route to São Paulo. Etihad Cargo and EFL collaborated to ensure

In the past year, Etihad Cargo has increased pharmaceutical shipments by 50 per cent via its industry leading PharmaLife product. In addition to supporting global customers, the IATA CEIVcertified product has facilitated Etihad Cargo’s support of Abu Dhabi’s HOPE Consortium’s efforts to serve global

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Business News for the MEA region

demand for COVID-19 vaccines.

Etihad Cargo currently operates across more than 1,050 IATA CEIV Pharma/GDP certified trade lanes which ensure the integrity of products during transportation. Driven largely from a demand for both CRT (+15 to +25°C) and COL (+2 to +8°C) segments, Etihad Cargo has also received strong growth for ERT (+2 to +25°C) shipments, launched at the end of last year.

“Etihad Cargo now has industry-leading expertise in the global transportation of temperature controlled and time-sensitive pharmaceutical products, including vaccines, operating to stringent manufacturers’ requirements,” explained Drew. “The IATA CEIV certification has reaffirmed Etihad Cargo’s strength in this sector and boosted partner trust to deliver a quality product solution across 54 pharma stations with dedicated experts available for advice.”

Emirates transports 100 tonnes of COVID-19 relief cargo free of charge to India in May 2021 As part of the relieve effort, Emirates Sky Cargo transported oxygen cylinders and concentrators as well as other lifesaving equipment.

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mirates SkyCargo flew 100 tonnes of relief materials free of charge from Dubai to India during a three week period in May 2021 to support the Indian community to battle the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the Emirates India Humanitarian Airbridge, Emirates donated cargo capacity to transport essential supplies such as relief tents and thousands of oxygen cylinders and concentrators free of charge on flights to Indian destinations.

“Emirates is deeply connected and committed to India. The Emirates India Humanitarian Airbridge was our contribution to assist the Indian community fight the second wave of the deadly COVID19 pandemic. We are heartened that India is overcoming the virus and we are honoured to have supported the efforts of partners by donating much needed air cargo capacity for moving essential goods quickly and reliably into nine Indian cities,” said Nabil Sultan, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Cargo.

“The Emirates India humanitarian airbridge confirms the important role that is being played by the private sector world-

wide, for providing assistance to millions of people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This airbridge done with Emirates, confirms the strong partnership and commitment of the two Dubai entities in facilitating the humanitarian action of the international organizations and United Nations agencies operating within IHC. Together we fulfill the mandate of the IHC and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai’s vision to support humanitarian needs all around the world. IHC has embraced the Sustainable Development Goal “Partnership” and is very proud to have partnered with Emirates SkyCargo and the International humanitarian community for the extraordinary efforts done for responding to the requirements due to the pandemic in addition to other emergencies,” said Giuseppe Saba, CEO of the IHC. “Tackling the COVID-19 pandemic is a race against time. It is also a complex logistics operation that works around to clock to provide frontline health workers with the equipment they need and ensure equitable access to vaccines for all. From our warehousing hub in the United Arab Emirates, UNICEF can rapidly deploy

supplies across continents. That capability couldn’t be possible without our partners’ support. Thanks to Emirates SkyCargo’s solutions, and as demonstrated with the India airbridge, we are able to quickly and efficiently deliver life-saving supplies,” said Eltayeb Adam, UNICEF Representative to the Gulf Area.

Emirates set up the India Humanitarian Airbridge in early May 2021 to boost the transportation of urgent medical and relief items to India by offering cargo capacity free of charge on its flights from Dubai to India. The first shipment under the Airbridge initiative flew from Dubai to Delhi on 13 May and comprised 12 tonnes of multi-purpose tent equipment for field hospitals sent by the World Health Organisation through the IHC. Emirates SkyCargo and the IHC have joined hands in the past to deliver relief materials around the world to communities impacted by humanitarian crises.

Most recently, the IHC helped channel relief efforts for the India Humanitarian Airbridge, drawing upon their extensive expertise in working with humanitarian agencies and relief logistics. mea-biz.com

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Engines

GE Aviation and Safran launch new aircraft engine sustainability initiative GE Aviation and Safran make a defining step towards sustainability by launching the CFM RISE (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) Technology Demonstration Program.

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he RISE program targets more than 20 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to today’s engines and will demonstrate and mature a range of new, disruptive technologies for future engines that could enter service by the mid-2030s.

Central to the program is state-ofthe-art propulsive efficiency for the engine, including developing an open fan architecture. This is a key enabler to achieving significantly improved fuel efficiency while delivering the same speed and cabin experience as current single-aisle aircraft. The program will also use hybrid electric capability to optimize engine efficiency while enabling electrification of many aircraft systems.

Additionally, the engine technologies developed through the CFM RISE Program will be fuel flexible, compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and liquid hydrogen fuel.

With the RISE program, the historic GE and Safran partnership CFM International, will continue to lead commercial aviation propulsion by accepting the challenge of sustain-

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J ohn Slattery, President and CEO of GE Aviation.

ability head on.

“The relationship between GE and Safran today is the strongest it

Business News for the MEA region

has ever been,” said John Slattery, President and CEO of GE Aviation.

“Together, through the RISE technology demonstration program, we

TOGETHER, THROUGH THE RISE TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM, WE ARE REINVENTING THE FUTURE OF FLIGHT, BRINGING AN ADVANCED SUITE OF REVOLUTIONARY TECHNOLOGIES TO MARKET THAT WILL TAKE THE NEXT GENERATION OF SINGLE-AISLE AIRCRAFT TO A NEW LEVEL are reinventing the future of flight, bringing an advanced suite of revolutionary technologies to market that will take the next generation of single-aisle aircraft to a new level of fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

We fully embrace the sustainability imperative. As we have always done in the past, we will deliver for the future.”

That’s good news for Middle Eastern airlines looking for innovative ways to meet their environmental commitments in partnership with GE, such as Etihad Airways’ Greenliner Program.

GE’s and Safran’s technology roadmap outlined in the RISE Program also calls for further improvements in composite fan blades, heat resistant metal alloys, Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs), and additive manufacturing.

Demonstration engines are scheduled to begin testing at GE and Safran facilities around the middle of this decade, with flight tests soon thereafter.

By improving engine efficiency, GE Aviation is supporting the global aviation industry’s goals to reduce CO2 emissions 50% by 2050 compared to 2019 levels. Speaking during the recent MRO Middle East tradeshow held at Dubai World Trade Center, Ram Mulik, General Manager of GE Aviation’s Customer & Product Support Operation for the Middle East and Africa, also discussed tools available now to help reduce CO2 emissions from the existing aircraft engine fleet.

harsh environments, the 360 Foam Wash solution allowed customers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, Royal Jordanian Airlines and Qatar Airways to improve engine performance. Reducing build-up of deposits in the engine helped lower engine exhaust temperatures and improve engine compressor efficiency. These improvements led to reduced fuel consumption and increased engine time on wing.

Today, all GE Aviation and CFM International engines can operate with approved SAF. SAF has a smaller carbon footprint than oil-based fuels because they come from more sustainable sources, such as cooking oil, plant oils, municipal waste, waste gases, and agricultural residues. The level of CO2 emissions generated by consumption of jet fuel, on a life cycle analysis basis, can be up to 80% lower with SAF than Jet A or Jet A-1.

Even as the aviation industry pushes for wider adoption and availability of SAF pathways currently approved, GE Aviation experts are looking ahead to a new challenge: A future SAF that requires no blending with petroleum.

GE Digital has developed a number of software applications to help aircraft operators to reduce emissions and drive operational efficiencies. Fuel Insight helps airlines identify areas of opportunity to improve their fuel consumption, while Airspace Insight offers flight path design and maintenance to assist aircraft operators in ensuring routes are optimally designed to minimize time, fuel, and carbon emissions. FlightPulse® is a mobile application that shows pilots their individual operational efficiency metrics and trends, valuable information that can help them make better decisions and reduce risk and fuel consumption.

GE’s 360 Foam Wash is a proprietary engine cleaning solution that removes dust and dirt particles in the engine.

During technology trials in hot and

C FM RISE Program Open Fan mea-biz.com

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Dubai Airshow

Business Aviation at Dubai Airshow 2021: a thriving industry despite the challenges The new lifestyle properties boast vibrant contemporary designs, and offer an inspiring experience to modern travelers

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ubai Airshow is set to highlight the growth in business aviation and provide a platform for industry experts to shape the future of the industry with the deployment of ground-breaking technologies.

Business aviation is one of the key sectors that will be represented at the event, with 30% of the attendance being involved in that part of the industry.

Key names in business aviation that will be taking part in Dubai Airshow 2021 include Airbus, Boeing, Airports World Company LTD, CAE, Citadel Completions, Comlux, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Emojet, Gainjet Aviation S.A., Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. In the wake of COVID-19, business aviation has proved to be a more flexible, reliable flight option, providing safety and security. The growth of the business aviation industry can bring a range of benefits to airports, major operators, business aircraft manufacturers, business flight pilots, major service providers and business aviation users, driving future economic development.

Similar to other parts of the aviation sector, business aviation is undergoing a digital transformation, in order to optimise the performance of operators and provide travellers with a unique smart travel experience. For example, the inflight company Gogo Business Aviation, aims to provide business jets with 5G inflight connectivity networks in 2022, making an important breakthrough in inflight connectivity. Boeing Business jets recently launched the BBJ 777X, the first business jetliner able to connect any two cities in the world nonstop with the record range

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Business News for the MEA region

mercial office at Dubai DWC airport VIP terminal, we are closer to our customers and partners in the gulf region pleased and we can welcome them in our lounge premises.”

Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Chairman of the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and Founder and Executive Chairman at MEBAA (Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association), said: “The business aviation industry proved to be resilient, safe, and efficient, despite the pandemic. We have already witnessed an increased demand for business jets in recent years, and we look forward to witnessing further successes in this promising industry. I am pleased to say that we have been successful in implementing the required measures in line with the best global standards to enhance the industry and accelerate its growth in the region and the world in the upcoming years.”

of up to 21,570 km. Passengers aboard the 777X will breathe easier thanks to the aircraft’s lower cabin altitude, supplemental humidification and advanced three-stage air filtration system.

Additionally, Airbus Corporate Jets recently launched the ACJ TwoTwenty business jet featuring state-of-the-art technology for business travellers, better connectivity, a Wi-Fi system across the entire cabin, as well as advanced technologies such as electro-chromatic windows and LED lighting. The ACJ TwoTwenty business jet created a whole new market segment “The Xtra Large Bizjet”, combining unmatched personal space with 73m2 floor surface and up to 10,500 km intercontinental range (over 12 flight hours).

It directly connects city pairs like DubaiLondon, Dubai-Tokyo and Dubai-Perth and is the only business jet featuring six wide VIP living areas, of around 12m2 each.

Benoit Defforge, ACJ President said: “ACJ remains committed to growing and

supporting the regional business aviation sector which has shown great resilience during the pandemic. In the Middle East region, more than 60% of heavy jets and bizliners are more than 15 years old.

As such, we are now offering the latest and most modern, comfortable product portfolio jet available today from the ACJ TwoTwenty up to the ACJ350 that both align well with customers’ fleets from the Middle East and we look forward to demonstrating our innovation and latest offerings at Dubai Airshow 2021.”

Richard Gaona, Executive Chairman & CEO at Comlux, said: “We look forward to our participation at Dubai Airshow 2021 and introducing our Swiss-made worldclass business aviation services to the entire aviation community. The past year was challenging for most of the sectors, including aviation, but we were able to rapidly adapt to the changing circumstances and maintain a high standard of services. With our new Comlux com-

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the industry saw growth in private and business aviation, particularly in Dubai, which witnessed a burgeoning movement of private and business jets. Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub announced a remarkable growth in activity in the first quarter of 2021, with an increase of 336 percent in the movement of private and business aircrafts, compared to the same time in 2020. In addition, Dubai-based business aviation company, DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF), witnessed a 25 percent increase in private and business jet activity in the first quarter of 2021.

The business aviation sector is expected to thrive further in the coming years, according to various industry reports.

According to 2020 Honeywell Global Business Aviation Outlook, there will be up to 7,300 new business jet deliveries worth US$235 billion from 2021 to 2030, as well as an average 4-5% annual growth in the rate of deliveries through 2030.

According to the report, the Middle East and Africa will have higher purchase plans, with an increase in operators who will purchase new jets.

Dubai Airshow 2021 will be held on 14-18 November 2021 at Dubai World Central (DWC), Dubai Airshow Site.

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AVIATION ANNUAL GALA EVENING 2021

THE AVIATION ANNUAL GALA EVENING IS BACK

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he Aviation Annual Gala Evening (AAGE), the region’s leading invite only event for Senior Aviation will take place November 2021 (Dubai Airshow Week). The event will again take place on an exclusive megayacht berthed outside Pier 7, Dubai Marina. Guests will enjoy an amazing cruise along Dubai’s shoreline, with captivating views of the famous Palm Island, the Dubai skyline and Iconic buildings such as the Burj Al Arab. Guests will also be entertained throughout the evening by a live band and special entertainment.

The Aviation Innovation Awards which also take place during the Gala Evening will recognize some of the region’s most outstanding aviation individuals and organizations. The awards will honor exceptional technological, operational and sustainability innovations.

The Gala Evening and Awards should have a wide variety of leaders from the Middle East and around the world who will be in town during the Dubai Airshow.

For more information on the event visit www. aviationgala.com or email Ken@cme-media. com

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TRAVEL AND TOURISM

Dubai Tourism welcomes support of stakeholders to accelerate momentum in year of EXPO and UAE Golden Jubilee Dubai Tourism’s campaigns conducted with support of partners reinforce Dubai’s profile as a safe, must-visit destination and the world’s best city to live and work in

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Business News for the MEA region

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ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) held its first bi-annual ‘City Briefing’ for 2021 at the newly built Dubai Exhibition Centre, highlighting the sector’s promising performance since the reopening of the city to international tourists a year ago. As efforts intensified across the tourism ecosystem to accelerate momentum in this landmark year for Dubai and the UAE, the forum featured a detailed presentation on Expo 2020, the multi-faceted mega event which runs from 1 October, 2021 to 31 March 2022, as well as insights into domestic and global developments and marketing campaigns worldwide aimed at reinforcing Dubai’s profile as a safe, must-visit destination and the world’s best city to live and work in.

Presided by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Tourism, the forum hosted over 1,000 key executives from leading establishments in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. It was held within the framework of Dubai Tourism’s regular dialogue with key industry leaders to exchange insights and work with them to ensure the industry is seamlessly aligned with tourism growth initiatives and strategies. By holding the forum at the Dubai Exhibition Centre with precautionary guidelines being comprehensively observed, Dubai Tourism sought to highlight the enormous significance of Expo 2020 to Dubai’s tourism industry and the gathering pace of recovery in the events sector.

HE Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Tourism, commented: “Dubai has continued to lead global tourism recovery and has constantly set new precedents in how to safely yet effectively open internationally and critically stay open. Inspired by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the city’s ability and priority in effectively managing the pandemic has positioned Dubai as one

of the world’s safest destinations. It has also placed us in prime position to drive growth, especially since we see Expo 2020 as a global pivot to pioneer the future of international tourism and business. The emirate’s tourism rebound in the second half of 2020, leading to industry stabilisation in 2021, is also a reflection of the crucial support extended by our stakeholders and partners.

Our constant dialogue has allowed us to collectively adapt to the evolving situation and implement our post-pandemic strategy as we continuously strive to improve traveller confidence and build an even more resilient and sustainable tourism sector. As the city prepares to host the region’s first World Expo, as well as play a leading role in the UAE’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, we look forward to making significant progress in 2021 and beyond.”

Partners were briefed on the positive developments since the city reopened to tourists on 7 July 2020. Dubai Tourism data shared with participants shows the success of the city’s reopening strategy. Incremental increase in tourist arrivals month on month from markets that are open delivered 3.7 million international overnight visitors in the July 2020 - May 2021 period. Dubai Tourism’s partners and stakeholders expressed their appreciation for the multi-pronged strategy to combat the pandemic, leading to the reopening of the city to global travellers in July 2020.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer said:

“It has been a year since Dubai opened its doors for leisure and business visitors, and we have demonstrated that international air travel and tourism can safely take place with enhanced health protocols, a focus on clear and consistent measures, and a successful vaccine rollout. Dubai’s leadership understood the critical importance of providing a road map for the safe return and revitalisation of the economy through meticulous planning,

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TRAVEL AND TOURISM

a coordinated public-private approach and strong partnerships across the travel and tourism sectors. Emirates is proud to have played its part to help reopen air travel, closely working with DTCM on health and safety measures to safeguard the wellbeing of visitors.

These collective efforts and the safe and gradual restart of our network, which today stands at over 115 destinations, brought in 2 million visitors to the city on Emirates since 7 July 2020 and saw bookings growing over 30% from last year.”

Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “Despite the challenges during a period that was the most turbulent time in the history of international air travel, Dubai Airports retained its position as the world’s busiest international airport for the seventh consecutive year with 25.9 million passengers in 2020. After having welcomed nearly six million passengers in Q1 2021, DXB now looks set for a stable second quarter and the outlook for the second half of the year looks positive thanks to the seasonal travel rush and upcoming major international events including the Dubai Expo 2020 and the Dubai Airshow 2021. To accommodate the projected growth, we recently expanded DXB’s capacity by bringing back Terminal 1 and Concourse D into operation after 15 months of hibernation.

Our initiatives were recognized by the ACI in the form of Airport Health Accreditation certification. DXB was also recently chosen as the world’s best airport by readers of the Business Traveller magazine,” Griffiths said.

Dubai Airports has taken significant steps to minimise the impact of new travel requirements on customer journeys through the airport. The operator along with the Dubai Health Authority and Pure Health recently opened a 20,000 square-feet in-house lab that can process up to 100,000 PCR sam-

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ples collected from passengers at DXB daily, providing reports within a few hours.

Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Board Member – Emaar Properties PJSC Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Board Member – Emaar Properties PJSC, said: “I would like to take the opportunity to thank DTCM for their constant support throughout this time. During the last 12 months, the government has worked tirelessly to make the city safe and comfortable for every resident and visitor. At Emaar Hospitality Group, we followed the safety guidelines at our hotels with utmost attention, inoculated over 90 percent of our team members within a short span and opened three new beach resorts, as we cater to more tourists this year. As the official hotel, hospitality and catering partner of EXPO 2020, we are looking forward to this much awaited futuristic event in October.”

Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, Hilton: “A great travel revival is underway and thanks to the vision of DTCM, Dubai has been at the forefront of this re-bound since tourism re-started almost a year ago.

At Hilton, we are seeing our regular, as well as new guests return to our hotels, be it for local stays or inbound travel from new and existing markets – occupancy continues to improve, and guests are willing to pay for quality hotel experiences. I am pleased to see that many people are discovering Dubai for the first time - reassured by Dubai’s reputation as a safe, welcoming and vibrant destination. This will only set-the-stage for the launch of Expo as ‘Team Hilton’ looks forward to welcoming guests from the world over.”

Business News for the MEA region

Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Marriott International, said: “Dubai continues to provide a safe-haven destination for its people and for travellers and has adapted quickly to change – both of which have undoubtedly helped the hospitality and travel sector begin its journey to recovery.

The re-opening of the city to international tourism last July certainly brought great opportunities for the hotel industry. We know that when travel corridors are in place, and destinations are perceived as safe, people want to travel, and Dubai remains one of the safest, most sought out destinations globally. We’ve seen our hotels in this market perform particularly well over the past year.”

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