Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, today inaugurated MRO Middle East and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This marks the largest editions of the region's leading aviation aftermarket events, which will run for two days.
According to Emirates News Agency, the co-located events bring together the global airline supply chain in response to the increasing demand for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services and cabin interior solutions in the region. Fraser Currie, Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer of DAE Engineering, highlighted Dubai and the region's booming aviation sector during a panel discussion titled 'Strategic infrastructure developments: Middle East MRO landscape.' Currie emphasized the expansion of aerospace facilities and the supportive environment as key factors contributing to this growth.
The 17th edition of the event has expanded into an additional exhibition hall, featuring record exhibitor participation and more than 300 exhibitors for the first time. Approximately 9,000 attendees are expected, underscoring the region's role as a global hub for aviation services, innovation, and investment. Exhibitors are presenting advancements in cabin design, AI-powered maintenance tools, robotics, supply chain solutions, ground support equipment, and safety technologies.
Andi Fahrurrozi, President and CEO of GMF AeroAsia, announced the expansion of GMF AeroAsia's global footprint with a new Middle East facility. This expansion is a direct response to the growing fleet support in the region, offering faster turnaround times and strengthening the regional aviation ecosystem.
In a fireside interview, Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, Saudi Arabia's youngest and fastest-growing low-cost airline, discussed the airline's expansion plans and the development of maintenance capabilities in the kingdom. Greenway noted Saudi Arabia's substantial investment in a major maintenance facility in Jeddah and the inclusion of local content in supplier contracts.
As the Middle East's commercial fleet grows and flight frequencies increase, the demand for MRO capabilities rises. MRO Middle East and AIME showcase this rapid expansion, facilitating essential networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration within the industry.
