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The 17th edition of the Middle East Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Exhibition and Middle East Aircraft Interiors Exhibition opened in Dubai, marking the largest event in its history. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, inaugurated the two-day event on February 4, 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The exhibition brings together global aviation supply chains as regional demand for aircraft MRO services and cabin design solutions continues to rise.
The event is hosting over 300 exhibitors and attracting approximately 9,000 visitors for the first time, according to organizers. An additional exhibition hall has been added to accommodate the record-breaking participation. The gathering reflects the accelerated growth of the aviation sector in the region and serves as a specialized platform for the aviation aftermarket services industry.
Middle East Aircraft MRO Market Expands
Industry leaders participating in panel discussions at the event emphasized the unprecedented growth across the region’s aviation infrastructure. Fraser Currie, Chief Executive Officer for Strategy and Commercial Affairs at Dubai Aviation Industries, noted that Dubai and the broader region are experiencing exceptional expansion. According to Currie, this growth reflects an environment attractive to talent and investment, supported by the UAE’s established approach of investing in infrastructure and attracting opportunities.
Currie highlighted several major developments reshaping the aircraft maintenance landscape. Airbus is establishing new facilities at Al Maktoum International Airport, while FlyDubai is developing its own dedicated facility. Additionally, Emirates’ hangars are scheduled to relocate to Al Maktoum International Airport by 2030, he said.
Regional Aviation Infrastructure Investment
The aviation sector expansion extends beyond the UAE. Stephen Greenway, Chief Executive Officer of Adel Air, discussed his company’s growth plans during a session at the exhibition. He revealed that Saudi Arabia has invested billions of dollars in constructing a major maintenance facility in Jeddah, which is expected to significantly transform the landscape within the next two years.
Greenway explained that low-cost carriers are increasingly enhancing their operational capabilities in-house. Adel Air currently performs engine changes independently, practices that low-cost airlines did not typically adopt 10 or 15 years ago, according to Greenway. Furthermore, all major supplier contracts now include local content requirements, whether for maintenance work within Saudi Arabia or spare parts manufacturing.
Innovation and Technology in Aircraft MRO
The exhibition showcases the latest innovations in aircraft cabin design, AI-supported and robotics-enabled maintenance tools, supply chain solutions, ground support equipment, and safety technologies. These advancements reinforce the region’s position as a global hub for aviation services, innovation, and investment. The Go Live! theater is hosting industry leaders and experts throughout the two-day event in discussion sessions examining key aspects of the aftermarket sector.
Meanwhile, international companies are expanding their regional presence in response to growing demand. Andy Vahroozi, President and Chief Executive Officer of GMF AeroAsia, announced the launch of the company’s new Middle East facility at the 2026 exhibition. According to Vahroozi, this expansion represents a direct response to accelerated growth in supporting regional aircraft fleets and will help expedite maintenance operations while strengthening the regional aviation ecosystem.
Growing Demand for MRO Services
As the commercial fleet in the Middle East continues to expand and flight frequencies increase, the need for aircraft MRO capabilities is rising at an accelerated pace. The region provides a supportive and stimulating environment for business and talent recruitment, industry officials indicated. Additionally, easy access to some of the world’s fastest-growing markets contributes to this rapid expansion.
The exhibition continues through February 5 at Dubai World Trade Centre, providing an integrated platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among various stakeholders in the aviation aftermarket sector. The event’s final day is expected to feature additional panel discussions and networking opportunities for industry professionals.
