ExecuJet Middle East’s ambition – building business, supporting growth

It’s an exciting time to be working in business aviation in the Middle East. The opportunities for growth are huge.

Dubai is already renowned for being home to a high number of aircraft owners. But now, perhaps more than ever before, the government is actively encouraging the business aviation community, welcoming ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) who wish to obtain residence and run a business in the city.

We’re seeing an increase in first-time buyers entering the region’s business aviation market – partly driven by the health and safety benefits of private aviation compared to commercial airline travel, benefits highlighted so clearly by the pandemic.

‘Ever Forward: 2022-2026’, the five-year pre-owned business jet market forecast published by aircraft sales specialist Jetcraft, reveals buyers under 45 account for 38% of overall transactions in the Middle East and Africa. These young buyers offer the potential for a lifetime of investment in our industry and the region.

Post-pandemic, aircraft charter activity in the Middle East has been rising. These positive regional trends are reflected in our own activities at ExecuJet Middle East.

About 20% of ExecuJet’s global business already stems from our region and our client base is growing.

Across ExecuJet Middle East, we feel both a desire and a responsibility to support the region’s business aviation in any way we can.

We have, for example, just upgraded our facility at Dubai International Airport (DXB), with personalisation a key focus. One particularly appealing new feature allows visitors to easily share their screen with the lounge TV or play their own music on the lounge sound system.

Crew support is vital too, so we’ve expanded the crew lounge and improved the entertainment amenities.

Our new terminal at Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) will become operational later this year. 

The facility will offer 33,000 square metres of amenities, including an air-conditioned hangar. We’ll be offering a comprehensive range of services, from aircraft, passenger and baggage handling to fuel, security, catering and limousine transfer. Whether hurrying to clear airport formalities, or taking the time to relax and enjoy a gourmet meal, every passenger’s needs will be met by the terminal.

Again, crew facilities are as important to us as the passenger experience. The DWC FBO will feature a two-storey crew lounge with a viewing area and games room.

Looking ahead, we want to extend our footprint in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, whether through establishing new FBOs or increasing our volume of managed aircraft in those countries.

Right now, a key trend in Middle Eastern business aviation, and particularly the highly competitive FBO industry, is to go further than ever before in delivering an experience of ultra-luxury to passengers, matching or even beating the standards of five-star hotels. A personalised, flexible service with stringent hygiene protocols really highlights the gulf between business aviation and commercial travel.

We all believe our customers – including our crew – deserve the very best. Long may that trend continue.