Dubai set to be major aviation hub

29 April, 2008:

Dubai is fast becoming a major hub of aerospace both in the middle east region as well as on a global level.

Emirates is building what is to become the world’s largest airport, to be called the Dubai World Central. In addition, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has been actively acquiring capacity in leasing, maintenance and repair, and airline technologies.

Dubai has just announced that it will launch a low-cost carrier.

A report in the website arabianbusiness.com says,“Throughout the region people are anticipating an enormous growth in jobs – an obvious result of a sector that is geared up for increased activity. Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University (DAE University), the education and training arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, is witnessing this rising interest as it continues to meet parents and prospective students across the region.”

Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, managing director of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Group, was quoted as saying,“Dubai is well on its way to consolidating its global standing as a hub for aviation and aerospace related activities. A well-prepared and readily available professional workforce is key to Dubai’s continued development as an aviation and aerospace industry centre. World-class aviation education is a crucial factor in building such a workforce. Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University will play a leading role in helping to develop a talented pool of professionals trained in industry best practices.”

Already over 3,000 students have enquired about careers in the aviation and aerospace sectors. About 1,000 inquiries and applicants were received at the recent Gulf Education and Training Exhibition (GETEX).

At the exhibition, faculty members and current students of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University met visitors to tell them about the growing opportunities in the aviation and aerospace industry within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the sub-continent. The opportunities are growing at the rate of % annually, and are expected to double in 2015.

Bob Johnson, chief executive officer of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, was quoted as saying,“Events like our information sessions and Gulf Education and Training Exhibition present an ideal platform for students, teachers and faculty of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University to meet and interact. Such participation enables us to highlight the growing demand for aviation and aerospace professionals globally, and how our programs are tailored to meet the industry's needs across various sectors. At the same time, it allows us to meet prospective employers for them to evaluate the high standards of education offered by DAE University.”

At present, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University offers Bachelors programmes in Flight and Aviation Management and Business Administration. Two additional bachelors programmes in Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering, and four newly accredited Masters degrees in Airport Management and Operations, Global Logistics, Air Transport Management and an MBA in Aerospace Management for the September 2008 term were announced at GETEX 2008.