UAE’s Aviation Sector Set to Soar: 600 New Jobs and Salary Increases of Up to 8% Anticipated

According to aviation analysts and industry recruitment reports, the UAE's aviation industry is poised for a significant upswing, with over 600 new jobs projected to open across the sector and salaries expected to rise by up to 8% in 2025. The boost comes from a multibillion-dollar investment into expanding Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), set to become the world’s largest airport upon completion.

 

The expansion is part of Dubai's long-term aviation strategy, aiming to accommodate the UAE's growing prominence as a nexus for international travel, cargo, and trade.

 

Al Maktoum International: A Mega Aviation Infrastructure Project

Dubai recently announced the development of an AED 128 billion passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South, with a projected capacity of 260 million passengers annually once fully operational. According to Dubai Airports and statements from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this project represents the world's most significant airport infrastructure investment to date.

 

The facility will span 70 square kilometres, five times the size of Dubai International Airport (DXB), and will eventually replace DXB as the emirate's primary aviation hub.

 

Employment Growth and Salary Trends

Recruitment experts at Hays Middle East and GCC-based aviation HR platforms confirm that the sector actively hires across operational, engineering, management, and customer service roles. An estimated 600 vacancies are expected to be created in the near term, especially in roles linked to construction, airline operations, cargo logistics, and aviation technology.

 

According to the 2025 Gulf Salary Guide by Cooper Fitch, salaries in the aviation and aerospace sectors in the UAE are forecast to rise between 5–8% due to increased demand for skilled professionals and competition among major employers, including Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and DNATA.

 

Notably, pilot salaries—already among the highest in the region—are expected to increase moderately, while technicians, air traffic controllers, and aviation safety experts are also in high demand.

 

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

The expansion and hiring drive will be regulated under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations and Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, laying out UAE labour rights, employment contract norms, and occupational safety requirements in public and private sectors.

 

Employment contracts in the aviation sector must also adhere to General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) safety and compliance standards. Given the safety-sensitive nature of aviation roles, additional screening and licensing requirements will apply, especially for flight crew, ground engineers, and air traffic personnel.

 

Additionally, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) continues to promote Emiratisation quotas, especially in technical roles, as part of the UAE’s broader effort to increase local workforce participation.

 

Strategic Economic Impact

According to data from Oxford Economics, Dubai's aviation sector already contributes over 27% to the emirate’s GDP and supports more than 745,000 jobs. The expansion of Al Maktoum International is expected to double this economic contribution over the next decade.

 

The facility will become the permanent home of Emirates Airlines and Flydubai, both planning to expand their fleets and destinations to align with anticipated passenger growth. Emirates recently ordered 95 additional aircraft valued at USD 52 billion at the Dubai Airshow 2023, underlining its confidence in future demand.

 

Aviation Industry Legal Considerations

Legal professionals advising aviation stakeholders emphasize the importance of contractual clarity, particularly for expatriate workers entering the UAE job market. Given the size of the upcoming projects and workforce influx, a clear delineation of roles, rights, benefits, and termination clauses is essential for mitigating disputes.

 

Furthermore, compliance with UAE Civil Aviation Law (Federal Law No. 20 of 1991) and international aviation safety regulations will be paramount, especially as new terminals, cargo facilities, and runways are commissioned. Issues relating to aviation insurance, contractor liability, and occupational health and safety will also be critical from a legal risk perspective.

 

Legal Expert Commentary

The best international lawyer in Dubai, Mr Sunil Ambalavelil, Managing Partner at NYK Law Firm, highlighted the legal implications of large-scale aviation hiring: 

 

“With rapid expansion comes the need for stringent adherence to employment law, safety regulations, and aviation compliance. Given the sector’s high-risk nature, legal due diligence is non-negotiable.” 

 

He added that foreign professionals joining the sector should know their rights regarding work permits, dispute resolution, and access to legal recourse under UAE Labour Law and civil procedures.

 

Technology and Innovation: A Key Driver

Aside from physical expansion, the UAE aviation sector invests heavily in AI, automation, and green aviation technologies, aligning with UAE Net Zero 2050 goals. The new terminal will have innovative airport systems, autonomous ground vehicles, and digital air traffic management systems.

 

Job roles in aviation cybersecurity, drone airspace management, and sustainability compliance are expected to increase as part of this tech-forward strategy.

 

The Bottom Line

The UAE's aviation sector is entering a transformative phase, marked by infrastructure expansion, workforce growth, and rising wages. As Al Maktoum International Airport becomes operational over the coming years, legal and regulatory oversight will be critical in ensuring sustainable and compliant growth.

 

The opportunities are significant for both professionals and businesses, but so are the obligations. 

 

Sound legal planning, contractual clarity, and strict compliance with safety and labour laws will be indispensable in navigating this new era of aviation development.

 

Key Takeaways

• 600 new jobs expected in UAE’s aviation sector in 2025 amid Al Maktoum Airport expansion.

• Salary hikes of up to 8% are anticipated across aviation roles.

• Al Maktoum International Airport will be the world’s largest, with a capacity of 260 million passengers annually.

• Legal compliance with UAE labour, aviation, and safety laws will be essential for employers and employees.

 

Strategic economic impact includes enhanced job creation, infrastructure growth, and global aviation leadership for the UAE

 

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