Aviation - Industry - MEA Market, Share and Trends 2023-2028

Summary of Aviation

The aviation market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region was valued at $78.47 billion in 2023. Over the period from 2023 to 2029, the MEA aviation industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% as air travel demand increases across the region. Key drivers of growth include expanding domestic and international flight networks as economies develop and populations rise in many countries, supporting more passenger traffic.

Major hub carriers like Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways continue investing in their fleets and global route networks, connecting the MEA region to major international markets in Asia, Europe and North America. These airlines operate some of the world’s largest widebody aircraft to efficiently link cities on interconnected global routes. Infrastructure development also remains a high priority, with billions being invested by governments in new airports, expanded terminals, and improved air traffic management systems to boost tourism and trade.

Sustainable aviation is gaining increased attention from industry stakeholders in the MEA region. Carriers are exploring options to gradually introduce sustainable aviation fuels and carbon reduction programs. Manufacturers are also collaborating with regional airlines on research and demonstration projects for emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft suitable for local and regional routes.

Recent Trends and Insights

Some notable recent trends include major Gulf carriers like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways upgrading their aircraft fleets with new fuel-efficient widebody models such as the Boeing 777X and Airbus A350. These new aircraft aim to help the airlines reduce fuel costs and carbon emissions per seat in accordance with their environmental sustainability targets.

Across Africa, there has been significant investment by many national governments in new airport construction projects and improvements to air traffic control infrastructure. This is helping to expand air connectivity and make air travel more accessible across the continent. Key projects include new terminals in rapidly-growing cities and modernized systems for air traffic flow management.

Digital transformation initiatives within the aviation industry have grown immensely in recent years. Airlines in the Middle East and Africa are enhancing passenger experiences through innovative digital solutions for online booking, mobile check-in, biometric boarding and inflight entertainment/connectivity options. This allows for easy travel and helps attract more travellers.

Regional cooperation on areas such as aviation training, aircraft maintenance and joint-flight routes is also increasing efficiency. Knowledge sharing across industry stakeholders within the region aims to further develop the aviation sector in a sustainable manner over the long term.

Product Insights

To meet the growing demand for non-stop long-route travel within the region and to global destinations– major aircraft manufacturers have developed new larger widebody aircraft optimized for these routes. Models including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X and 787 families have been introduced in increasing numbers with leading MEA carriers like Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways. These new aircraft offer passengers enhanced comfort levels on flights lasting up to 17 hours.

In-flight entertainment and connectivity solutions continue to evolve rapidly. Carriers are implementing advanced satellite-based WiFi and inflight entertainment systems that provide passengers with faster internet speeds and a wider selection of entertainment options. This allows seamless streaming of content during long flights.

On the ground, airports across the Middle East and Africa are undergoing modernization projects to improve terminals, lounges and passenger facilities. This enhances the overall airport experience for travellers with amenities like spacious gate areas, restaurants, shops and relaxation zones. Some airports have also introduced biometric boarding and bag drop technologies to expedite processes through self-service kiosks.

Overall, products and services within the aviation industry are consistently improving to meet rising passenger expectations and support further growth of air travel across the dynamic MEA region.

Key Companies

Some major players within this vast domain of industry are

• Airbus SE
• Boeing
• Bombardier Inc
• Dassault Aviation
• Safran SA
• General Electric Company
• Rolls Royce Holding PLC
• Emirates Engineering
• General Electric Company
• Raytheon Technologies Corporation

Regional Analysis

The largest and most developed aviation markets within the MEA region are located in the Middle East sub-region. The UAE represents the largest individual market, valued at $15 billion in 2023 according to industry sources. This is driven primarily by the operations of major home-based carriers Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai, which utilize Dubai and Abu Dhabi as strategic hubs for their global networks.

Saudi Arabia’s aviation market, worth an estimated $13 billion in 2023, is also growing steadily each year. As the country implements reforms under Vision 2030, investments are being made to expand airports and liberalize airspace, supporting more domestic and international routes.

Other sizable markets within the region include Egypt, with a domestic network connecting major cities and growing international services. South Africa also has a well-established aviation sector and tourism industry, supported by a developed airport infrastructure and operations of carriers like South African Airways and Comair.

Countries in North Africa like Morocco are investing heavily in new airports and routes development to boost air connectivity and tourism. This aims to facilitate economic growth and trade. Across Central and West Africa, nations are collaborating to abide by regulations and develop regional routes under the Yamoussoukro Decision, helping integrate markets.

Market Segmentation

By Type:

• Commercial aviation
• General aviation
• Military aviation
• Civil aviation

By End user:

• Airports
• Aircraft manufacturers
• Aviation service providers
• Aviation authorities

By Sub-Sector:

• Domestic aviation
• International aviation
• Regional aviation
• Low-cost aviation
• Business aviation

By Country:

• Saudi Arabia
• Iran
• United Arab Emirates
• Israel
• Egypt
• Iraq
• Qatar

Our Methodology

We have offered a well-founded review of the Middle East and Africa’s regional aviation market along with ongoing trends and upcoming projections to highlight proximate investment opportunities in this report. Moreover, an extensive analysis of any future prospects, challenges, competitors, or navigating aspects is also provided. A methodical detailed regional examination is presented.

Primary Research  

Our multi-pronged research approach includes interviews with industry leaders and a global survey of advanced manufacturing professionals to gain qualitative insights. We utilize our proprietary databases encompassing key performance indicators worldwide in order to collate relevant data points. A multivariate forecasting framework considering historical performance, current dynamics and qualitative factors are utilized to develop market sizing and growth projections through 2029.

We supplement our primary research with a careful examination of secondary materials such as– case studies, news stories and references from other sources. Organizations can benefit from the strategic advice and conclusions offered because they will be better equipped to respond to the dynamic nature of this industry and seize emerging possibilities.

We employ a comprehensive and iterative research methodology focused on minimizing deviation to provide the most accurate market estimates. Our research utilizes a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches across segments and utilizes databases, primary research insights and industry experts for analysis.

Raw data is obtained from multiple sources and thoroughly filtered to ensure only authenticated and validated sources are considered. We collect data from raw material suppliers, industry associations, technology providers, and buyers to gain a holistic perspective.

Quantitative Analysis

Our market estimates are derived through statistical models, beginning with collection of historical data and analysis of macro- and micro-economic factors influencing the market. Gathered information on market dynamics, technology and pricing trends are utilised to build the models.

Econometric and technological models are applied to project short- and long-term market potential respectively. A bottom-up approach is preferred to minimize errors. Key parameters considered include market drivers and restraints, material pricing trends, regulatory scenarios, and capacity additions.

Weights are assigned to these parameters based on impact analysis and market forecasting is performed via statistical tools and techniques. We believe this methodology results in an accurate and realistic market picture.