Aviation experts gather in Dubai to shape airports of tomorrow

The Airport Show has officially opened in Dubai, reaffirming the city’s role as a global hub for innovation in air travel and airport infrastructure.

The event is the largest B2B platform of its kind in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, bringing together over 6,000 industry professionals from 30 countries to explore the future of aviation.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, officially opened the 24th edition, which runs until May 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

More than 140 exhibitors from 22 countries are showcasing cutting-edge innovations, from digitalisation and airport sustainability to carbon-reduction strategies and urban air mobility.

The event also features more than 150 top buyers representing 70 global organisations.

Held amid a major regional push in airport development, the show comes as the Middle East prepares to handle over a billion passengers annually by 2040, nearly triple the volume seen in 2019.

The exhibition includes the launch of advanced technologies such as AEROWISE, a digital twin platform, and hosts two key conferences: the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum and the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference.

The opening of the 24th edition of the Airport Show marks another important step in advancing Dubai’s strategic vision for world-class aviation infrastructure.

As a long-standing contributor to the growth of the aviation industry, this forum brings together decision-makers,… pic.twitter.com/QfzLjjSQe1

— HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum (@HHAhmedBinSaeed) May 6, 2025