Etihad Showcases AED 130 Billion Economic Impact at MIITE 2026

At the Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026 trade platform, Etihad Airways is highlighting its significant role as a driver of national economic growth, detailing contributions that exceed AED 130 billion in total economic activity across the United Arab Emirates. The event, held from May 4th to 7th at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), serves as a venue for the airline to quantify its impact on trade, tourism, and local industry.

Etihad's participation underscores its function not just as a carrier but as a strategic asset for the UAE's economic diversification. The airline generates over AED 29 billion in direct annual revenue from the export of aviation and logistics services. Beyond its own operations, its network and connectivity services act as a powerful economic multiplier, supporting a wide range of sectors throughout the nation. The airline's workforce includes more than 13,000 UAE-based employees, creating high-value jobs in operations, engineering, and cargo.

Driving Connectivity and Global Trade

A core component of Etihad's presentation at MIITE is the expansion of its global network, which directly fuels Abu Dhabi's economy. Over the past four years, the airline has more than doubled its seat capacity into the capital, growing from 6.4 million to 13.4 million seats. This expansion has been instrumental in bringing more visitors to the UAE, providing a substantial boost to the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Etihad Cargo is also featured prominently, demonstrating its critical role in connecting the UAE's industrial base to international markets. In 2025, the cargo division handled more than AED 120 billion in goods. This logistics capability supports vital national industries, including pharmaceuticals, technology, and perishables, by ensuring their products reach global supply chains efficiently.

Strengthening the Local Industrial Ecosystem

Etihad is actively contributing to the UAE's industrial strategy through its procurement policies, particularly its commitment to the In-Country Value (ICV) program. This government initiative aims to redirect spending into the local economy to foster industrial growth. In 2025, Etihad directed AED 8.3 billion to more than 1,200 UAE-based companies through the ICV program. This includes small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), female-owned businesses, and enterprises owned by People of Determination.

Furthermore, the airline's global partnerships have facilitated over AED 100 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the UAE, supporting the development of local industrial capabilities. This commitment aligns with the goals of the Make it in the Emirates initiative, which seeks to attract investors and manufacturers to the country.

Developing National Talent

Beyond its financial contributions, Etihad is also focused on developing the national workforce in line with Emiratisation priorities. During the conference, Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Etihad Airways Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, is scheduled to participate in a panel discussion titled "Building a Globally Competitive Emirati Talent Pipeline." The session will explore aviation's role in cultivating local talent.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, commented on the airline's role. "Etihad is one of the UAE's largest global exporters of services, delivering aviation and logistics to markets around the world," he stated. "That generates real economic value here in the UAE - from jobs and investment to trade and tourism. Make it in the Emirates is the right platform to demonstrate that impact, and how our continued growth is creating new opportunities for businesses, industries and talent across the country."

What Comes Next

The Make it in the Emirates 2026 exhibition is confirmed to run from May 4th to May 7th at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Bastaki's panel discussion on developing the Emirati talent pipeline is scheduled for May 5th, where further insights into the airline's human capital strategy are expected.

Why This Matters

Etihad's detailed presentation of its economic impact is a strategic move to position the airline as indispensable to the UAE's national development and industrial ambitions. By quantifying its contributions to GDP, local supply chains, and job creation, Etihad reinforces its value beyond passenger and cargo transport, aligning itself directly with the country's long-term economic diversification strategy.