‍DUBAI — Boeing projects the Middle East fleet will more than double over the next two decades amid a new era of growth and modernization, the manufacturer said today at Dubai Airshow 2025 (DAS2025).

Growing Passenger Volumes

Capitalizing on modern hubs within 8 hours of 80% of the world's population, Middle East carriers will continue to connect people and businesses across Europe, Africa, and Asia. As a result, the region’s share of global passenger traffic will expand to more than 10% by 2044.

According to Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), support of rapid growth will require nearly 1,400 new widebody passenger jets in the next 20 years, with the most significant global share of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft deliveries. 

"As passenger traffic in the Middle East continues to outpace global GDP growth, the region is reinforcing its position as a global connector and destination for global travelers. Carriers will need efficient, versatile airplanes to expand long-haul and regional networks while renewing their fleets for the decades ahead," said Darren Hulst, Boeing vice president of Commercial Marketing.

Freight Capacity Growing

Middle East carriers are also expected to expand their freight capacity and logistics to serve the world’s large, fast-growing cargo markets.

By 2044, Boeing forecasts 185 freighters will be delivered to the Middle East, 75% of them large twin-engine jets designed for high-value, temperature-sensitive, and time-critical cargo.

Middle East CMO 2025-2044

Low-cost carriers’ share of the Middle East market will expand to nearly 25% of total seat capacity, supporting middle-class and tourism demand in the region and connecting South Asia and Europe.

The single-aisle fleet has nearly quadrupled over the past 25 years, with two-thirds of single-aisle deliveries contributing to Middle East fleet growth over the next two decades.

There is demand for US$455 billion in commercial aviation services and 234,000 new aviation personnel supporting rapid growth and expansion in the Middle East, with maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities being a crucial part of the aviation services ecosystem in the region, not only for the local fleet, but also for global operators.

Stay tuned to Airways for exclusive coverage from our team on the grounds at the Dubai Airshow 2025 #DAS2025.