AIRPORT development in the Middle East, Africa and the subcontinent shows no sign of slowing with an estimated $60 billion in planned and ongoing projects. Fuelled by strong economic growth and increased passenger traffic, the region is one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world.
Bahrain is currently involved in an expansion costing more than $800 million. Other major projects currently underway in the Gulf include the $8.2 billion Dubai World International Airport at Jebel Ali, the $6.8 billion expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport, the $5.5 billion new Doha International Airport in Qatar and the $11.3 billion upgrade of King Abdul Aziz, Madinah and Tabuk airports in Saudi Arabia.
To match the continuing demand for airport supplies, the Airport Show has expanded its exhibition programme and preparations are well underway for its return to the Airport Expo Dubai next year from June 2 to 4.
Next year’s show, the eighth, is expected to attract 750 of the world’s leading airport and aviation suppliers, making it one of the largest airport construction, operations, technology and services shows in the world.