Dubai South Expands Infrastructure for Widebody Aircraft Work as Aviation Demand Rises

Dubai

Dubai South has announced a major expansion of its aerospace infrastructure, reinforcing the emirate’s ambition to become a global hub for aviation manufacturing, maintenance, and aircraft interior innovation. 

Through the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH), Dubai South has expanded its partnership with UUDS AERO, allocating additional space to support widebody aircraft cabin completion, retrofitting, and advanced modification work. The move responds to rising demand for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services from Gulf carriers and international fleets. 

 

Expanded Capacity for Widebody Aircraft 

As part of the expansion, MBRAH has handed over two new Code F aircraft plots to UUDS AERO. These plots are designed to accommodate large widebody aircraft, with each plot capable of handling up to three widebody aircraft simultaneously. 

The additional capacity enables UUDS AERO to scale its operations to meet increasing regional aerospace demand while strengthening Dubai’s position as a preferred destination for high-value aviation services. 

 

40,000 Sq Metre Cabin Excellence Centre Planned 

In a significant development, MBRAH will also construct a 40,000-square-metre Cabin Excellence Centre within its Airline Manufacturing Zone. This facility will be the first of its kind in the region dedicated exclusively to aircraft cabin innovation, upgrades, and interior manufacturing. 

The centre is expected to support: 

  • Advanced cabin completion and retrofitting projects 
  • Engineering and manufacturing of cabin components 
  • Eco-efficient and environmentally assessed cabin solutions 

 

UUDS AERO holds EASA and GCAA certifications for design, manufacturing, maintenance, and eco-solution assessments, enabling it to serve both regional and international airlines operating under stringent regulatory standards. 

 

Strengthening Dubai’s Aviation Ecosystem 

According to MBRAH, the expansion marks a key milestone in building an integrated aerospace ecosystem that supports engineering, manufacturing, training, and supply chain development. 

The strategic location of Dubai South adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport positions the aerospace hub to benefit from future air traffic growth and expanding airline fleets. MBRAH offers free-zone advantages, strong connectivity, and proximity to MRO providers, training campuses, and logistics networks. 

 

Supporting Long-Term Economic Diversification 

The expansion aligns with Dubai’s broader economic diversification strategy, which prioritises aviation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable industrial growth. As airlines increasingly invest in fleet upgrades and cabin modernisation, demand for specialised widebody aircraft services is expected to continue rising. 

By expanding infrastructure and attracting specialised aerospace firms, Dubai South is reinforcing its role as a long-term platform for aviation investment, innovation, and cross-border business growth. 

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