The number of outbound private jet flights from the UAE has more than doubled over the past five years. At the same time, Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding its private and business aviation industry through increased investment and infrastructure development.

According to Honeywell Aerospace’s 2026 Global Business Aviation Outlook, the number of outbound business jet flights from the UAE reached 5,475, representing growth of 102% over five years. Saudi Arabia recorded 3,727 outbound flights, an increase of 42% over the same period.

The figures highlight the growing importance of private aviation in the region’s two largest economies, where infrastructure investment, rising demand for luxury travel and the expansion of private jet charter services are creating new opportunities for aircraft operators and aviation service providers.

UAE emerges as regional hub for private aviation

With its private jet charter companies, fixed-base operator facilities and specialised aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul centres, the UAE has cemented its position as one of the region’s leading private aviation hubs.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, is developing its aviation infrastructure and services under its Vision 2030 economic programme. The construction of new general aviation facilities, regulatory reforms and plans to expand aircraft charter services have created fresh opportunities for industry growth in the Kingdom.

Cooper Cullen, Honeywell Aerospace’s president for Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India, said the Middle East’s business aviation industry had entered a significant phase of development.

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Rising Demand for Aviation Services and Advanced Infrastructure

According to Cullen, as aircraft use increases and infrastructure expands, companies operating in the industry will require reliable, efficient aircraft equipped with advanced communications systems. Meanwhile, passengers will expect a smooth, seamless and uninterrupted travel experience.

Honeywell’s report shows that the industry’s economic opportunities extend beyond aircraft sales. Sectors such as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aircraft management, pilot and technician training, spare parts supply and digital fleet management systems will also benefit from the market’s expansion.

The expansion of in-flight digital connectivity has also become an industry priority, as private jet passengers increasingly expect access to work, communications and online services while flying.

Higher aircraft utilisation will also increase demand for maintenance and technical support services, making aircraft availability a key consideration for operators.

Challenges Facing the Private Jet Industry

Despite the positive growth outlook, the region’s private aviation industry also faces several challenges.

Geopolitical instability and disruptions to national airspace could affect flight routes, operating costs and aircraft availability.

A shortage of pilots, specialist technicians and maintenance facilities could also constrain the industry’s development.

Nearly 10,000 New Business Jet Deliveries Forecast Worldwide

According to Honeywell’s latest forecast, around 9,950 new business jets are expected to be delivered worldwide between 2026 and 2035, a figure 4% higher than the company’s previous forecast.

Around 4,200 turboprop aircraft, which are powered by turbine-driven propeller engines, are also expected to be delivered during the same period.

The report forecasts that the global business aviation fleet will expand by about 29% over the next decade, while total flight hours will rise by 34%.

The expansion of aircraft charter services, increased use of professionally managed aircraft and the growth of fractional ownership models are among the factors expected to drive the projected increase in flight hours.

In the Middle East, the UAE is building on its advanced infrastructure, while Saudi Arabia is implementing wide-ranging aviation expansion plans, with the two countries pursuing different paths to market growth.

According to Honeywell’s outlook, both countries are expected to create new economic opportunities not only for aircraft manufacturers but also for providers of support, maintenance and other services linked to the private jet industry.