The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has opened a new office in Abu Dhabi and a state-of-the-art training centre, underscoring its commitment to the Middle East's burgeoning aviation sector. The facility was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, alongside the first cohort of trainees and IATA representatives.
Located strategically to leverage the UAE's connectivity, the IATA office aims to serve airlines, trainees, strategic partners and governments across the Middle East and beyond. According to Kamil Alawadhi, IATA's Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, the office has seen significant growth, with a 140% increase in staff over the last 18 months. Alawadhi emphasised the importance of the facility in fostering the aviation sector's growth, noting its role as a strategic contributor to the region's social and economic development.
IATA's new training centre addresses the increasing demand for skilled aviation professionals in the global and regional markets. By 2025, it plans to offer over 60 courses spanning critical disciplines, including safety, security, sustainability, airline operations, airport management and cargo logistics. These cutting-edge programmes aim to equip the next generation of industry professionals with the expertise needed to support and enhance the capabilities of the Middle East's aviation sector.
The Abu Dhabi training centre marks a significant step in IATA's efforts to strengthen the aviation value chain and support the sector's sustainable growth in the region and beyond.
