IATA expands UAE presence

Abu Dhabi office includes new training centre

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has opened an office in Abu Dhabi with a new training centre.

As the global aviation sector expands, there's a growing need for highly skilled aviation professionals. IATA’s new training centre in Abu Dhabi is strategically positioned to help meet this demand by offering training programmes across a wide range of aviation disciplines.

In 2025, the centre will offer more than 60 courses, covering key areas such as safety, security, sustainability, airline operations, airport management and operations and cargo management.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, officially opened the facility, joined by the first cohort of trainees and IATA representatives.

“The expansion of IATA’s presence in the UAE with a new training centre reinforces the country’s position as a global aviation hub,” said Al Suwaidi.

“Having a key international organisation like IATA expand its footprint here also demonstrates the attractiveness of Abu Dhabi and its value proposition as a preferred destination for global organisations.”

Taking advantage of the UAE’s strategic location and connectivity, IATA’s Abu Dhabi office will provide services to airlines, trainees, strategic partners and governments in the Middle East and beyond.  

Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, said: "We are proud to expand our presence in the UAE. Over the past 18 months our team in Abu Dhabi has grown by 140%."

“By expanding our physical presence in this global aviation hub, we will be able to support our airline members, trainees from across the aviation value chain and the industry’s many stakeholders more efficiently.

“Our aim is to facilitate the further successful growth of the region’s aviation sector, which is a strategic contributor to the its social and economic development.”