GE Aerospace has announced a significant increase in its aviation footprint in the UAE with a new On Wing Support facility located at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South. Valued at more than $50 million, the project will quadruple the company’s operational space to 120,000 square feet. The expansion supports rising global demand for LEAP engine services and prepares the region for the future entry of the GE9X engine.
Scaling Maintenance and Training Capabilities
The purpose-built facility will enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul capacities while introducing the first dedicated MRO training space in GE’s OWS network. Farah Borges, GE Aerospace Vice President for Assembly, Test and MRO, said the new hub will boost GE’s ability to serve airlines operating LEAP and GE9X engines. Because these engines power major commercial aircraft, the expansion reflects long-term confidence in the region’s aviation growth.
Engines Powering Global and Regional Fleets
The CFM LEAP engine, developed by GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, powers the Airbus A320neo family, Boeing 737 MAX and the COMAC C919. Meanwhile, the GE9X powers the new Boeing 777X, offering higher efficiency and unmatched thrust. Emirates, one of GE Aerospace’s largest partners, relies heavily on GE engines for its Boeing 777 fleet and maintains long-term service agreements that support its global operations.
Growing Network Support Across the Middle East
GE said the new Dubai facility will support more quick-turn maintenance, field services and lease pool operations for engines in the GE, CFM International and Engine Alliance networks. Because 35 percent of LEAP overhaul visits take place across GE’s global distributed network, scaling operations in the Middle East will strengthen parts availability and regional response times. The project will also help reduce inventory pressure while improving service consistency for carriers.
Strengthening Dubai’s Aviation Ecosystem
Tahnoon Saif, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, said GE’s expansion highlights the strategic importance of Dubai as a growing aviation center. Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2025 with completion planned for early 2027. The hub’s location in Dubai South, near the future Al Maktoum International Airport, provides ideal access to land, sea and air transport routes.
Open Fan Technology Makes Regional Debut
In addition to the expansion announcement, GE Aerospace is showcasing the CFM RISE programme’s Open Fan engine design at the Dubai Airshow. The technology, revealed in 2021, aims to deliver more than 20 percent better fuel efficiency compared to current engines. Because the Middle East exposes aircraft to frequent sand and dust, GE has conducted dust ingestion tests to demonstrate the engine’s suitability for harsh regional conditions.
Advancing the Future of Flight
GE said engineers have completed more than 350 tests on the Open Fan platform, which is positioned as a major breakthrough for next-generation propulsion. The technology offers new possibilities for regional carriers seeking higher performance and lower fuel consumption amid increasing sustainability targets. Its debut at the Dubai Airshow signals growing interest among UAE and Middle East airlines.
