GE Aerospace has announced a significant expansion of its operations in the UAE with a new On Wing Support facility at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South. Valued at over $50 million, the investment will quadruple GE’s presence in the area, increasing its footprint to 120,000 square feet. The development comes ahead of the 2025 Dubai Airshow, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global aviation centre.
Strengthening Engine Service Capabilities
Farah Borges, Vice President for Assembly, Test and MRO at GE Aerospace, said the new facility will support growing demand for LEAP engine servicing. It will also prepare the company for the GE9X engine’s entry into global fleets. Because these engines power major commercial aircraft, the expansion ensures quicker maintenance, stronger technical support and wider service capabilities for regional airlines.
Advanced Training and Technology Development
The purpose-built facility introduces GE Aerospace’s first dedicated MRO training space within its global On Wing Support network. It will support the expanding CFM LEAP fleet and provide capabilities for the next-generation GE9X engine. The site will also host advanced technology development programs designed to enhance efficiency and support innovation across the aviation ecosystem.
Engines Powering Global Fleets
The CFM LEAP engine powers leading narrowbody aircraft, including the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX and the COMAC C919. Meanwhile, the GE9X engine is built exclusively for the Boeing 777X and is recognised as the most powerful commercial jet engine ever produced. Because it offers at least ten percent better fuel efficiency than its predecessor, the GE9X is expected to transform long-haul aviation.
Strong Partnerships with UAE Airlines
Emirates, Dubai’s flagship airline, relies heavily on GE engines for its Boeing 777 operations and maintains multi-million-dollar service agreements with the company. GE also supports maintenance, overhaul and parts solutions for several UAE carriers. These partnerships highlight the region’s importance to GE’s global aftermarket strategy.
Scaling Global Overhaul Capacity
More than 35 percent of LEAP overhaul visits are currently processed through GE’s distributed network. The new Dubai facility will support quick turn services, lease pool operations and field work across GE, CFM International and Engine Alliance engines. Because the Middle East continues to expand its aviation infrastructure, GE’s capabilities are expected to play a central role in meeting regional demand.
Support from Dubai South Leadership
Tahnoon Saif, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, said the expansion reflects strong confidence in Dubai South as a key aviation enabler. He noted that the development aligns with the region’s long-term ambition to scale aviation growth and reinforce Dubai’s reputation as a global hub. Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2025 and finish in the first quarter of 2027.
Open Fan Technology Debuts in the Middle East
GE Aerospace also confirmed that the CFM RISE programme’s Open Fan engine design will make its Middle East debut at the Dubai Airshow. The concept aims to deliver over 20 percent better fuel efficiency than current engines. With more than 2,000 engineers contributing to its development, the platform represents a major shift in future propulsion technology.
Designed for Harsh Desert Conditions
Because Middle Eastern carriers operate in regions with frequent airborne sand and dust, GE has conducted targeted dust ingestion tests using specialised particle blends. These tests demonstrate the engine’s resilience under the region’s demanding environmental conditions. GE said the technology is designed to meet real-world operational challenges and enhance long-term performance.
