French MRO Leaders Drive Smart Aviation Maintenance in Middle East

Dubai, UAE – January 30, 2026 –

At the upcoming AIME/MRO Middle East exhibition on February 4–5, 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the French Pavilion, operating under the French Fab brand, will feature 21 top French aerospace companies. These industry leaders will present advanced, low-impact maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) solutions tailored to meet the Middle East’s fast-growing aviation sector.

Middle East Aviation Growth Fuels MRO Demand

The Middle East continues to experience rapid expansion in aviation, driving strong demand for modern and efficient MRO capabilities. Regional MRO spending is projected to reach $16 billion by 2025 and exceed $20 billion by 2035. The commercial aircraft fleet is expected to grow at an annual rate of 5.1%, reaching approximately 2,600 aircraft and representing nearly 6.7% of the global fleet.

This growth, supported by ambitious national aviation strategies in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is increasing the need for predictive maintenance technologies, faster turnaround times (TAT), reliable access to components, and lower-carbon operational practices.

In line with these trends, Etihad Engineering recently launched its strategic “Al Massar” program, aiming to double revenue by 2030 through major hangar expansions in Abu Dhabi and enhanced technical capabilities.

Strengthening France–Middle East Aerospace Partnerships

French aerospace companies are deeply embedded in the region’s aviation ecosystem through major partnerships and projects. Key collaborations include:

• EPCOR, part of AFI KLM Engineering & Maintenance, signing a long-term maintenance agreement with Riyadh Air for APS5000 auxiliary power units (APUs) on Boeing 787 aircraft.

• Safran Test Cells (Safran Aero Boosters) securing a contract from Sanad (Mubadala) to design and construct an engine test cell at Sanad’s new GTF MRO Center in Al Ain.

• Satys Aerospace and ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East opening a dedicated aircraft painting facility at Dubai South.

• Thales, Emirates, and Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans) jointly developing an AI-based air traffic management system that reduces holding patterns by up to 40%, lowers fuel consumption, and improves punctuality.

Axel Baroux, Managing Director of Business France Middle East, highlighted France’s strong position in the sector, stating that French companies combine global aerospace expertise with local integration to deliver operational excellence, faster maintenance turnaround, and greener aviation solutions across the region.

Comprehensive Solutions Across the Aircraft Lifecycle

The French delegation will showcase capabilities across the entire aircraft lifecycle, including maintenance, interiors, digitalization, tooling, and logistics.

• REVIMA, Domusa, AMC Aviation, Tarmac Aerosave, EOLE Aero, and Air Châteaudun will present advanced component MRO and lifecycle services.

• ImaginAir, BT2i Group, SELA, and Latécoère will highlight innovative cabin interiors and passenger experience enhancements.

• ABC, Techman Head, TEI, Usimat Sermees, and Manitou will showcase critical tooling, testing systems, and ground support equipment.

• Aquarese Industries and GMI Aero will focus on surface treatment and composite repair technologies.

• AirInt Services and SkinPack Solutions will demonstrate digital twin platforms, cabin maintenance software, and optimized parts kitting.

• Prodex Aerospace Solutions will emphasize aerospace logistics and rapid AOG (Aircraft on Ground) response services.

Invitation to Industry Stakeholders

Visitors are invited to explore the French Pavilion at the Sheikh Saeed Halls, Dubai World Trade Centre, on February 4–5, 2026. Attendees can meet industry experts, watch live technology demonstrations, and discuss partnership opportunities.

Additional information about the French delegation is available on the Business France event website.