Dubai South Signs Agreement with Phoenix Aviation for New 35,000-Square-Metre Aircraft Hangar

Dubai South has signed an agreement with Phoenix Aviation to develop a new airside facility at Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH), expanding the emirate’s capacity for specialised aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

The project will establish a centre of excellence for wide-body aircraft MRO, cabin modifications and completion, as well as cargo conversion. It is intended to support growing demand for specialised aviation services across international markets.

The agreement was signed during MRO Europe in the presence of Nabil Alkindi, Group CEO of Dubai South, and Julian Ehrhard, President and CEO of Phoenix Aviation, alongside senior executives from both organisations.

New Aviation Facility to Include 35,000-Square-Metre Hangar

Scheduled for completion in Q1 2029, the development will cover several specialised facilities, including:

• 35,000-square-metre aircraft hangar designed to accommodate three wide-body aircraft.

• 18,000-square-metre delivery centre for aircraft handovers and storage.

• 15,000 square metres of workshops and stores.

• 3,000 square metres of office space.

The hangar will be equipped to accommodate wide-body aircraft, including models such as the Boeing 777X and Airbus A350.

The expansion will increase Phoenix Aviation’s presence at MBRAH to two hangars, alongside its existing A380-compatible MRO hangar.

Phoenix Aviation Expansion to Strengthen Dubai's Aerospace Sector

The new facility is expected to add capacity and specialised services to Dubai South’s aviation ecosystem, supporting airlines operating across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Nabil Alkindi said the agreement advances Dubai South’s mandate to develop an integrated aviation ecosystem that attracts international investment and strengthens Dubai’s position in the global aerospace industry.

He added that Phoenix Aviation’s expansion reflects confidence in Dubai South’s long-term development plans and the offering at Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub. The project also supports the leadership’s vision of positioning Dubai as the aviation capital of the world.

Gilles Negre, Founder and Chairman of Phoenix Aviation, said the expansion is intended to address rising demand for wide-body aircraft services by bringing complementary capabilities together at one location.

He highlighted that the planned facilities will incorporate the latest aircraft technologies, specialised tooling and extensive logistics areas, with a focus on service quality, operational efficiency and reducing aircraft ground time.

The development will also enable Phoenix Aviation to serve a wider range of international airlines while providing space for aircraft manufacturers and specialist service providers.

Dubai South Continues to Develop Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub

Dubai South is a major urban master development focused on aviation, logistics and real estate. Through MBRAH, it aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as an international centre for aerospace and aviation-related services.

Phoenix Aviation’s latest expansion will add infrastructure for wide-body aircraft maintenance and modification, supporting the wider range of services available to international airlines and aviation companies operating through the hub.