Multi-Billion Aircraft Orders at Dubai Show | Dubai Airshow
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – 17 November 2025: The highly anticipated Dubai Airshow opened today at Dubai World Central (DWC), marking the largest edition to date. Running from 17 to 21 November and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the event features 8,000 square meters of newly added exhibition space, allowing industry leaders to gather and shape the future of aerospace, space, and defense.
On the opening day, several significant orders and agreements were announced, signaling robust demand for air travel. Emirates confirmed a substantial commercial order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, featuring GE 9X engines, with a total value of US$ 38 billion. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines has committed to acquiring 11 more 737 MAX jets, which will aid in enhancing both its regional and international networks, particularly through its hub in Addis Ababa.
Boeing has also partnered with TAAG Angola Airlines to extend pilot training programs, focusing on both competency and data-driven scenarios suitable for new student pilots as well as seasoned professionals. Meanwhile, Embraer inked an agreement with Airlink to support its new fleet of 10 Azorra leased E195-E2 jets.
Airbus Helicopters welcomed a new operator for the Airbus H160, with Bristow Group set to incorporate up to five H160s into its fleet for offshore energy missions across Africa.
In other notable news, the UAE’s Tawazun Council announced eight contracts amounting to AED 3.766 billion, with partners including Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), GAL, International Golden Group (IGG), Maximus Air, and Abu Dhabi Shipping Agency LLC (ADSA).
Flydubai has placed a new order for 60 GEnx-1B engines from GE Aerospace, which will support its fleet of 30 Boeing 787-9 aircraft. This agreement includes provisions for spare engines as well as a long-term service package tailored for the airline’s long-haul operational needs.
“Dubai Airshow 2025 opened with an electrifying start, showcasing the remarkable growth and cutting-edge innovation driving the aerospace industry forward. This year’s edition is our most ambitious yet, offering a global platform for next-generation technologies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and advanced mobility. Day one delivered major orders, and we expect even more transformative announcements in the coming days as industry leaders gather in Dubai to shape the future of aerospace.”
— Tim Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) has taken center stage at the show, with the AAM Pavilion providing attendees the opportunity to explore electric aircraft and the future of urban transportation. The first-ever electric vertical take-off was showcased by Joby Aviation during an impressive eVTOL flying display. Furthermore, this year’s edition features the largest Space Pavilion in the history of the event, created in partnership with the UAE Space Agency. A two-day Space Conference will run alongside, featuring over 50 global experts, astronauts, and industry leaders to highlight innovative technologies and future exploration missions.
With more than 1,500 exhibitors on site, including 440 new entrants and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries, the Dubai Airshow encompasses 21 country pavilions, including a debut from Morocco, along with 98 chalets, 120 startups, and 50 investors. The Future is indeed here at the Dubai Airshow, where the industry’s foremost leaders converge to define the next steps for aerospace and beyond. More milestone deals and announcements can be expected in the upcoming days.
