The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has opened an expanded office in Abu Dhabi, which includes a new training centre.

The trade association of the world's airlines said this demonstrates IATA's commitment to supporting the Middle East's growing aviation sector and fostering the next generation of industry professionals.

"The expansion of IATA's presence in the UAE with a new training centre reinforces the country's position as a global aviation hub," said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) General Civil Aviation Authority.

"Having a key international organization like IATA expand its footprint here also demonstrates the attractiveness of Abu Dhabi and its value proposition as a preferred destination for global organizations," he added.

IATA noted that its Abu Dhabi office will provide services to airlines, trainees, strategic partners and governments in the Middle East and beyond, taking advantage of the UAE's strategic location and connectivity.

"We are proud to expand our presence in the UAE, with our office in Abu Dhabi. Over the past 18 months, our team in Abu Dhabi has grown by 140%," said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA's regional vice president for Africa and the Middle East.

"By expanding our physical presence in this global aviation hub, we will be able to support our airline members, trainees from across the aviation value chain and the industry's many stakeholders more efficiently."

"Our aim is to facilitate the further successful growth of the region's aviation sector, which is a strategic contributor to the region's social and economic development," Alawadhi added.

IATA noted that as the global aviation sector expands, there is a growing need for highly skilled aviation professionals.

It said that IATA's new training centre in Abu Dhabi is strategically positioned to help meet this demand by offering cutting-edge training programs across a wide range of aviation disciplines, supporting the development of industry professionals and strengthening the sector's capabilities in the Middle East and beyond. 

In 2025, the centre will offer over 60 courses covering key areas such as safety, security, sustainability, airline operations, airport management and operations and cargo management.