Emirates Airline has appointed Orhan Abbas as its new senior vice president for its commercial operations in the Far East.

Abbas was formerly senior vice president of Emirates commercial operations in Africa.  In his new role, he will lead growth efforts in Southeast and East Asia, spanning 13 regions across East Asia and Southeast Asia — including Hong Kong, China, Japan, and Singapore.

“The potential for growth within the Far East region looks very promising, a fact underpinned by the growing disposable income and a middle-class population ... we recognise the prospects this part of the world presents and I look forward to broadening our business and expanding our commercial footprint in these markets,” Abbas said.

Abbas first joined Emirates Airlines as a management trainee in 1998. His 21 years with the Dubai-based airline allowed him to hold various positions in Tanzania, Iran, South Africa, the Middle East, India and Nepal before eventually becoming senior vice president for the Americas.