Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
At the Dubai Airshow 2025, Sanad, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions leader wholly owned by Abu Dhabi's sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), is showcasing how strategic expansion, domestic talent and state-of-the-art technology are shaping the future of aviation both domestically and globally.
Speaking to Aletihad, Ebraheem Budebs, Group Head of Human Resources at Sanad, said that the exhibition comes at an important phase of the company's growth: The expansion of its operations to Al Ain and the continued growth of its partnerships with global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and regional airlines.
"The Dubai Airshow is more than an exhibition for Sanad, it is a global stage where the UAE's aerospace ambitions and achievements are brought to life. For us, it is an opportunity to showcase how a homegrown company, founded in Abu Dhabi nearly four decades ago, has evolved into an international leader in engine MRO, strategic partnerships, and human capital development," Budebs said.
He noted that the company is showcasing major developments that reflect both Sanad's operational growth and commitment to future-ready capabilities.
"A key focus is the advancement of our new GTF Engine MRO Center in Al Ain, a facility that will position the UAE among the world's leading hubs for next-generation engine maintenance when it opens in 2028. This represents a major step in elevating the country's role within the global aviation value chain," he said.
According to Budebs, Sanad is placing talent as the primary force of its strategic transformation, with its workforce growing by 20% over the past year, with over 130 new hires joining the company. Emiratisation is also making steady progress, with Emirati nationals now comprising 32% of the workforce, a 19% increase from 2023.
"The Airshow is a powerful platform to demonstrate how Emirati and global talent are shaping the future of aerospace from the UAE."
In this regard, he highlighted the Sanad Future Leaders Program with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, one of the world's most respected universities specialising in aviation and aerospace. The programme aims to mould the next generation of national leaders in driving sustainable growth and innovation in the sector
"For me personally, Dubai Airshow 2025 is a celebration for our people," he said.
"Our message is clear: Sanad is not only contributing to the UAE's aerospace ecosystem, we are helping lead its transformation by placing talent at the centre of everything we do."
