Etihad at Make it in the Emirates 2026 | News
Etihad Airways will showcase its role as one of the UAE’s largest global exporters of services and a key driver of national economic growth at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026, the country’s largest industrial trading platform, taking place from May 4 to 7 at the ADNEC Center Abu Dhabi.
Etihad generates over AED 29 billion in revenue annually through the export of aviation and logistics services to global markets, directly contributing to the UAE’s economy. Through its broader role in tourism, trade and connectivity, the airline drives more than AED 130 billion in economic activity in the UAE.
With more than 13,000 UAE-based employees, Etihad creates high-quality jobs across operational, technical, freight and corporate functions, which are a crucial part of the country’s service economy.
At MIITE, Etihad’s stand will highlight how its global network connects Abu Dhabi to international markets, enabling trade, tourism and investment flows. The airline has more than doubled seat capacity in Abu Dhabi over the past four years, from 6.4 million to 13.4 million seats, bringing more visitors to the UAE and supporting increased tourism and economic activity.
Etihad Cargo features prominently, showcasing how the airline facilitates the movement of goods from the UAE to global markets. In 2025, Etihad Cargo handled more than AED 120 billion worth of goods, connecting Abu Dhabi’s industrial base to international supply chains and supporting sectors including pharmaceuticals, technology and perishables.
The exhibition also highlights Etihad’s role in strengthening the UAE’s industrial ecosystem through its supply chain. In 2025, the airline sent AED8.3 billion to suppliers under the UAE’s In-Country Value (ICV) programme, involving more than 1,200 UAE companies, including SMEs, women-owned enterprises and People of Determination-owned businesses. Through its global procurement and partnerships, Etihad has also enabled more than AED 100 million in foreign direct investment into the UAE, supporting local capability development and industrial growth.
On May 5, Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer of Etihad Airways, will participate in the conference panel ‘Building a Globally Competitive Emirati Talent Pipeline’, discussing aviation’s role in developing national talent and supporting Emiratization priorities.
His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad is one of the UAE’s largest global exporters of services, providing aviation and logistics to markets around the world, generating real economic value here in the UAE – from jobs and investment to trade and tourism.
“Make it in the Emirates is the right platform to demonstrate that impact, and how our continued growth is creating new opportunities for businesses, industries and talent across the country.”
Etihad’s stand at MIITE 2026 is located in C6-115 at the ADNEC Center Abu Dhabi and will be open throughout the four-day event.
