Sheikh Hamdan names Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed the Dubai-it Award recipient for transforming Dubai’s aviation sector and driving its global growth
DUBAI: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has announced Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as the recipient of the Dubai-it Award. The recognition celebrates his leadership in transforming Dubai into one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.
The announcement, made on October 28, 2026, highlights Sheikh Ahmed’s contributions to developing Dubai’s integrated aviation ecosystem, including Emirates, flydubai and Dubai Airports.
Dubai’s Aviation Sector Sees Record Growth
Under Sheikh Ahmed’s leadership, Emirates has expanded its fleet nearly 139-fold and its destination network 76-fold. Flydubai has also significantly increased its international operations, strengthening Dubai’s connections with global markets.
Dubai International Airport welcomed a record 95.2 million passengers in 2025, reinforcing its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic.
The airport now connects Dubai to 291 destinations through 108 international airlines. Meanwhile, the emirate’s integrated aviation sector generates an estimated economic impact exceeding AED 400 billion.
Sheikh Hamdan praised this transformation, highlighting Dubai’s journey from a sandy runway and two leased aircraft to a global aviation powerhouse.
Dubai-it Award Recognises Exceptional Leadership
The Dubai-it Award celebrates individuals and organisations that turn ambitious ideas into achievements through innovation, efficiency and excellence. Sheikh Ahmed expressed gratitude to Dubai’s leadership and acknowledged the contributions of aviation professionals and partners.
He emphasised that Dubai’s aviation achievements reflect decades of teamwork and continued investment in infrastructure, connectivity and service excellence. The annual award forms part of the Dubai-it initiative launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to promote achievement and institutional excellence.
Impact to Expect
The recognition highlights aviation’s importance to Dubai’s long-term economic development. Continued investment in airlines, airports and supporting infrastructure could strengthen international connectivity, attract businesses and support tourism growth. It also reinforces Dubai’s ambition to remain a leading global aviation and logistics hub.
