Bombardier Accelerates Middle East Expansion with New Abu Dhabi Service Hub

Bombardier has officially confirmed that construction is accelerating on its new service center at Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI) in Abu Dhabi. According to a company press release, the facility is on track to open in the second half of 2026, marking a significant expansion of the manufacturers aftermarket footprint in the Middle-East.

The project represents a strategic pivot for the Canadian OEM, which has chosen the region’s only dedicated business aviation airport for its new hub. Once operational, the facility will aim to provide a “one-stop shop” for customers in the Middle East, eliminating the need for long-haul maintenance flights to Europe or North America.

Project Scope and Timeline

The new Abu Dhabi Service Centre will cover approximately 120,000 square feet (11,000 square meters), featuring a 55,000-square-foot hangar capable of accommodating the largest aircraft in Bombardier’s portfolio. The company states that the structural framework is currently rising, with the facility designed to support the entry-into-service of the flagship Global 8000 aircraft.

In its official statement, Bombardier highlighted the economic impact of the project, noting that it expects to create nearly 100 highly skilled aerospace jobs in the community. Paul Sislian, Executive Vice President of Bombardier Aftermarket Services and Strategy, emphasized the company’s long-term view of the region:

“Seeing this flagship facility take shape is a powerful symbol of Bombardier’s commitment to delivering world-class maintenance capabilities in the Middle East… This new service centre stands as a powerful testament to that commitment.”

Strategic Location: Why Al Bateen?

A key differentiator for this facility is its location. While original plans considered Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), Bombardier has solidified its presence at Al Bateen Executive Airport. As the first dedicated business aviation airport in the Middle East and North Africa, Al Bateen offers exclusivity and efficiency that commercial hubs often lack.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, noted the alignment between the manufacturer and the venue:

“This move represents a strategic alignment, given the airport’s dedicated focus on business aviation and its ability to provide a seamless and efficient experience for Bombardier’s clientele.”

The location places the service center just minutes from Abu Dhabi’s central business and government districts, offering a convenience advantage over the larger, more distant commercial airports in the region.

Operational Capabilities

The facility is designed to handle the full spectrum of maintenance needs for the Learjet, Challenger, and Global aircraft families. According to the press release and project details, services will include:

• Scheduled and unscheduled heavy maintenance.
• Aircraft modifications and paint capabilities.
• Aircraft on Ground (AOG) rapid response support.
• A dedicated parts depot to ensure faster turnaround times.

This comprehensive approach is intended to support the more than 150 Bombardier aircraft currently based in the Middle East.

AirPro News Analysis: The Competitive Landscape

We observe that Bombardier’s choice of Al Bateen (AZI) serves as a distinct counter-strategy to its primary competitors. Major rivals such as Dassault Falcon and Gulfstream have established significant footprints at Al Maktoum International (DWC) in Dubai. By anchoring its heavy maintenance capabilities in Abu Dhabi’s exclusive executive airport, Bombardier appears to be betting on the premium experience of a smaller, dedicated hub over the massive scale of DWC.

Furthermore, the timing of the opening in late 2026 aligns with the broader industry push for ultra-long-range travel. With the Middle East business aviation market valued at approximately $1.4 billion in 2025, securing a local heavy maintenance base is critical for capturing the lifecycle value of the region’s growing fleet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new facility open?
Bombardier targets the second half of 2026 for the facility’s opening.

What aircraft will be serviced there?
The center will service the entire Bombardier fleet, including Learjet, Challenger, and Global aircraft, specifically the Global 7500 and the upcoming Global 8000.

How does this differ from Bombardier’s Dubai presence?
Bombardier maintains a Line Maintenance Station in Dubai for quick repairs and AOG support. The new Abu Dhabi facility will be a heavy maintenance hub capable of major inspections, structural repairs, and modifications.

Sources

• Bombardier