Aziz Koleilat

What has really driven the Gulf is the clarity of ambition. Over the past three decades, countries across the region have made long-term choices about where they want to go – and they’ve been willing to invest and partner with businesses to get there. Having worked here for nearly that long, I’ve seen the progress up close. The focus on infrastructure, technology, and developing people has transformed the Gulf into a major global hub between East and West.

Aviation is one of the clearest examples of that progress. It’s not just about moving people from one place to another. It plays a central role in enabling trade, tourism, and investment, and in creating broader economic opportunity. Across the region, we’ve seen the rise of leading airlines and airports, as well as growing capabilities in MRO, engineering, and technology.

What’s most exciting is that this is still only building momentum. Continued investment in infrastructure, talent, and local industry is strengthening the Middle East’s position as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. We’re proud to have grown alongside our customers and partners here, and we’re committed to supporting what comes next.

The greatest opportunity is for the Gulf to build on the progress of the past three decades and become a global hub for advanced industries, technology, and innovation. The region already has the right foundation: ambitious national visions, world-class infrastructure, strong investment, and a clear appetite for forward thinking.

Aviation is a strong example. It will continue to be a driver of connectivity and economic growth, but it also has the potential to accelerate wider progress in engineering, technology, manufacturing, and services. At the same time, technologies like AI and advanced analytics are opening new possibilities for productivity, smarter decision-making, and higher-value jobs across industries.

The greatest challenge and, equally the biggest opportunity, is ensuring talent keeps pace with technology. This will require continued investment in STEM education, local capability building, and strong collaboration between government, academia, and industry.

Looking ahead, I believe the next 30 years hold even greater potential. The Gulf has consistently demonstrated its ability to think boldly, invest for the long term, and turn ambition into action. I’m confident that spirit will continue to strengthen the region’s position as a global hub for innovation, investment, and advanced industries.

I look forward to seeing Gulf Business continue to tell that story, and I wish the entire team every success in the years ahead.