Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Sanad, a subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, has announced its initiative to build an Aircraft Engine Repair Centre of Excellence in Al Ain, with an investment of AED480 million ($130 million). This development was showcased during the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event, underscoring Sanad’s global expansion goals.
The new facility is poised to elevate Sanad’s capabilities in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) as demand for these services increases globally. It aims to enhance turnaround times and broaden service capacity while catering to airline operators in various regional and international markets.
With a clientele exceeding 80 global customers, Sanad welcomed 24 new airline partners in 2025 and broadened its service portfolio to accommodate both traditional and next-gen aircraft engines. Anticipated engine inductions are projected to grow significantly, from 230 units in 2025 to over 500 annually by 2035.
The evolving demands within the global MRO sector, influenced by the introduction of newer engine technologies, have intensified the need for quicker and more efficient repair solutions. Sanad recognizes that advanced repair capabilities are pivotal for maintaining a competitive edge in the aviation industry.
In 2025, Sanad successfully inspected over 43,000 engine parts and repaired more than 19,000 components while managing 230 engines spanning five different platforms. Once operational, the new Repair Centre of Excellence is expected to handle an impressive volume of around 65,000 parts annually.
Slated for completion by 2030, this dedicated facility will encompass around 17,600 square meters, integrating repair operations for key engine platforms like Trent 700, V2500, LEAP, GEnx, and GTF engines.
Sanad stated that this specialized facility will facilitate in-house repairs, enhance operational efficiency, and support the company’s long-term growth strategy. Furthermore, it aims to generate additional revenue by providing specialized repair offerings to airlines and other MRO firms.
Upon its completion, Sanad is positioned to become the sole independent MRO provider in the MENA region with comparable repair abilities at this scale.
Additionally, the project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader industrial and aviation ambitions by cultivating a specialized aerospace ecosystem in the Al Ain area. The initiative is expected to create over 350 jobs, emphasizing the development of Emirati talent and contributing to the UAE’s economic diversification objectives.
Mansoor Janahi emphasized the growing importance of repair services in the engine MRO domain, noting that the new facility will help Sanad enhance turnaround times, bolster in-country value, and support its goal of becoming a leading MRO provider worldwide.
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