Dubai World Central (DWC), the region’s first aerotropolis, has signed a MoU with the Middle East Business Aviation Association (Mebaa), a non-profit organisation that aims to develop and promote business jet and general aviation sector in the region.

Under the terms of the agreement, DWC will host and facilitate Mebaa’s operations at DWC premises. Additionally, DWC will become an honorary member of Mebaa.

DWC and Mebaa will also jointly undertake initiatives to promote the regional business jet and general aviation industry, said Rashed Buqara'a, chief operating officer, DWC and Ali Al Naqbi, founding chairman Mebaa after signing the deal at the recent Middle East Business Aviation show in Dubai.

The 140 sq km Dubai World Central is part of the Dubai Government's overall 2015 strategy to enhance the emirate's transport and logistics services and capitalise on its geographical location to make Dubai a regional hub for logistics, Buqara'a stated.

Over 30 leading international companies have already committed to establish a base in DWC, with growing interest from a number of multinational companies, he added.

“Dubai World Central and Mebaa share a common objective of promoting the rapidly growing regional aviation sector,” remarked Buqara'a.

“Both organisations play a significant role in developing the industry here in the Gulf and across the world. We are confident that the partnership will create more opportunities for industry participants active in the region to benefit from the incredible growth opportunities at DWC and in the wider Middle East region,” he added.

DWC is mega-urban development designed around Al Maktoum International Airport, which on completion will become the largest airport in the world.

Located within the epicentre of regional trade hubs, DWC is creating the region’s first aerotropolis providing multimodal transport, global connectivity and operational predictability in a fast-cycle business environment.

Ali Al Naqbi said, 'Our vision is to be the principle forum for gathering, understanding and communicating the needs and benefits of business aviation within the Middle East.'

'Being based within the region’s first aerotropolis will provide immense benefits to members of Mebaa, offering them easy access to industry. We are therefore delighted to sign this partnership agreement with Dubai World Central,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service