The UAE’s two flag carriers, Emirates Group and Etihad Airways, are making seismic moves in recruitment, powering massive growth, innovation, and economic heft across the region and beyond.

Emirates’ one big vision involves 17,300 new roles across 150 cities

In a global recruitment blitz, Emirates Group has launched what may be one of the world’s largest aviation hiring campaigns. More than 17,300 vacancies spanning 350 roles including cabin crew, pilots, engineers, IT, HR, finance, and more are currently waiting to be filled. Its sister brand, dnata, alone plans to recruit over 4,000 staff in ground handling, catering, and cargo.

A strategic thrust aligned with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, this move aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033. Just over 2,100 open days will be held across 150 cities, with targeted events in Dubai to draw Emirati graduates and students.

“We’re looking for world‑class talent to help us redefine the future of aviation and continue our culture of excellence.” – Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Chairman & CEO

Since 2022, Emirates has welcomed 41,000 new professionals, swelling its workforce to 121,000 globally. With perks like tax‑free salaries, profit sharing, travel benefits, and robust training programmes, the airline remains one of the most coveted aviation employers worldwide.

Etihad Airways on Emirati talent, AI Innovation and stepping up when it counts

Meanwhile, Etihad Airways is also boldly expanding its horizons, aiming to double its workforce from 12,000 to 24,000 by 2030 to support its growing fleet and international route map. A cornerstone of this strategy is the airline’s UAE National Talent Development Strategy, which aims to increase Emirati representation by over 50% in the next five years.

At the recent KHUTWATY 2025 career fair, hundreds of UAE Nationals explored career pathways in cadet pilot, engineering, and airport management roles. To manage the sheer volume of interest of up to 30,000 applicants for a single cabin crew intake, the carrier has embraced AI-powered recruitment, using tools like video interviews, automated scheduling, and chatbots to create a seamless hiring experience.

“This is about creating an environment where ambition is recognised, nurtured, and elevated… giving flight to ambition, enabling Emiratis to transform their potential into meaningful impact.” – Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People & Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad

Etihad’s surge in recruitment is also timely, as Wizz Air prepares to suspend all Abu Dhabi operations from 1 September 2025, affecting around 450 local employees. While Wizz has offered redeployment within its European network, Etihad has stepped up, extending job offers to impacted staff within its own expanding operations. With seven new routes launching from Abu Dhabi across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Eastern Europe, the airline is no doubt primed for growth and in need of more skilled aviation professionals.

What can we expect from this growth catalyst?

Essentially it’s a win-win-win scenario for the airlines, employees, and economy:

• Economic drive: The recruitment and network expansions by Emirates and Etihad will no doubt accelerate the UAE’s D33 economic plan, creating thousands more jobs, while strengthening tourism and global connectivity.

• Talent magnet: Tax‑free pay, training, region‑leading facilities, and clear progression make the UAE aviation sector extremely appealing.

• Tech-forward hiring: Both carriers are pioneering AI, virtual onboarding, and candidate-centred recruitment practices, setting new industry standards.

• Strategic realignment: Wizz Air’s exit and Etihad’s rise demonstrate adaptability turning transitions into opportunities, cementing Abu Dhabi’s vision and leadership as a hub.

Interested applicants can head to their airlines’ recruitment pages for more information, and for anyone looking to join the elite Emirates cabin crew, this is a must-read: How to become a cabin crew for Emirates — the ultimate 2025 guide.