Sanad Unveils $130M Aircraft Engine Repair Facility in Al Ain

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Sanad, an entity of Mubadala Investment Company, has unveiled its plans to set up a cutting-edge Aircraft Engine Repair Centre of Excellence in Al Ain, backed by an investment of AED480 million ($130 million). This initiative was disclosed at the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event, representing a significant milestone in Sanad's strategy for international growth.

The forthcoming facility is designed to bolster Sanad’s aircraft engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, responding to the soaring global demand for engine repair services. The aim is to enhance repair turnaround times, broaden service capacities, and provide robust support to regional and international airline operators.

Serving over 80 customers globally, Sanad added 24 airline clients in 2025, enlarging its skill set across both traditional and next-generation aircraft engines. Engine induction rates are projected to rise dramatically from 230 in 2025 to more than 500 annually by 2035.

The MRO landscape is evolving rapidly with the introduction of newer engine technologies, prompting airlines to seek quicker and more efficient repair options. Sanad asserts that enhancing its repair capabilities is integral to securing a competitive edge in the aviation market.

In 2025, Sanad examined over 43,000 engine parts and repaired over 19,000 components while managing support for 230 engines across five engine platforms. The new Repair Centre of Excellence is anticipated to boost repair output to approximately 65,000 parts per year once it becomes operational.

Spanning around 17,600 square meters, the facility is slated for completion by 2030. It will consolidate repair operations for major engine platforms such as Trent 700, V2500, LEAP, GEnx, and GTF engines into a cohesive system.

Sanad emphasized that the dedicated facility will enhance in-house repairs, elevate operational efficiency, and foster long-term growth. Additionally, it aims to create additional revenue by offering specialized repair services to airlines and other MRO entities.

Upon its completion, Sanad will emerge as the only independent MRO service provider in the MENA region capable of delivering repair services of this magnitude.

This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's broader industrial and aviation targets, nurturing the development of a dedicated aerospace ecosystem in Al Ain. The project is expected to generate over 350 job opportunities, emphasizing the development of Emirati talent and supporting UAE's economic diversification objectives.

Mansoor Janahi noted that repairs are a critical aspect of engine MRO, expressing confidence that the new facility will enhance turnaround times, increase in-country value, and propel Sanad toward its goal of becoming a premier global MRO provider.

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