Abu Dhabi : Sanad, a global leader in aerospace engineering and leasing solutions wholly owned by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company PJSC (Mubadala), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GE Aerospace, a world-leading provider of jet engines, components and systems for commercial and military aircraft, at the “Make it in the Emirates Forum” held in Abu Dhabi. The agreement builds on a longstanding partnership established in 2013, with a new focus on advancing human capital through immersive training, innovation-driven programs, and structured knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Amid a projected surge in global demand for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) professionals, with the sector expected to reach $169 billion by 2037*, this partnership aims to strengthen the UAE’s talent pipeline and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s role as a global aerospace hub. Through a suite of targeted programs, Sanad and GE Aerospace will deliver a powerful blend of technical training, job-placement opportunities, and digital learning to prepare the next generation of aerospace professionals. The collaboration also aims to boost talent retention, elevate technical knowledge and experience, and align workforce capabilities with the evolving demands of the global aerospace industry.
Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Sanad, said: "At Sanad, human capital is our most valuable asset. Our partnership with GE Aerospace enables us to combine Sanad’s industry insight with GE’s world-renowned training capabilities. Together, we are cultivating a workforce that is future-ready and well-equipped to drive innovation and excellence in aerospace, while advancing Abu Dhabi’s leading position in the global aviation industry."
Dave Kircher, GEnx Product Line General Manager at GE Aerospace added: "We are proud to work with Sanad in shaping the future of aerospace talent in the UAE. As a committed partner in the UAE’s aviation ecosystem for more than four decades, this MoU reflects our shared continued commitment to knowledge exchange, innovation, and building the next generation of aviation professionals."
Key Initiatives Under the MoU Include:
• Training Collaboration: Shared access to select training materials, joint participation in technical programs, and knowledge sharing through dedicated sessions in Learning Management System (LMS), & apprenticeship programs
• Innovation Partnership: Integration of emerging technologies like AI, analytics, advanced tools on Engine hardware, engine familiarization courses, enabling blended theoretical and hands-on training
• Shop process Improvements: Implement LEAN Kaizen principles to drive process improvements, eliminate waste, and enhance shop efficiency
Building on a Decade-Long Strategic Partnership
This MoU builds on a longstanding partnership between Sanad and GE Aerospace, which began in 2013 when Sanad became the first independent GE Aerospace repair center for GEnx engines. This marks a milestone in a trusted, performance-driven relationship. Today, Sanad remains the only GEnx overhaul provider in the Middle East, operating under a long-term agreement through 2034. Over the past five years, Sanad has completed more than 250 engine inductions, and this new agreement represents a significant milestone, highlighting the strength of the partnership and Sanad’s proven track record in delivering world-class MRO services. The collaboration reflects both organizations' shared commitment to operational excellence, technical innovation, and sustained regional growth.
Building a Talent-Driven Aerospace Ecosystem
This partnership builds on Sanad’s broader talent development strategy, which includes flagship initiatives such as the “Train for Work Program” for Emirati graduates and the “Sanad Future Leaders Program” developed in collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. In 2024 alone, Sanad delivered more than 3,100 training hours, reflecting its commitment to workforce upskilling and national development.
Strategic Alignment with Abu Dhabi’s Vision
By fostering international collaboration and embedding advanced technology into training and skills development, Sanad and GE Aerospace are contributing to the UAE’s economic diversification goals and supporting Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global center for aerospace excellence. This MoU underscores Sanad’s commitment to empowering talent and localizing high-value capabilities under the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative.
