dnata has committed AED 175 million to new ground support equipment (GSE) in the UAE since the beginning of 2026. The investment will strengthen its ground-handling operations as Dubai prepares for further growth in air traffic and airport infrastructure. The program covers more than 340 new assets, including equipment for fleet renewal, enhanced safety and additional aircraft pushback and towing capacity.
The company currently operates around 2,800 motorized ground support equipment assets across Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The investment aims to improve equipment availability, strengthen operational resilience and support efficient aircraft turnaround times.
Safety forms a central part of the investment program. dnata is introducing aircraft loaders with features designed to make working at height safer for ground-handling teams. It is also deploying AI-enabled detection cameras beneath loading platforms to improve visibility in areas that operators may find difficult to monitor.
These upgrades are intended to give employees better visibility and control while supporting safer ramp operations.
dnata is exploring automated aircraft docking systems and 3D printing to manufacture selected ground support equipment components. These technologies could improve equipment maintenance, simplify operations and help keep assets available for service.
The company plans to showcase selected technologies at Airport Show 2026, which runs from October 12 to 14 in Dubai. The company operates approximately 4,700 motorized ground support equipment assets globally and provides ground-handling and cargo services at 86 airports.
During the 2025-26 financial year, dnata handled more than 888,000 aircraft turns and processed 3.2 million tons of cargo across its global network. Dubai’s airport expansion plans add further significance to the investment.
Also Read: What's the Lifespan of the Latest Smartphone Batteries? Here's What You Should Know