Shell to strengthen presence in Middle Eastern aviation industry

The move will see the company, which is one of the region's largest suppliers of fuels, lubricants, services and bitumen for the aviation industry, look to tap into some of the new airport infrastructure projects planned for the region.

"The Middle Eastern aviation industry is currently witnessing major transformation, as many new projects and upgrades are planned to cater to airline expansions, tourist arrivals and competition among regional aviation authorities. Our products received a lot of industry interest at the recent Airport build, and we look forward to consolidating our position as a major player in the fastest growing aviation market in the world," said Patrick Romeo, General Manager for Shell's Aviation Division in the Middle East, Africa, and South and Central Asia.

Shell exhibited various products during the three day event, including aviation fuels, Aeroshell lubricants, the Shell water detector, and the Astranova solution - a delivery data capture and management system.

This year's event witnessed an increase in exhibition space of more than 40 per cent from last year, showcasing an industry characterised by new airports, new terminals, concourses and runways, and the modernisation of existing facilities.

Organised under the patronage of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, the Airport build is the region's leading showcase for airport equipment, technology and services, and is a dedicated commercial forum for buyers, vendors, consultants and systems integrators from airports, airlines and ground service companies.

Dubai is the aviation hub of the Middle East, with infrastructure projects planned for the emirate in excess of AED 290 billion. In the first quarter of 2007, the passenger thoroughfare at the Dubai International Airport crossed the eight million mark for the first time.

As the Royal Dutch Shell Group gears up for its 100th anniversary celebrations, the company which has been present in the UAE for 50 years, is firmly committed to complement the phenomenal development of the aviation business in the region for many decades to come.