Manama: Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator of Bahrain International Airport, and DHL Express have signed a Letter of Intent to establish an aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in the western apron of Bahrain International Airport. The signing occurred during the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum 2025, held from November 2-3.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Letter of Intent was signed in the presence of Dr. Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, and Khalid Hussain Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group, by Ahmed Janahi, Acting CEO of Bahrain Airport Company, and Abdulaziz Busbate, CEO of DHL Express for the Middle East and North Africa. Under the agreement, Bahrain Airport Company will allocate a site for DHL Express to construct a state-of-the-art MRO hangar serving the Middle East and North Africa.
The facility will adhere to international technical standards and enable DHL Express to expand its capacity to maintain its global fleet of B777 and B767 aircraft. It will also provide maintenance services to other DHL airlines, including A-CHECK inspections, engine replacements, auxiliary power unit servicing, landing gear, and thrust reversers. The project aims to increase operational capacity to support DHL’s global operations from Bahrain.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed highlighted that this strategic project is a significant step in developing Bahrain’s aviation sector, reflecting a beneficial partnership between the public and private sectors. He noted that the signing of the Letter of Intent demonstrates investor confidence in Bahrain’s infrastructure and its business environment, which encourages growth in aviation and related services.
The Chairman of Gulf Air Group emphasized the partnership’s strategic importance, noting that the new MRO facility will strengthen Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for air cargo and a global service centre. The project is expected to attract further investment and skilled labour to the Kingdom, supporting Gulf Air Group’s vision for the aviation sector and economic diversification.
Busbate described the facility as a key strategic milestone for DHL’s network expansion, enhancing service quality locally and regionally. He noted that the project will positively impact all stakeholders, consolidate Bahrain’s status as a leading regional air cargo hub, and provide opportunities to attract skilled professionals.