RIYADH: Middle Eastern carriers generated an estimated $7.2 billion in net profit in 2025, delivering the highest profit margins globally among all regions, according to the International Air Transport Association’s Annual Review.
In its latest report, IATA revealed that this strong performance, corresponding to a 9.4 percent net margin, was supported by strong hub operations, a high share of premium traffic, favorable fuel costs, and ongoing network expansion.
The growth in the region’s aviation sector underscores progress in economic diversification efforts by countries, including Saudi Arabia, which aims to position itself as a tourism and business hub by the end of this decade.
“Middle East airlines’ strong profitability, high cash levels, and the lowest financial leverage among all regions are underpinned by a supportive infrastructure and regulatory environment,” said IATA.
Globally, airlines achieved a record net profit of $45 billion in 2025, with nearly 5 billion passengers and 71.5 million tonnes of cargo.
