Abu Dhabi-based aerospace engineering firm Sanad has announced the renewal of its long-term lease agreement with Etihad Engineering.
Signed by Baha Salama, general manager of Aviation and Aero Engine MRO at Sanad, and Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering, the agreement secures approximately 40,000sq m of land and facilities at Etihad Engineering’s 550,000sq m MRO facility adjacent to Zayed International Airport.
The arrangement strengthens the deep-rooted partnership between two of Abu Dhabi’s leading aviation champions and reinforces their shared commitment to advancing the emirate’s long-term aerospace ambitions. As Sanad enters its next phase of growth, expanding capacity, capabilities, and workforce across both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the agreement ensures long-term operational continuity at its historic base of over 38 years.
Sanad will continue operating its engine MRO operations, where it maintains LEAP, GEnx, V2500, and Trent 700 engines for over 55 global airlines and leading engine OEM partners. The secured footprint provides the physical capacity needed to increase engine inductions, scale future capabilities, and expand high-skilled technical teams.
The agreement comes as Sanad progresses its major expansion in Al Ain, including the new GTF Engine MRO Centre and advanced test cell complex. Together, the Abu Dhabi and Al Ain facilities form a consolidated, UAE-wide engine MRO platform, enhancing capacity, strengthening supply chain resilience, and accelerating the development of specialised technical talent.
Mansoor Janahi, managing director and Group CEO of Sanad, said: “As we scale our capabilities in Al Ain, our Abu Dhabi base remains integral to our operations and our people. The renewal of our lease supports the expansion of our engine capacity, growing our workforce, and delivering world-class MRO solutions from Abu Dhabi to the world.”
Mahmood al-Hameli, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Aviation, added: “Sanad’s continued presence at the Etihad Engineering facility, adjacent to Zayed International Airport, strengthens our combined technical capabilities and supports the emirate’s long-term aerospace strategy.”
The agreement directly contributes to Abu Dhabi’s vision for a stronger, more advanced aerospace future. By securing long-term access to critical operational space at Zayed International Airport, Sanad is empowered to expand its capacity, scale its engine programs, and grow its highly skilled workforce.
The enhanced infrastructure supports next-generation engine MRO and enables deeper integration with Etihad Engineering, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre of engineering excellence. Together, these efforts contribute to a vibrant and resilient aerospace sector that drives industrial growth, nurtures local talent, and accelerates the emirate’s rise as a global aviation leader.