Luxury aviation takes off in UAE: New postgraduate programme launched

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi is set to become a global hub for training in the fast-growing luxury private aviation sector with the launch of the world’s first postgraduate programme dedicated to this industry. The Advanced Diploma in Private Aviation Management is a collaboration between Les Roches, a top-ranked hospitality and leisure management institution, and UAE-headquartered private aviation services company Jetex. The programme is scheduled to commence in September 2025.

This one-year program offers students a global learning experience across three key luxury tourism destinations: Marbella, Spain; Crans-Montana, Switzerland; and the UAE, where they will study at the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches. The curriculum will cover crucial aspects of the industry, including global private aviation, aviation management systems, luxury client experience, and effective communication.

The programme aims to address the increasing demand for qualified professionals in the rapidly expanding private aviation market, which is projected to reach $55.2 billion by 2031.

Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex, said that the partnership with Les Roches marks a significant milestone for the company and the entire industry. “By combining world-class academic excellence with real-world operational training, we are shaping a new generation of talent nurtured on innovation, sustainability and service excellence. We aim to empower each student with a strategic and tailor-made development path to launch their career and exceed their potential,” said Mardani.

Successful candidates can work in roles such as guest experience executive, crew support agent, or flight coordinator, with high-performing graduates potentially considered for career opportunities at Jetex upon graduation.

Applications for the Advanced Diploma in Private Aviation Management are now open for the September 2025 intake. Applicants must undergo an interview with Jetex, hold a university degree, be aged 30 or under, and possess an advanced command of English.

The programme is accredited by the Swiss Federal Government and the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) in the United States.

An essential part of the program is a guaranteed six-month professional internship with Jetex in the UAE during the second semester. This provides students with invaluable real-world experience within a country recognized for its world-class aviation infrastructure and growing private air traffic.

The programme will allow selected participants to benefit from merit-based partial scholarships, a guaranteed six-month internship, and potential job placement with Jetex for top-performing individuals.

In 2024, private jet activity in the UAE reached record levels. Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub reported a 7 per cent increase in movements, solidifying the emirate's position as a key global hub. The private aviation market, valued at $38.5 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to $55.2 billion by 2031, driven by rising demand, efficiency, and ultra-personalized service. In Spain alone, the sector supports over 21,000 jobs and contributes €3.1 billion to GDP.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches, said, “By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we aim to prepare graduates to step into leadership roles seamlessly.” Lastra said, “This global immersion not only introduces students to diverse cultures and key markets but also equips them with a comprehensive understanding of international best practices—empowering them to thrive in the increasingly dynamic and competitive global luxury private aviation sector.”