4 February 2010
GAMA Aviation
Corporate Profile: Gama Aviation (UAE)
Founded globally in 1983 and establishing its Middle East presence in 2006, Gama Aviation is a premier business aviation services group. In the UAE, it operates primarily out of Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), where it serves as the emirate’s exclusive FBO (Fixed Base Operator). In January 2026, the company reached its most significant milestone to date with the official opening of its $65 million Business Aviation Centre, positioning Sharjah as the ultimate “efficiency hub” for Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
2026 Landmark: The Sharjah Business Aviation Centre (BAC)
In early 2026, Gama Aviation completed its transition from “fitting into” the airport to operating a purpose-built, 80,000 VVIP complex.
- The VVIP Terminal: A 3,000 two-story terminal designed to eliminate friction. It features on-site 24/7 customs and immigration, a cigar lounge, an observation bar overlooking the ramp, and private relaxation suites.
- The Mega-Hangar: A 12,000 climate-controlled hangar capable of housing multiple large-cabin jets (up to the size of a Boeing 757 or ACJ/BBJ). It features “taxi-in/taxi-out” capability, which eliminates the need for towing and slashes aircraft turnaround times.
- The “30-Minute” Advantage: Gama Aviation markets its Sharjah base as the most efficient gateway to Downtown Dubai, which is reachable in approximately 30 minutes, offering a faster alternative to the often-congested Dubai South (DWC).
Service Portfolio and Operations
Gama Aviation UAE provides a “full-spectrum” aviation solution, ensuring that aircraft owners and charter guests never need to leave their ecosystem:
- Aircraft Management & Charter: Managing a diverse fleet of mid-size and long-range jets, including Bombardier Globals, Gulfstreams, and Embraer Legacys. The company offers global AOC (Air Operator Certificate) support, allowing owners to charter their aircraft when not in use.
- MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul): The new BAC includes a dedicated line maintenance and AOG (Aircraft on Ground) center with approvals from various OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
- Special Missions: Leveraging the group’s global expertise, the UAE branch provides support for air ambulance, medevac, and government-related aviation requirements.
- Regional Growth: While Sharjah is the “home base,” Gama Aviation maintains a strong presence at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai South (DWC) to provide ground handling and maintenance support across the UAE.
Strategic Vision: “The Private Pivot”
- Return to Private Ownership: In a major corporate move during 2024–2025, CEO and co-founder Marwan Khalek took the company private again (de-listing from the London Stock Exchange). This has allowed the UAE division to focus on long-term infrastructure investment without the quarterly pressures of public markets.
- Vision 2030 Alignment: The company’s investment in Sharjah is a direct contribution to the UAE’s Vision 2030, creating high-value jobs and reinforcing the country’s status as a global private aviation crossroad.
Key Data
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded (Global/UAE) | 1983 / 2006 |
| Headquarters (Middle East) | Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) |
| Group CEO | Marwan Khalek |
| MD of FBO Services | Tom Murphy |
| Primary Hub | Sharjah (OMSJ) |
| Investment | $65 Million (New Business Aviation Centre) |
| IATA / ICAO Code | — / GSH (Gama Aviation UK) |