IER MRO Industries has appointed Group AMANA, the regional leader in design and build, as general contractor for the construction of MRO4, the fast-track first operational phase of its major narrowbody engine and module MRO development at Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH), Dubai South, adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world’s largest Aviation Hub and airport.
The appointment marks the start of construction for IER MRO’s wider 1.4 million sq. ft. development, which is being designed as a highly automated engine MRO facility combining engine and major module repair & overhauling with AI-enabled operations, robotics, digital twin technology, advanced manufacturing and integrated digital systems.
The development will support high-volume commercial engine and major module overhauling, engine testing, advanced manufacturing, technical training and aftermarket support services.
At full scale, the facility is designed to accommodate up to 550 engine shop visits or approximately 2,000 major engine module overhauls annually. It will also feature a twin engine test cell facility capable of conducting more than 1,000 engine tests per year and accommodating engines with thrust of up to 100,000 lb.
The development will also include the IER Centre of Excellence and a dedicated aviation training academy focused on developing the next generation of local engineers and technicians.
Its planned digital infrastructure will connect facilities, assets, processes and material flows through digital twin technology and an integrated data environment. The facility will also incorporate AI-supported engineering, automation, robotics, real-time tracking and predictive technologies to support operational efficiency and to reduce engine & Module turnaround times.
IER MRO is also progressing plans to deploy advanced robotic systems to support logistics, material movement and technician-assistance activities across their facilities.
Construction works will be administered and supervised on behalf of IER MRO by its appointed engineer and consultant, Bureau of Engineering Studies Consulting Engineers (BEST).
Lawrence J. Howie, Chairman & CEO of IER MRO Industries, said: “The appointment of Group AMANA is an important step in moving our vision into physical execution. We are building much more than a conventional engine maintenance facility — our objective is to create a next-generation, highly automated and AI-native MRO operation in Dubai, with major engine, module, test-cell and training capabilities.”
Tariq Alawneh, General Manager of Group AMANA said: “Taking part in a project of this ambition is a testament to our teams and their capability to deliver the high-tech, future-ready facilities that will power the UAE’s MRO industry for the next generation. We are grateful to IER MRO for the opportunity to be part of Dubai’s story once again, delivering one of the region’s most advanced MRO facilities at the heart of what will become the world’s largest airport.”
