Dubai-headquartered Vista, a global private aviation group, has reported record results for 2025, with subscription-based flying in the Middle East rising 34 per cent year-on-year. The figures come as the UAE continues to attract international businesses and investors seeking access to global markets.
The group delivered more than 210,000 flight hours through its membership programme during the year. Each aircraft flew close to 1,000 hours on average, reflecting demand across the network. Globally, total private aviation activity reached 6.4 million hours in 2025, a 5 per cent increase year-on-year.
Vista operates its global headquarters from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The group said it has observed Dubai evolve into a base for businesses managing travel across Europe, Asia and North America.
UAE private aviation demand rises as Vista logs 210,000 flight hours globally
“Private aviation has moved beyond convenience – it is now an enabler of economic activity. In the UAE, we’re seeing a clear shift from ad-hoc flying to more structured, repeat use, as businesses and investors rely on guaranteed access, global reach and predictable costs to operate across multiple markets, a trend that has been reinforced in recent weeks by more dynamic regional connectivity and demand for flexible and trusted global flying solutions,” Mazen Obaid, President – Middle East at Vista said in a statement.
The subscription model offers clients fixed pricing and guaranteed access to aircraft regardless of fuel costs or market conditions.
In 2025, Vista streamlined its fleet, removing non-core aircraft to focus on high-demand models. The group has since announced plans to upgrade its entire fleet of 18 Global 7500 aircraft to the Global 8000 standard before the end of the year, which it said would create the largest subscription fleet of that aircraft type.
Earlier in 2026, Vista also announced an agreement with Bombardier for 40 firm Challenger 3500 aircraft and 120 options, securing capacity to support its growing membership base.
“In the current environment, this resilience is particularly important as businesses continue to prioritise consistency, efficiency and global reach. It is about aligning our fleet with demand. By focusing on the aircraft our clients use most, we are improving efficiency while ensuring we can continue to deliver a consistent global service,” Obaid added.
Alongside its fleet, Vista said it has continued to invest in onboard connectivity, client services and digital platforms. The group cited XO, which it described as the world’s largest private aviation marketplace, as a platform that supports clients as their travel requirements change.
“Private aviation continues to play a growing role in supporting economic activity across the UAE, enabling faster decision-making, facilitating investment flows and strengthening international connectivity. In today’s more complex global environment, its importance as critical business infrastructure is only increasing,” he concluded.
Vista employs more than 4,000 people and operates through brands including VistaJet and XO. The group said its mission is to provide flying services at the best value, anywhere in the world.
