Sharjah’s Department of Civil Aviation and Serco renew ANS contract
With growing role for Emiratis
Sharjah’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) and Serco have renewed their longstanding Air Navigation Services (ANS) contract involving Sharjah International Airport. Serco has been delivering these services at the airport since 1947.
Under the renewed agreement, Serco will continue to manage Sharjah’s Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) and Air Traffic Services (ATS). The renewed pact underscores the enduring partnership between Sharjah’s DCA and Serco, reaffirming their commitment to developing a highly skilled, Emirati-led air traffic workforce. Several initiatives are in place to support this goal.
The training and development of Emirati air traffic professionals have been central to Serco’s collaboration with Sharjah’s DCA. In 2013, only one Emirati Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) was part of Serco’s operational team in Sharjah.
Emiratis constitute 48% of the workforce today, with the first Emirati female ATCO officially validated in 2024. This milestone highlights the success of Emiratisation efforts and their positive impact on the local community.
Sheikh Khalid bin Essam Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah’s Department of Civil Aviation, stated: “Sharjah’s collaboration with Serco has not only ensured safe and efficient airport operations but also fostered the development of local talent.
“The strides made in training Sharjah nationals and integrating them into critical air traffic roles underline our shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future for our aviation sector.”
He added: “This renewed partnership reaffirms our trust in Serco’s expertise and their role in supporting Sharjah Airport’s strategic ambitions. Together, we will continue to enhance our capabilities and strengthen our position as a leading regional aviation hub.”
Phil Malem, CEO of Serco Middle East and +impact, remarked: “We are honoured to continue our decades-long partnership with Sharjah’s Department of Civil Aviation. This renewal marks an exciting phase where we can maintain operational excellence and accelerate initiatives to enhance national opportunities to play a greater role in air traffic services.”
He added: “Our shared focus on innovation and training will ensure that the airport and its workforce remain at the forefront of the region’s aviation sector. We are proud to be part of Sharjah International Airport’s growth journey and contribute towards impacting a better future for the UAE.”
Hero image: An Air Arabia aircraft taxis on the active runway at Sharjah International Airport on February 14, 2025. Credit: Arnold Pinto
