AAID designed the General Electric Middle East Aviation Innovation Centre located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The brief was to create an Aviation Technology Center for GE Middle East, based at Dubai Airport Free Zone, as an innovation hub for major airlines based in the region. The 2,000m² center is to home data scientists and software developers; integrating technology requirements such as video walls, interactive touch screens and tables, 3D printing and even a life-size acrylic aircraft engine. The purpose of this hub is to bring together industrial engineering with sensors, software applications and big data analytics.

AAID’s design responds to GE’s innovative services related to jet engine simulation and on-going research on flight efficiency. The technology used for customer experience is showcased throughout the project and is incorporated as focal points in the overall design. Interactive screen pods, life-size engine part exhibits and multi-screen displays show an integrated set of services.

Spatial efficiency and operational functionality is achieved by locating the entrance lobby at the apex of the north and south wings.

AAID used aeronautical elements such as engine parts and airplane wings throughout the design to give spatial presence in direct correlation to work undertaken by GE. Utilising raw materials such as exposed concrete and textured fabrics reinforced the volume of architectural enclosure and its industrial purpose. As the center focuses on customer experience, it was important to intelligently integrate branding into interior spaces; the process became a seamless transition for artwork and quotations. This was achieved through careful selection of key circulation routes and open office spaces incorporating branding standards into the overall design.

The design and construction of this US$ 7 million Aviation Technology center was completed in challenging eleven months duration. The new space provides an inspirational work place for GE’s creative engineers reflecting their skill sets and experiences.

Designer: AAID

Contractor: Al Tayer Stocks

Photography: Chris Goldstraw

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