Dubai's Pearl

In a candid interview, Mohi-Din BinHendi, former Director General of Civil Aviation for Dubai, shared his remarkable journey that started when he was appointed to the role at the young age of 28. His insights provide a fascinating look into the evolution of Dubai’s aviation industry and the development of the world-renowned Dubai International Airport.

The Unexpected Promotion

BinHendi’s appointment came as a surprise, not just to him but to many others in the industry. “I was always a government servant, working in customs,” BinHendi explained. “For some reason, I was promoted to be the Director General of Civil Aviation, which shook me a bit. But I took the challenge.”

This challenge was not a small one. Dubai, at the time, was not the global hub it is today. The airport was small, with minimal infrastructure and a few airlines serving the region. Yet, BinHendi embraced the opportunity, taking the vision of the leaders of Dubai to heart. “His Highness supports people by watching and recognizing their potential, and with that support, it's difficult not to go up the ladder,” he remarked.

The Humble Beginnings of Dubai Airport

When BinHendi began his tenure, the airport was a far cry from the modern marvel we know today. He recalled how there was just “one shed and a long table” where customs officers processed passengers' luggage. “There were no air bridges, and only a few airlines flew into Dubai,” he said. Despite its humble setup, the airport’s operations were efficient for its time. “Once we finished, we would lock the airport, and the key would be with me and the security.”

This simplicity, however, did not last long as the leadership of Dubai had much bigger plans for the airport.

Embracing Open Sky Policy

One of the game-changing decisions during BinHendi’s time as Director General was the implementation of an Open Sky policy. This allowed any airline from any country to fly into Dubai, fostering competition and growth. Unlike many other nations that protected their national carriers, Dubai took a bold stance. “Everybody was surprised when Emirates Airlines started its flights. They had no protection,” BinHendi recalled. Yet, this lack of protection forced airlines to compete, ultimately benefiting the customer and establishing Dubai as a significant global player in the aviation industry.

A Vision for Excellence

As Dubai’s airport grew, BinHendi’s vision expanded. “When I was told that Dubai Airport was the leading one in the region, I said, that’s not enough. I wanted it to be the best in the world,” he shared. BinHendi echoed the sentiments of Dubai’s leadership, which has always aimed for excellence. “Our leader believes in being number one, and I think I gave him that number one airport he wanted.”

Dubai’s ambition to be the best paid off. Today, Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest and most well-regarded airports in the world, offering world-class services, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Dubai Airport Today

Reflecting on the transformation of the airport, BinHendi highlighted the stark differences between the past and the present. "I used to go to my flight an hour before departure at other airports, but in Dubai, I arrive three to four hours early. I want to shop, eat, and relax because everything is there,” he noted.

Dubai’s airport has become much more than just a transit point—it’s a destination in itself, offering high-end shopping, fine dining, and unparalleled hospitality. “Emirates Airline gives you a menu where you can have steak, sushi, or whatever you want. It’s comfortable and provides excellent service,” BinHendi added.

The government’s emphasis on politeness and excellent service has played a critical role in Dubai’s rise as a global aviation hub. "Once you're treated badly, you'll always remember it. The same goes for when you're treated well," BinHendi emphasized.

The Secret Behind Dubai’s Success

When asked what has made Dubai and its airport so successful, BinHendi pointed to two key factors: safety and tolerance. “One of the biggest issues in the world today is safety, whether in your home, driving, or walking. The city is safe,” he stated, attributing this to the well-trained security forces in the UAE.

Additionally, Dubai’s long-standing culture of tolerance has made it a global destination where people from all nationalities and backgrounds coexist peacefully. “Tolerance was here before the buildings, before the oil, and before the airport,” he said, noting that this openness is deeply rooted in the UAE’s values.

A Lasting Legacy

Mohi-Din BinHendi’s tenure as the Director General of Civil Aviation marked a pivotal period in Dubai’s aviation history. His efforts, combined with the visionary leadership of Dubai, transformed the city’s airport from a simple customs shed to one of the busiest and most prestigious airports in the world. His journey reflects the broader story of Dubai—a city that continuously defies the odds and aims for nothing short of excellence.

As Dubai International Airport continues to grow and innovate, BinHendi’s legacy remains an integral part of its success story. His belief in teamwork, service excellence, and embracing competition set the foundation for the airport’s rise to global prominence.