On June 2, 2025, Dubai-based aircraft lessor Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) announced a significant financial milestone: the signing of a $300 million three-year unsecured term loan agreement with the Bank of China. Facilitated through the bank’s Dubai, London, and Hong Kong branches, this loan underscores DAE’s strategic efforts to strengthen its liquidity and support its expansive operations in the global aviation sector, as part of the UAE’s broader vision to enhance its aviation industry, according to the UAE Ministry of Economy.
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has signed a $300 million three-year unsecured term loan agreement with Bank of China (Dubai Branch), Bank of China Limited (London Branch), and Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited.https://t.co/iyFvpBgwE9
— Finance Middle East (@finance_mideast) June 3, 2025
The funds will be utilized for general corporate purposes, including meeting the evolving needs of DAE’s airline customers and ensuring the maintenance of a modern, fuel-efficient fleet. This transaction marks a deepening partnership between DAE and the Bank of China, reflecting confidence in DAE’s robust business.like model and its pivotal role in the aviation leasing industry.
Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, highlighted the importance of this financial move, stating, “This transaction with Bank of China provides us with additional liquidity to support our ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of our airline customers while maintaining a modern and efficient fleet.
We are pleased to deepen our relationship with Bank of China and look forward to continuing our collaboration with the entire Bank of China group in the years ahead.” His comments emphasize DAE’s focus on sustaining growth while fostering long-term banking relationships to navigate the dynamic aviation market.
Pan Xinyuan, General Manager of Bank of China (Dubai) Branch, echoed this sentiment, noting, “Bank of China values its growing relationship with DAE and is pleased to support this strategic financing. The successful execution of this transaction reflects the strength of our global network and our ability to deliver tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients across the aviation sector.
In the future, Bank of China will continue to contribute to deepening China-UAE relations and support the development of UAE enterprises.” This collaboration aligns with initiatives to strengthen financial ties, as outlined in the China-UAE Bilateral Trade Agreements.
DAE, a leading global aviation services company, serves over 200 airline customers across more than 85 countries, managing a fleet of approximately 750 aircraft. This includes models from top manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing, ATR, and Embraer, with the fleet valued at around $22 billion.
The company’s extensive portfolio and global reach position it as a key player in aircraft leasing, providing tailored solutions to airlines worldwide while contributing to the UAE’s aviation hub status, supported by frameworks like those from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
This loan follows DAE’s recent financial activities, such as a $420 million unsecured loan secured in March 2024, indicating a consistent strategy to enhance liquidity amid a recovering aviation sector post-pandemic. With air travel demand surging globally, DAE’s proactive financial management ensures it can capitalize on growth opportunities, supporting airlines in fleet expansion and modernization while addressing sustainability trends through efficient aircraft models.
The partnership with Bank of China also highlights the UAE’s growing appeal as a financial and aviation hub, attracting international banking support for local enterprises. As DAE continues to expand its footprint, this $300 million loan reinforces its commitment to delivering value to its stakeholders while navigating the complexities of the global aviation landscape.