The appointments strengthen operational strength and cybersecurity as Dubai Airports prepares for the next phase of growth at DXB.
Dubai Airports has announced three senior leadership appointments to strengthen airport operations, cybersecurity, and operational resilience as Dubai International (DXB) prepares for its next phase of growth.
The appointments reinforce key operational and technology functions across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) Al Maktoum International Airport, supporting the emirate’s long-term aviation ambitions and increasing passenger demand.
The leadership changes cover airport operations, the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC), and cybersecurity, all of which play a central role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable airport operations.
Senior Leadership Changes Announced
As part of the appointments, Kan Ni has been promoted from Vice President of the Airport Operations Control Centre to Senior Vice President of Airport Operations.
Khalid Ishaq, previously Head of AOCC Integration, has been appointed Vice President of the Airport Operations Control Centre, while Ahmad Al Bastaki joins Dubai Airports as Vice President of Technology Operations and Cybersecurity within the Business Technology division.
Dubai Airports said the appointments strengthen leadership capabilities across operational and digital functions that are becoming increasingly important as airport traffic continues to grow.
Supporting the Next Phase of Airport Growth
Commenting on the appointments, Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, said the organisation’s ability to operate safely and efficiently depends on strong leadership, resilient systems, and close collaboration across the airport community.
He said the appointments combine specialist technology expertise, deep operational experience, and strong Emirati leadership to support the future needs of Dubai’s aviation sector.
The AOCC serves as the operational heart of DXB, coordinating real-time airport activities and managing the movement of approximately 200,000 passengers every day.
Expanded Role for Kan Ni
Kan Ni has played a key role in transforming the Airport Operations Control Centre into a data-driven command hub that supports coordinated decision-making across airport operations.
He also led operational teams through recent periods of regional airspace disruption, working closely with airline and aviation partners to maintain airport operations during rapidly changing conditions.
His promotion expands his responsibilities beyond the AOCC to oversee broader airport operations.
Meanwhile, Khalid Ishaq, who joined Dubai Airports in 2005, takes over leadership of the AOCC after nearly two decades working across operational systems and airport integration projects.
Dubai Airports noted that Emiratis now make up 75% of its management team, supporting national workforce development initiatives, including Nafis and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Cybersecurity Becomes a Strategic Priority
In his new role, Ahmad Al Bastaki will oversee cybersecurity, technology infrastructure, and service management, ensuring the resilience of the digital systems that support airport operations.
As airports become increasingly dependent on digital platforms and connected technologies, cybersecurity has become a critical component of operational continuity and passenger experience.
Dubai Airports said the latest appointments support its broader strategy focused on operational excellence, digital transformation, guest experience, and future airport capacity, positioning DXB and DWC for continued growth in the years ahead.
Source: Gulf News
