First Emirati Managing Director Takes Charge of dnata’s Growing Airport Services Business in Zanzibar
(IN SHORT) dnata has named Marwan Essa as Managing Director of its Zanzibar operations, making him the first Emirati to lead one of the company’s international airport businesses. With experience gained across operational roles since joining dnata in 2017, he will oversee ground handling, cargo and passenger services supporting 27 airlines and more than 1.3 million travellers annually. The appointment reflects dnata’s focus on leadership development and comes as Zanzibar’s aviation sector expands alongside rising tourism and connectivity at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.
(PRESS RELEASE) ZANZIBAR, Tanzania, 2026-Feb-17 — /Travel PR News/ — dnata has appointed Marwan Essa as Managing Director of its Zanzibar operations, reinforcing leadership in one of East Africa’s fastest-growing aviation and tourism markets. The appointment places him in charge of the company’s business performance and future development at the outstation, where dnata delivers ground handling, cargo and passenger services.
In his new role, Essa will oversee operational delivery for airline customers and airport partners while driving continued improvements in efficiency, safety and service quality. His promotion marks the first time an Emirati executive has been selected to lead one of dnata’s international airport operations businesses.
Essa joined dnata in 2017 and has held a range of operational and performance-oriented roles across the UAE and Zanzibar. His experience spans ground handling, airport services and operational management, most recently serving as Head of Operations and Acting Managing Director in Zanzibar, where he supported the business during a period of sustained growth.
dnata’s Zanzibar operation currently supports 27 airlines, handling approximately 5,700 flights per year, assisting more than 1.3 million passengers and managing around 6,000 tonnes of cargo annually. The company also operates its airport hospitality brand, marhaba, in the market, providing lounge access and meet-and-greet services designed to enhance the passenger experience.
These activities contribute to the broader expansion of Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which now serves over two million passengers each year and continues to grow as Zanzibar strengthens its position as a leading leisure destination and regional connectivity hub.
The appointment reflects dnata’s ongoing investment in developing Emirati talent and creating pathways for leadership across its global network. More than 280 UAE Nationals currently work within dnata, including over 100 in management roles, highlighting the company’s focus on nurturing expertise and international experience.
dnata remains committed to supporting aviation growth in Zanzibar while maintaining high operational standards and strengthening links between East Africa and global markets.
About dnata
dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2024-25, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 794,000 aircraft turns, moved 3.1 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 114 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.6 billion.
For more information, visit dnata.com. For media enquiries, reach out to public.relations@dnata.com.
SOURCE: dnata
