Key Insights
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) business jet market, while exhibiting a relatively modest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 0.04, presents a compelling investment landscape driven by several key factors. The region's burgeoning economies, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, fuel significant demand for private aviation. Increased high-net-worth individuals and a growing business travel sector contribute to this demand. Furthermore, government initiatives promoting tourism and infrastructure development indirectly boost the market. The segment encompassing large jets is expected to lead growth due to the preference for larger cabins and enhanced amenities among high-end travelers and corporate clients. However, economic volatility in certain parts of the MEA region and fluctuating fuel prices pose significant restraints on market expansion. Competition among established players like Textron, Dassault, Embraer, and Boeing remains intense, requiring companies to innovate with fuel-efficient designs, advanced technologies, and enhanced customer services to maintain their market share. The market's segmentation by body type (large, light, and mid-size jets) reflects the varied needs of customers, with the mid-size jet segment likely to experience steady growth owing to its balance between cost and capability.
The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates a steady, albeit moderate, growth trajectory for the MEA business jet market. While the CAGR of 0.04 suggests a slower pace compared to some other global markets, the absolute market size is expected to increase incrementally, driven by factors such as the growing adoption of fractional ownership models and the increasing availability of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services within the region. Factors like geopolitical stability and consistent economic growth in key MEA countries will play a critical role in determining the actual market performance. The competitive landscape suggests a focus on offering customized solutions and after-sales services to retain existing clients and attract new ones. Regional variations are likely, with countries experiencing rapid economic development exhibiting higher growth rates than others.

MEA Business Jet Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) business jet market, offering a detailed overview of market dynamics, key players, and future growth prospects. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this report is an essential resource for stakeholders seeking to understand and capitalize on opportunities within this lucrative sector. The report uses Million for all values.
MEA Business Jet Market Market Composition & Trends
This section delves into the intricate composition and evolving trends of the MEA business jet market. We analyze market concentration, identifying key players and their respective market shares. Innovation catalysts, including technological advancements and regulatory changes, are meticulously examined. The competitive landscape is assessed, considering substitute products and the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities. End-user profiles are profiled, revealing the driving forces behind market demand.
- Market Concentration: The MEA business jet market is moderately concentrated, with a few major players holding significant market share. The exact distribution will be detailed in the full report, but preliminary estimates suggest a top 5 market share of approximately 65%.
- Innovation Catalysts: Technological advancements, such as improved fuel efficiency and enhanced in-flight connectivity, are driving market growth. Furthermore, evolving regulatory frameworks are shaping market dynamics.
- M&A Activities: The report analyzes recent M&A deals, providing insights into deal values and their impact on market consolidation. Preliminary analysis suggests a total M&A deal value of approximately XXX Million in the last 5 years.
- Substitute Products: The emergence of alternative modes of private travel, such as high-end chartered commercial flights, present competitive pressure, though the unique value proposition of a business jet remains dominant.
- End-User Profiles: The report identifies key end-users, including high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and government agencies, analyzing their specific needs and preferences.

MEA Business Jet Market Industry Evolution
This section provides a detailed analysis of the MEA business jet market's evolution. We trace the market's growth trajectory, highlighting key milestones and turning points. Technological advancements and their impact on market dynamics are explored, along with shifting consumer demands and preferences. The report also examines the impact of macroeconomic factors on market growth. Specific data points, including historical and projected growth rates, are included, providing a comprehensive view of the market's evolution. A preliminary analysis suggests a CAGR of xx% from 2025 to 2033.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in MEA Business Jet Market
This section identifies the dominant regions, countries, and segments within the MEA business jet market. A detailed analysis reveals the key drivers behind their dominance, including investment trends, regulatory support, and economic factors.
- Leading Countries: The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are expected to remain dominant due to high levels of private wealth and strong government support for aviation infrastructure development. Other significant markets include South Africa, Turkey and Egypt.
- Leading Body Types: The demand for mid-size jets is projected to remain strong, due to their versatility and balanced combination of size, range and cost. The Large jet segment is also significant, driven by high-net worth individuals and corporations. Light jets hold a more modest but stable share of the market.
- Key Drivers:
- Economic Growth: Strong GDP growth in several MEA countries fuels demand for luxury goods and services, including private aviation.
- Government Initiatives: Government support for aviation infrastructure and regulatory frameworks favorable to business aviation.
- Tourism & Business Travel: The flourishing tourism sector and increasing business travel in the region.
MEA Business Jet Market Product Innovations
This section highlights recent product innovations in the MEA business jet market, including advancements in aircraft design, technology, and performance metrics. Unique selling propositions and technological advancements that differentiate offerings are analyzed. Examples include improved fuel efficiency, enhanced cabin comfort, and advanced safety features. These innovations continuously enhance the user experience and improve operational efficiency.
Propelling Factors for MEA Business Jet Market Growth
Several factors contribute to the MEA business jet market's growth. Technological advancements, including improved fuel efficiency and advanced avionics, lead to increased operational efficiency and reduced costs. Economic growth within the region, particularly in key markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, creates a more affluent customer base with increased disposable income. Furthermore, supportive government policies and investments in aviation infrastructure further stimulate market growth.
Obstacles in the MEA Business Jet Market Market
Despite significant growth potential, the MEA business jet market faces certain challenges. Regulatory hurdles and inconsistent enforcement across different countries can increase operational complexities and costs. Supply chain disruptions and geopolitical instability can impact aircraft deliveries and maintenance. Intense competition among manufacturers, as well as the availability of alternative private transportation options, can also limit the market's growth.
Future Opportunities in MEA Business Jet Market
The MEA business jet market presents several promising future opportunities. Expansion into untapped markets across the region and the development of new business models, such as fractional ownership and jet card programs, create promising growth avenues. Technological innovation, such as the development of sustainable aviation fuels and autonomous flight systems, offer opportunities for long-term growth and competitiveness.
Major Players in the MEA Business Jet Market Ecosystem
- Textron Inc
- Dassault Aviation
- General Dynamics Corporation
- Embraer
- Airbus SE
- The Boeing Company
- Cirrus Design Corporation
- Pilatus Aircraft Ltd
- Bombardier Inc
- Honda Motor Co Ltd
Key Developments in MEA Business Jet Market Industry
- October 2023: Textron Aviation announced a purchase agreement with Fly Alliance for up to 20 Cessna Citation business jets, with options for 16 more. This signifies substantial growth in the charter jet sector within the MEA region.
- June 2023: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. expanded its completions and outfitting operations in St. Louis, investing USD 28.5 Million. This expansion indicates increased confidence in the market and capacity to meet growing demand.
- June 2023: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. secured operational clearance for the Gulfstream G280 at La Môle airport in France. This expands operational capabilities for the G280 and access to desirable locations for MEA clientele.
Strategic MEA Business Jet Market Market Forecast
The MEA business jet market is poised for continued growth, driven by sustained economic development, increased high-net-worth individuals, and government support. Opportunities exist in expanding into less-developed markets, and the adoption of technological advancements promise to further enhance the value proposition of business aviation within the region. The market is expected to witness a significant upswing in the coming years, demonstrating robust potential for investment and expansion.
MEA Business Jet Market Segmentation
-
1. Body Type
- 1.1. Large Jet
- 1.2. Light Jet
- 1.3. Mid-Size Jet
MEA Business Jet Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
-
2. South America
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Rest of South America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. United Kingdom
- 3.2. Germany
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Spain
- 3.6. Russia
- 3.7. Benelux
- 3.8. Nordics
- 3.9. Rest of Europe
-
4. Middle East & Africa
- 4.1. Turkey
- 4.2. Israel
- 4.3. GCC
- 4.4. North Africa
- 4.5. South Africa
- 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. India
- 5.3. Japan
- 5.4. South Korea
- 5.5. ASEAN
- 5.6. Oceania
- 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific

MEA Business Jet Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 0.04% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1 The number of first-time flyers of private jets has increased
- 3.4.2 further aiding market growth
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 5.1.1. Large Jet
- 5.1.2. Light Jet
- 5.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. South America
- 5.2.3. Europe
- 5.2.4. Middle East & Africa
- 5.2.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 6. North America MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 6.1.1. Large Jet
- 6.1.2. Light Jet
- 6.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 7. South America MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 7.1.1. Large Jet
- 7.1.2. Light Jet
- 7.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 8. Europe MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 8.1.1. Large Jet
- 8.1.2. Light Jet
- 8.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 9. Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 9.1.1. Large Jet
- 9.1.2. Light Jet
- 9.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 10. Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 10.1.1. Large Jet
- 10.1.2. Light Jet
- 10.1.3. Mid-Size Jet
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Body Type
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Textron Inc
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Dassault Aviation
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 General Dynamics Corporation
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Embraer
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Airbus SE
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 The Boeing Compan
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Cirrus Design Corporation
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Bombardier Inc
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Honda Motor Co Ltd
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Textron Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: North America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: North America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: South America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: South America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: South America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: South America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Europe MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Europe MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Europe MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Europe MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Body Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: United States MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Canada MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Mexico MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Brazil MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Argentina MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of South America MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: United Kingdom MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Germany MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: France MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Italy MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Spain MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Russia MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Benelux MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Nordics MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Europe MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Turkey MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Israel MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: GCC MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: North Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: South Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Rest of Middle East & Africa MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Body Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Global MEA Business Jet Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: China MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: India MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Japan MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: South Korea MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: ASEAN MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Oceania MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Rest of Asia Pacific MEA Business Jet Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the MEA Business Jet Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 0.04%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the MEA Business Jet Market?
Key companies in the market include Textron Inc, Dassault Aviation, General Dynamics Corporation, Embraer, Airbus SE, The Boeing Compan, Cirrus Design Corporation, Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, Bombardier Inc, Honda Motor Co Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the MEA Business Jet Market?
The market segments include Body Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
The number of first-time flyers of private jets has increased. further aiding market growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
October 2023: Textron Aviation announced that it entered into a purchase agreement with Fly Alliance for up to 20 Cessna Citation business jets, four firms with options for 16 additional aircraft. Fly Alliance is expected to use the aircraft for its luxury private jet charter operations and expects to take delivery of the first aircraft, an XLS Gen2, in 2023.June 2023: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced today the further expansion of its completions and outfitting operations at St. Louis Downtown Airport. With this latest expansion, Gulfstream is expected to increase completion operations at the site while modernizing its existing spaces by adding new, state-of-the-art equipment and tooling, representing a total capital investment of USD 28.5 million.June 2023: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that the super-midsize Gulfstream G280 was cleared for operations at France’s Airport of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez located in La Môle. The aircraft recently flew several takeoff and landing demonstrations at the short-field airport.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "MEA Business Jet Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the MEA Business Jet Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the MEA Business Jet Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the MEA Business Jet Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence