The United Arab Emirates made a significant mark during the 42nd session of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) General Assembly, highlighted by a keynote address from His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority.
In his speech, Abdullah bin Touq emphasized that aviation is more than just a means of transportation; it acts as a bridge for human connection and a symbol of openness to the world. He stated that under the visionary leadership of the UAE, aviation has become a cornerstone of the nation’s vision and global message, as evidenced by the establishment of 189 air service agreements, with over 80% entirely liberalized. This demonstrates the UAE’s belief that open skies are fundamental to mutual prosperity. Additionally, the nation is advancing sustainability through a roadmap for producing sustainable aviation fuel, launching various initiatives such as a digital platform for implementing a carbon offset and reduction plan in international aviation, while also organizing the global sustainable aviation market.
He continued, “The UAE believes that progress in aviation cannot be fulfilled without inclusivity, and sustainability can only be achieved through investment in people. To realize this, the country has adopted numerous forward-looking initiatives to develop human capacities and encourage participation in this vital sector, in collaboration with international partners.” Al Marri also remarked, “The UAE has repeatedly opened its doors to host the world, serving as a hub for partners, a supportive voice for international collaboration, a bridge between regions, and a reliable ally and constructive partner.”
Reception Event
The UAE also hosted an official reception in Montreal as part of the traditional protocol for participating countries in the ICAO General Assembly. The event was a celebratory gathering that combined formal and artistic elements, attended by His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, and numerous ministers and directors of civil aviation from various member countries, alongside officials from regional and international aviation organizations involved in the ICAO assembly meetings. During the event, the results of the third cycle of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award were announced, recognizing winners in major award categories, with a total prize value of one million dollars. Abdullah bin Touq remarked, “The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to supporting research and innovation, encouraging young minds, and research entities to devise practical, sustainable solutions for the future of global civil aviation.”
Saif Al Suwaidi expressed, “We are proud to host this event as a platform to honor creative individuals and showcase their achievements to leaders in the global aviation community. This award reflects the UAE’s leading role in supporting the aviation industry and its position as a nurturing ground for initiatives that inspire the world and promote sustainability.”
The top three winners in the research and development category for academic institutions came from universities in Brazil, the United States, and Kazakhstan, while the award in the research and development category for research institutions went to the German Aerospace Center in Germany.
Launched in 2016, the award is held every three years, with this cycle organized in collaboration with ICAO. It focused on research and development in sustainability, particularly in creating sustainable aviation fuel solutions, in alignment with global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, underscoring the UAE’s role in innovation and international cooperation.