The United Arab Emirates has achieved a significant milestone on the international stage by securing its seventh consecutive membership in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council. This victory occurred during elections held alongside the 42nd Assembly session of the organization, which took place in Montreal, Canada, from September 23 to October 3, 2025.
The UAE’s efforts in international civil aviation have once again highlighted its leading role, esteemed position, and the trust it enjoys globally. The nation received a majority of votes during the elections attended by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Authority, along with Sef Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Authority, and various other ministers and leaders from the 193 member states of ICAO.
ICAO Council elections occur every three years, with 36 countries being elected from the 193 member states. These are divided into three groups: the first group consists of countries of major importance in air transport, the second group encompasses nations that significantly contribute to international air navigation facilities, and the third group ensures geographical representation.
Renewed International Confidence
On this occasion, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and President of Dubai Airports, emphasized that this seventh consecutive victory solidifies the UAE’s prominent global position in the aviation sector. It showcases renewed international confidence in the UAE’s strategic policies and professional management of this sector, a reflection of the wise vision of its leadership and ongoing investments in advanced infrastructure, aircraft, and airports, alongside the development of qualified national personnel.
He noted that this achievement demonstrates the confidence the UAE has gained both internationally and regionally due to its balanced and friendly diplomatic initiatives and adherence to international standards. This places the UAE as a significant voice in shaping global civil aviation policies.
Building Strong Partnerships
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri stated, “This renewed victory is an international acknowledgment of the UAE’s journey in the aviation sector and evidence of our success in establishing strong partnerships with our regional and international surroundings. This accomplishment stems from the wise guidance of our leadership, which has consistently prioritized all aspects of this vital sector, enabling it to keep up with the immense developments in global aviation. The UAE has proven its capability to be an effective partner in shaping civil aviation policies globally and contributing significantly to issues related to sustainability, environmental protection, and aviation security and safety.”
He added: “The UAE’s victory reaffirms the continuity of diligent national efforts in influencing future decisions, ensuring our presence in the economic landscape of the sector, where aviation currently contributes approximately 18% to the national GDP, and growth is expected to continue in upcoming years. We take pride in the confidence shown by member states, and we are committed to enhancing the future of global aviation and supporting the organization’s strategic objectives.”
Global Community Acknowledgment
Mohammed Ali Al Sharfra, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, and Board Member of the Authority, remarked that the UAE’s re-election to the ICAO Council for the seventh time reflects international appreciation for the balanced approach it adopts in aviation sector development. It underscores the country’s provision of a safe and sustainable environment for air transport and confirms the effectiveness of our strategies in investing in national personnel and advanced infrastructure in this sector. This ongoing success mirrors the trust we have gained from regional and international partners and our proactive role in supporting the development of all aspects of civil aviation, ensuring sustainable growth, security, and safety worldwide.
Sheikh Khaled bin Eisa Al Qasimi, head of the Civil Aviation Department in Sharjah and Board Member of the Authority, noted that this win reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE and the strategic planning that positions the UAE’s civil aviation sector as a model for others regionally and globally.
He added, “Continuous investment in national talent and advanced infrastructure has strengthened the UAE’s international standing, and this victory represents the high regard that ICAO member states hold for the UAE’s influential role in fostering regional and international cooperation, contributing to shaping civil aviation policies that ensure safety, sustainability, and technological advancement in the sector.”
System Efficiency
Engineer Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Ras Al Khaimah and Board Member of the Authority, stated that the UAE’s persistent success in ICAO Council membership confirms the international community’s appreciation for its support of global civil aviation safety and efficiency, and highlights the UAE’s ongoing investment in developing national personnel and modern air transport infrastructure. It also reflects international recognition of the crucial role played by the UAE and its continuous efforts and initiatives to bolster the future growth and development of civil aviation.
Remarkable Achievement
Mohammed Abdullah Al Salami, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Fujairah and Vice Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority, extended his congratulations to the wise leadership, the board, and all personnel in the civil aviation sector for achieving this remarkable milestone, which emphasizes the growing status of the United Arab Emirates as a diplomatic and strategic partner capable of contributing significantly to the organization’s committees and initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, sustainability, and advancement in the global air transport system. He praised the UAE’s effective and professional representation.
He added that the UAE’s victory is not just an electoral outcome; it is a genuine reflection of the trust the international and regional communities place in the country’s vision and wise policies that focus on advancing the civil aviation sector and implementing initiatives that serve the futures of upcoming generations.
A Source of Pride
Sef Mohammed Al Suwaidi confirmed that the UAE’s seventh consecutive victory is a source of pride for all, exemplifying its solid standing and the confidence of the international aviation community in it, attributed to the directives of our esteemed government.
He stated that since the UAE’s accession to ICAO in 2007, it has aimed to be a significant and trusted voice in strategic discussions and decisions within the sector. The UAE has introduced innovative initiatives that have helped enhance the efficiency and safety of the global aviation system, such as the International Civil Aviation Leaders Program, the AI in Aviation Lab, and the International Cooperation Program for Capacity Building.
He added that this victory affirms that the UAE is not merely a member of the council but a strategic partner in shaping the future of international civil aviation.
This continuous achievement reflects the leading status of the UAE’s aviation sector, which directly and indirectly contributes nearly 18% to the national GDP, provides around one million jobs, and connects the UAE with more than 304 international airports worldwide, further enhancing the UAE’s pivotal role in the international air transport system.
Additionally, during the Assembly sessions, the UAE presented a significant number of working papers covering all technical, executive, economic, administrative, legal, and environmental sectors, showcasing effective contributions through various ideas and initiatives aimed at promoting sector growth and addressing challenges to its sustainability.