Launch of the Fourth Session of the International Civil Aviation Leaders Program
During its 235th session, the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) endorsed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) initiative termed “Global Sustainable Aviation Market” as an official annual event in the organization’s agenda, establishing it as an independent initiative developed from a strategic vision into an internationally supported activity by ICAO.
The UAE unveiled this initiative in conjunction with hosting the fourth ICAO Global Symposium on Support for Implementation in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for February 2025.
The Minister of Economy and Tourism, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, who also chairs the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), stated: “Under the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE continues to demonstrate its leadership in the civil aviation sector both regionally and globally. This achievement highlights the prominent position of the UAE on the international civil aviation map and underscores its excellence in innovating future solutions and generating sustainable and innovative global initiatives that enhance growth and competitiveness in this vital sector while meeting global development requirements.”
“We have successfully transformed a national idea into a global institutional platform that supports ICAO’s objectives and contributes to building a more efficient and resilient aviation system in line with global best practices,” he added.
Saeed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, confirmed that the recognition of this initiative as an official annual event by ICAO is the result of a collaborative effort over more than a year on both national and international levels.
He noted, “We are working under a comprehensive vision that positions the UAE as a global hub for accelerating the transition to low-emission aviation. The ‘Global Sustainable Aviation Market’ initiative today serves as a successful model for activating international partnerships aimed at the sustainability of this vital sector.”
Council members asserted that the UAE has a forward-looking vision, taking decisive steps towards achieving sustainability and enhancing innovation, thereby setting a benchmark for the world on how to turn this vision into reality.
They highlighted the country’s leadership role in launching this platform and supporting the sustainability agenda within the aviation sector both regionally and globally.
This initiative has become a key tool in aiding ICAO’s ambitious long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions in the aviation sector by promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon aviation fuel, while also activating ICAO’s international financing platform.
Preparations are currently underway for the second version of the “Global Sustainable Aviation Market,” which will bring together participants from various countries to support ICAO’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Civil Aviation Leaders
Meanwhile, the fourth session of the International Civil Aviation Leaders Program, organized by the GCAA in collaboration with the Government Knowledge Exchange Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, commenced with the participation of over 22 governmental officials, including ministers, general directors, and decision-makers from civil aviation ministries and authorities worldwide.
The program highlights the UAE’s leadership in innovation within aviation, sustainability, and government transformation.
Among those participating in the fourth session are UAE ministers and officials, including Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA, Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Al Mehairi, Minister of State and Secretary-General of the Cabinet, Saeed Al Suwaidi, General Director of the GCAA, and Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, alongside a roster of speakers and experts presenting the UAE’s model of government excellence, digital transformation, and civil aviation leadership.
During the opening address, Abdullah bin Touq emphasized that the UAE, under the direction of its wise leadership, places great importance on fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within the civil aviation sector, recognizing it as a key contributor to enhancing the growth and competitiveness of the national economy. He also stressed the nation’s commitment to continuing its international collaboration efforts to exchange best practices and experiences in this vital sector.
He underlined that the civil aviation sector is undergoing continuous transformation driven by rapid technological advancements, necessitating a progressive and flexible government performance capable of keeping pace with this development and seizing its opportunities.
Through the organization of this program, we aim to create an interactive platform for dialogue that seeks to develop innovative visions and solutions that enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of the aviation industry at both regional and global levels, solidifying the UAE’s global leadership as an effective partner in shaping a more sustainable and competitive future for international civil aviation.
Leading Development Efforts
Suhail Al Mazrouei remarked: “The UAE is a global aviation hub, one of the leading producers of aviation fuel in the world. As we navigate an era characterized by sustainability and technological transformation, the nation continues to commit to enhancing international cooperation and leading efforts to develop innovative solutions that ensure the responsible and effective growth of the aviation sector, aligning with our climate goals.”
He added: “The fourth edition of the program exemplifies the UAE’s unwavering commitment to empowering future leaders and promoting innovation within the aviation sector. This program serves as a leading platform to develop strategic thinking, facilitate experience exchange, and cultivate future leaders capable of guiding the sector towards a more sustainable and resilient future.”
Through this program, alongside other national initiatives, the UAE is reinforcing its position as a reliable global partner in shaping a sustainable aviation sector, integrating advanced technology with environmental responsibility and developing human capacities to achieve a long-lasting impact benefiting future generations.
Abdullah Nasser Lootah expressed that the distinguished practices developed by the UAE in the civil aviation sector represent an advanced model that the Knowledge Exchange Office, in cooperation with the GCAA, seeks to disseminate and share with various brotherly and friendly countries, positively impacting this vital sector. He noted that the International Civil Aviation Leaders Program provides an open space for sharing experiences and exchanging ideas, offering a chance for all interested parties globally to advance the aviation sector and enhance its readiness for the future.