UAE Delegation Engages In Key Discussions At The 42nd ICAO Assembly In Montreal

A delegation from the UAE is attending the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, which will continue until October 3, 2025. Organised by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), this delegation includes around 100 representatives from the country's civil aviation sector. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA Board, leads the group.

The UAE's participation underscores its commitment to global aviation safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, stated, "The UAE’s participation in this year’s ICAO General Assembly reflects our continued commitment to supporting the international civil aviation ecosystem, and to advancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the global aviation sector. We are proud of the large delegation representing the country, which brings together national expertise from various authorities, showcasing the UAE’s excellence in this vital sector. Our accompanying activities, from the specialised AI Lab to the Youth Summit and workshops, aim to foster innovation and knowledge exchange with our international partners, contributing to the further development of civil aviation policies and practices worldwide."

The UAE Pavilion at the Assembly highlights achievements under "Elevating Global Aviation, Together." It showcases how innovation integrates with sustainability in aviation. Participants include SANAD, Emirates Airlines, flydubai, Abu Dhabi Airports, Abu Dhabi Mobility Center, Archer, Abu Dhabi Aviation, Etihad Aviation Training, Choppershoot, and IACT.

During this assembly period, a significant focus is on electing ICAO Council members. The UAE aims to renew its seat on this council. This ambition reflects its leadership role and international trust in its contributions to global civil aviation development.

The UAE is organising several events alongside the Assembly. A notable initiative is a specialised AI Lab in Aviation. This lab offers practical insights into using artificial intelligence for enhancing safety and operational efficiency while promoting sustainable aviation practices.

The GCAA will also host a High-Level Youth Summit aligned with ICAO's Next Generation of Aviation Professionals agenda. Supported by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency and other international bodies like the International Airports Council and European Organisation for Safety of Air Navigation among others; it aims at knowledge exchange for young professionals' skill development.

Empowering Future Leaders

As part of its Assembly involvement, the UAE will launch a new cohort for its National Programme for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation. This programme seeks to empower promising Emirati talents by enhancing their leadership skills for both local and global aviation sectors.

Bilateral meetings with government officials from ICAO member states are also planned during this period. These meetings aim at strengthening international cooperation through sharing best practices along with workshops focused on advancing civil aviation policies globally.

The UAE's extensive programme at ICAO's General Assembly not only highlights its achievements but also reinforces its dedication towards fostering innovation within an evolving global aviation landscape.

With inputs from WAM