Page 153 - MOET PR REPORT- SEPTEMBER 2025

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA Board, said:
“This renewed success is a global recognition of the UAE’s journey in civil aviation and a testament
to the success of our strategy in building strong regional and international partnerships. It is the
result of the wise directives of our leadership, which has always placed special importance on this
sector, enabling it to keep pace with the remarkable global developments in aviation. The UAE has
proven its ability to be an active partner in shaping global civil aviation policies, while contributing
effectively to sustainability, environmental protection, aviation safety and security. This victory
affirms our continued commitment to play a vital role in the sector’s economic landscape, where
aviation contributes around 18% to our national GDP and is expected to grow further in the coming
years. We are proud of the trust of ICAO member states and remain committed to advancing the
future of global aviation in line with ICAO’s strategic goals.”

On this occasion, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation
Authority (DCAA), Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates
Airline and Group, and a member of the GCAA Board of Directors, stated: “This seventh consecutive
election further cements the UAE’s global leadership in civil aviation and reflects renewed
international confidence in our strategic approach and professional management of the sector. It is
a testament to the wise vision of our leadership and our continued investments in advanced
infrastructure, state-of-the-art airports, aircraft, and the development of highly skilled national
talent. The UAE’s re-election to the ICAO Council demonstrates the trust we have earned
internationally and regionally, from our balanced diplomatic initiatives and adherence to global
standards, and it reinforces the UAE’s position as an influential voice in shaping international civil
aviation policies.”

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi,
and a member of the GCAA Board of Directors, stated: “The UAE’s re-election to the ICAO Council
for the seventh term underscores the international recognition of our balanced approach to
aviation sector development, providing a safe and sustainable environment for air transport. It also
affirms the success of our strategies in investing in national talent and advanced aviation
infrastructure. This continuous achievement reflects the confidence of our regional and
international partners, as well as our active role in supporting the development of civil aviation
standards, ensuring sustainable growth, safety, and security worldwide.”
Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qasmi. Chairman of Sharjah Department of Civil Aviation and a member
of the GCAA Board of Directors, stated: “This victory highlights the UAE leadership’s strategic vision
and the careful planning that has made our civil aviation sector a model for the region and the
world. Continuous investment in national talent and advanced infrastructure has strengthened the
country’s position on the international stage. It also represents the confidence of ICAO member
states in the UAE’s influential role in promoting regional and international cooperation and
contributing to civil aviation policies that ensure safety, sustainability, and technological
advancement of the sector.”

Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation-Ras
Al Khaimah and a member of the GCAA Board of Directors, stated: “The UAE’s continues success in
securing a seat on the ICAO Council underscores the international community’s recognition of the
country’s role in supporting the safety and efficiency of the global civil aviation system, and

https://www.wam.ae/en/article/15sqzv8-uae-wins-seventh-consecutive-term-icao-council