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9/30/25, 4:44 PM UAE announces winners of $1 million SMBR Global Aviation Award - Aletihad News Center
reflects the UAE’s pioneering role in supporting the aviation industry and enhancing its position as an incubator for

initiatives that inspire the world and advance sustainability.”

The winners in the Academic Research and Development category were from universities in Brazil, the United States,

and Kazakhstan, while the winner in the Research Institutions category was the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) in
Germany.

Launched in 2016, the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award is organised every three
years in cooperation with ICAO.

The third edition focused on research and development in sustainability, particularly sustainable aviation fuel
solutions, aligning with international efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and reflecting the UAE’s role in

innovation and global collaboration.

The UAE marked a prominent presence on Saturday at the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation

Organisation (ICAO) through an official statement delivered by Abdulla Al Marri during the plenary session.

In his statement, he emphasised that aviation is not merely a means of transport, but a bridge for human

communication and a symbol of openness among nations.

He highlighted that, under the guidance of the UAE’s leadership, aviation has become a cornerstone of the country’s

national vision and global mission, opening its skies through 189 air service agreements, over 80% of which are fully
liberalised, reflecting the belief that open skies are fundamental to shared prosperity.

Regarding sustainability, the UAE has taken significant steps, including implementing a roadmap for sustainable
aviation fuel production and developing initiatives such as the digital platform for the CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and

Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) programme, alongside establishing the Global Sustainable Aviation

Marketplace (GSAM).

He said, “The UAE believes that progress in aviation cannot be achieved unless it includes everyone, and
sustainability can only be realised through investment in human capital. To this end, the UAE has developed several

initiatives to build sector competencies in collaboration with its international partners.”

He added, “The UAE has repeatedly opened its doors to host the world, serving as a hub for partners, a supportive

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