UAE Secures 7th Consecutive Term on ICAO Council, Cementing Its Aviation Leadership

The UAE won its seventh consecutive seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) council during elections held in Montreal, Canada. This victory reinforces the country's growing influence in global aviation governance and comes as the UAE launches its second batch of a national program to develop future aviation leaders.

The UAE secured its Category III seat on ICAO's council during the organization's 42nd General Assembly, which runs from September 23 to October 3 in Montreal. The country has held this position continuously since first winning it in 2007, marking a significant milestone in its international aviation presence.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority, led a 100-member delegation to the assembly. The large representation shows how seriously the UAE takes its role in shaping international aviation standards and policies.

ICAO's council acts as the organization's governing body, setting global aviation standards and policies that affect airlines, airports, and passengers worldwide. The UAE's consistent presence on this council gives it direct input into decisions that shape the future of international air travel.

During the Montreal gathering, UAE officials launched the second phase of their National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation. This initiative, developed with the UAE Government Leadership Program, aims to prepare young Emirati professionals for leadership roles in both domestic and international aviation sectors.

"This program reflects the country's commitment to investing in young minds and enabling them to continue their active role in leading the aviation sector locally and globally," Al Marri said during the launch.

The timing of this announcement is strategic. As global aviation recovers from pandemic disruptions and faces new challenges like sustainability requirements and technological changes, having well-trained leaders becomes crucial for maintaining competitive advantage.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority, emphasized that developing national talent is essential for the aviation sector's sustainability and competitiveness. The program focuses on building leadership and professional skills among promising young Emiratis.

The UAE's aviation sector has grown rapidly over the past two decades, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi becoming major international hubs. Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai have expanded global route networks, while Dubai International Airport consistently ranks among the world's busiest for international passengers.

This sustained ICAO council membership helps the UAE influence global aviation policies that could affect its strategic position as a connecting hub between East and West. It also provides a platform to promote the country's aviation expertise and potentially secure hosting rights for major aviation events and conferences.

The leadership development program represents a longer-term investment in maintaining this influence. By training young professionals now, the UAE aims to ensure it has qualified candidates for future international aviation positions and can continue contributing to global aviation governance.