Montreal: The United Arab Emirates has successfully secured a seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council for the seventh consecutive term, marking a significant achievement for the nation on the global stage. This development took place during the 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly held in Montreal, Canada, from 23 September to 3 October 2025.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE’s accomplishment underscores its prominent role and trusted position within the international civil aviation sector. The country secured the majority of votes in the elections, which were attended by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Board, and Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, alongside ministers and senior officials from ICAO’s 193 member states.
The ICAO Council elections, held every three years, involve the selection of 36 states from among the 193 members. These states are distributed across three groups: Part I for states of chief importance in air transport, Part II for states contributing significantly to international air navigation facilities, and Part III for states ensuring geographic representation.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri expressed that this achievement is a global recognition of the UAE’s journey in civil aviation. He emphasized the importance of the UAE’s leadership in building strong regional and international partnerships and highlighted the sector’s contribution to the national GDP, which is expected to grow further.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Airline and Group, noted that the UAE’s re-election further cements its global leadership in civil aviation. He mentioned the wise vision of the UAE’s leadership and the country’s investments in advanced infrastructure and talent development as key factors behind this success.
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa and Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qasmi also commented on the UAE’s strategic vision and continuous investment in national talent and infrastructure, which have strengthened its international standing. They emphasized the UAE’s role in promoting regional and international cooperation in civil aviation.
Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi and Mohammed Abdullah Al-Salami highlighted the international community’s recognition of the UAE’s contributions to global aviation safety and efficiency. They praised the UAE’s initiatives supporting the growth and advancement of the civil aviation sector.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi remarked that the UAE’s seventh consecutive victory is a testament to its solid standing and the trust of the international aviation community. He noted the UAE’s influential role since joining the ICAO Council in 2007 and its pioneering initiatives enhancing global aviation efficiency and safety.
This achievement underscores the UAE’s aviation sector’s significant role, contributing nearly 18% to the national GDP and connecting the country with over 304 international airports worldwide. During the ICAO Assembly, the UAE also presented working papers across various domains, reflecting innovative ideas and initiatives to support sector growth and address sustainability challenges.
