The UAE aviation sector continues to strengthen its standing as a core pillar of the national economy, while setting global standards in governance, innovation and sustainability.
Throughout 2025, the sector delivered a range of high-impact achievements that enhanced the competitiveness of the national economy and supported key industries such as trade, tourism, logistics and supply chains, contributing up to 18 per cent of GDP through direct and indirect economic activity.
In January 2025, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) introduced a unified national platform for unmanned aerial vehicles, an interactive digital system designed to regulate and register drone operations, clarify usage requirements and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks, while improving safety, operational efficiency and the overall investment climate.
In April, the GCAA granted Design Acceptance for the UAE’s first hybrid heliport at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal in Zayed Port, under the Abu Dhabi Air Taxi initiative. The project marks a significant step towards developing an integrated and sustainable air mobility ecosystem across the emirate.
On the environmental front, the GCAA reinforced its leadership role by submitting the third edition of the UAE’s State Action Plan to Reduce Aviation Emissions to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), following Cabinet approval.
The plan was developed in close coordination with key aviation stakeholders nationwide, supporting the UAE’s international climate commitments while ensuring long-term, sustainable growth for the aviation industry.
This latest update highlights the UAE’s proactive approach to global climate action and aligns with its commitment to submitting national aviation emissions reduction plans in accordance with ICAO Assembly Resolution A37-19 (2010) and subsequent resolutions.
The revised plan adopts a comprehensive portfolio of measures to curb aviation emissions, encompassing 42 projects focused on operational and technological improvements, alongside 13 initiatives dedicated to sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon fuel development.
At the international level, the UAE secured a seat on the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation for a seventh consecutive term. In addition, Hamad Salem Al Muhairi, Assistant Director-General of Aviation Security Affairs at the GCAA, was re-elected as Chairperson of the ICAO Aviation Security Panel for a third successive year.
