The UAE has been hailed as a “global role model” for aviation development by Kamil Al-Awadhi, Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East at the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
On the sidelines of the IATA World Cargo Symposium 2025 in Dubai, Al-Awadhi praised the UAE’s rapid progress, world-class infrastructure, and highly efficient operations.
He highlighted the country’s fully integrated aviation ecosystem—including airlines, airports, ground services, safety, and security—as an example even developed nations look to. He also noted the UAE’s smooth visa procedures and exceptional passenger services as key strengths.
Crucially, Al-Awadhi pointed to the UAE’s leadership in sustainable aviation, particularly in the development of Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF). Unlike Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), LCAF is derived from conventional sources but emits significantly less carbon.
“The UAE is a leader in the development of LCAF,”
he said, adding that the fuel remains under study and development.
Looking ahead, IATA forecasts air traffic growth in the Gulf and Middle East to hit 9% in 2025—well above the global average of 5.6%. UAE airlines, backed by modern infrastructure and ambitious growth plans, are expected to grow even faster across both passenger and cargo operations.
With its strategic focus on efficiency, innovation, and sustainability, the UAE continues to set the pace for the global aviation industry.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
