The UAE has launched the third edition of the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award, reaffirming its commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the global aviation sector.
Announced by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), this year’s award is held in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), following a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace in February.
With a total prize pool of US$1 million, the award targets breakthroughs in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and aims to honour individuals and institutions pioneering advancements in aviation sustainability.
UAE Minister of Economy and GCAA Chairman, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, highlighted the award's role in accelerating international efforts toward a greener aviation future.
“This initiative strengthens our drive for innovation while supporting global collaboration for a safer, more sustainable world,”
he said.
The award will recognise excellence across three categories: undergraduate academic institutions, postgraduate academic institutions, and research organisations. The top prize in each of the academic categories is US$250,000, with subsequent prizes of US$150,000 and US$100,000. Research institutions will receive non-monetary recognition through trophies and certificates.
According to GCAA Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the award is designed to foster healthy competition and inspire practical, scalable solutions to the industry’s most pressing environmental challenges.
ICAO Secretary-General Juan Carlos Salazar praised the initiative, stating,
“The path to net-zero aviation is achievable, and initiatives like this help turn that vision into reality.”
Applications are now open, with full submission details available on the official award website.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
