The UAE Launches the National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation

The UAE government has launched the "National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation," aimed at developing national talent among young people and preparing them to become future leaders in this vital sector. The program was launched during a press conference held yesterday at the Ministry of Impossible Things in Dubai, attended by His Excellency Engineer Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority; Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing and Director General of the Prime Minister's Office; and Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority. His Excellency Engineer Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori said that launching the National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation reflects the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to give young people confidence and the opportunity to lead the UAE's future across various vital sectors. He noted that the UAE has been a pioneer in empowering youth and preparing advanced national government cadres to lead the civil aviation sector, equipped with knowledge gained through comprehensive training experiences. He added that the program falls within efforts to build a promising generation of young leaders in aviation, providing capable young talent across all technical, administrative, and specialized fields within civil aviation, in cooperation with local and international entities. The National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation was developed jointly by the UAE Government Leaders Program at the Prime Minister's Office (within the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future) and the General Civil Aviation Authority. It aims to develop the capabilities and competencies of first- and second-tier leaders in the UAE's civil aviation sector, targeting individuals aged 18 to 35. The program seeks to enhance their competency levels, build their capabilities, ensure structured career progression toward future leadership positions in this vital field, and prepare them to represent the UAE in international events and on national and international technical committees. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi said that the UAE's youth are the driving force behind the nation's renaissance and development, and represent one of the most important assets the government and wise leadership are keen to invest in. He noted that Emirati youth today are able to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and face difficulties, and that the youth role models seen today in the country are a source of pride, having become pioneering examples in various fields. He added that the Authority seeks to implement the state's strategy and plans for empowering youth, harnessing their skills and abilities in service of the nation, providing support, attracting and developing talent, and working with a forward-looking vision to meet all challenges, achieve accomplishments, and elevate the aviation sector both locally and globally. He confirmed that the National Program for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation is part of efforts to raise the aviation sector's contribution to the national economy to around 25% in the coming years, as it is considered one of the main pillars of economic diversification. He noted that the program is unique in being dedicated specifically to the aviation sector, and that in its first phase, 18 male and female Emirati trainees were selected to receive further training. They will soon be sent to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), where they will be able to attend General Assembly meetings and other technical workshops. Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that the winners of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award — valued at AED 3.67 million — will be announced at the end of this month, on the sidelines of the ICAO General Assembly meetings. The award, held every three years, highlights the UAE's commitment to advancing the aviation sector and supporting ICAO's "No Country Left Behind" initiative.