Sheikh Mohammed Celebrates UAE Pilots at Dubai Airshow 2025

During his visit to the Dubai Airshow 2025, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, convened with a group of UAE national pilots employed by Emirates airline at the Royal Pavilion. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Airline and Group, was also present at the meeting. The pilots discussed their duties, contributions, and the role they play in enhancing Emirates’ global presence.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his admiration for the pilots' commitment, highlighting Emirates' ongoing dedication to fostering skilled Emirati aviators. He noted that Emirati talent serves as a cornerstone for the UAE’s aviation future, emphasizing the government’s complete faith in its citizens to drive progress and bolster the country's international standing.

He further acknowledged that the relentless ambition of Emirati youth in the aviation field embodies the true essence of the UAE. Their enthusiasm for acquiring new knowledge and enhancing their skills mirrors the values of excellence and aspiration that characterize the nation. He attributed their contributions to the evolution of a progressive and innovative aviation sector.

Sheikh Mohammed lauded the rising involvement of Emirati women in aviation, describing their accomplishments in various specialized roles, including piloting, as an uplifting narrative. Their achievements are a testament to the strength of Emirati women across diverse fields and support the ideals of diversity, talent, and sustainable development.

The meeting underscored Sheikh Mohammed’s unwavering support for nurturing national talent in pivotal and future-focused sectors. His encouragement inspires Emirati youth and women to pursue impactful careers in advanced industries such as aviation, engineering, and technology. The pilots expressed deep appreciation for His Highness's backing, assuring him of their commitment to representing the UAE with pride on the global stage.

Emirates airline has established a robust framework for cultivating Emirati aviation experts. Currently, nearly 900 UAE Nationals serve as Captains and First Officers within its international operations, complemented by over 300 Emirati cadets training at the Emirates Flight Training Academy. This strategic investment helps meet Emiratisation objectives and secures a consistent pipeline of qualified pilots for the future.

Through investments in training and human capital development, Emirates is poised to cultivate the next generation of Emirati pilots who will steer the aviation industry in the future. Sheikh Mohammed’s dialogue with the pilots reaffirms the UAE's conviction that its people are its most valuable asset, with their skills, dedication, and fervor paving the way for a promising future in global aviation.