UAE’s Green Aviation Event Becomes Official ICAO Global Forum

Photo: WAM

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a major milestone in global aviation and sustainability. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has officially adopted the Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM), an initiative introduced by the UAE, as a formal, annual international event. This decision was made during ICAO’s 235th Council Session.

This marks a rare occasion where a state-led initiative has grown into a recognised and institutionalised international platform under the official calendar of ICAO. This decision not only recognises the innovation of the UAE but also places it at the heart of the future of sustainable aviation.

What is GSAM and Why Is It Important?

The Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM) is a unique event designed to support and accelerate the shift toward sustainable aviation. It focuses on bringing together all key players in the aviation industry—such as airlines, airplane manufacturers, government regulators, and investors.

The goal of the marketplace is to promote and support the use of:

• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
• Low-Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF)
• Climate finance tools, especially under ICAO's Finvest Hub

By encouraging partnerships, investment, and innovation in these areas, GSAM aims to help the aviation industry reach net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with ICAO’s long-term goals.

When Was GSAM First Introduced?

GSAM was first launched in February 2025 in Abu Dhabi, on the sidelines of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS). It was introduced as a UAE national initiative to support  aviation.

What started as a bold national idea quickly gained international support. It was proposed by the UAE to the ICAO in 2024 through its Permanent Mission to ICAO and came to life in early 2025 with participation from several local and international partners.

ICAO’s Recognition – What Does It Mean?

By making GSAM an official annual event on its global calendar, ICAO has given global recognition and backing to the UAE’s initiative. This means that every year, countries, companies, and organisations from around the world will gather at GSAM to work on real solutions for aviation’s carbon footprint.

This also means that the UAE is now seen as a global leader in pushing for sustainability in the aviation sector. The event is no longer just a UAE project—it now belongs to the world, supported and guided by ICAO.

UAE’s Leadership in Aviation and Sustainability

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), expressed his pride over the announcement. He credited the UAE’s wise leadership for guiding the nation to take leading steps in the aviation sector.

He said, “Thanks to the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE continues to lead the civil aviation sector both regionally and internationally. This achievement reflects the UAE’s prominent position on the global civil aviation map and reaffirms its excellence in developing future solutions and creating sustainable and innovative global initiatives that drive the growth and competitiveness of this vital sector while keeping pace with global development needs."

He added that the UAE had successfully transformed a national concept into a global platform, aligned with ICAO’s goals and best global practices.

From National Vision to Global Reality

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, also shared his thoughts. He said, “We are proud that the GSAM initiative, once a national vision, is now a formal ICAO-backed global event.”

He described this moment as a testament to the UAE’s clear strategy and long-term planning. The UAE focused not just on national goals, but also on how to create solutions that benefit the world through cooperation and innovation.

ICAO Council Praises the UAE

Members of the ICAO Council praised the UAE for its visionary leadership and practical approach. They said the UAE had shown a clear example of how national ideas can turn into successful international actions.

They also appreciated the UAE’s ability to bring together technology, policy, and finance in one space to promote sustainability. The UAE was seen as a model country, showing others how to create platforms that bring real impact.

Bringing Together All Aviation Stakeholders

The GSAM serves as a common platform for everyone connected to aviation:

• Airlines looking to reduce emissions
• Airplane makers working on fuel-efficient models
• Governments and regulators creating climate-friendly policies
• Investors and climate funds searching for sustainable aviation projects

All of these players come together under one roof during GSAM to collaborate on real actions, make business deals, and push the aviation sector toward climate goals.

Looking Ahead: The Second Edition of GSAM

The UAE is now preparing for the second edition of GSAM, which is expected to be even bigger and better than the first one. It will attract more global participation and bring more solutions to the table.

This second edition will continue to focus on supporting ICAO’s Long-Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG), which is to reach net-zero carbon emissions in aviation by 2050.

The event will also focus on expanding climate finance, helping countries and companies secure the funding needed to shift to cleaner fuels and greener technology.

UAE’s Role in Shaping the Future

This global recognition proves the UAE’s growing influence not just in the aviation world, but also in the climate change and sustainability space. The country is showing the world how ideas can turn into action—by planning well, working together, and thinking about the future.

The UAE is helping to build a more efficient, resilient, and environmentally friendly aviation ecosystem. Its work with ICAO and other global bodies ensures that progress is made not just in policy talks but in real-life aviation solutions.

A Model for the World

Through GSAM, the UAE is presenting a practical model that other countries can follow. It combines innovation, sustainability, international cooperation, and strategic leadership—all key factors in solving today’s complex global challenges.

ICAO’s decision to adopt GSAM as an annual event is more than just an administrative step. It is a recognition of success, vision, and real-world impact.

A Historic Achievement for Aviation and the Planet

The UAE’s success in establishing GSAM as a globally recognised, institutionalised ICAO event is a historic moment. It shows the power of national ideas growing into global solutions and highlights the UAE’s commitment to a greener, cleaner future for aviation.

The GSAM will now be held every year under ICAO’s leadership, helping countries and companies work toward aviation that is safe, efficient, and sustainable.

This marks a new chapter in the aviation industry’s fight against climate change, with the UAE leading the way from vision to global action.