Vice President highlights UAE’s growing role in shaping the future of global aviation

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the exhibition area of Dubai Airshow 2025 at Dubai World Central (DWC) on Thursday.
He reviewed the latest breakthroughs in aviation, aerospace, air mobility and defence, as exhibitors from around the world gathered to present new technologies shaping the future of flight.
Sheikh Mohammed said Dubai Airshow has evolved into one of the world’s leading aviation events, bringing together industry leaders, innovators and policymakers. He noted that the platform plays a major role in defining the next era of aviation and aerospace, driven by rapid advances in technology and strong international collaboration.
He emphasised the UAE’s growing influence in this global sector, highlighting the country’s efforts to build a supportive economic and regulatory environment. These measures, he said, continue to attract global manufacturers, encourage research and development, and fuel innovation across both civil and military aviation.
Sheikh Mohammed described the aviation industry as a key engine of national economic growth. He said Dubai Airshow helps strengthen international partnerships and supports projects that reinforce the emirate’s position as a global hub for advanced aviation technologies. The event, he added, also reflects the confidence global companies place in Dubai as a reliable base for testing, developing and deploying future-ready solutions.
He noted that the UAE continues to invest in aviation infrastructure and talent development, ensuring that national professionals can play a leading role in shaping the industry’s future. The country also offers global companies a unique platform to collaborate, innovate and bring new ideas to market.
During the tour, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors in adopting and scaling advanced technologies.
Dubai, he said, has always embraced a partnership-led model that encourages government bodies and industry players to work together, accelerating the testing and rollout of new systems.
Sheikh Mohammed attended live aerial displays featuring the UAE aerobatic team, Al Fursan, along with demonstrations by international teams showcasing next-generation military and commercial aircraft.
He also toured multiple pavilions, exploring smart and sustainable aviation solutions, advanced aircraft, drones and emerging technologies designed to support the global aviation industry.
Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports and Emirates; and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
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