In anticipation of COP28, the UAE's civil aviation authority assures that its airports are fully prepared to accommodate the influx of travelers and participants. Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), announced that a comprehensive national team comprising key aviation sector partners has been established to host the global climate conference, emphasizing the commitment to reducing emissions. The COP28 conference is scheduled to take place at Expo City Dubai from November 30th to December 12th, 2023.
Al Suwaidi highlighted the significance of the UAE's aviation sector as a crucial host for the event, underlining the importance of showcasing the nation's achievements in this domain. Over the past decade, the UAE has initiated numerous international efforts aimed at emission reduction. The collaborative national team formed by the GCAA encompasses specialized task forces in media, operations, logistics, and aviation storytelling, collectively dedicated to orchestrating a successful event while minimizing environmental impact.
Additionally, Al Suwaidi unveiled the GCAA's achievement in securing the hosting rights for the third edition of the Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels, slated for November. This global event holds great significance as it discusses aviation's role in climate change and explores ways to accelerate the development of alternative aviation fuels. The GCAA and the UAE's aviation sector have played pivotal roles in international discussions under the framework of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and "COP" since 2010. Numerous ICAO resolutions aligning with emission reduction objectives have received endorsements.
Furthermore, the UAE submitted an extensive national action plan, the "National Plan for Emission Reduction," which garnered commendation from the ICAO, showcasing the nation's dedication to sustainable aviation practices.