Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has announced the readiness of the UAE's airports to welcome attendees of COP28, a significant global event set to be hosted at Expo City Dubai from November 30th to December 12th, 2023.

Al Suwaidi emphasised that the GCAA and the UAE's aviation sector play crucial roles as hosts of this international conference. He stressed the importance of showcasing the country's achievements in the aviation sector, particularly its commitment to emissions reduction.

For over a decade, the UAE has launched numerous international initiatives aimed at reducing emissions. To prepare for COP28, the GCAA established a national team comprising key stakeholders in the aviation sector. This team is responsible for hosting the conference and implementing strategies to reduce emissions. Task forces within the team focus on media, operations, logistics, and aviation storytelling to ensure the success of the event.

Al Suwaidi also highlighted the UAE's role in hosting the third edition of the Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels in November, a vital global event discussing aviation's role in climate change and the future of aviation fuel production.

He noted the UAE's active participation in discussions under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) framework and "COP," particularly its involvement in developing laws, systems, and solutions for environmental balance, economic growth, and climate change mitigation within the ICAO's Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection.

The UAE has submitted a comprehensive national action plan, the "National Plan for Emission Reduction," which received praise from the ICAO. This plan outlines the country's commitment to reducing emissions and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.