Latest news with #SaifMohammedAlSuwaidi
Sharjah 24
16-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
UAE representative elected Vice Chair of ICAO Council's CEC
UAE's growing leadership in aviation This election represents a significant milestone in the UAE's increasing leadership within international civil aviation. It underscores the country's active contributions to promoting sustainability and climate action in the sector. Commitment to environmental sustainability Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), stated, 'This election reaffirms the UAE's deep commitment to environmental sustainability in aviation.' He emphasized that Mohammad Salem's appointment reflects the international recognition of the UAE professionals' impactful roles within ICAO. The UAE is dedicated to collaborating with ICAO Member States and global partners to achieve shared environmental goals. Advancing ICAO's climate strategy The appointment comes as ICAO intensifies its efforts to lead the global aviation sector toward a sustainable future, aiming for net-zero emissions. The UAE has been a proactive participant in ICAO's environmental agenda by advocating for cleaner energy sources, such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), and launching innovative emissions reduction initiatives. As Vice Chair of the CEC, Salem will play a pivotal role in advancing ICAO's climate strategy. This includes supporting the effective implementation of initiatives like the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and working towards ICAO's historic goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions in aviation by 2050.
Sharjah 24
08-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Digital Department organises ‘Sharjah GIS Forum'
The forum, held at Aljada by Arada in Sharjah, drew significant attendance, with around 172 participants. Among the distinguished attendees were several senior officials from Sharjah's government departments and institutions, including His Excellency Eng. Omar Khalfan bin Huraimel Al Shamsi, Chairman of Department of Municipalities Affairs, and His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City. Strengthening joint action His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of Sharjah Digital Department, emphasised the forum's role as a vital platform for exchanging expertise and expanding collaboration among government entities. He highlighted the growing importance of spatial data as a foundational element in supporting decision-making, enhancing service delivery, and improving overall government performance. His Excellency expressed his hope that the forum would foster greater cooperation in building an integrated digital environment grounded in accurate, reliable information towards serving the community and advancing the emirate's shared development goals. A step towards digital integration In her opening speech, Her Excellency Eng. Lamia Al Hussan Al Shamsi, Director of SDD, emphasised the critical role of geographic information systems in urban planning, infrastructure management, environmental monitoring, and public services. She described GIS as a key enabler of sustainable development guided by clear visions and strategic planning. Her Excellency also reaffirmed SDD's commitment to strengthening this vital sector, empowering its workforce, aligning collaborative efforts, and investing in initiatives that improve quality of life and advance digital integration across the emirate. In this context, Her Excellency highlighted the Mada Geographic Data Platform, launched by SDD during GITEX 2024, as a key step toward advancing geospatial data sharing across the UAE. Mada is a centralised, continuously updated database that enables seamless exchange of geographic information between government entities. This facilitates more effective spatial planning, streamlines government processes, and enhances the quality of public services, ultimately supporting the emirate's economic growth. A paradigm shift His Excellency Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, Director General of Sharjah City Municipality, affirmed that the Municipality's participation in the forum reflects its commitment to sharing its expertise and showcasing its projects in the field of geographic information systems. He noted that the forum also provides an opportunity to learn from other experiences to strengthen institutional performance and enhance operational efficiency, in line with the emirate's strategic direction. Al Tunaiji highlighted several advanced digital initiatives driven by GIS technology, including the 'Smart Inspection' system and the digital platform for issuing No Objection Certificates for sewage services. Urban planning support Eng. Fatima Juma, Head of the GIS Department at Department of Town Planning and Survey, affirmed that the Department's participation in the forum aimed to highlight its key applications and strategic directions in the field of modern geography and urban planning. She explained that the presentation focused on core themes such as geospatial data and statistics, the integration of geographic artificial intelligence in future planning, and the development of smart cities. She also emphasised the role of geographic information systems in advancing urban projects and underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships to support the growth of this vital sector. Innovation for sustainable development Khalid Abdullah Al Zarooni, Head of Information Technology at Sharjah Archaeology Authority, stated that the Authority's participation in the forum provided a valuable opportunity to showcase its pioneering project, the 'Archaeological Geographic Information System,' which reflects its steadfast commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of the Emirate of Sharjah. He noted that the forum served as an effective platform for exchanging expertise, fostering knowledge-sharing, and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation in leveraging digital innovation to support sustainable development, aligned with the emirate's comprehensive strategic vision. Ambitious goals The Sharjah Geographic Information Systems Forum aimed to familiarise participating entities with the latest technical solutions and global best practices in the field of geographic information systems (GIS) and how these can be leveraged to enhance government performance through effective spatial data collection, analysis, and visualisation. It also sought to strengthen cooperation between government departments by promoting data and information sharing, thereby accelerating procedures, improving service delivery, and supporting informed decision-making based on sound scientific principles. The event further aimed to advance integration in executing joint projects and strategic plans across the emirate. Insights and experiences The forum featured a series of specialised sessions highlighting the role of geographic information systems in predicting natural disasters, supporting urban planning, and building unified geospatial frameworks to enhance coordination between federal and local entities. Discussions also covered the application of GIS in protecting archaeological sites, streamlining inspection processes, and issuing no-objection certificates (NOCs), alongside a presentation of GIS implementations by the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority. Other session topics explored integrating advanced technologies, such as digital twin models and artificial intelligence, to support smart geospatial solutions, particularly in areas like rainwater collection, flood management, and spatial data analysis to improve the efficiency of government operations. Honouring The forum emphasised the importance of unifying efforts in exchanging geospatial data to enable greater integration and accessibility of information. This, in turn, contributes to more efficient planning and management, reduces time and effort, and supports the development of accurate, strategic decision-making that advances comprehensive development across the Emirate of Sharjah. The event concluded with a ceremony honouring participating entities in recognition of their valuable contributions to digital transformation and the enhancement of smart government performance.
Gulf Business
25-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Abu Dhabi: Archer secures approval for first hybrid heliport
Image: Archer Aviation/ For illustrative purposes The project, developed in collaboration with infrastructure partner Falcon Aviation Services and in close coordination with the GCAA, will transform the existing helipad into a dual-use facility capable of handling both traditional helicopters and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The heliport is expected to be operational in H2 2025, forming part of Archer's broader UAE infrastructure rollout in partnership with leading operator Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA). 'This milestone is not just about infrastructure — it reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to innovation and global leadership in Advanced Air Mobility,' said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the GCAA. 'This approval represents a new era for civil aviation, driven by partnership and vision.' Setting new benchmarks for hybrid heliports The GCAA has become the first aviation authority worldwide to draft regulatory standards for hybrid heliports, a framework that will allow the safe, efficient integration of helicopters and eVTOL aircraft. The final standards are expected to be published by July 2025 following an industry consultation process. 'This framework ensures that our air mobility infrastructure is safe, efficient, and adaptable—laying the foundation for a unified operational environment,' added Aqeel Al Zarouni, assistant director general of the GCAA's Aviation Safety Affairs Sector. Located at a cruise terminal that receives over 650,000 visitors annually, the site offers strategic access to key cultural and tourism destinations such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed Port, Saadiyat Island, and the Corniche. 'Leveraging existing aviation assets is a cornerstone of our launch strategy. It allows us to move both quickly and safely — getting critical infrastructure ready ahead of our planned commercial launch,' said Archer Aviation CEO and co-founder Adam Goldstein. 'This achievement has only been possible through strong partnerships with the GCAA, ADIO, and our local operating partners.' Captain Ramandeep Oberoi, CEO of Falcon Aviation Services, noted the significance of repurposing an established heliport: 'Its transformation into a hybrid heliport marks an exciting new chapter. We are proud to support the UAE's vision by introducing future-ready infrastructure.' The apron and airspace design work for the project was supported by Air Synapsis, a Dubai-based heliport and vertiport design and consultancy firm.
TAG 91.1
24-04-2025
- Business
- TAG 91.1
Flying taxis step closer as Abu Dhabi approves first hybrid heliport
The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has approved the country's first hybrid heliport, marking a step forward in the rollout of urban air mobility services. The heliport, located at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port, is part of the broader Abu Dhabi Air Taxi project and is designed to accommodate both conventional helicopters and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Developed through a partnership between Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Falcon Aviation Services, and Archer Aviation, the heliport will serve as a launch point for future air taxi services planned to begin by 2026. The site was chosen for its proximity to key tourist destinations and high foot traffic — Zayed Port welcomes more than 650,000 cruise passengers annually. The GCAA's approval also introduces a regulatory milestone: the world's first standards for hybrid heliport infrastructure. These standards are intended to guide the safe integration of eVTOLs alongside traditional rotorcraft and are expected to be finalized by July 2025. 'This milestone reflects the UAE's commitment to innovation in the aviation sector,' said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA. He described the regulatory framework as a necessary step toward a mixed-mode air transport system that includes both helicopters and emerging electric aircraft. Archer CEO Adam Goldstein emphasized that adapting existing aviation sites, like the cruise terminal heliport, is a key strategy for accelerating air taxi deployment. 'It allows us to move both quickly and safely — getting critical infrastructure ready ahead of our planned commercial air taxi launch,' he said. The heliport's upgrade comes amid growing interest in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) as cities globally explore new transport models to ease congestion and reduce emissions. The Abu Dhabi Air Taxi project aims to connect major parts of the city through short-hop flights using quiet, battery-powered aircraft. The hybrid heliport is expected to offer faster transit options for visitors arriving by sea, with direct access to nearby landmarks such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Cultural District.
Express Tribune
23-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Abu Dhabi set to launch air taxi services by 2026 with new hybrid heliport
The new heliport will accommodate aircraft such as Archer's Midnight, an all-electric air taxi designed for short-distance urban travel. PHOTO: KHALEEJ TIMES Listen to article The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant leap toward integrating air taxis into its transport network, with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) granting design approval for the country's first hybrid heliport. The facility, to be constructed at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port, will cater to both traditional helicopters and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Announced on Wednesday, the hybrid heliport is the first of its kind in the region and is a key component in the UAE's vision of a connected, sustainable urban mobility ecosystem. The initiative is being developed through a strategic partnership involving AD Ports Group, Falcon Aviation Services, and US-based Archer Aviation. 'The hybrid heliport will serve as a key launch point for the Abu Dhabi Air Taxi service, planned for rollout by 2026, connecting key locations across the city with quiet and efficient air mobility solutions,' the GCAA confirmed in a statement. The location was selected for its strategic value. Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, one of the busiest hubs for the regional cruise industry, hosts over 650,000 visitors annually and provides direct access to cultural landmarks including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Saadiyat Cultural District. The new heliport will accommodate aircraft such as Archer's Midnight, an all-electric air taxi designed for short-distance urban travel. Archer has identified Abu Dhabi as a key early market, with test flights of the Midnight expected to begin this summer. Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer Aviation, highlighted the advantages of integrating with existing infrastructure. 'Currently, there are more than 70 helipads in Abu Dhabi. So, there's a really great opportunity,' he said. 'We plan to leverage the existing helipads, then add electrification to those facilities so that we can go launch quickly and scale up rapidly with minimal capital.' The project also marks a world-first on the regulatory front. The GCAA is the first civil aviation authority globally to develop specific regulatory standards for hybrid infrastructure — ensuring the safe and seamless operation of both helicopters and eVTOLs from the same platform. These standards are expected to be published by July 2025. 'Through our close collaboration with Archer, AD Ports Group, and Falcon Aviation Services, we are enabling a future where sustainable, high-tech air transport becomes a core part of our urban landscape,' said GCAA Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi. 'This approval represents a new era for civil aviation, driven by partnership and vision.' Archer CEO and co-founder Adam Goldstein echoed the sentiment: 'Leveraging existing aviation assets is a cornerstone of our launch strategy. It allows us to move both quickly and safely — getting critical infrastructure ready ahead of our planned commercial air taxi launch.' Currently, Falcon Aviation Services already offers heli-tours from the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, giving visitors panoramic views of the city. The addition of eVTOL air taxis promises to transform these skies into arteries of urban transportation, marking a bold new chapter in the UAE's aviation ambitions.
