The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the UAE has officially launched the third cycle of the prestigious Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award, in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
This global award highlights the UAE’s commitment to supporting innovation and sustainability in the aviation sector.
It was announced following the cooperation agreement signed during the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market in February.
$1 Million Global Prize to Drive Aviation Sustainability
The award aims to stimulate cutting-edge research and innovations.
it focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), besides advancing environmentally responsible practices in the aviation industry.
H.E Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the GCAA, emphasized the UAE’s strategic vision under its wise leadership to promote global innovation and secure a more sustainable future in aviation.
He highlighted that this award reflects the nation’s strong commitment to accelerating the global transition to eco-friendly aviation practices.
What is the Main Focus of Mohammed bin Rashid Aviation Award ?
Mohammed bin Rashid Aviation Award 2025 places special emphasis on recognizing individuals and institutions that contribute to developing and implementing sustainable aviation fuel solutions.
It also aims to:
- Strengthen international cooperation
- Enhance the role of research
- Drive practical innovation for a greener future
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, stated that this cycle was specifically designed to reinforce sustainability in aviation.
It encourages positive competition among academic, scientific, and research institutions worldwide.
So they create executable and impactful solutions that align with the UAE’s global aviation vision.
ICAO Secretary-General: Aviation Can Achieve Net-Zero by 2050
Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary-General of ICAO, commended the award, noting that carbon-free aviation is attainable.
He stressed that initiatives like Mohammed bin Rashid Aviation Award are accelerating progress in sustainable aviation.
Especially with regard to SAF, a vital element in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Mohammed bin Rashid Aviation Award – Categories and Prize Details:
The third cycle of the award honors contributions across three key categories:
Academic Institutions – Undergraduate Students
Focus: Accelerating the development and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel solutions.
Prizes:
- 1st Place: $250,000
- 2nd Place: $150,000
- 3rd Place: $100,000
Academic Institutions – Postgraduate Students
Focus: Supporting graduate-level research in sustainable aviation solutions.
Prizes:
- 1st Place: $250,000
- 2nd Place: $150,000
- 3rd Place: $100,000
Research Institutions
Focus: Recognizing innovative research in sustainable aviation fuel technologies.
Prizes: Same structure as the above categories.
The Global Aviation Award – Evaluation Criteria:
All submissions will be judged based on six core criteria:
- Innovation and originality
- Practical applicability
- Environmental sustainability
- Economic feasibility
- Impact on policy development and regulatory frameworks
- Integration with existing aviation infrastructure
The GCAA encourages all eligible individuals and institutions to apply and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable aviation.
For full details and submission guidelines, applicants can visit the official award website:
https://sheikhmohammed.ae/en-us/awards
