The UAE is advancing toward a new era of urban air mobility, with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) moving ahead on certifying multiple electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for both passenger and cargo use.

According to the GCAA, the certification program follows a comprehensive, evidence-based process spanning application review, technical assessments, flight testing, and operational evaluation. 

Each phase is aligned with international safety and performance standards, with timelines set in coordination with manufacturers according to their readiness and progress.

GCAA Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi said the UAE is among the first countries worldwide to implement a regulatory framework for Advanced Air Mobility. 

“Our approach places safety and reliability at the core of every stage, ensuring innovation in aviation is achieved with the same rigour and discipline that define our oversight system,” he said, noting that the certification approach is aligned with global best practices.

The authority is collaborating with government entities and international certification bodies, forming dedicated technical and regulatory teams for each eVTOL programme to ensure safe adoption of emerging air mobility technologies.

Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director-General of Aviation Safety Affairs, stressed that the certification process remains disciplined and transparent. “Our focus is on enabling innovation through a robust and efficient certification pathway while ensuring that every aircraft meets all regulatory requirements,” he said. The GCAA added that all approvals undergo detailed evaluation in coordination with manufacturers, with safety as the top priority.

Alongside its regulatory efforts, the GCAA is preparing to host the UAE Aviation Safety Conference 2025 under the theme “AI and the Future of Aviation Safety: Intelligent Skies, Safer Flights.” 

The two-day gathering will convene government leaders, industry stakeholders, and technology experts to examine how emerging technologies are shaping the future of aviation safety and operations.