UAE, November 14, 2017 - The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has revealed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) during Dubai Airshow. The MoU aims to enhance cooperation between the two parties in the economic, social and cultural aspects of their respective operations. The move complements the objectives set forth in Dubai Plan 2021, which looks towards reinforcing the emirate's position as a global destination across many aspects and continuously support the government's communication strategy. The agreement also demonstrates DAFZA and DCAA's strong commitment towards consolidating communication, transparency and innovation.

The MoU was signed by H.E Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General, DCAA and H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General, DAFZA, in the presence of senior officials from both authorities. Under the terms of the agreement, the MoU seeks to enhance cooperation between DCAA and DAFZA --combining efforts across jointly initiated programs and initiatives, including the promotion of excellence in customer service and keeping at pace with the latest developments that impact Dubai and the UAE at the economic and social levels. The agreement throws special focus on consolidating cooperative ties in the commercial affairs within the aviation industrythrough the activation of Blockchain between the two parties and linking the license service for companies involved in aviation through digital technology – a move which will enhance the experiences of foreign investors in DAFZA. Both DCAA and DAFZA have also agreed to work closely together on other essential operational aspects like safety, the environment and price regulation.

The two parties have further committed to exchange institutional practices and expertise in various fields while also collaborating on efforts aimed at improving the performance of joint operations, including simplifying procedures to further enhance their relationship.

The MoU also recognizes DCAA as an official member of the Future Aviation Lounge (FAL) initiative, which was launched by H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The initiative is the first smart digital network backed by Artificial Intelligence technology to envision the future of aviation sector in Dubai. The new digital network will include various government entities like small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), multinational corporations (MNCs), the academic sector and other aviation affiliates and experts.  The agreement also seeks to encourage joint action and cooperative innovation as well as improve these entities’ roles as institutions and individuals in accelerating the growth of the sector and contributing to Dubai’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

In this context, H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), said, “Through this MoU, we are looking towards further strengthening our strategic cooperation with our partners, which in turn, can result in consolidating Dubai's position globally across all fields and sectors. The agreement represents a positive step in the move to achieve the common objectives shared by the two entities, especially in the unified effort to promote and drive in more economic growth.”

H.E. Dr.  Al Zarooni said, “DAFZA looks forward to strengthening its partnership with DCAA based on the freezone’s priorities for creating a positive environment and a unique experience that attracts foreign investments and contributes to achieving its set goals and objectives. DAFZA is fully committed in providing the essential expertise and implement best practices to improve serving its customers, which will have a positive impact at the economic, social and cultural levels of Dubai and the UAE in general.”

H.E. added, “We welcome DCAA as a member of the Future Aviation Lounge and look forward to enhancing joint actions and cooperative innovation to envision the future of the aviation sector by sharing knowledge, expertise and institutional experience at all levels to play a vital role in the interests of the aviation sector and its contribution to Dubai’s GDP.”

The MoU also covers the provision of training opportunities and workshops according to the programs being implemented by both parties. It also covers various activities, ideas, proposals and innovations like the facilitation and exchange of knowledge, experiences and related studies to support and accelerate national economic growth. Moreover, the agreement promotes the consolidation of resources, innovation and effective communication practices at both federal and local levels to serve the public interest.