Saudi Commits $1 Million to ICAO’s Development Drive

Saudi Arabia has pledged a US $1 million contribution to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative for the 2025–2028 cycle, aiming to bolster aviation safety and regulatory capacity in lower-income states. The announcement came during the 42nd ICAO General Assembly in Montreal, where Transport and Logistics Minister and GACA Chairman Saleh Al-Jasser underlined Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to strengthen global civil aviation governance.

Al-Jasser addressed delegates, noting that the donation, made in the name of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, reflects Saudi Arabia’s deep engagement in international aviation development. He characterised the funding as part of a broader strategy to elevate standards across the global sector, especially in nations with limited resources.

The “No Country Left Behind” programme, central to ICAO’s agenda, seeks to assist developing states in meeting international safety, security and environmental norms. By providing technical support, training, and capacity-building, the programme helps close gaps in regulatory and institutional frameworks across the aviation ecosystem. Saudi Arabia’s financial involvement positions it among a select group of donor states backing this effort.

Saudi Arabia is no stranger to leadership within ICAO’s architecture. For the 2023–2025 cycle, it holds a seat on the ICAO Council, offering it direct influence over regulatory and policy frameworks. Beyond that, it has held significant roles in ICAO’s security committees, including the presidency of the Aviation Security Committee for 2023–2024. These roles align with Riyadh’s ambition to be a strategic aviation player under its Vision 2030 plan.

Observers note that Saudi Arabia’s growing participation is part of a strategic shift: to complement its domestic aviation expansion with stronger multilateral influence. Domestically, Saudi authorities have pushed hard on developing new airport infrastructure, expanding route networks, and positioning the country as a regional aviation hub. The donation underscores that such ambitions are matched by a willingness to invest in the broader governance agenda.

Still, challenges remain. Some critics question whether financial pledges translate into long-term impact in states with structural deficits in regulation, oversight, and human capital. Success of the programme depends on effective deployment, consistent follow-up, and local buy-in. To circumvent potential pitfalls, ICAO often combines funding with assessment missions and tailored roadmaps, ensuring that training and regulatory enhancements stick.