emirates7 - The UAE, through its Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), took part in the BRICS Transport Ministers’ Meeting held in Brasília, the capital of Brazil.
Representing the UAE, Sheikh Nasser Al Qasimi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Infrastructure Regulation Sector at MoEI, delivered the country’s address during the ministerial session. In his speech, he underscored the UAE’s major accomplishments in sustainable transport and smart infrastructure, reaffirming its commitment to a future-oriented strategy centered on innovation and data-driven policymaking. He also stressed the critical role of multilateral cooperation in tackling global transportation challenges.
Sheikh Nasser highlighted the UAE’s ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive and sustainable infrastructure network, referencing the “Etihad Rail” project as a flagship initiative. Spanning 1,200 kilometers across the country, the rail network is expected to handle over 60 million tons of freight and transport 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030, while cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8.2 million tons each year.
He also outlined the country’s progress in urban mobility, including increased adoption of electric vehicles and the planned launch of an air taxi system by 2026. He added that the UAE had surpassed 700 electric vehicle charging stations nationwide by the end of 2024, signifying notable growth in green mobility infrastructure.
In aviation, Sheikh Nasser presented the UAE’s strategy to advance the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), targeting an annual production of 700 million liters by 2030. The plan includes a mandatory blending rate of at least 1% by 2031. He also noted that UAE airports had handled more than 140 million passengers and 4 million tons of cargo in 2024.
In terms of maritime transport, he reiterated the UAE’s goal to cut emissions from its ports by 70% by 2030 and to power Jebel Ali Port entirely with renewable energy. Additionally, he voiced support for the creation of a BRICS International Logistics Alliance.
During the meeting, the UAE reaffirmed its backing for the proposed BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport and Logistics. The institute is envisioned as a hub for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation, aimed at advancing sustainable global transport development.
The UAE delegation also participated in preparatory sessions involving expert working groups from various countries. These technical workshops showcased national best practices in areas such as sustainable transport systems, smart mobility, SAF, air connectivity, maritime emissions reduction, and port sustainability. The proposal for an international logistics alliance under BRICS was also deliberated.
Outcomes from the technical sessions were compiled into a set of strategic and conceptual recommendations, which were incorporated into the final ministerial declaration. These reflect a shared commitment among member states to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange to build a future-ready, resilient, and sustainable transport system.
Representing the UAE, Sheikh Nasser Al Qasimi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Infrastructure Regulation Sector at MoEI, delivered the country’s address during the ministerial session. In his speech, he underscored the UAE’s major accomplishments in sustainable transport and smart infrastructure, reaffirming its commitment to a future-oriented strategy centered on innovation and data-driven policymaking. He also stressed the critical role of multilateral cooperation in tackling global transportation challenges.
Sheikh Nasser highlighted the UAE’s ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive and sustainable infrastructure network, referencing the “Etihad Rail” project as a flagship initiative. Spanning 1,200 kilometers across the country, the rail network is expected to handle over 60 million tons of freight and transport 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030, while cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8.2 million tons each year.
He also outlined the country’s progress in urban mobility, including increased adoption of electric vehicles and the planned launch of an air taxi system by 2026. He added that the UAE had surpassed 700 electric vehicle charging stations nationwide by the end of 2024, signifying notable growth in green mobility infrastructure.
In aviation, Sheikh Nasser presented the UAE’s strategy to advance the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), targeting an annual production of 700 million liters by 2030. The plan includes a mandatory blending rate of at least 1% by 2031. He also noted that UAE airports had handled more than 140 million passengers and 4 million tons of cargo in 2024.
In terms of maritime transport, he reiterated the UAE’s goal to cut emissions from its ports by 70% by 2030 and to power Jebel Ali Port entirely with renewable energy. Additionally, he voiced support for the creation of a BRICS International Logistics Alliance.
During the meeting, the UAE reaffirmed its backing for the proposed BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport and Logistics. The institute is envisioned as a hub for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation, aimed at advancing sustainable global transport development.
The UAE delegation also participated in preparatory sessions involving expert working groups from various countries. These technical workshops showcased national best practices in areas such as sustainable transport systems, smart mobility, SAF, air connectivity, maritime emissions reduction, and port sustainability. The proposal for an international logistics alliance under BRICS was also deliberated.
Outcomes from the technical sessions were compiled into a set of strategic and conceptual recommendations, which were incorporated into the final ministerial declaration. These reflect a shared commitment among member states to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange to build a future-ready, resilient, and sustainable transport system.