UAE Poised to Introduce Mandatory SAF Blending as Aviation Decarbonisation Accelerates

The UAE is moving closer to strengthening its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate, with officials indicating that the current voluntary 1% blend could soon become compulsory.

The shift signals the country’s determination to fast-track cleaner fuel adoption under its national SAF roadmap—an essential pillar of its aviation decarbonisation strategy.

Speaking at an Airbus event during the Dubai Airshow, Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said an ongoing economic assessment will guide future regulation. The review, set for completion within the next year, will determine whether a mandatory SAF blending requirement will be introduced. He stressed the urgency of action, adding that the UAE has “the power to drive this at a global scale.”

Over the coming months, coordination between key aviation stakeholders will intensify. Al Olama confirmed upcoming discussions with Abu Dhabi Airport, Dubai Airport, Etihad Airways, and Emirates to align on timelines for the “next phase” of implementation.

Mobilising investment
Feedback from industry players has been positive so far, supported by the SAF and LCAF Committee’s engagement with fuel producers and offtakers. Al Olama noted that the UAE’s strong track record in attracting investment and providing efficient regulatory pathways positions it well to scale SAF adoption.

He highlighted international examples, such as Hong Kong’s airport-waste-to-SAF programme, as models that could be adapted for the UAE’s larger aviation ecosystem.

Beyond infrastructure, the UAE’s ability to enact policy rapidly remains a key enabler of SAF growth. Officials see an opportunity not only to meet global expectations, but to influence them—cementing the UAE’s leadership role in low-carbon aviation.

Maryam Ali AlBalooshi, Environment Manager at the General Civil Aviation Authority, emphasised the pressure to deliver tangible progress by 2028. She noted that while policies and strategies are established, several supporting components are still being developed as the UAE refines its unique SAF model.