"I am pleased to see the 12th edition of the Dubai Airshow as it readies for take-off, flying from success to another and continuing its quantitative and qualitative growth.

I am proud of the prominent position the Dubai Airshow has gained today as one of the largest international exhibitions in its field. I am more proud of our citizens whose meticulous organisation and management skills helped shape the success of this global event, where modern creations and technology in the fields of aviation, communication, empowerment and training are exhibited.

We perceive this accomplishment as one of a series of successes achieved by the UAE in several areas; an extension of the country's prestigious position in all regional and international forums. The Dubai Airshow stands witness to the outstanding growth we have accomplished as a nation, from security and stability to superior global competitiveness in the fields of infrastructure and good governance.

"In the UAE, we have always stressed that success has no finishing line," Sheikh Mohammed emphasised, adding that the achievements need to be sustained in order to last. "We believe in and practice this consistent approach in our lives as we work diligently and faithfully to attain results," he added.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the management of the exhibition and praised the inaugural launch of the Gulf Aviation Training Event, which gathers top air transport flight training professionals to discuss the pressing need for more comprehensive flight crew training in a region which is seeing accelerated growth in air transport.

Concluding his statement, Sheikh Mohammed wished exhibitors and guests successful participation and a pleasant stay in the UAE.