The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has successfully concluded the Air Cargo Forum (ACF) 2025, held from November 3–6 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates—a landmark edition that marked the first-ever staging of the global event in the UAE capital. The forum underscored Abu Dhabi’s rising prominence as a strategic global hub for air cargo, logistics, and innovation.
Jointly organized with Etihad Cargo, ACF 2025 represented several firsts for the association: it was not only the first annual edition of the Air Cargo Forum but also the first to be hosted in a major sports arena, symbolizing TIACA’s growing ambition to expand its reach and relevance within the evolving logistics ecosystem.
A Global Gathering of Industry Leaders
The three-day forum brought together an international audience of air cargo professionals, freight forwarders, policymakers, technology innovators, and sustainability experts, all converging to discuss the industry’s most pressing themes—from digital transformation and decarbonization to supply chain resilience and Middle Eastern market growth.
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Panel discussions, keynote sessions, and interactive workshops offered a platform for in-depth dialogue and actionable insights, with participants emphasising collaboration as the key driver of progress in an era of accelerated change.
Strong Endorsement for Abu Dhabi’s Role
“Abu Dhabi provided an excellent setting for this year’s Air Cargo Forum,” said Glyn Hughes, Director General of TIACA. “The city’s infrastructure, innovation, and connectivity offered a fitting backdrop for productive discussions about the future of our industry. The engagement and collaboration we witnessed throughout the event were encouraging and demonstrated the continued strength of the global air cargo community.”
Echoing this sentiment, Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the event’s importance for the region:
“As the official sponsor and host airline of the Air Cargo Forum 2025, it was a privilege to welcome the global logistics community to Abu Dhabi. The forum showcased the city’s role as a centre for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth in air cargo. Hosting such a significant event reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a key hub connecting East and West—where partnerships are forged, ideas are exchanged, and the future of logistics continues to take shape.”
Networking in Motion
Beyond the conference hall, delegates enjoyed a rich social program designed to foster business connections in dynamic settings. Among the highlights was an exclusive evening at Ferrari World, where attendees mingled against the backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s iconic entertainment venue—an event that blended networking with a touch of local flair.
A Step Forward for TIACA’s Global Reach
“Bringing the Air Cargo Forum to Abu Dhabi for the first time was a significant milestone in TIACA’s journey to expand its inclusivity and global footprint,” remarked Roos Bakker, newly appointed Chair of TIACA. “We are deeply grateful for the hospitality and support extended by our hosts and partners, which made this event both engaging and memorable.”
Following the overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, TIACA has announced its intention to return to Abu Dhabi in 2027, with official dates to be confirmed.
With its seamless execution, record attendance, and strategic regional impact, the Air Cargo Forum 2025 has reinforced TIACA’s vision of fostering a more connected, sustainable, and forward-looking air cargo industry—and positioned Abu Dhabi as a powerful stage for global dialogue in logistics.
