About Gans

We keep the UAE's skies moving

GANS is the UAE's leading air navigation services provider, trusted by civil and military authorities to manage over 930,000 air traffic movements every year. Beyond managing airspace, we help shape the systems, infrastructure, and operational standards that support the nation’s aviation ambitions.

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Why GANS

Behind every aircraft that crosses UAE airspace, a system you never see.

Flights guided each year
0K+

Safer Skies

Proven safety frameworks, ISO-certified quality systems, and a zero-compromise culture across every operation.

Aviation experts
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Smarter Systems

From advanced CNS engineering to the UAE’s first aviation innovation lab, we are building the systems that future airspace operations demand.

Countries trained
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Global Partnerships

A regional training center of excellence and partnerships spanning 20+ countries, built to elevate aviation standards globally.

Our story

A national strength
with global impact.

01 / 10
  1. 2007
  2. 2009
  3. 2011
  4. 2012
  5. 2013
  6. 2014
  7. 2015
  8. 2020
  9. 2025
  10. 2026
2007

Guarding the Nation's Military Skies

Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) is established in Abu Dhabi and begins providing air navigation services for the UAE Armed Forces across multiple military airfields.

2007 Established for UAE aviation
2009

Launching the Abu Dhabi Training Centre

Launching the Abu Dhabi Training Centre

Legacy Airports and airspace
2011

Securing the Nation's Gold Standard Certification

The Training Centre receives Aviation Training Organization (ATO) certification from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Validation
2012

First Civil Air Navigation Milestone

GAL expands into the civil aviation sector through its first air navigation services contract with Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.

Expansion
2013

Expanding Across Abu Dhabi’s Aviation Hubs

GAL is selected to provide air navigation services across multiple airports in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant expansion of its operational footprint.

Modernisation
2014

A Dedicated Force in Air Navigation

GAL ANS becomes a dedicated business entity focused exclusively on air navigation services and joins the ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Programme.

Focus
2015

A Regional Benchmark for International Standards

The Training Centre is designated by ICAO as a Regional Training Centre of Excellence (RTCE), becoming the first organisation in the UAE to receive this recognition in the air navigation services field.

Accreditation
2020

Redefining Our Role in Global Airspace

GAL ANS rebrands as Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), reflecting its growth and future Ambitions.

Evolution
2025

Driving the Next Horizon of Air Mobility

GANS signs a strategic collaboration agreement with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to support the development of Advanced Air Mobility, unmanned aircraft systems and future airspace solutions.

Future Airspace
2026

Future Airspace

GANS unveils its new corporate identity and launches the Aviation Innovation Lab in partnership with Thales, supporting the development of next-generation air traffic management and aviation technologies in the UAE.

Transformation
Chapter 01 / 10
Purpose

What we're here to do.

Three statements that anchor every decision GANS makes — from the operations floor to the boardroom.

Our mission

Custodians of the nation's skies: Safe passage. Boundless connection. Enduring progress.

Every flight we guide, every controller we train, and every system we engineer reflects one responsibility: ensuring the UAE’s airspace enables safe, efficient, and uninterrupted movement. Whether supporting trade, national security, or the journeys that connect people across the world, GANS plays a critical role in keeping the nation connected and moving forward.

Our vision

To set the standard for regional airspace — through innovation and partnership.

We aim to help shape the future of regional airspace through operational excellence, innovation, and strategic collaboration. We are not only a strong regional player, we aim to be the reference point every other ANSP in the region measure themselves against. That means pushing the boundaries of what air navigation services look like, who delivers them, and how they shape the future of flight across the Middle East and beyond.

Our values

Four disciplines we hold ourselves to.

We focus on the operating principles that earned our authority, not just aspirations. They shape every decision, every partnership, and every service we deliver.

  1. Unwavering commitment In airspace management, precision and accountability are non-negotiable. We approach every operation, partnership, and responsibility with the highest level of commitment.
  2. Proven consistency Consistency builds trust. Across more than 930,000 annual movements, GANS delivers reliable performance through discipline, precision, and operational excellence.
  3. Seamless collaboration We believe the strongest aviation ecosystems are built through coordination, partnership, and shared expertise across the industry.
  4. Enduring reliability Governments, airports, and operators rely on GANS for stable, dependable, and long-term operational support across critical aviation infrastructure.
Message from the Managing Director

Leading a new phase of transformation.

As Managing Director of GANS, Eisa Butti Al Shamsi is leading the organisation through its next phase of growth, strengthening operational excellence while advancing future-ready air navigation services for the UAE.

With more than 20 years of leadership experience across aviation, satellite communications, and national strategic programmes, he has held senior executive roles including General Manager of Yahsat Government Solutions, where he led major national initiatives such as Falcon Eye, Thuraya-4, and government communications programmes.

He holds a Global Executive MBA from INSEAD and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Eisa Butti Al Shamsi Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, GANS Satellite Communications | Defence Technology | Airspace Innovation | 20+ Years Experience
Eisa Butti Al Shamsi
Managing Director GANS
Board of directors

Stewardship at the highest level.

GANS is governed by a board of experienced leaders drawn from aviation, government, defence, and industry. Their collective expertise provides the strategic direction and institutional oversight that ensures GANS fulfils its mandate.

  • H.E. Mohamed Helal AL Kaabi, Chairman of the Board

    Chairman of the Board

    H.E. Mohamed Helal AL Kaabi

    Chairman of the Board

    H.E. Mohamed Helal AL Kaabi

    Lieutenant General (Retired) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi is a distinguished leader and seasoned executive with extensive experience in the defence and aerospace sectors. A graduate of Mons Officer Cadet School, United Kingdom (1972), he served with distinction in the UAE Armed Forces, building a career spanning more than four decades in military leadership, strategic planning, governance, and organizational management. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of International Golden Group PJSC, where he provides strategic oversight and guidance on corporate governance, business development, and long-term growth initiatives. In addition, he serves as Chairman of the UAE Officers Club and Chairman of Global Air Navigation Services LLC, overseeing strategic direction and operational excellence across these organizations. Throughout his career, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Al Kaabi has held senior leadership positions across the defence, aviation, and government sectors, developing deep expertise in strategic leadership, governance, operations management, defence industry development, aviation services, and institutional transformation. His extensive experience and commitment to excellence have contributed significantly to the advancement of key national and commercial initiatives within the UAE. Recognized for his leadership, vision, and dedication to public service, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi continues to play an influential role in shaping strategic growth and governance across multiple organizations in the region.

    Board
  • Eisa Butti Al Shamsi, Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, GANS

    Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, GANS

    Eisa Butti Al Shamsi

    Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, GANS

    Eisa Butti Al Shamsi

    Board
  • Mohammed Hussain Ahmed,

    Mohammed Hussain Ahmed

    Mohammed Hussain Ahmed

    Mohammed is a distinguished aviation executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across the UAE's government and private aviation sectors. He currently serves as Chairman Advisor at Royal Jet, having previously led the organization as Chief Executive Officer, where he played a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives, operational excellence, and organizational performance. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) and the Board of Directors of Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), contributing his extensive industry expertise to support the continued growth and advancement of the UAE's aviation sector. Prior to joining RoyalJet, Mohammed served as General Manager of Abu Dhabi Airports and earlier as Vice President of Commercial and Government Affairs at Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL). Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to high performance, effective stakeholder engagement, and delivering sustainable results. Mohammed holds an international licence in Air Traffic Control Operations from the Airways Corporation of New Zealand and has completed numerous specialized aviation training programs. He is also a Certified International Negotiator from Harvard, reflecting his dedication to continuous professional development and strategic leadership.

    Board
  • Ahmed Al Marar,

    Ahmed Al Marar

    Ahmed Al Marar

    Ahmed Al Marar is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience across both the public and private sectors. He has held senior roles across a diverse range of industries, including aviation, infrastructure, renewable energy, and agriculture, with expertise in project delivery, stakeholder engagement, corporate governance, and business operations. Throughout his career, Mr. Al Marar has led complex, large-scale initiatives, built strategic partnerships, and overseen multidisciplinary teams, consistently contributing to sustainable growth and operational excellence. Mr. Al Marar holds a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management, and a National Diploma in Aerospace Engineering.

    Board
  • Emaad Mohamed Arikat,

    Emaad Mohamed Arikat

    Emaad Mohamed Arikat

    Board
Capabilities

The partners who trust us

Every organisation that depends on safe, efficient, and reliable airspace requires operational confidence. GANS supports government entities, airport operators, airlines, and specialised operators through integrated aviation services built on safety, continuity, and technical expertise.

Airport Operators
Airlines
Authorities & Regulators
Operators
5 UAE airports served

From air traffic control to CNS engineering and airfield ground lighting, GANS manages the full operational infrastructure that airports depend on. We are already active at 5 civilian airports across Abu Dhabi, delivering continuity, every hour of every day.

  • Zayed International Airport — Abu Dhabi
  • Al Ain International Airport
  • Al Bateen Executive Airport
  • Sir Bani Yas Airport
  • Delma Airport
930K+ Movements managed annually

Giving carriers the confidence that the airspace they operate in, and the services around them, are held to the highest safety standards. GANS supports airlines through:

  • Risk-based audits
  • IOSA preparation
  • Aircraft spare parts and components support
ICAO Standards adherence framework

GANS operates under the same sovereign responsibility that regulators carry. ISO-certified, ICAO-aligned, and trusted at 12 government airbases. We provide the operational assurance that national oversight demands, without compromise.

  • ICAO standards compliance
  • WMO meteorological standards
  • CANSO membership
4 Scholarship streams

GANS delivers certified heliport and helipad solutions, from site selection and engineering to maintenance, alongside aircraft and helicopter spare parts support to keep your fleet operational. Whether you operate:

  • Helicopters
  • Offshore platforms
  • Specialized facilities
How we run

Behind the frontline, a network of specialists.

Four core support functions keep operations safe, secure, efficient, and commercially focused across every project.

People & Safety

HR, Training, Health & Safety, and Environmental Management.

Security & Quality

Security, Risk Management, Quality, and Standards & Procedures.

Innovation & Delivery

IT, Project & Programme Management, and Supply Chain.

Business & Commercial

Finance, Legal, Marketing, and Communications.

Credentials

Operated against the standards that govern global aviation.

ICAO, WMO, CANSO — the standards and memberships that frame every operation GANS delivers.

  • CANSO Active member
  • ICAO Regional Training Centre of Excellence
  • ICAO SARPs Standards and Recommended Practices
  • ICAO Annex 15 Aeronautical Information Services
  • WMO Aligned meteorological standards
  • ATS TO Regulatory-accredited Training Organisation
  • CANSO Active member
  • ICAO Regional Training Centre of Excellence
  • ICAO SARPs Standards and Recommended Practices
  • ICAO Annex 15 Aeronautical Information Services
  • WMO Aligned meteorological standards
  • ATS TO Regulatory-accredited Training Organisation
Work with us

For the operator running an airspace programmer. For the authority shaping the regulation. For the partner building what comes next.

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