Recipient of 9th Golden Excellence Awards 2026 for Aviation & Travel Excellence By: Shaneer Siddiqui
1. Tell us about yourself, your business journey and your contribution to the UAE.
I flew commercial aircraft for eighteen years before founding Windward Aviation Services in 2016, a private and charter aviation company based out of the UAE. We now operate a fleet serving both business and leisure travel across the region. My contribution has been building an aviation company that reflects the UAE’s role as a genuine global crossroads — connecting people quickly and safely, often at the moments they need it most.
2. What does receiving the 9th Golden Excellence Award for Aviation & Travel Excellence mean to you?
It’s a tremendous honor, particularly under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahayan. Aviation is fundamentally about connection — moving people across borders and cultures safely — so this recognition feels closely tied to the values of tolerance and coexistence this country was built on.
3. How do you view the role of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence in shaping the UAE’s society?
Every flight we operate carries passengers and crew from a wide range of backgrounds working together under real pressure and time constraints. That only functions smoothly in a culture that has already normalized respect across differences. The Ministry’s work is part of what makes the UAE’s aviation sector as safe and seamless as it is.
4. What opportunities do you see emerging in your industry over the next few years?
Sustainable aviation fuel and more efficient aircraft are becoming commercially viable, not just experimental. We’re also seeing strong demand growth in regional business travel, as the UAE cements its role as a hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.
5. What are your company’s key plans and growth priorities for the future?
We’re expanding our charter fleet and investing in sustainable fuel partnerships ahead of regulatory requirements. Our long-term ambition is for Windward to be recognized as the region’s most reliable bridge between distant places — and the people trying to reach them.
