Rabat, Morocco – The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) successfully concluded its third regional workshop on “Future-Proofing Airport Development: Harnessing Technology to Streamline Terminal Operations” in Rabat on June 24-25, 2025. The intensive two-day event brought together over 30 aviation professionals from 13 countries across Africa, Europe, and North America to explore cutting-edge technologies transforming airport operations.
Hosted in collaboration with Morocco’s Office National des Aéroports (ONDA) and in strategic partnership with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Enterprise Innovation Institute, the workshop formed part of UNITAR’s Airports and Economic Development Global Training Programme for 2025.
With Morocco preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the workshop addressed critical priorities in modernizing terminal operations through technological integration. Participants from Burkina Faso, Canada, Egypt, France, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Morocco, Seychelles, Switzerland, Tanzania, and the United States engaged in comprehensive sessions covering AI integration, cybersecurity, smart terminal solutions, passenger flow optimization, and sustainable technology deployment.
Key objectives of the workshop included:
- Exploring how AI and technological innovations are transforming airport operations
- Identifying strategies for operational excellence through technology integration
- Examining sustainable technology solutions for modern airports
- Developing frameworks to redesign passenger experience
- Strengthening cybersecurity measures within airport systems
A panel discussion featured experts such as Mr. Rachid Chafni, Head of Digital Factory at ONDA; Dr. Maleknaz Nayebi, CIFAL York Associate Director and AI Expert at the University of York; and Dr. Michael Barker, Cybersecurity Expert from Georgia Tech. Participants shared experiences and developed collaborative strategies through roundtable discussions.
Ms. Estrella Merlos, Senior Policy Specialist at UNITAR, reflected on the workshop’s impact, highlighting Morocco’s ambitious vision for next-generation airport development combined with global expertise as a powerful platform for transformation. She noted that the knowledge exchange will empower participants to lead technology-driven initiatives, positioning their airports at the forefront of global aviation innovation.
The workshop represents a vital step in preparing African airports to meet future challenges while leveraging Morocco’s strategic geographic position as a bridge between continents. As participants return home with actionable insights and strengthened networks, the foundations laid in Rabat will contribute to more efficient, sustainable, and passenger-focused airports throughout the region.
The Airports and Economic Development Global Training Programme continues its capacity-building efforts worldwide, with the next regional workshop scheduled for Singapore later in 2025. Through ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing, the programme seeks to establish a global network of innovative airports that drive sustainable economic development.
