Dubai, Dec 3 (IANS/WAM) The civil aviation authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) suspended the operations of five foreign airlines within the Gulf region after they reportedly violated air safety and security instructions.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Thursday informed authorities about its decision regarding suspension of air operation of the five foreign airlines in the UAE for non-compliance with the applicable safety and security standards.

The five airlines were, however, not named.

One of them was suspended because it went through maintenance at a UAE airport without obtaining a license from the GCAA, another for safety and security reasons, and a third was suspended for violating air instructions applicable in the UAE.

"The GCAA seeks to ensure that all aircraft operating in the UAE comply with the highest international safety and security standards," said Saif Mohammad Al Suwaidi, GCAA director general.

"Being the authority in charge of the civil aviation sector in the UAE, the GCAA will not hesitate to take any action against any aircraft and against any local or international air operator in the event of any violation of the applicable instructions in the UAE or non-compliance with any security and safety standards," he said.