Dubai airports launches Emirati programme

Dubai Airports, the company that owns and manages both of the emirate's airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), today launched a nation-wide graduate development programme aimed at attracting and developing the next generation of UAE national aviation professionals. Titled Masar, Arabic for "Path", the year-long programme is part of Dubai Airports' on-going commitment to national development. In its inaugural year, Masar will offer eight Emirati graduates, selected through a stringent merit-based process, an opportunity to acquire skills and hands-on experience in fields as varied as airside operations, engineering services, terminal operations, group strategy, human resources and finance. In 2012 Masar will target graduates of Higher Colleges of Technology, Emirates Aviation College, American University of Dubai, The British University in Dubai and Dubai University, but qualifying national graduates from other universities can also apply. Selected graduates will work through a year-long development schedule that will be industry-relevant and involve specialised training, external workshops and on-the-job training. Participants will be assessed quarterly and provided with timely feedback. At the end of the programme candidates may be selected for continued employment with Dubai Airports based on performance. UAE nationals are playing an increasingly influential role in the success of Dubai Airports. According to 2011 staff statistics 37 per cent of all employees in supervisory and management grades are UAE nationals while 24 per cent of the total employee base comprises Emiratis. Further some 60 per cent of executive-level managers are Emirati. "I endorse the approach we are taking by focusing on the development of UAE nationals at the management level to ensure a strong pipeline of talent is available to become our leaders of the future. I am equally pleased with the progress to date," said H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports. "Dubai Airports' HR team has two clear goals: to be the employer of choice in the GCC and to deliver competent people thriving in a great workplace," said Meshari Al Bannai, Vice President, Human Resources for Dubai Airports. "Masar advances us on both fronts." Dubai Airports has already achieved considerable success in this regard, last year being named 2011 Employer of the Year in the 3rd Annual GCC HR Excellence Awards. Samya Ketait, Vice President of Learning '&' Development at Dubai Airports, said Masar provides aspiring Emirati students with a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and fast-growing industry. Candidates can apply for the programme by registering with Dubai Airports on the company's website until March 19, 2012.