EHRDC launches Dubai Ambition initiative to boost Emirati talent and private-sector employment
The Emirati Human Resources Development Council (EHRDC) has launched the flagship edition of the Dubai Ambition initiative, a new programme designed to strengthen national talent readiness and expand Emirati participation in the private sector through structured partnerships and practical training pathways.
The initiative was unveiled on the sidelines of the Dubai Emiratisation Forum, held under the theme Solid Partnerships for Sustainable Development, with the participation of government entities, private-sector companies, and educational institutions, alongside senior officials and industry experts.
According to EHRDC, Dubai Ambition introduces an integrated framework that connects education, training, and employment under a unified ecosystem. The programme aims to equip Emirati students and graduates with market-relevant skills while creating clearer and more sustainable career pathways aligned with labour market needs.
His Excellency Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of EHRDC, said the initiative reflects the Council’s long-term vision of building end-to-end development pathways for national talent — starting with early awareness, followed by quality practical training, and leading to sustainable private-sector employment. He noted that strategic partnerships remain central to enhancing Dubai’s competitiveness and advancing a knowledge-based economy.
The initiative has set measurable targets to be achieved by 2026, including raising awareness among 10,000 Emirati students, providing practical training opportunities for 10,000 students and graduates within private-sector institutions, and facilitating private-sector employment for 5,000 Emiratis.
A total of 20 entities from diverse sectors have joined the programme at launch, including financial institutions, telecom operators, airlines, retail groups, and major family businesses. Participating organisations include the Emirates Institute of Finance, Dubai Land Department, Emirates Global Aluminium, Etisalat, du, Emirates NBD, Emirates, flydubai, Dubai Duty Free, KPMG, Majid Al Futtaim Group, Al-Futtaim Group, Chalhoub Group, and Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, among others.
EHRDC said the initiative supports broader national strategies, including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, by placing human capital development at the centre of economic and social progress. The Council added that the forum highlighted the importance of aligning training programmes with employer needs and strengthening collaboration between educators and industry to build a resilient national workforce.
