OREANDA-NEWS. As part of the ABSHER government initiative for training and employing UAE Nationals, Abu Dhabi Airports has rolled out “Al Eqla’a” train-to-hire programme through Abu Dhabi Airports' training arm, the Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS).

The core focus of “Al Eqla’a” is to develop Emirati college and university graduates as airport professionals, providing them with key skills and the ability to work in critical roles within Abu Dhabi Airports. This initiative will play a vital part in ensuring that Abu Dhabi Airports supports Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 by not just being the key gateway to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi but by ensuring the focus is on attracting & developing Emirati talent in the aviation sector.

This comprehensive training programme, which is the first of its kind in the region, will be delivered over an 18-24 month period in two stages consisting of an airport foundation programme and an airport specialisation training programme. Upon completion of the programme, students will be offered a full-time paid position within Abu Dhabi Airports. This program doesn’t just rely on traditional classroom based training but also ensures vital-on the job experience. Each trainee will be paired with a dedicated mentor who will provide practical guidance and assistance on daily tasks as well as on their overall career development.

In 2009, Abu Dhabi Airports established GCAS as part of its efforts to transform Abu Dhabi into a global yet distinct aviation hub and regional headquarters for major companies operating in the field of air transport. Its main objective is to build and develop a pool of local talents in the field of aviation, and introducing them to potential job opportunities in the broader industry.