OREANDA-NEWS. Abu Dhabi Airports celebrated the completion of the National Development Program "Al Iqla'a" in its first cycle. 18 candidates have completed the programme and have now been confirmed in their permanent roles in all departments across the company.

Dr. Othman Mohamed Al Khoori, Chief Human Resources Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, commented: "Abu Dhabi Airports' sustained commitment to Emiratisation is part of its vision to be an employer of choice for UAE Nationals. It was with this in mind that the company developed its National Development Programme for employing and training UAE graduates.  The programme is delivered over an 18 - 24 month period and focuses on enabling candidates to obtain practical experience and occupational skills through merging them in various departments and monitoring their progress through a concentrated periodic observation system."

Eng. Mohamed Mubarak Ali Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, commented: "This is a very special day for Abu Dhabi Airports. Our National Development Programme "Al Iqla'a" is a vital component in developing the skills needed by young Emiratis in order to pursue careers in the aviation industry. By offering this training to aspiring Emirati professionals, Abu Dhabi Airports is expanding the pool of local talent who can enjoy successful careers within our group."

Al Mazrouei concluded: "I would like to offer my most sincere congratulations to each of the 18 candidates who have completed the National Development Programme today. At Abu Dhabi Airports we are all very proud of the work they have put in to achieve this. I am certain they will have got a great amount out of the programme, which will stand them in good stead for their future careers with us.  I wish them every success and look forward to their achievements."

Upon completion, candidates will become full time employees at Abu Dhabi Airports in the field chosen as most suitable for their capabilities. This is the first airport apprentice development programme of its type in the region implemented in a dynamic airport environment, and has enrolled 60 UAE nationals since its launch.

Emiratisation is one of the distinguishing features of Abu Dhabi Airports' sustainable growth and development plan, and recruitment and retention of UAE National talent is integral to the company's success.