Abu Dhabi launches Digital Talent initiative to nurture next generation of technology leaders

A strategic partnership between the Artificial Intelligence Office and Mawaheb Talent Hub aims to equip young people with digital skills and connect academic knowledge with practical workforce requirements across the technology sector.

The Artificial Intelligence Office of the UAE Government and Mawaheb Talent Hub, part of the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi, have unveiled the Abu Dhabi Digital Talent initiative, a collaborative programme designed to cultivate emerging technology leaders and strengthen the bridge between educational institutions and the evolving demands of the digital economy.

The initiative establishes an integrated educational pathway beginning at university level, where academic rigour meets practical application through professional training developed in partnership with leading global technology enterprises. Participants will acquire hands-on experience and technical capabilities aligned with genuine workforce requirements, preparing them for seamless transition into promising careers within the digital and technology sectors.

Strategic Vision for Future Readiness

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, underscored the UAE leadership’s commitment to human capital development as foundational to the nation’s future. He emphasised that the UAE’s strategic ambition extends beyond merely responding to technological change, instead focusing on building indigenous capabilities that can lead transformation and convert emerging opportunities into tangible economic benefits.

“Guided by the vision of its leadership, the UAE seeks to develop generations capable of leading the future and creating its opportunities, while strengthening the country’s position as a global destination for talent and expertise,” His Excellency stated. “The Abu Dhabi Digital Talent initiative builds on national efforts to develop a broad ecosystem of digital capabilities and establish a model that connects education, training, and leading technology companies, ensuring that national skills remain aligned with the rapid evolution of technology.”

Building Pathways to Workforce Success

His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Mohammed Al Shimmari, Executive Director of the National Workforce Enablement Sector at the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi, highlighted the critical importance of developing digital competencies among Emirati talent to enhance their competitiveness across future-focused sectors. “Through Mawaheb Talent Hub, we are building pathways that connect skills development with real labour market opportunities, equipping Emirati talent with the practical experience and digital capabilities needed to compete and succeed in the jobs of the future,” His Excellency explained.

Programme Structure and Partners

The initiative features an intensive eight-week programme combining hands-on training, specialised learning and professional development. Three specialised learning tracks are delivered through hybrid in-person and virtual sessions, enabling participants to develop skills directly applicable to professional environments whilst benefiting from expertise provided by leading global technology organisations including QudraTech, Inception42, Intel, Oracle and upGrad.

Private-sector engagement proves instrumental in transferring contemporary knowledge and expertise to young talent, connecting participants with cutting-edge tools, technologies and professional practices. This collaboration enables participants to develop a comprehensive understanding of sector requirements and acquire skills aligned with emerging roles created by digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

Expanding National Digital Ecosystem

The Abu Dhabi programme represents an expansion of the broader Digital Talent initiative, which has previously established cohorts in Dubai and Sharjah. This geographic expansion reflects commitment to constructing a nationwide ecosystem for digital talent development and extending professional development opportunities across the UAE.

Beyond technical skill acquisition, the initiative fosters a digital mindset characterised by continuous learning, adaptability and opportunity creation, preparing a generation equipped with knowledge, practical experience and confidence to shape the future of the UAE’s digital and technology sectors.

Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office