Dubai Financial Experts Program Launched To Cultivate Emirati Leaders In Financial Services

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has introduced the Dubai Financial Experts Program. This initiative aims to nurture future Emirati leaders who will innovate within financial institutions in Dubai, the UAE, and globally. The programme is a collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development (MBRCLD) and focuses on enhancing Emiratis' skills in the financial sector.

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted that Dubai is committed to empowering its talented Emiratis. He stated, "Dubai continues to qualify and empower its creative Emirati talents, providing them with the highest levels of knowledge and experience, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum." The programme aligns with the goal of launching specialised programmes to train national leaders who can strengthen the UAE's global economic position.

The Dubai Financial Experts Program is a comprehensive six-part course designed for future finance leaders. It includes specialised courses on leadership and innovation in financial services, developed with the University of Oxford and partnerships in Silicon Valley. Participants gain practical experience through job shadowing at major financial institutions.

Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, noted that this programme enhances national talent with modern tools and expertise in financial services. He mentioned, "This programme aligns with the DIFC’s 2030 strategy, which focuses on leading the future of finance, as well as the Dubai Economic Agenda D33." The programme targets UAE nationals aged 25 to 35 with five to ten years of professional experience.

Candidates for the programme should have a strong educational background and demonstrated leadership abilities. Selection involves a thorough assessment of leadership and financial skills. Participants receive advanced training from experts and benefit from mentorship opportunities.

A capstone project is a key component, focusing on delivering tangible impact by applying acquired knowledge in real-world settings. Participants also attend exclusive sessions with prominent financial leaders. The programme concludes with a graduation ceremony at the Dubai World Trade Centre during the Mohammed bin Rashid Leaders Forum 2025.

Leadership Development Vision

Mohammad Al Gergawi emphasised that this initiative reflects H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision to develop leaders capable of managing transformative projects in key economic sectors. He stated that these leaders will innovate within leading financial institutions locally and regionally.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development aims to "Create Leaders for Tomorrow" by identifying and empowering leaders at all levels through targeted initiatives. These programmes equip participants with diverse skills necessary to navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

The centre fosters leaders who can adapt intelligently to new developments and make informed decisions for future challenges. It cultivates broad perspectives required to create innovative solutions for complex issues ahead.

With inputs from WAM