In collaboration with UAE Government Leaders Program

Abu Dhabi, 23 July 2026 (WAM) – Participants from the third cohort of the Nafis Leadership Program, organized by the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) in partnership with the UAE Government Leaders Program, have concluded a knowledge exchange and field study visit in the Republic of Korea. The visit, a part of the training curriculum of the Nafis Leadership Program, introduced the participants to leading international practices in innovation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and leadership, while strengthening the readiness of Emirati talent to lead future transformation across the private sector.

Held from July 20 to 25, 2026, the visit was organized in collaboration with the Executive Education Program at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School and hosted by the Sangnam Institute of Management at Yonsei University. It focused on organizational transformation, artificial intelligence, innovation, and global competitiveness, enabling participants to gain firsthand insights into South Korea’s experience in institutional development, adoption of advanced technologies, and the establishment of strategic partnerships that support sustainable growth.

The Nafis Leadership cohort visited leading organizations in South Korea, including “Kakao Bank”, “NEXEN UniverCity”, and “Komapper”, where they explored advanced practices in digital transformation, talent development, and the application of artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation. They also examined practical models for strengthening institutional capabilities and developing innovative customer-centric solutions.

Participants also visited “Incheon Songdo”, “LG Science Park & LG Innovation Gallery”, and “Amorepacific”, gaining valuable insights into the role of research and development, cross-sector collaboration, and emerging technologies in transforming ideas into practical solutions. The visits also highlighted innovation methodologies, global brand building, and strategies for enhancing international competitiveness.

The study tour featured a series of executive sessions and interactive discussions covering the role of artificial intelligence as a strategic enabler of organizational transformation, the challenges associated with adopting emerging technologies, and practical examples from South Korea’s experience in building innovation-driven, knowledge-based economies.

Speaking about their experience in the third cohort of the Nafis leadership Program, participant Mohammed Al Shabibi, Head of Corporate Governance at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) said:“This visit provided a rich experience that combined academic insight with practical application. It gave us the opportunity to explore global practices in leadership, innovation and organizational transformation. The knowledge and experience we have gained will help us enhance the way we work, strengthen our ability to lead change and create positive impact within our organizations.”

Shamma bin Fares, Consultant at Ernst & Young, added: “This experience marks an important milestone in our leadership journey. It has given us a deeper understanding of how artificial intelligence and innovation can be leveraged to drive organizational development and strengthen institutional capacity to adapt to change. It also reinforced the importance of investing in knowledge and fostering international exchange to develop leaders who can contribute effectively to shaping the UAE’s future.”

Saeed Al Hadi, Head of Security at Etihad Rail Infrastructure said: “The program introduced us to new approaches to leadership and decision-making while demonstrating how strategic ideas and long-term visions can be translated into practical initiatives driven by technology and innovation. The field visits and interactive discussions also highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and capacity development to keep pace with the rapidly evolving job requirements.”

South Korea was selected as the training destination for the third cohort of the Nafis Leadership Program because of its global leadership in research and development and the adoption of advanced technologies. This aligns with the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. The visit reflects the Nafis Leadership Program’s commitment to offering participants with high-quality opportunities to learn from leading international experiences and to build strong knowledge partnerships. These experiences help prepare Emirati leaders in anticipating future change and driving transformation across diverse sectors.

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About the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC)

The Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council was established under Federal Decree-Law No. 27 of 2021. The Council is responsible for implementing Nafis, the federal program designed to support the employment of UAE nationals in the private sector. It also develops and implements long-term strategies to prepare and advance national human capital, while providing innovative training and career guidance programs that enhance the competitiveness of Emiratis in the labor market.

The Council’s vision is to develop national talent capable of leading a prosperous UAE economy. Its mission focuses on empowering and preparing Emiratis through an integrated ecosystem founded on partnerships, innovation and integrity. The Council prioritizes sustainable employment, enhancing the attractiveness of the private sector and promoting a flexible, future-ready work environment that keeps pace with global economic transformations.

For more information, visit: etcc.gov.ae

About Nafis

Nafis is a federal government initiative launched in September 2021 as part of the Projects of the 50. It serves as a national transformation program designed to enhance the competitiveness of Emirati talent and support its meaningful integration into the private sector.

The program focuses on building sustainable partnerships between the public and private sectors, increasing the attractiveness of private sector employment, and providing financial support, training, and career guidance to develop a productive and sustainable Emirati workforce.

Nafis serves Emirati job seekers as well as UAE nationals employed in the private sector, free zones, and the banking and insurance sectors. The program offers initiatives including salary support, Eshtirak, Child Allowance program, Khibrah, Kafa’at, National Healthcare Program, career guidance, on-the-job training, and other capability-building programs.

For more information, visit: https://nafis.gov.ae