During the meeting, His Highness was briefed on the Ministry’s efforts, in collaboration with its partners, to empower and prepare Emirati talent for competitive roles in the industrial sector. The “Industrialists Program” is a joint initiative under the “National In-Country Value Program” and the “Make It in the Emirates” campaign, implemented with the support of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (NAFIS), and ADNOC.
H.H. Sheikh Mohamed emphasized that equipping the industrial sector with skilled national talent is a top priority, noting that the industrial sector is a key pillar of the UAE’s economy.
“We believe in the role of youth in shaping the nation’s future,” said His Highness. “Empowering and preparing them for this role is crucial as they are the driving force behind the country’s progress and development.” He encouraged Emirati youth to seize opportunities in the industrial sector, calling it a promising field for the future.
“You have proven that our trust in you is well-placed,” he added. “I wish you success in serving your country, your community, and in achieving your aspirations.”
H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber provided an overview of the “Industrialists Program,” which has successfully created over 1,400 specialized jobs by mid-2024 and aims to reach 2,000 jobs by year-end. He highlighted the strategic focus on creating more opportunities for Emiratis in the private sector under the umbrella of initiatives like the “National In-Country Value Program,” the “Make It in the Emirates” campaign, and the “Industrialists Program.”
The Minister noted that the number of Emiratis working in the private industrial sector tripled in 2023 compared to 2021, thanks to the leadership’s vision and the concerted efforts to drive Emiratisation. With over half a million jobs available in the private industrial sector, significant opportunities remain for Emiratis.
“Our primary goal is to equip national talent and enhance their skills through specialized training programs, enabling them to secure sustainable, high-quality jobs in the industrial sector,” said H.E. Al Jaber. He added that the “Industrialists Exhibition” provides a platform for aligning the needs of factories with the skills of Emirati talent.
Launched in March 2023, the “Industrialists Program” has successfully provided more than 1,400 jobs for Emiratis and introduced several specialized training programs in critical manufacturing sectors, including oil and gas, safety and security, food and beverages, and steel and paper production.
The gathering at Qasr Al Bahr was attended by prominent dignitaries, including H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, H.H. Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, and several other sheikhs, ministers, senior officials, and guests.