The United Arab Emirates continues to emphasize the value of investing in people, recognizing human capital as a cornerstone of national development and global competitiveness. This message was clearly conveyed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during his recent meeting with graduates of the Dubai Business Associates (DBA) programme. The gathering marked the tenth anniversary of this internationally recognised initiative and highlighted the UAE’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and empowering future leaders. At the heart of the conversation was the central belief that developing human capital plays a pivotal role in shaping a resilient, knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.
Ten Years of Inspiring Future Leaders through DBA Programme
Sheikh Mohammed’s engagement with DBA alumni was more than ceremonial. It was a declaration of how Dubai views its human resource investments—as essential catalysts for long-term progress. Over the past decade, the DBA programme has evolved into a comprehensive platform for grooming high-potential graduates for impactful roles in business and public policy. Designed and managed by Falcon Consultancy since its inception in 2014, the programme reflects Dubai’s strategic focus on bridging academia with real-world business practice.
Now entering its tenth edition, the DBA programme welcomed 36 new participants from 22 countries, including nine Emiratis. These associates will engage in a nine-month immersive experience, blending academic learning with practical business exposure, coaching, and cultural insights. This journey is designed not only to develop professional competence but also to deepen their understanding of Dubai’s global standing and business ethos. Through this approach, the city continues to brand itself as a magnet for creative minds and a fertile ground for entrepreneurship.
Global Reach and Impact of the Dubai Business Associates Initiative
The DBA programme’s global appeal has continued to grow, evidenced by over 5,500 applications received annually from graduates worldwide. A notable percentage of these applicants come from QS Top 10 global universities, underlining the programme’s reputation for academic excellence. So far, 278 associates from 44 different countries have participated in the programme, including 56 UAE nationals. Such diversity is one of the programme’s defining strengths, facilitating cross-cultural collaboration and shared learning among future global leaders.
More than just academic training, the programme offers practical business exposure through partnerships with leading Dubai-based organisations. These include prominent names such as Emirates, DIFC, dnata, DP World, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Participants engage in real consulting projects that challenge them to devise viable solutions for pressing business issues. The value of this collaborative effort has been clear, with 84 consulting projects worth a combined total of $27 million successfully completed. These projects do not just benefit the participants; they bring tangible value to Dubai’s business ecosystem and demonstrate the city’s capacity to lead through innovation.
The Vision of a Knowledge Economy Backed by Strong Institutions
During his address, Sheikh Mohammed reinforced his belief in the transformative power of knowledge and entrepreneurship. He praised the DBA alumni for their contributions and encouraged them to use the skills and experience gained in Dubai to create meaningful change in their respective fields. His words were grounded in a long-standing vision that places human development at the centre of the UAE’s national goals.
The Vice President’s remarks also served to remind stakeholders—both domestic and international—of Dubai’s ambition to remain at the forefront of global progress. He reiterated the city’s role as a hub for innovation and its commitment to launching initiatives that refine talent, foster creativity, and support excellence across sectors. These statements align with the broader national strategy that seeks to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable economic growth through knowledge and technology.
Supporting Talent with High-Caliber Learning and Mentorship
What makes the DBA programme stand out is its unique structure, which combines academic rigor with practical mentorship. Learning partners such as PwC’s Academy, Capadev, and Bon Education deliver training and development modules that are on par with global standards. These partners help ensure that participants gain not just theoretical knowledge but also the skills and confidence needed to navigate complex business environments.
The hands-on approach taken by the programme includes real-time business placements and industry networking opportunities. These elements are designed to give associates a clear picture of operational realities and strategic decision-making in top-tier organisations. Moreover, the cultural immersion component fosters an appreciation for the nuances of working in a diverse and dynamic city like Dubai. All these components come together to provide a rich learning ecosystem that shapes well-rounded professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to their industries.
Family-Owned Businesses Also Embrace UAE’s Development Vision
Parallel to Sheikh Mohammed’s engagement with DBA alumni, His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, held an important meeting with the Family Business Council – Gulf (FBCG). This meeting brought attention to the crucial role family-owned businesses play in the UAE’s socio-economic development. The session was led by Sheikha Hind Suhail Bahwan, the Chairman of FBCG, and it focused on enhancing the growth trajectory of such businesses while encouraging their expansion into global markets.
Family businesses have long been integral to the region’s commercial identity and are now being recognised for their adaptability and long-term vision. By collaborating with FBCG, which was established in 2012, Abu Dhabi is opening doors for structured capacity-building and leadership development tailored specifically to family enterprises. The organisation serves as the Gulf affiliate of the International Family Business Network and provides a robust platform for knowledge exchange and business sustainability.
A Shared Goal: Enabling Economies to Flourish through Knowledge
Both the DBA and FBCG initiatives reveal a common theme in the UAE’s broader development philosophy: the investment in human and institutional capacity to drive future success. While the DBA initiative focuses on young, high-potential professionals who are just beginning their careers, the FBCG supports seasoned family business owners in maintaining relevance and expanding their influence. Together, these efforts complement each other by building an economy that is agile, inclusive, and knowledge-driven.
The emphasis placed on training and mentorship across these programmes reflects a belief that economic transformation begins with empowered individuals. Whether it is a recent graduate developing an innovative solution to a market challenge or a family enterprise reinventing itself to stay competitive, the UAE provides an enabling environment where potential can translate into impactful outcomes.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Advance Regional Leadership in Talent Development
By fostering homegrown and international talent alike, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are setting benchmarks for other cities and nations aiming to build knowledge-based economies. The DBA’s global outreach and the FBCG’s commitment to business continuity together demonstrate a strategic and inclusive vision. Both cities are cultivating ecosystems that not only retain talent but also attract professionals eager to be part of a forward-thinking and dynamic society.
The meeting between Sheikh Mohammed and DBA alumni serves as a reaffirmation of Dubai’s role as a nucleus for talent development. Similarly, the FBCG dialogue hosted by Sheikh Khaled underscores Abu Dhabi’s vision to solidify its standing as a business-friendly, innovation-led capital. These strategic steps contribute not only to national goals but also enhance the UAE’s profile on the international stage as a destination that values learning, entrepreneurship, and business excellence.
A Legacy of Progress through People and Partnerships
As the Dubai Business Associates programme marks its tenth anniversary, it is more than just a milestone—it is a celebration of the UAE’s enduring commitment to human development. It reflects a broader national ethos that places value on knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. Through programmes like DBA and institutional partnerships like those fostered by FBCG, the UAE is investing in a future where economies are built not just on infrastructure, but on the strength, vision, and resilience of people.
The clear message from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi is that meaningful progress begins with people. As the country continues to look forward, it does so with a strong belief in the potential of individuals to lead, create, and inspire. Whether through structured training for graduates or the strategic support of family businesses, the UAE is demonstrating that its most valuable resource is its people—and that investing in them is the smartest path to shaping a prosperous tomorrow.
