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Zawya
4 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Nurturing Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering Emirati talent for a competitive future
An inside look at how the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism is pioneering market-aligned HR initiatives to shape a future-ready workforce that serves national priorities Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 'Today, I feel equipped with a strong set of leadership tools, and I know exactly when and where to apply them in my role,' says Muna Al Shamsi, a member of the Investment Support team at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). 'I knew the learning would be directly relevant to the opportunities within the organisation I'm so eager to grow in.' Muna's journey is a testament to DET's commitment to cultivating forward-thinking Emirati employees and reflects the broader transformation taking place across Dubai's government sector, driven by pioneering talent development programmes. Dubai's rise as a global business and tourism hub is rooted in bold ambition, strategic foresight, and a long-standing commitment to investing in people, with DET taking inspiration from the city's visionary leadership to redefine what it means to nurture public sector talent in a rapidly evolving world. Aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to double the size of Dubai's economy in the decade up to 2033 and further consolidate its position as a leading global destination for business and leisure, DET is focused on building a resilient, skilled, and future-ready workforce. 'Human capital is not just a pillar of our strategy, it is its foundation,' says Nada Al Marri, Human Resources director at DET. 'At the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism we consider talent development a national priority. Our programmes are aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and are designed to accelerate Emirati integration into the private sector while raising the standard of government excellence. This is the legacy of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to empower people as the engine of Dubai's future.' This vision is being brought to life through a series of flagship initiatives designed not just to train, but to transform the future workforce. Among them are the Massar Graduate Programme, the Mini Master of Business Administration (MBA), and the Industry Exposure Programme. Each pathway plays a distinct role in shaping leadership and strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors, embedding private-sector HR practices, and delivering measurable outcomes. Massar Graduate Programme: Building Foundations For many young Emiratis, the Massar Graduate Programme represents the first step into the world of government service. Created for recent graduates, the programme offers a carefully designed introduction to the inner workings of DET, from departmental rotations and mentoring to tailored skills development. Developed in collaboration with PwC, one of the world's largest providers of assurance, tax, and business consulting services, the programme combines structured learning, coaching, on-the-job experience, and performance evaluation. It is not just about technical competence; it is about instilling a mindset of curiosity, critical thinking, and long-term vision. Since its launch in September 2024, 18 participants have completed the programme and taken up roles across DET departments, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME). Mini MBA: Accelerating Leadership Potential At a more advanced stage of the talent journey is DET's Mini MBA, another example of how DET is cultivating in-house expertise. Targeted at high-potential employees, this intensive development programme comprises 10 modules covering core areas such as business strategy, finance, operations, and leadership. Delivered to 68 participants in partnership with renowned institutions such as the Human Network International (HNI) and Alliance University, the Mini MBA equips participants to understand the commercial drivers behind government decision-making, preparing them to take on broader responsibilities within DET and beyond. 'The fact that the Mini MBA course is designed by DET itself is what really motivated me,' says Muna Al Shamsi. Industry Exposure Programme: Crossing Sectors A unique talent initiative at DET is the Industry Exposure Programme, which has placed 39 DET employees in short-term secondments with leading private sector organisations such as KPMG, Al-Futtaim, and Unilever. With a goal to bring public sector talent face-to-face with real-world business challenges, each placement is carefully planned, from role definition to outcome measurement, and ensures that both the employee and the host company benefits from the programme. Participants come away with hands-on insights into everything from digital transformation and innovation to customer service and operations. For many, the experience is nothing short of transformative. Investing in More than Jobs These programmes do more than support individual career progression, they build a broader culture of innovation, excellence, and accountability across government departments. Al Marri adds: 'We are developing an ecosystem that fuels Dubai's growth and gives young Emiratis something to aspire to. By working with global partners such as KPMG and Unilever, we are redefining public sector human resources and equipping our people with transferable skills that transcend industries. This cross-sector approach reflects the Dubai model: agile, innovative and built on partnerships that drive Dubai's economic transformation and global ambitions. When we invest in people, we invest in the city's future.' And that future is unfolding fast. With more than 800 artificial intelligence (AI) companies based in Dubai and strong growth across sectors such as fintech, tourism, and logistics, the demand for agile and skilled talent is increasing. In 2024, Dubai ranked third globally for job creation, according to the Dubai FDI Annual Results & Rankings report – which is a testament to the city's proactive approach. DET's programmes are meeting this momentum and shaping what comes next. Today, more than 60,000 students are enrolled in vocational and technical education programmes in Dubai. Meanwhile, according to the 'Jobs of the Future' report, published recently by DET in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), 25% of current work tasks worldwide could be transformed by automation and AI. Looking ahead, DET plans to expand its reach by integrating more strategic partners, scaling its programmes, digitising training delivery, and aligning its programmes with Dubai's priorities in emerging sectors such as AI and sustainability. Al Marri says: 'With the D33 Agenda guiding our path, we are committed to ensuring every individual at DET has the tools and confidence to lead. We're building a talent ecosystem that positions Dubai as a global leader in human capital development. Our work today will shape the city's success for decades.' About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world's leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city's economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate's economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade. Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai's diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai's vision to become the world's best city to visit, live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall. DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai's business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. DET's portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Is Melania behind Donald Trump's fiery U-turn against Putin? Ukraine hails 'Agent Melania Trumpenko'
US President Donald Trump disclosed that First Lady Melania Trump had influenced his opinions about Russian President Vladimir Putin. During a White House meeting, Trump informed that his wife provided a harshly critical response to his previous perceptions of the Kremlin leader and his war in Ukraine. Melania Trump dubbed images from Ukraine after the launch of Russia's war 'heartbreaking and horrific'. While sitting next to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump declared, 'My conversations with Putin are always very pleasant. I say, isn't that a very lovely conversation? And then the missiles go off that night.' Trump opens up about personal conversation with Melania The Republican leader further shared his personal conversation with Melania, stating that 'I go home, I tell the First Lady: I spoke with Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation. She said: 'Really? Another city was just hit.' Melania Trump, who was born in Slovenia, which was once a part of Yugoslavia, has a distinctive viewpoint on the unstable geopolitics of Europe. Just after Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, she dubbed the images from the war-torn nation 'heartbreaking and horrific'. She also called for donations to the Red Cross. Hitting out at Putin, Trump refused to call him 'an assassin', but added that 'he's a tough guy. It's been proven over the years. He's fooled a lot of people.' The comments coincide with Trump's announcement that the US will be providing Ukraine with more Patriot air defense batteries and interceptor missiles, with European partners paying for the delivery. The US President also affirmed that Germany and other NATO members would pay for the systems, which would be delivered 'within days.' With six operational Patriot systems now in place, Ukraine's defenses should be greatly strengthened by the recently pledged units in the face of ongoing Russian drone and missile strikes on major cities. 'I am grateful to President Trump for his readiness to support the protection of our people's lives,' asserted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a recent speech acknowledging the support. Also Read: Ellen DeGeneres' 3-word sharp reaction to Trump's warning to Rosie O'Donnell wows netizens: 'He loves to get schooled' Ukraine hails Melania as 'Agent Melania Trumpenko' Taking to X, one social media user shared a picture of 'Agent Melania Trumpenko' sporting a blazer with a Ukrainian trident emblem following Trump's remarks from the Oval Office on Monday. To Kyiv's advantage, she appears to be working as an undercover at the White House with her large hat, which partially shades her face. Meanwhile,Ukrainian magazine Business noted that 'there is a lot of love on social media tonight for Melania Trump.' Another meme depicts Melania standing behind her Trump as he signs a presidential order in the Oval Office.
Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Rory McIlroy embracing return to Northern Ireland for the British Open
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy watching his iron shot from the 18th tee during practice ahead of the 153rd British Open at Royal Portrush golf club in Northern Ireland on July 15. County Antrim – As a 16-year-old at the 2005 North of Ireland Amateur Championship at Royal Portrush, Rory McIlroy shot a course record 61. That was the old course, before redesign. It is a course he recognizes only parts of now. And as the Northern Irishman returns to Royal Portrush and the British Open this week, he is a changed man, too. He is ready to accept and embrace the pressure that comes from being the favourite son, something that he admitted got the best of him the last time the Open was played at Royal Portrush in 2019. 'It's a Major championship, everything that comes along with it, and I just think that that feeling, the walk to the first tee and then that ovation, I was still a little surprised and a little taken aback, like geez, these people really want me to win,' he told reporters on July 14 about the experience in 2019. 'I think that brought its own sort of pressure and more internally from myself and not really wanting to let people down. I guess it's just something I didn't mentally prepare for that day or that week. But I learned pretty quickly that one of my challenges, especially in a week like this, is controlling myself and controlling that battle.' He missed the cut that week. Now, at age 36 and with the US Masters championship to his name in 2025, he is ready to take it all in. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore MBS' new development part of S'pore's broader, more ambitious transformation: PM Wong Business MAS records net profit of $19.7 billion, fuelled by investment gains Business Singapore financial sector growth doubles in 2024; assets managed cross $6 trillion in a first: MAS Singapore $3b money laundering case: MinLaw acts against 4 law firms and 1 lawyer over seized properties Singapore Man charged with attempted murder of woman at Kallang Wave Mall Singapore Ex-cleaner jailed over safety lapses linked to guard's death near 1-Altitude rooftop bar Singapore SJI International resumes overseas trips amid ongoing probe into student's death in Maldives in 2024 Singapore 'Nobody deserves to be alone': Why Mummy and Acha have fostered over 20 children in the past 22 years 'I think in '19 I probably tried to isolate, and I think it's better for everyone if I embrace it. I think it's better for me because I can – it's nice to be able to accept adulation, even though I struggle with it at times,' he said. 'But it's also nice for the person that is seeing you for the first time in a few years. It just makes for a better interaction and not trying to hide away from it. 'I think it's more of an embrace everything that's going to come my way this week and not try to shy away from it or hide away from it, and I think that'll make for a better experience for everyone involved.' He is coming off a good experience, shooting four rounds in the 60s and finishing tied for second at the Scottish Open on July 13. 'I'm certainly encouraged by how I've played the last two starts, especially last week in Scotland,' he said. 'I think the two weeks off after the Travelers just to reset, to get over here, a bit of a change of scenery has been really nice. 'When I was looking at the calendar for 2025, this was the tournament that was probably, I don't know, circled, even more so than the Masters for different reasons. It's lovely to be coming in here already with a Major and everything else that's happened this year. 'I'm excited with where my game is. I felt like I showed some really good signs last week. I feel like I'm in a good spot and had – not that last week was a pure preparation week, but I definitely feel like it put me in a good spot heading into here.' With his 2025 US Masters victory, McIlroy owns a career Grand Slam. He won The Open at Royal Liverpool in 2014. And he certainly would like to add the 2025 championship to his collection. Especially at Royal Portrush. 'It doesn't feel like six years has passed since 2019. I think it's amazing that Portrush has this opportunity so soon after the last Open to host again,' he said. 'Just great to be back. I don't spend a lot of time in these parts any more, just with travel schedule, living abroad, all that stuff. 'To be here, to see a lot of familiar faces, even some of the – every hole on the course has a different team of marshals from different golf clubs, and just to see people that I've met throughout the years out there this morning was really nice. 'It's really nice to be back, and obviously very excited for the week.' REUTERS
Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Flag football to make primetime Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028
Find out what's new on ST website and app. Flag football will make its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. LOS ANGELES – Flag football will take centre stage during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, after organisers confirmed the sport's medal matches will be held in primetime slots in its first-ever Olympic appearance. The International Federation of American Football (IFAF), in partnership with the National Football League (NFL), announced on July 14 that the men's and women's medal games are scheduled for Friday evening, July 21, and Saturday afternoon, July 22, at BMO Stadium near downtown Los Angeles. The announcement comes as senior IFAF and NFL delegations visit Los Angeles for the first official meetings with Games organisers, marking exactly three years to the day before the LA28 Opening Ceremony. 'Flag football will definitely be a hot ticket at the Games,' IFAF President Pierre Trochet told Reuters on July 14. 'We're going to be at a great stadium right in the heart of the city and we're going to have fantastic players on the field with NFL players available.' Flag football is a non-contact variation of American football in which players wear flags attached to their waists. Instead of tackling, defensive players must remove a flag from the ball carrier to end a play. The sport is played on a smaller field with fewer players per side. The inclusion of flag football in LA28 follows a vote by NFL owners allowing NFL players to participate in the Olympic competition. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Business MAS records net profit of $19.7 billion, fuelled by investment gains Business Singapore financial sector growth doubles in 2024, assets managed cross $6 trillion in a first: MAS Singapore $3b money laundering case: MinLaw acts against 4 law firms and 1 lawyer over seized properties Singapore Man charged with attempted murder of woman at Kallang Wave Mall Singapore Ex-cleaner jailed over safety lapses linked to guard's death near 1-Altitude rooftop bar Singapore SJI International resumes overseas trips amid ongoing probe into student's death in Maldives in 2024 Singapore Sengkang-Punggol LRT gets 15.8 per cent capacity boost with new trains Singapore 'Nobody deserves to be alone': Why Mummy and Acha have fostered over 20 children in the past 22 years Trochet said the primetime scheduling was a clear statement of a shared ambition to ensure flag football contributes a 'defining element' of LA28's success. Organisers hope to capture the excitement of 'Friday Night Lights', a cherished American tradition, and generate iconic moments for the sport's Olympic launch. 'We could not dream of a better setup to start our debut in the Olympic movement and Olympic journey,' he said. The IFAF delegation, including managing director Andy Fuller and senior NFL executives, is set to tour Exposition Park and other venues over a three-day visit. The group will also meet with key LA28 organising committee members and attend the launch of a new NFL flag football brand campaign, which features Olympic gymnastics champion Jordan Chiles and flag football athletes from Australia and the US. IFAF is formulating the qualification procedure and officials hope US teams will have automatic entry for their home Games,Trochet said. He said the federation was in discussions with the International Olympic Committee on the qualifying path for six men's and six women's teams. 'We will have the official version of the qualification programme by the end of the year,' he said. 'We are already anticipating a scenario where the world's best might face a first stage of qualification in 2026. 'After that, a mix with the best continental teams in 2027 could yield a second group of qualified teams. We have quite a clear and precise idea of what we will propose.' Elsewhere the federation is focusing on the growth of the sport worldwide. 'A few weeks ago, we concluded the first African Championship in Cairo, Egypt,' Trochet said. 'Throughout the summer we will transition to the European Championships in Paris, the Americas Championship in Panama and then the Asia-Oceania Championships in China in October.' REUTERS, AFP
Straits Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Straits Times
Netanyahu under mounting political pressure after party quits
JERUSALEM - A religious party has quit Israel's ruling coalition in a dispute over military service, leaving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a razor-thin majority in parliament but still enough political support to secure a potential Gaza ceasefire. Six members of United Torah Judaism (UTJ) handed in resignation letters overnight from posts in parliamentary committees and government ministries, in protest against lawmakers' failure to guarantee future exemption from military conscription for ultra-Orthodox religious students. Shas, a second ultra-Orthodox party closely allied with UTJ, may follow and leave the government with no parliament majority. The UTJ lawmakers said their walkout would come into effect after 48 hours, giving Netanyahu two days to try and resolve the crisis which has dogged his coalition for months. Even if that fails, parliament goes on summer break at the end of July, which would give the prime minister a further three months to seek a solution before any loss of his majority could threaten his position. Netanyahu is also facing pressure from far-right parties in his coalition over ceasefire talks underway in Qatar. The indirect negotiations between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas aim to halt fighting in Gaza for 60 days to allow half of remaining hostages held by Hamas to be released and aid to flow into the battered enclave. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Business MAS records net profit of $19.7 billion, fuelled by investment gains Business Singapore financial sector growth doubles in 2024, assets managed cross $6 trillion in a first: MAS Singapore $3b money laundering case: MinLaw acts against 4 law firms and 1 lawyer over seized properties Singapore Man charged with attempted murder of woman at Kallang Wave Mall Singapore Ex-cleaner jailed over safety lapses linked to guard's death near 1-Altitude rooftop bar Singapore Real estate firm PropNex donates $6 million to Community Chest for 25th anniversary Singapore Sengkang-Punggol LRT gets 15.8 per cent capacity boost with new trains Singapore 'Nobody deserves to be alone': Why Mummy and Acha have fostered over 20 children in the past 22 years It would also open a further phase of talks on ending the war entirely. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich want Israel to press on with the war, but Netanyahu would still be likely to have enough cabinet votes to secure a ceasefire without them. "As soon as the right deal is on the table, the prime minister will be able to pass it through," a close aide to Netanyahu, Topaz Luk, told Army Radio on Tuesday. MILITARY EXEMPTIONS Israelis have become increasingly weary of the 21-month war in Gaza, which began with a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023 that led to Israel's single deadliest day with 1,200 killed and 251 taken hostage by the Palestinian militants. Israel's subsequent offensive against Hamas has since killed more than 58,000 Palestinians, according to health officials, displaced almost the entire population of Gaza, led to a humanitarian crisis and left much of the enclave in ruins. It has also exacted Israel's highest military death toll in decades, with around 450 soldiers killed so far in Gaza combat. This has added fuel to an already explosive debate over a new conscription bill at the center of Netanyahu's political crisis. Ultra-Orthodox seminary students have long been exempt from mandatory military service. Many Israelis are angered by what they see as an unfair burden carried by the mainstream who serve. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish leaders say full-time devotion to holy scriptures study is sacrosanct and fear their young men will steer away from religious life if they are drafted into the military. Last year the Supreme Court ordered an end to the exemption. Parliament has been trying to work out a new conscription bill, which has so far failed to meet UTJ demands. REUTERS
