Latest news with #DCT
Time Out Abu Dhabi
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Zayed National Museum's opening date has been announced – and it's so soon
Big news for culture-lovers – Zayed National Museum is officially opening its doors in December 2025 and it's set to become the beating heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District. This long-awaited institution will celebrate the legacy of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through world-class exhibitions, cutting-edge research and dynamic educational programs. But this is far more than just a museum – it's a powerful tribute to heritage, unity and identity, designed to inspire generations now and next. Expect a rich journey through time across six permanent galleries, plus a rotating temporary exhibition space, telling the story of the UAE from prehistory to the modern day. Think over 300,000 years of Emirati history brought to life through rare artefacts, national treasures and global loans that highlight the UAE's cultural diversity. Credit: DCT Highlights? You'll find the Abu Dhabi Pearl, one of the world's oldest natural pearls, the stunning Blue Qur'an, a rare manuscript masterpiece and a reconstructed Magan boat, the result of a unique research partnership with Zayed University and NYU Abu Dhabi. Designed by legendary architect Lord Norman Foster, the building itself is a work of art – crowned by five soaring steel structures shaped like a falcon's wings, paying homage to a tradition deeply rooted in Emirati identity. A 3D render of what Zayed National Museum will look like (Credit: DCT) As part of the ever-evolving Saadiyat Cultural District – home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena, the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi – the Zayed National Museum reinforces Abu Dhabi's place on the global culture map. And it promises something for everyone – from hands-on experiences for children to accessible design for people of determination and research platforms that connect cultures through science, storytelling and shared heritage. Opening December 2025. Saadiyat Cultural District. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss The best things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi Your full weekend itinerary 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
Campaign ME
02-07-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Emma Campbell is Chair judge at Campaign's Agency of The Year Middle East awards
Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) – Abu Dhabi's Emma Campbell, has been named Chair of judges for the 2025 edition of Campaign's Agency of The Year Middle East (AOTYME) awards. With more than 20 years of experience across various sectors, Campbell currently leads sector marketing for Tourism and Culture at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), where she develops and executes strategic marketing initiatives to promote the emirate's diverse tourism and cultural offerings to global audiences. As Chair judge, Campbell says the true strength of the AOTYME awards lies in its recognition of regional agencies' hard work – backed by business outcomes. 'I think these awards are really important because they cut through all the noise in a busy market and highlight agencies that are genuinely delivering – both creatively and in terms of business results,' she says. 'Plus, winning these awards is a huge motivator for teams – it recognises their hard work and pushes them to keep raising the bar. It's about celebrating the whole package, not just the final campaign,' she adds. What to include in a stand-out entry Leading up to the awards ceremony in December, Campbell will lead the jury panel of top-level marketers in the region. As Chair judge, Campbell says she looks forward to seeing 'the full package' from agency entries this year. 'It's not just about the work itself, but about how agencies are growing financially, meeting strategic goals, and supporting their people along the way,' Campbell explains. 'Agencies that focus on diversity, inclusion, and sustainability also stand out here.' 'Judges want to see clear evidence of financial growth and business success, like revenue increases, profit margins, and market share gains. It's about telling the story with solid data. Culture matters too: low staff turnover, strong employee engagement, and meaningful diversity initiatives are key.' Campbell adds. According to her, the best entries show a 'well-rounded, strategic, and results-driven agency.' 'Innovation should be front and center, with clear examples of how new tech or approaches delivered measurable benefits. And of course, client partnerships need to shine, backed up by satisfaction scores and real testimonials,' she says. To help agencies understand the awards on how to build submissions that fit specifically for the criteria of these awards, Campaign Middle East, in partnership with Haymarket, is hosting its first ever Awards Clinic on 10 July at 1 p.m. GST. The free FAQ webinar will review the entry kit, entry process and judging process for the 2025 awards. A dynamic time for the region's industry The 2025 AOTYME awards come at a pivotal time of change within the industry, where advancements in technology and changing consumer behaviours have led to drastic shifts in how agencies operate. 'What's really exciting is how the region is blending global marketing trends with a unique local flavor,' Campbell says. 'Agencies are combining international best practices with deep regional insights, creating work that really connects with people here. The pace of change is thrilling – new tech, evolving consumer behaviours, and fresh creative approaches are all driving growth.' She also nods to the structural shifts artificial intelligence (AI) brings to agency operations. 'AI is a huge game-changer, helping agencies work smarter and freeing them up to focus on strategy and creativity. I'm proud to see homegrown talent leading the way and building inclusive cultures that attract and retain top people. Overall, it feels like a very dynamic, innovative time to be in marketing here,' she says. Join us for a night of celebrating the best in the region With a comprehensive list of 36 categories covering every facet of advertising and marketing, these awards are your chance to shine within the industry. Enter now for a chance to be recognised as the best in the region. Entries can be made at a discounted rate for the early bird deadline of August 7, 2025. To download the full entry kit, click here. Campaign Middle East will announce the winners at the Agency of The Year Middle East awards ceremony in December. For more information on judges, categories and the awards, click here.
Khaleej Times
30-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai College of Tourism: Industry-ready, career-ready
Essa Bin Hadher, General Manager of Dubai College of Tourism, shares how DCT is redefining vocational education with practical, skills-based programmes. Can you give us an overview of the education programs Dubai College of Tourism offers and the vision that drives your approach to learning? Inspired by our city's visionary leadership and to position Dubai as a global hub for education and innovation, Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), pioneers practical, career-focused education to empower the next generation of tourism professionals. DCT offers an alternative to the traditional academic route by delivering certificate, diploma and advanced diploma programmes across four core specialisations: tourism, events, hospitality, and culinary arts. The qualifications provide a flexible study model which allows students to go directly into the workforce. Alternatively, graduates of DCT's advanced diploma programmes can apply for direct entry into Year 3 of selected bachelor's degrees at Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland. DCT also offers unique apprenticeship programmes based on the 'earn while you learn' model, delivered in partnership with global industry leaders such as Marriott International. These programmes combine paid, hands-on workplace training with classroom-based learning at the DCT campus, providing a smooth and seamless transition from education to employment. Located at One Central, Dubai World Trade Centre within the DET headquarters, DCT serves students from diverse backgrounds, reflecting Dubai's cosmopolitan make-up of nearly 200 nationalities. DCT's vision, rooted in Dubai's aspiration to remain at the forefront of the world's most visited and recommended destinations, champions a belief that success is diverse and dynamic. We are dedicated to equipping Dubai's youth with the skills, confidence and industry exposure they need to thrive in the real world, whether they pursue higher education or step directly into the workforce. What does educational success look like at DCT, and how does this perspective contrast with that of other institutions and universities? At DCT, educational success is defined by empowering students to excel in the tourism ecosystem. This is measured not only by academic achievement but by employability and professional growth in the workplace. Many of our students graduate into full-time roles or progress to international degree programmes, often while continuing to work. Unlike traditional universities, DCT prioritises small class sizes and hands-on learning. We place a great emphasis on making sure our graduates are industry- ready and achieve this through instructors who are industry leaders, site visits to major attractions and landmarks in Dubai, a guest speaker programme, plenty of volunteering opportunities, and guaranteed internships. This results in our students graduating with an established professional network and a CV full of experience. Ultimately, success for our students means finding meaningful employment in the field they are passionate about. It is important to note that we are an accredited training provider of the UAE Ministry of Education, and our curriculum is validated by the National Qualifications Centre (NQC) against the UAE National Qualifications Framework of the UAE (QFEmirates). DCT is also an approved vocational college by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai. From your perspective, why are diploma and skills-based learning pathways gaining importance in the modern job market? In a rapidly evolving global job market, skills-based learning pathways, like those offered through DCT, are vital for preparing talent to drive Dubai's vision of a connected tourism economy. Employers are increasingly prioritising practical skills, adaptability, and on-the-job experience over purely academic credentials. Skills-based pathways like those offered by DCT provider a faster, more direct route into employment, with a strong emphasis on applied learning that meets the tourism sector's demand for agile professionals. In a city like Dubai — where tourism, events, and hospitality significantly contribute to economic growth — this type of education is especially valuable, and our programmes align directly with the goals of Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Catering to the needs of the industry by making graduates immediately relevant to employers,these pathways also offer greater accessibility and flexibility, opening doors for students from all backgrounds. How does DCT ensure its programs stay relevant to industry demands, particularly in tourism and hospitality, and what kind of real-world experience do your students gain through partnerships? DCT is at the forefront of tourism education, ensuring our programmes reflect Dubai's ambition to lead global hospitality innovation. DCT brings together a dynamic Industry Advisory Council of professionals with expertise spanning across our faculties: tourism, events, hospitality and culinary arts. The Council ensures our programme offerings and curriculum remains up to date and relevant to industry needs. Our instructors come from the industry, not just academia, allowing them to share their stories and experiences to bring the learning to life. Students at DCT are privileged to access a range of top internships, site visits and live projects; examples include tours of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, visits to Google, and internships in MICHELIN-starred restaurants. Our industry connections enable us to provide students with superb volunteering opportunities at prestigious events such as Dubai Fashion Week, the Dubai World Cup and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which all provide a fantastic learning environment. One standout example is our recently launched apprenticeship model, which sees students employed and trained simultaneously in leading hospitality businesses across Dubai. Collaborations with industry partners ensure that our graduates are job-ready and confident from day one. What strategies does DCT use to prepare students for both domestic and international careers? DCT prepares students to excel in Dubai's global tourism network, equipping them with skills to connect with cultures and markets worldwide. Our curriculum emphasises globally transferable skills, including customer service excellence, digital marketing, cross-cultural communication, and professional English, all aligned with international standards. We also offer internationally recognised qualifications, such as the advanced diploma, which gives students the opportunity to progress into the third year of a UK bachelor's degree at Edinburgh Napier University. Through real-world training and internships with multinational brands, students adapt to diverse industry demands, ensuring they are competitive in Dubai or abroad. How is DCT supporting national goals like economic diversification and youth development through its education model? DCT plays a vital role in supporting the UAE's vision for economic diversification by developing local talent for sectors like tourism and hospitality, which are central to Dubai's long-term strategy. Our model is specifically designed to upskill Emirati youth and residents through practical education and entry-level career pathways, creating a pipeline of qualified, enthusiastic professionals who contribute to sustainable national growth. Our apprenticeship programme, for example, directly supports Emiratisation and youth employment goals by offering paid training roles for young nationals across Dubai's key tourism and hospitality businesses. What flexible learning options — such as part-time or online pathways — does DCT offer for students balancing work or other commitments? DCT promotes diversity and integration, providing adaptable learning pathways to empower Dubai's varied learners in pursuing global tourism careers. Currently our certificate and advanced diploma programmes do involve a full- time commitment. Our apprenticeship programme is also designed with flexibility in mind — allowing students to earn while they learn, with time split between the classroom and the workplace. What are DCT's plans for the next five years, and how do you see your role evolving in the future of education across Dubai, the UAE, and the wider region? Looking ahead, DCT is focused on scaling up our apprenticeship offerings, expanding access to our programmes through digital platforms, and deepening our partnerships with employers across the UAE. We also aim to build more academic pathways with international universities, giving students even greater flexibility in how they shape their futures. As Dubai continues to lead the region in tourism and innovation, we see DCT playing a central role in preparing the workforce of tomorrow – agile, skilled, and ready to deliver world-class guest experiences. 'What I love about DCT, is that it is really welcoming, the community is close-knit and everyone is always interacting with each other and making friends with each other, even when we're not in the same programme. I think students should come to DCT because there are so many opportunities that it has to offer, such as the volunteering opportunities, for example at F1 Abu Dhabi or Dubai Fashion Week," says Lee Angela Castillon, Tourism student, currently completing internship as a Marketing Intern at Atlantis Resorts. Empowered Today. Employed Tomorrow. Why DCT? Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) is Dubai's premier tourism and hospitality college, designed to equip you with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in your career. Established by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), DCT aims to be a world-class vocational college, offering a wide range of initiatives such as industry site visits, guest lectures, internship placements, and volunteering opportunities. This hands-on approach sets DCT apart in the industry. Admissions open for September 2025 intake. Scholarships available.
Khaleej Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
GreatList and Dubai College of Tourism announce annual scholarship for aspiring culinary talents
International restaurant guide GreatList has entered into a long-term partnership with the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), a part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), to support the next generation of hospitality professionals. As part of this collaboration, the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship will be awarded annually to outstanding students pursuing careers in culinary arts and gastronomy. Open to current students completing their Certificate in Culinary Arts at DCT, and to future students enrolling in the course, the scholarship recognises academic merit, creativity, passion, and dedication to the culinary profession. The scholarship will award one outstanding DCT student with a full tuition scholarship to progress to the first year of the Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts, while a second promising student will receive a 50% tuition scholarship. All funding will be provided directly by GreatList, reflecting the organisation's long-term commitment to nurturing talent within the global gastronomy sector. This partnership with GreatList helps to prepare culinary arts students for real-life experience in the workplace and provides them with the skills needed to thrive in one of the world's fastest growing industries. "This initiative reflects what we believe is the true mission of a modern restaurant guide,' says Alexander Sysoev, founder of GreatList. "It's not just about recognising the best restaurants today — it's about investing in those who will define excellence tomorrow. Supporting young culinary talent today means creating 10, 20, even 30 extraordinary restaurants in the future." "This partnership with GreatList represents a significant advancement in our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality education,' says Elham Bolooki, senior experiential learning manager, Dubai College of Tourism (DCT). "Supporting our mission to nurture and empower the next generation of hospitality professionals, this collaboration aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Through the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship, we are not only recognising our students' academic excellence and passion but also equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in an increasingly competitive and innovative industry." This strategic alliance between GreatList and DCT – a world-class vocational college that delivers full-time certificate and advanced diploma courses in tourism, hospitality, culinary arts, and events underscores a shared vision to empowering young talent and elevating standards across the hospitality industry.
Web Release
19-06-2025
- Business
- Web Release
GreatList and Dubai College of Tourism Announce Annual Scholarship for Aspiring Culinary Talents
International restaurant guide GreatList has entered into a long-term partnership with the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), a part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), to support the next generation of hospitality professionals. As part of this collaboration, the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship will be awarded annually to outstanding students pursuing careers in culinary arts and gastronomy. Open to current students completing their Certificate in Culinary Arts at DCT, and to future students enrolling in the course, the scholarship recognises academic merit, creativity, passion, and dedication to the culinary profession. The scholarship will award one outstanding DCT student with a full tuition scholarship to progress to the first year of the Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts, while a second promising student will receive a 50% tuition scholarship. All funding will be provided directly by GreatList, reflecting the organisation's long-term commitment to nurturing talent within the global gastronomy sector. This partnership with GreatList helps to prepare culinary arts students for real-life experience in the workplace, and provides them with the skills needed to thrive in one of the world's fastest-growing industries. 'This initiative reflects what we believe is the true mission of a modern restaurant guide,' says Alexander Sysoev, founder of GreatList. 'It's not just about recognising the best restaurants today — it's about investing in those who will define excellence tomorrow. Supporting young culinary talent today means creating 10, 20, even 30 extraordinary restaurants in the future.' 'This partnership with GreatList represents a significant advancement in our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality education,' says Elham Bolooki, Senior Experiential Learning Manager, Dubai College of Tourism (DCT). 'Supporting our mission to nurture and empower the next generation of hospitality professionals, this collaboration aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Through the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship, we are not only recognising our students' academic excellence and passion, but also equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in an increasingly competitive and innovative industry.' This strategic alliance between GreatList and DCT – a world-class vocational college that delivers full-time certificate and advanced diploma courses in tourism, hospitality, culinary arts, and events – underscores a shared vision to empowering young talent and elevating standards across the hospitality industry. For more information about GreatList and DCT, please visit: and
